Forever locked in with the Lathams

Many people often see the notion of marrying a high-school classmate or childhood sweetheart, the person who initially sparked butterflies in their stomach, as a fairy tale. Jermaine and Kayla first met in elementary school, but life led them down different paths.

Jermaine, who is from Old Harbour, St Catherine, migrated to the United States as a young child over 25 years ago. He and Kayla grew up in Boston, Massachusetts. Their paths crossed again as adults when they were reintroduced by a mutual friend.

They realised they had much more in common than they initially thought. Jermaine admired Kayla’s calm demeanour, appreciating her as a great conversationalist. While Kayla saw herself as a homebody, she quickly developed an affinity for Jermaine’s spontaneous and adventurous personality.

It didn’t take long for Jermaine to play the role of Cupid, and his arrow found its mark in Kayla’s heart. Eager to make their first date extra special, he went all out and took his special love to a Brazilian restaurant. After their meal, the couple went on a long walk, engaging in conversations about different topics close to their hearts, including family, sports, games, travel, and hiking.

“We are alike in many ways. We are competitive, caring and, of course, very athletic. We are also different in that I am outgoing and I don’t mind being the centre of attention, while Kayla is somewhat more reserved and would rather blend into the crowd,” Jermaine told Island Wedding.

“I became enthralled by Jermaine because of his loving and selfless ways. He is a devoted and loving father, and has an unwavering faith in God,” Kayla shared.

Sparks flew in this relationship, and Jermaine was convinced that Kayla was his forever love. He planned a special engagement ceremony, carefully orchestrated with the assistance of Kayla’s sister and best friend.

“It took some convincing, but Kayla’s sister and best friend got her to go out for a day of wine tasting at their favourite winery. While tasting the new summer wine menu, Karynne gifted Kayla a View-Master picture wheel,” Jermaine said.

Kayla was quickly surprised to see that her favourite photos of herself and Jermaine were captured in her gift. Before she knew it, Jermaine arrived with their family and friends, holding a sign that read, ‘Kayla ... Will You Marry Me?’ In the company of their loved ones, Jermaine knelt down and proposed. Without hesitation, Kayla joyfully said ‘Yes!’

“I love the passion that she has, and her devotion to her family. She has a close relationship with God; and an unwavering faith that continues to be the pillar of our relationship,” Jermaine said.

Jermaine and Kayla Latham got married on June 20, 2023, at the Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay, St James. Finally, they became husband and wife, with over 85 guests and beautiful views from a rooftop ceremony. Aiming for an elegant and romantic feel, the couple a chose grey, mauve and burgundy theme. Additionally, there was a three-tier cake that captured the heart of the guests.

The bridal party, consisting of 10 members including the maid of honour and the best man, played a crucial role in making the ceremony even more enjoyable.

The couple recently returned from their honeymoon in the Maldives, a country in South Asia. “We had a great time. We snorkelled and did some kayaking, and, of course, went to dinner several times. We thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company,” Jermaine sid.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com