From online match to marital bliss

Say what you will about dating apps, but the undeniable proof lies in the love story of Matthew Ferguson and Annique Hamilton. On February 28, the happy couple exchanged vows, basking in matrimonial bliss, laughter and unity. Who knew that when Annique made the first move and sent Matthew a direct message that their lives would intrinsically be connected forever?

When Annique initiated virtual contact, Matthew almost missed that fateful message because he had uninstalled the app. But a phone restoration later, the two made a connection so majestic that it sparked love notes.

“The moment he replied, I was over the moon! It’s crazy how something as simple as a message can lead to finding the love of your life,” Annique told Island Wedding.

Although Matthew was a resident of Kingston and Annique was from St Ann, that didn’t stop the two from going the distance in light-hearted banter before arranging a first date.

“We decided on attending a morning church service at Annique’s church in Ocho Rios, followed by brunch at Hermosa Cove, a place we quickly realised was a favourite of ours,” Matthew explained, adding, “During our time together, we bonded over our shared love for oldies music, particularly Anita Baker’s songs, while enjoying the view from a gazebo overlooking the coastline.”

When asked what he first thought of his beloved, Matthew confessed that he saw her as absolutely stunning. It’s a breathtaking view that he continues to have a front-row seat to each and every day.

Matthew could recall all the details of their face-to-face encounter: from Annique’s smile, hair, outfit, down to her perfume and the way she carried herself, all of which he said was on point. Plus, she had this infectious laugh that added to her overall charm.

When she first laid eyes on Matthew, Annique admitted to immediately being smitten. “His tall, handsome stature and captivating eyes drew me in. And I couldn’t help but admire his gentlemanly demeanour and caring nature. I was in awe of his kindness and thoughtfulness. It was then that I realised how truly amazing he was, and I’ve been amazed by him ever since.”

Their evolution into ‘boyfriend and girlfriend’ status might have occurred naturally, but it did help that Annique accidentally let the ‘L’ word slip in a phone conversation.

“She initially tried to backtrack and deny it,” he said, which made him chuckle because he was feeling the same way. “Eventually, we both admitted to our feelings, and that’s when Annique confessed that she did indeed say it,“ he added with a smile.

She also recounted that beautiful moment like it was yesterday, “I remember we were having a conversation, and before I even realised, the words ‘I’m in love with you’ just slipped out. Looking back, it’s interesting how things turned out afterwards, but I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s all part of our unique journey together.”

Annique continues to be amazed by his loving, kind, supportive, reliable and caring nature. “He knows just how to make me laugh, even on the toughest days. The way he pours his love and acceptance into me, embracing every aspect of who I am, flaws and all, fills me with overwhelming gratitude.”

Opening her eyes to new perspectives, Matthew has broadened her world view, inspiring her to deepen her relationship with God.

“His unwavering commitment to his Christian faith and his deep-rooted relationship with God mirrored everything I had ever hoped for. I’ve learned the true essence of a healthy relationship and honed my communication skills. Inspiring growth together and in each other, his nurturing presence has enriched my life in countless ways. In him, I’ve found not just a partner, but a source of wisdom and inspiration from which I’ve learned immeasurable lessons. He truly loves me for who I am, and in his devotion, I found the answer to my prayer,” Annique highlighted.

Her uplifting personality and her ability to spread positivity wherever she goes is just one of Annique’s many incredible attributes.

“Her support has been crucial for my personal growth, both emotionally and academically. She serves as a constant source of inspiration, pushing me to overcome self-doubt. With her encouragement, I applied for a scholarship to pursue my master’s abroad. Throughout the journey, she provided unwavering support, helping me excel in my studies and graduate with distinction, ranking among the top students in my class,” he shared.

She remains consistent in his life as a guiding light through all the challenges.

“In March 2022, Annique left for a training opportunity in the United Kingdom. And being apart from her during that time was incredibly tough. It felt like I was missing a part of myself,” Matthew said. However, it strengthened their bond, and he went on to be selected for that same scholarship months later.

After five years of courtship, Matthew decided that it was time to ask for Annique’s hand in marriage.

A DREAM PROPOSAL

The mission was to propose on New Year’s Eve in 2022 at the Tower Bridge in London via fireworks. When the weather wasn’t raining on their parade, the location proved to be too crowded for comfort. So Matthew waited until a few days later, on his birthday, to pop the question.

Suited in a black tuxedo, Annique matched his style in a gorgeous black cocktail dress, and the two made their way to his surprise dinner. But she was in for a sweet surprise during dessert.

“We enjoyed the birthday dinner, and Annique surprised me with custom desserts that said ‘Happy Birthday’. Then, I signalled the restaurant manager to bring out another dessert with the words, ‘Will you marry me?’

“In front of the other guests and the restaurant staff, I got down on one knee and asked, ‘Annique Hamilton, will you marry me?’ And 200 feet above the lights of Leicester Square in London, she said yes,” he said.

Planning the wedding themselves, they received assistance from family and friends.

Caymanas Golf Club stood as the beautiful backdrop for the nuptials of Mr and Mrs Ferguson. From the anticipation of walking down the aisle to meet her soon-to-be husband, to the tender kisses they shared as newly-weds, each moment for the bride was filled with love and joy.

The groom shared that the unity ceremony was among his favourite moments of the wedding day, “Annique and I were presented with three cords representing God, Annique, and myself. We then plaited these cords together into one, symbolising the strengthening of our marriage, with God at its core.”

The bride added, “As the night drew to a close, we embraced the magic of the moment with ‘Let Love Sparkle’ photos, surrounded by the warmth of our loved ones. It truly was an amazing experience, though it wasn’t until after everything had finished that I was able to fully soak it in and appreciate the beauty of the day.”

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com