The beautiful White Witch Golf Course at Rose Hall in Montego Bay was the perfect backdrop for the nuptials and tee off for the marriage of hospitality powerhouses Tanisa Samuel, sales manager, Unlimited Vacation Club, and Philipp Hofer, director of operations, Iberostar Jamaica & Aruba.

The ceremony, exquisitely curated by Tai Flora Luxe, unfolded on Saturday, April 15. In attendance were the couple’s family, friends and well-wishers. The intimate ceremony was seamless, reflecting the couple’s playful nature with quips from friends eliciting laughter at times.

The meet-up… As told by Tanisa.

“The first time we laid eyes on each other was at a birthday party for the child of a mutual friend at what was then the Tortuga Rum Factory at Reading in St James about 12 years ago. The interaction felt very peaceful at that time, and we kept bumping into each other over the years. Eventually, we got together, and we just couldn’t stay away from each other.”

The proposal…

“The proposal was actually a surprise. We went to Portland and I had a feeling that he was going to do it [propose]. My hopes were dashed after the first day and second day went by and no ring materialised… so I just gave up. On the third day, both of us as well as my daughter, took a canoe out on the Blue Lagoon. My daughter pretended she was shooting for YouTube and while she was filming me, Philipp was behind me with the ring. I turned around and there he was with the ring. It could’ve turned out like a disaster if the ring fell! Luckily it didn’t. It was perfect and very beautiful, as I was in my favourite place in Jamaica surrounded by our closest friends… he’d arranged for them to be there.

“Everything happens in its time. We have been engaged for three years and partly due to the pandemic and Philipp’s parents not being able to travel, we had to wait. However, I’m really happy that we decided to do it properly and wait. The day is perfect as we’re surrounded by our family and closest friends.”

Tanisa for her special day chose a custom fit from European designer Lia Stublla. She was escorted by her father Brian Samuel on a glass walkway to her bridegroom, who stood dapper in suiting by Mark Anthony Designs. Traditional vows were recited, and the signing of the marriage certificate was conducted under the direction of Rev Conrad Thomas. The couple was then officially introduced to lusty cheers and Champagne toasts from guests.

The reception followed at the same venue under an exquisitely designed clear top tent adorned with white hydrangeas, dendrobium orchids, phalaenopsis and pink roses with hints of gold inspired by the bride’s dress.

With the formalities concluded the after-party followed complete with fire dancers and music from DJ Jer.

Text and photos: Aceion Cunningham