On Saturday, June 24, friends and family witnessed the union of Gregory Coleman and Shanekia Burke. The ceremony took place at Faith Cathedral Deliverance Centre in Kingston. Pastor Dr Alma Blair was the wedding officiant.

Gregory and Shaekia’s love story began unexpectedly in October 2013 — at a “nine night” to boot! “It was a sad day for the family as my cousin had lost his mom,” related Shanekia to Tuesday Style Vows (TSV)

“My cousin had arranged for a vehicle to transport us [myself and another cousin] to his mother’s nine night in Bull Bay. Gregory was one of the drivers.” It was [for them both] love at first sight.

“He was kind, caring, funny and had amazing critical thinking skills — I couldn’t take my eyes off him the entire night. Who would have thought a night of mourning would turn out to be the start of a love affair? We saw each other a few days after and exchanged contacts.”

Their connection deepened with time, followed by a commitment on September 27, 2020. The chosen day was 24 hours prior to Burke’s birthday and two months before welcoming their child, Genesis. The gesture symbolised their resolve to a lifelong journey together.

Their wedding decor, a labour of love personally handled by the couple and their family, perfectly captured their unique story and style. Kamar McHugh Photography documented the day, capturing the essence of the couple’s affection and the emotions shared by all. Following the heartfelt ceremony the merriments moved to Pages in the Garden, at Hope Botanical Gardens. The theme, ‘BloomingBurketoColeman’ set the tone for an evening of joy dominated by the colour palette of red, white, gold, and black.

It All Begins with You by Jody Watley signalled the bridal party’s arrival while Kelly Clarkson’s A Moment Like This announced that of the bride’s. Shaneika, who was accompanied up the aisle by her father Horrust Burke, was resplendent in a gown from Helen G Bridal Boutique which boasted an impressive train with delicate underpinnings that added a ball gown flourish. A cathedral veil completed the look.

During the signing of the register Gregory’s sister Ingrid added a personal touch with a heartfelt rendition of From This Moment.

Pages in the Garden handled catering duties.

Formalities included the cutting of the vanilla-flavoured cake by Cake Collectives Ja and the newly-weds’ first dance to Bruno Mars’ Versace on the Floor was a moment of unbridled joy that perfectly encapsulated their love and unity.

The celebrations continue as Mr & Mrs Gregory Coleman anticipate their honeymoon at Ocean Coral Spring, Trelawny, scheduled for September 29th.

Photos: Kamar McHugh Photography