Sometimes, a change of plans ends up being exactly what you need.
Ali and Michael’s wedding was a testament to flexibility, creativity, and love—not just because of its breathtaking beauty, but because it proved that flexibility and intention can create something magical. This story takes place at Fort Charles, nestled in the hills of Stony Hill, Jamaica, a family treasure that had hosted countless memories over the years. This wedding wasn’t just a celebration of love; it was a heartfelt farewell to a space that had meant so much to so many.
With Jamaica’s weather being delightfully unpredictable this year, and with rain clouds teasing all week, we weren’t about to leave anything to chance. Enter wedding planner extraordinaire, Kimmi (@dragonfly_exp), along with decor aficionado Aiesha (@pussbackfoot), together, they reimagined the entire design of the wedding just days before the big day. The ceremony layout, welcome area, cocktail hour, and reception setup—everything was adjusted to honor the couple’s vision while paying homage to the history and natural beauty of Fort Charles.
Here’s the twist: not a single drop of rain fell that day. Instead, we were gifted the perfect weather for Ali and Michael’s love story to unfold.
This wasn’t the only unexpected twist. A few weeks before the wedding, the bride sprained her ankle, making it nearly impossible to wear the shoes she had selected for her big day. But true to her spirit, she didn’t let that dampen her excitement or her radiant joy. During her makeup session she said, “All the things you worry about prior to your wedding day, really don’t matter”. She adapted with grace, keeping her focus on what truly mattered: the love she shares with Michael, their family, and the start of their forever.
Can we just pause to talk about Ali and Michael’s thoughtfulness? Before I even clicked the shutter on my camera, they handed me a handwritten thank-you card. Their gratitude wasn’t just about capturing photos—it was about the time we spent getting to know each other, understanding their love story, and ensuring their day would be remembered authentically.
As I captured moments of laughter, quiet tears, and joyful embraces, it struck me how fitting it was for this to be the last event held at Fort Charles. Surrounded by loved ones, Ali and Michael transformed this beloved family space into the beginning of something new. It was more than a wedding—it was a transition, a celebration, and a promise to carry the love and memories into the future.
Ali and Michael, thank you for allowing us to be part of your story. We wish you a lifetime of love, joy, and adaptability—because if this wedding taught us anything, it’s that sometimes Plan B is where the magic truly happens.
Congratulations, Ali + Michael ❤︎ Welcome to the Family.
Another @TeamDWP + @Dragonfly_Exp Experience ❤︎
Getting Ready: Private Home, Jacks Hills, Jamaica
Ceremony + Reception: Fort Charles, Stony Hill, Jamaica
Make-up Artist: Rasine Hamilton
Hair: Natalia Golding – Simply Beautiful
Production+Lighting: Main Event Entertainment
Decor: PussBackFoot – Aiesha Panton
Cake + Desserts: GB Bites – Gabrielle Belnavis
Cinematography: Auguro Weddings
Live Band: Jeremy Ashbourne
Party Vibes/DJ: Taj Graham + Becca Dudley
Wedding Planner: Kimberley Dunkley Watkins – Dragonfly Experiences
Creative Director and Lead Photographer: Dwayne A. Watkins
