Though their families knew each other for many years, Osbourne Walker and Cecile 'Yvonne' Thompson's paths never crossed until last year when they were introduced by a mutual friend.

They quickly discovered their relationship went beyond friendship and Osbourne asked for Cecile's hand in marriage in late 2011. The couple were married on April 26 at Waterloo Apostolic Church in Waterloo district, St Elizabeth, with Pastor Calbert Reynolds, the groom's uncle, officiating.

Osbourne hails from Lawrence Tavern in St Andrew while Cecile grew up in nearby Border. The mother of two children says she knew from the start that a special bond would develop.

"We used to talk on the phone a lot. There was something about his voice and his personality, so things really clicked when we met."

The 30 guests who attended the intimate ceremony consisted of close family and friends which included the bride's mother, Mavis Williams; her stepfather, Winston Williams; daughter Zindzi Bodden and close friend Lenora Blackwood.

Osbourne, who has lived in New York City since 1996, was also supported by family members, including brother Maxwell Langley, daughter Kadine and granddaughter Jorielle Phillips.

The reception was held at the Santa Crest Hotel in Leeds, St Elizabeth, where an enthusiastic gathering cheered as the newly-weds cut the three-tier cake made by Doreen Perkins. Their first dance as man and wife was to Shania Twain's From This Moment.