Christopher Barnes, The Gleaner's assistant to the managing director, found his gem during his travels abroad and brought her back to his homeland, Jamaica, where he took her hands in marriage at the Prospect Chapel in Ocho Rios on November 3. On their wedding day, the glow on their faces was simply electrifying. - Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

Many wel-known and fabulous Jamaican couples tied the knot during the course of 2007, and 'Flair' witnessed some of them. Here is our selection of those that stood out as our weddings of the year.

Tricologist Karl Richmond met his wife Sangay Waite last October, and it was love at first sight. "We worked on the same building in New Kingston and we had a moment one morning. As I was getting into the elevator at work and waited for the doors to close, "our eyes made four, sparks flew; it was love at first sight," notes Richmond, who is a consultant at Soft Sheen Carson. Both Richmond and Waite are qualified teachers.

He explained that a security guard stationed just outside the elevator saw what happened and persuaded him to pursue the encounter. "I confidently left my card with him, and collected her card from the same guard later that evening (he really secured things!), thank you, security!"

Tough times

Richmond explained that they dined out during Kingston Restaurant Week, but shortly after, they both went through some tough times. Sangay's brother was violently killed just two days before his birthday, and Richmond was hospitalised and had emergency surgery to remove his appendix. "Our adversities brought us even closer together," notes Richmond of the misfortunes. "I proposed on Valentine's Day, and we haven't looked back since. We have learned to count our blessings and live each day as if it's our last."

In his wedding vows, Richmond said, "I loved her mostly for her caring heart and her captivating smile which seemed to melt me every time."

Richmond and Waite's special day was coordinated by wedding consultant, Karl Stephens-Hall. They were married at the Webster Memorial United Church on Saturday, December 1. Officiating minister was Rev. Norbert Stephens.

Some special guests included radio personality Doraine Samuels, Carol Francis, meteorologist Evan Thompson and J.C.D.C.'s Dorrett Thaxter.

The couple's honeymoon was at Couples Swept Away Resort in Negril.

Karl Richmond and his wife Sangay are truly a picture of elegance and beauty. - Contributed

Godfrey Dyer and Odette Soberman tied the knot on March 3 this year. Their new thrust is charity with aim of providing assistance to St. James students in furthering their education. To get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the two spend a lot of time in Las Vegas and The Bahamas and love to cruise the high seas. Rev. Everton Jackson performed the ceremony. - Photo by Janet Silvera

Weddings to come next

Kimani Robinson will wed his long-time love Terri-kay James. - Contributed

Our very own Apprentice Muna Heaven and her handsome beau Bert Hill jumped the broom in Montego Bay on Saturday. - Contributed

Red Stripe's Maxine Whittingham will end the year as Mrs. Gary Osborne. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer

After years of beating around the bush, businessman Dwight Moore settled into wedded bliss with his long-time love, Sharon Millwood, in yet another memorable wedding on the social scene this year. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

He had a 'best woman' and she had a 'man of honour' parading at their fabulous wedding at Good Hope in Trelawny. Scott and Tricia Robbins are probably among western Jamaica's favourite couples. And they are sizzling hot too.

Tamia Alisha Harris and Ahren Scott Tryon tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony at the University of the West Indies Chapel, Mona, on Saturday, June 2. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

PSOJ head, Chris Zacca, and Gillian Levy will tie the knot before the year ends. - photo byJanet Silvera