Bridget Sandals’ Jonathan Buchanan’s best role yet: girl dad

For Jonathan Buchanan, operations manager at Bridget Sandals, innovation has been the foundation of his success. While many know him for helping to build the footwear brand through creativity and entrepreneurship, fewer know that the same determined mindset has also shaped his life as a father.

For Buchanan, becoming a dad didn't just change his life; it defined and, in many ways, redefined his purpose. His deep, unwavering commitment, loyalty and love were evident in his relationship with his daughter, Jade.

At just 16 years old, Jade eloquently offered a thoughtful glimpse into the close-knit bond she shares with her father. “My dad is very amusing, outgoing, extraordinary, kind, thoughtful, caring and genuine. He's not afraid to let you know who he is. And we are similar in the fact that I’m expressive about how I am feeling,” the Campion College student told Sunday Lifestyle. 

Even though work takes up a great deal of his time, Jonathan ensures that his daughter is his top priority. She shared a few ways they have spent quality time together: “The store only closes on a Sunday. So, growing up, we would go on little father-daughter dates on that day, usually getting some ice cream. We’d sit down, talk, play games, and those were very nice bonding times. I was young, but that’s something I’ll never forget and always cherish. Outside of Sundays, we catch up by talking, and it’s those little moments that mean the world to me.”

The two even shared the same core memory of doing a father-daughter dance together. “My favourite memory with Jade was my first ever dance show with her. And it was great being behind the scenes [and] going to rehearsals. She is a performer. I can’t dance to save my life. But I like the foolishness. So I was there for it. The show went well, and it was amazing sharing the stage with her,” Jonathan said.

Learning that he was going to become a father brought a wave of emotions. “I was frightened at first. But when that wore off, and it did quickly, elation kicked in, and I was excited.” 

At 26 years old and preparing for fatherhood, his only wish was for a healthy and happy child. “As long as she was healthy and fully functional, I was good,” he revealed, noting, “I am so proud of the person she is becoming. Jade is compassionate, caring, thoughtful, resourceful, smart, funny, cheeky, tolerant and playful. She’s not a girl anymore, not a woman as yet and seeing her in this phase is fantastic. To actually see her live her life; it’s really wonderful.” 

Brimming with pride, Jonathan could not hold back tears as his daughter shared the greatest lesson her father had taught her. “I think the biggest lesson my dad has taught me is to just be wise. And I don’t only mean wise in the sense of how I go about life. I also mean wise in terms of how I carry and present myself, the company I keep and knowing how to strike a balance between doing well and having fun,” Jade said.

As she gets older, Jonathan continues to maintain a balance between her happiness and health, both physical and mental. “For some people, success looks like money; for others, it’s love. For her, I just want her to be happy. Success will come if she works hard, and I have no doubt that she will. Jade likes school, she gets great grades, does her homework and studies. She is mature and responsible; she doesn't keep bad company. She is amazing, and again, I just want her to be happy,” he added, to which Jade responded, “Period”.

From a personal standpoint, Jade appreciates how understanding her father is, even on matters that he doesn’t fully grasp at first. “I love how much he tries to understand. He doesn't always get it. Parents aren’t going to get everything. But he has interest, and he actually tries. I appreciate the effort. And when he doesn't understand, he's there to support.”

Professionally, she is super proud of her father’s success. “The Bridget brand mainly has really grown a whole lot over these last couple of years. This is a business that he is extremely passionate about, and to be able to watch it grow and witness that success is incredible.”

Ironically, Jade admitted to owning only five pairs of Bridget Sandals. Buchanan, however, was quick to support her, saying with a smile that she is getting there and noting that she is a fan of sneakers.

As Jonathan prepares to enjoy a restful Father's Day by watching a 2026 FIFA World Cup match before having dinner with his family, he encourages other fathers to make a conscious effort to build meaningful bonds with their children.

“Be genuine about your approach, like my daughter advised. Don't be a father just for the looks or the optics of it. A lot of times, we do things just because of what people might say, but do it because you want to. Once you actually want to do it, fathering becomes easy. And if you're a dad who wasn't always involved and want to make a difference now, still reach out. Even if the child won't answer you or talk to you, there's a reason. Give it time, be patient, and stick with it. If you really want to be there for your child, it'll work out.”

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com