Vandana Shah and Richard Harris seal their vows with a kiss. - Photos by Noel Thompson

WESTERN BUREAU:

It is minutes past 5 p.m. on Saturday, February 14. The salty air blows strongly as the waves rush into shore by the second.

But the more than 80 guests seem all unconcerned about anything, except to bask in the wedding ceremony of Richard Harris, American-born and his bride - Kenyan-born Vandana Shah, on the beautifully manicured lawns at the Lilly Pond Gazebo on the Royal Pavilion at the Half Moon resort in Rose Hall, St James.

Many relatives and friends journeyed from across Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America to share in this memorable occasion? Both Richard and Vandana are attorneys-at-law in the United States of America.

Richard entertained guests

As the groom and guests waited, Richard entertained everyone by rambling off on various topics.

Montego Bay-based saxophonist Fitzroy Minott played soothing tunes, as Richard stared steadfastly at Vandana some chains away, being escorted to him by her older brothers, Priyesh and Anoop. She was radiant. Richard could no longer maintain his composure - he started crying and Vandana too, wiped tears from her eyes.

The Rev Courtney Walters performed the ceremony, allowing Richard to express himself. "I love you now, I will love you forever. I will always do my best to show you how much you are important to me. If at any time I ever fail to show how special you are to me, I will depend on you to remind me of the greatest gift I have received."

Vandana responded: "You are the reason I believe in dreams. You are my best friend, my strength, I love you more than love itself. I give you my love, my heart, my strength," and they sealed it with a kiss.

Vandana Shah-Harris and husband, Richard, walk away for photo opportunity, after being married at the Half Moon resort in Rose Hall, St James.

Family members and friends of Vandana Shah witness the wedding ceremony between her and Richard Harris at the Half Moon Resort in Rose Hall, St James, on Valentine's Day. From left (front row) are Indu Shah, the bride's mother; brothers, Priyesh, Anoop and Shamir Shah, and friend, Malcolm.

Elder brothers, Priyesh (left) and Anoop Shah, escort Vandana Shah to exchange her vows with Richard Harris at their wedding ceremony at the Half Moon resort in Rose Hall, St James, on Saturday, February 14.

Richard Harris (left) awaits the arrival of his bride, Vandana Shah, at their wedding ceremony. Looking on are his brother, Re'nard Harris, and niece, Rayne Harris.