Love reigns with the Ricketts

United by their dedication to service, Matthew and Livi-Ann Ricketts first crossed paths through the Rotaract Club of Liguanea Plains. In the vibrant atmosphere of the club, Matthew found himself enchanted by Livi-Ann’s radiant aura, infectious smile, and captivating personality.

While Livi-Ann loved Matthew’s calm and easy-going personality, she was also in awe of his taste for music. As their connection deepened, she discovered a shared passion for oldies music, adding another layer to their growing bond.

For their first date, Matthew and Livi-Ann attended the popular event Yesterday The Best of The ‘90s. Ironically, the party was dampened by rain, but that didn’t deter them from making the most of the situation and enjoying themselves afterward.

“The party ended, but our night didn’t. We drove up to a hill, sat and talked for about three hours. That night really enhanced our friendship and was the stepping stone for the courting stage,” Matthew told Island Wedding.

In the early stages of their relationship, Matthew expressed admiration for several aspects of Livi-Ann, particularly her hair, her nurturing qualities towards family and friends, and her drive to get things done. Livi-Ann, on the other hand, was struck by Matthew’s resilience in challenging situations and his love for the kitchen.

“We love adventure, travel, nature including the river and beach, and oldies reggae and soul music. Matthew is an avid sports fan and I am a competent salsa dancer,” Livi-Ann said.

In the Christmas of 2021, Matthew decided to take a significant step in his relationship with Livi-Ann by proposing to her. Planning to execute the proposal in 2022, he travelled to Florida, ostensibly to assist a family member, but secretly to purchase the engagement ring. When he returned, he organised the details of a proposal that would bring joy to Livi-Ann.

Knowing Livi-Ann’s desire for a couple’s photoshoot, Matthew devised a clever plan. He arranged a fake photoshoot, culminating with a dinner at the Courtyard Marriott. On the morning of the proposal, Matthew started to play a slew of love songs to subtly sow the seeds of love and marriage in Livi-Ann’s mind, setting a romantic tone for the day and foreshadowing the significant moment that awaited them.

Despite an unexpected downpour in the afternoon that posed a threat to their plans, the photoshoot unfolded seamlessly. To add an element of surprise to the proposal, Matthew collaborated with Livi-Ann’s mom. She extended an invitation for the couple to have dinner, citing a ‘foreign friend in town’ eager to meet them. To enhance the occasion, Matthew got the assistance of Perfect Proposal JA to set up a mini-production for the proposal. The scene featured an oversized illuminated ‘marry me’ sign, a red carpet adorned with roses, and a gathering of some of the couple’s closest family and friends. Needless to say, the proposal was well received by Livi-Ann.

The couple got married on November 25, 2023, at the picturesque Boone Hall Oasis in St Andrew. Opting for a rustic-themed wedding, they selected orange and green as their wedding colours to infuse the celebration with a touch of natural charm.

“We wanted a rustic look and a venue that gave us a lot of greenery and open space for pictures. When we first visited the venue, we fell in love with it, and from that visit, we knew it was the place to host our dream wedding,” Livi-Ann explained.

Over 125 guests witnessed the momentous occasion, with four bridesmaids and five groomsmen. MCM Event Stylist were the wedding planners and the décor was done by Tru Luxury Co Events.

Excited to do life together with his other half, Matthew said, “I love my partner because she is genuine and purposive with how she shows her love to me. Her drive, motivation and willingness to always improve are qualities I look for in a partner, and I am confident that we can grow in love and build a legacy through our family.”

He continued, “She is always pushing me to do better and she is open and honest in her communication with me. Added bonus is that she seamlessly became a member of my family with little convincing.”

Livi-Ann appreciates how her husband consistently strives to make her feel special and values his determined and intentional efforts at building and growing their relationship.

“Matthew has always been supportive and has demonstrated his love through selflessness, thoughtfulness, and intimacy. He is a family man who preaches living in the moment. He always tries to make me feel special and is determined and intentional to build and grow the relationship and he does this with a sense of security.”

For their honeymoon, the couple is weighing the options of exploring either Tanzania or Bali, anticipating a journey filled with a variety of adventures.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com