The Maddens’ journey to ‘I do’

Samantha Smith and Delroy Madden would have never thought that a simple visit to an auto parts store in 2020 would, five years later, lead them to unlocking a journey of a lifetime. Tying the knot at a church ceremony in Kingston on June 28, the newly-weds and business partners celebrated their union, surrounded by family, friends, and heartfelt joy.

Their love story began at Superior Auto Parts in 2020. Samantha had gone in to pick up a bumper light for her Honda, while Delroy was there looking for lights for his own car. When no sales representative was available, Samantha stepped in to help him choose the right style and type of light. “[He] tested every option just to get my attention,” she told Island Wedding, smiling at the memory.

That simple encounter, however, did not mean love at first sight. Samantha only began to admire Delroy the day after he asked if she wanted to go for lunch. Delroy, on the other hand, was immediately drawn by Samantha’s beauty and personality.

For their first date, Samantha took the lead in planning a family day at Fisherman Village in Ocho Rios, giving her two children and Delroy’s son a chance to meet and enjoy the beach while the adults spent time together. “I really just wanted the kids to get to know each other better and truly enjoy themselves,” Samantha recalled. The outing offered a first glimpse of the partnership that would grow between them, and she fondly remembered how Delroy showed care for her family, even taking the time to make sure everyone was fed.

Over time, Samantha began to notice how much effort Delroy put into spending time with her. His natural instinct to provide, protect, and love both her and her children was something she deeply admired and continues to cherish.

“He always made time for me, no matter what he had going on,” she added, noting that it’s one of the things she continues to love most about him.

For Delroy, it was the consistency of seeing her and the small gestures that made him realise their connection was becoming something special. “Seeing each other often, and finishing work early just to spend time with her, made me realise this was something real,” he said.

On March 24, 2023, what was meant to be a simple family dinner celebrating her father’s birthday turned into one of the most memorable nights of Samantha’s life. The proposal took place at South Avenue and had been carefully planned by Delroy. Samantha recalls being “surprised and clueless at the same time,” thinking the plate brought to her table was part of her father’s birthday celebration – until she read the chocolate syrup message: Will you marry me?

The timing made the moment even more unexpected. “It was the right timing and knowing my wife wasn’t looking or had any idea about it, and I want to spend the rest of life with her,” Delroy said, explaining his thoughts leading up to the proposal. Although there wasn’t a separate celebration afterward, the surprise and happiness of the moment made it unforgettable.

Months later, Samantha and Delroy looked forward to celebrating their love with family and friends. On June 28, they exchanged vows at Faith Tabernacle Shiloh Apostolic Church in Kingston. While Samantha arrived a little later than expected, her heart racing with nervous delight, Delroy stood at the altar, a mixture of awe and eagerness evident on his face.

One of the highlights of the day for Samantha was gifting her mother and mother-in-law. “I gifted both mothers to show my appreciation of the love they both showed me when I needed me,” she said.

As she walked down the aisle, Delroy could hardly contain his emotions. Each step she took reminded them both of the bond they had nurtured, the challenges they had overcome, and the life they were ready to build together.

Later, at Arreba Lounge, the reception unfolded with music, laughter, and heartfelt speeches. Guests cheered as Samantha and Delroy cut their vanilla cake from MNS Pastries, and playful games brought everyone closer together.

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