Caribbean BELLE Magazine - Christa and Micheal Wedding Reception at the Hyatt Regency

Christa and Micheal Wedding Reception at the Hyatt Regency
Photography by Gary Jordan

Christa and Micheal Wedding Reception at the Hyatt Regency - Photography by Gary Jordon

“I noticed her accent first off,” said Michael. “I had no idea she was a Trini.”

Christa and Micheal Wedding Reception at the Hyatt Regency - Photography by Gary Jordon Christa is a surgery resident and was working at her uncle’s Orthopedic clinic in Illinois, and Michael is a radiologist. They met at the office, on day one of Michael’s orthopedic rotation. Christa introduced herself just as he walked through the door, as she was sick of dealing with snobby residents who wouldn’t introduce themselves.

She was instantly struck by Michael’s happy glow, and for Michael, it was love at first sight. He couldn’t stop smiling! Both come from strong and highly supportive families and have similar interests – Chess, snowboarding, traveling. Christa likes to paint, and Michael plays the piano; but they like doing both together.

It was the weekend of the Summit of the Americas in Trinidad, in April 2009, when Michael proposed. He took Christa on a getaway trip to Tobago. Christa had mentioned that the Nylon Pool was one of her favorite places on earth. They took a glass bottom boat ride out, and Michael proposed in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.

The Venue

The wedding was officiated at St. Finbars RC Church in Diego Martin, Trinidad. The reception was held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain. The couple was attracted to the modern feel of the Hyatt, the superb amenities and waterfront view. They wanted a grand place for all the visitors coming from outside of Trinidad.

Christa and Micheal Wedding Reception at the Hyatt Regency - Photography by Gary Jordon The Wedding

Christa’s Syrian-Lebanese background was reflected in Arabic dancing at the opening, and the choice of music. A Syrian drummer (a surprise!) led the procession into the reception hall at the Hyatt. Arabic mezza (appetizers) were served.

The Dress

Icon fashion designer, Meiling, who is also the aunt of the bride, designed Christa’s wedding dress. Meiling promised Christa, as a little girl, that she would design her dress and held true to that promise. Christa felt like a supermodel when she went for fittings in October, 2009, and loved every minute of it. It was a perfect fit, and the dress was breathtaking.

Christa and Micheal Wedding Reception at the Hyatt Regency - Photography by Gary Jordon The Bridal Party

Peter Elias was very involved with Christa’s mother’s dress and assisted with ideas. Christopher Feml and his Bumble & Bumble crew came from Albany, NY, and did a great job with everyone’s hair. He never stopped fussing over Christa and the bridesmaids. The overall result was better than the couple imagined!