Real Wedding: Nikita & Kenneth

How it all started

Toronto-based newlyweds Nikita and Kenneth Vaz started their courtship with the classic double date scenario – two couples plan to meet but one couple unexpectedly cancels, leaving the other pair with a decision to make… should I stay or should I go? Thankfully, Nikita, a Public Health Nurse and Kenneth, an Executive Assistant, took the leap and met for dinner, followed by an evening of pure 1980’s nostalgia watching The Breakfast Club. In their case, that first date filled with good food, fun throwbacks and lasting first impressions set the stage for what would be an incredible relationship.

The next – and perhaps most life-changing step – happened on a quick getaway to Dubai in November 2019. Nikita had never travelled to Dubai but was thrilled to explore with her partner and his family, starting at Global Village, a destination where many small-scale wonders of the world were discovered with their local foods, decorations and stores. As the day came to a close with a photo at the Taj Mahal, it was there in front of the iconic mausoleum that Kenneth popped the question – a beautiful surprise that made that day and that vacation truly one to remember.

Planning the wedding

Following a visit two years prior, Nikita and Kenneth fell in love with Jamaica’s unparalleled paradise and wonderful people, and from the start, knew that a destination wedding in Montego Bay was it! They even witnessed a wedding at their resort and loved the ambience of a beachfront wedding with Jamaica as the picturesque backdrop – what could be more idyllic than that? For Nikita and Kenneth, their perfect venue was in Ocho Rios where its beautiful weather, beach and relaxed vibes (not to mention its jerk chicken) drew them in. With all the resorts to choose from, Riu Ocho Rios captured their hearts – it came highly recommended and will continue to be as the fun-loving couple were blown away by its value, standards and service (among others) – surpassing expectations.

Wedding Day Details

Nikita and Kenneth said ‘I do’ on the white-sand shores of Riu Ocho Rios in late May 2022, in front of 45 of their closest friends and family. The big day was exactly how they dreamt it would be and, after two years of patiently waiting, they made the most of their special day! Nikita and Kenneth marked this incredible moment in their lives with two ceremonies, a Western ceremony and one honouring their culture and heritage, for a celebration as unique and as beautiful as their love story. In front of a beautiful beachfront gazebo with soft white drapery tucked behind stylish bouquets, the couple started their happily ever after and couldn’t wait to get to the celebrations at their private beach tent nearby. Decorated with blush pink, white and gold accents for an elegant and classic affair, for Nikita and Kenneth, the reception was truly the highlight of the day, dancing into the night with those they loved most in the world: “It truly marked the success of our wedding day and week, with a few days to spare at one of the best all inclusive resorts we’ve been to.”

Wedding Day Wear

Nikita’s gown: Strapless gown from Tom Jeon Bridal with a sweetheart neckline and stunning beaded bodice

Nikita’s Shoes: Aldo sandals suited to the occasion

Nikita’s accessories: ‘Something borrowed’ from her closest friends

Kenneth’s attire: Striking navy-blue suit ensemble with a black lapel and bowtie, and white dress shirt with black button detailing

Kenneth’s shoes: Crisp white Jordan high tops

Kenneth’s accessories: Timeless black leather watch with gold detailing

Wedding bands: Randor Jewellery

The bridesmaids wore: Floor-length dresses in a dusty rose shade and the style that suited each person

The groomsmen wore: Steel grey suits paired with a white dress shirt, blue pocket square and white sneakers

Small Details

First Dance: The Perfect Duet – Ed Sheeran and Beyonce

Flowers: Ocho Rios Flowers

Photographer: Pure Photography by Andrew Thomas

Hair and Makeup: The hotel’s on-site Renova Spa

Tips For Future Wedding Couples

Plan early! Start with soft timelines, then nail down your final deadlines four to six months prior to the big day. Also, try to delegate as many tasks as possible and include your friends and family – they’ll feel part of the wedding and the more people you include, the more you can delegate. Leading up to your wedding week, book in a few rehearsals so you’re not worrying on your big day – let others help you!