From Instagram like to matrimonial love

In matters of the heart, sometimes all it takes is a single glance, a gentle touch, or the first time feeling secure in the arms of your loved one. For Zeirleshea O’Haro, the moment she went on that initial date with Ajani Walker at Devon House in 2020, she knew he was the one for her. Ajani shared the same feeling. Who would have thought that their chance encounter on Instagram would blossom into their walking down the aisle hand-in-hand three years later as husband and wife?

“We had our first date at Devon House, since places were closed due to the pandemic. I thought he was very sincere and genuine in how he treated and spoke to me. He was very chivalrous, and our first date went very well. We learned how compatible we truly were, all while sharing the same interests and beliefs.” Zeirleshea told Island Wedding.

Ajani found himself mesmerised in a way that words could not adequately convey, “When we met at Devon House and started having serious conversations, it really felt like I had known her for years. She was definitely my type, and my interest grew as our date progressed. After going out on a couple of occasions, I realised that I wanted to take her more seriously. So, we became official on September 17, 2020.”

What initially sparked her interest was Ajani’s striking combination of handsomeness, charm, genuineness, love, care, and his devotion to God. As time passed, these qualities evolved into a deeper connection, solidifying a lasting bond between them. “He has played a big part in my personal growth. He has encouraged me to accomplish the things that I once thought were out of reach. Also, he brings a sense of peace and calmness that doesn’t allow for any small matter to turn into an argument,” Zeirleshea revealed.

It wasn’t just her physical beauty that left him awestruck. Ajani was equally captivated by her intellectual depth, caring nature, strong faith, heartwarming demeanour, and sincere qualities.

“She’s someone I can have a heartfelt conversation with at any time,” Ajani said, adding, “She has given me great life advice that has helped me to be a better individual. She nurtures the relationship by not allowing disagreements to go over into the next day. She tends to make us sit down and discuss our different opinions and come to a resolution.”

“In keeping with the romance, the pair share the passion and desire for each other by engaging in frequent date nights via cinema or dining. “Our favourite date night spot is Carib 5, where we watch a movie together. This reminds us of our dating stage back in 2020. We also like going on dinner dates, because it allows us to have quality time with each other,” Ajani explained.

After courting for two years, Ajani believed a relationship upgrade was definitely in order. With the assistance of family and friends, he orchestrated a private proposal, cleverly disguised as yet another first – a couples’ photo shoot.

“I rented an Airbnb to get her out of the house while her family prepared the location. I told her that we were going to do our first photo shoot as a couple. I had prepared a dress for her to wear, and took her to get her make-up done. As I had planned, her sister called me to stop by the house to collect something. When we arrived at the house, I asked her to follow me so that she could help me carry the item. While walking in, she was greeted by her favourite song, Overtime by Chris Brown, and a lit-up sign that said, “Will You Marry Me?” surrounded by cheering friends and family,” he reflected.

Zeirleshea was over the moon with excitement by the pleasant surprise, “I was extremely happy. It was everything I truly pictured it being. He planned and executed it very well. Having him do all this for me made me feel so blessed.”

The fiancée also wore the hat of wedding planner, receiving support not only from her soon-to-be husband but also from family members, “The planning process was tiring, but in the best way possible. I enjoyed putting together every little detail that would make our day all the more special.”

With the desire to feel like royalty, the bride-to-be said yes to a stunning white dress from LuxBrides Ja, “I was always a fan of sparkle and wanted to look and feel great for my big day. I got my dress from LuxBrides and it only took me three tries to find the perfect dress.”

On November 10, 2023, Ajani and Zeirleshea became the Walkers in a beautiful ceremony held at their church, Fellowship Tabernacle, in Kingston. The husband-and-wife duo kept the festivities going at the reception at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel.

“The wedding was perfect,” the groom shared, adding that his favourite moment of the wedding was finally meeting his bride at the altar. The bride shared similar sentiments, noting that the best part for her came during the emotional exchange of vows.

Speaking of the best part, Mr and Mrs Walker shared a magical official first dance to the soulful namesake track by Daniel Caesar, featuring H.E.R. In that moment, the bride reminisced about feeling utterly complete, having embarked on a new chapter with her true love.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com