Mikhail and Jolan’s faith-anchored union

With faith in Jehovah and a deep love for each other, Mikhail Ranklin and Jolan Laing’s journey to marriage is a true testament to their devotion. Childhood friends through their parents, they were both raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses and often crossed paths at religious gatherings. Over time, their bond grew into a friendship that blossomed into something beyond physical attraction, built on a foundation of genuine acceptance and understanding.

Jolan appreciated Mikhail’s jovial, light-hearted personality, while Mikhail, struck by Jolan’s striking beauty, confessed that genuine affection for him had deepened his feelings for her.

“Jolan really caught my eye on a deeper level when I realised how much she enjoyed me, for me. She liked me for who I was,” Mikhail told Island Wedding.

Their connection deepened at religious gatherings, where Jolan was impressed by the way Mikhail devoted himself to Jehovah and pushed to grow both spiritually and physically. That faith gave her steady support, and she knew she could always rely on him, especially in moments of uncertainty.

By January 2022, they agreed to start dating. They spent as much time together as possible, sharing meals, talking regularly, or binge-watching series.

Mikhail noticed they were effortlessly weaving each other into their plans. “I noticed that she naturally placed me in her future, and she never second-guessed this feeling; and I knew then, that I wanted to provide for and comfort her forever,” he shared.

Like other relationships, they have had their fair share of hiccups, but that didn’t change the trajectory of their union. For Jolan, she knew she wanted to be in his life forever when he not only stood up for her, but also for their union. “We simply ignored the naysayers and paid attention to the unwavering love we showed for each other,” Mikhail added.

A testament to their genuine connection, Mikhail’s thoughts of Jolan are filled with pure love.

He confessed, “I admire Jolan’s consistency, especially in how she treats me. She has had the same intensity, integrity and excitement attached to her in all her dealings with me. It makes every day feel like day one.”

Seeing Jolan’s love for children, animals, and the less fortunate, always brings a smile to Mikhail’s face. All things considered, he proposed to the love of his life on September 28 of last year, during a visit to their favourite beach in Ocho Rios, Old Fort Bay Beach.

Getting assistance from his friends, Mikhail said, “I felt very ready, no fear. I knew Jolan was ready, so her answer would be yes, and a calm set in.”

Not knowing the specifics of that Saturday afternoon, Jolan only knew that Mikhail eventually planned to propose, just not when.“I felt a wide range of emotions. I was very happy and excited to begin this new chapter with him. I felt like Jehovah had really blessed me,” Jolan explained.

Heading to another beach for a milestone moment as a couple, Jolan and Mikhail got married on Saturday, May 17, at Laughing Waters in St Ann. The stunning bride gracefully wore an off-the-shoulder ballgown with a sweetheart neckline from Bliss Bridal Boutique. One of her most special moments was her father, Howard Laing, walking her down the aisle and also officiating the ceremony.

The reception was filled with equally touching moments, and as Jolan recalled, “The speeches from our guests brought tears to my eyes at times. It was a privilege to be able to share such a special day with all the people closest to us.”

Their first dance, a nod to Mikhail’s love for Jolan, was to the tune of the Isley Brothers’ (At Your Best) You Are Love. The couple enjoyed their honeymoon at Hotel Riu Negril

ruth-ann.briscoe@gleanerjm.com