Nicholas- Upchurch -
Avery- Douglas -
Don't Miss It!
OUR STORY
FIRST DATE
On our first date, Nic picked me up from my apartment and drove us to the East Potomac Tennis Center to play a few matches! (If you know him at all, you know he loves competition!!) The sun was setting, helicopters with the VIPs of DC were buzzing overhead, and Nic came prepared with some White Claws to up our game! It was so easy to talk and laugh with him, I knew immediately it was something special. Following the beat down, he drove me home.... The whole ride back I was wondering if he was going to ask me to dinner after or what.... He was too nervous and wanted to shower. I'm not going to lie I was a little bummed but I decided to put myself out there and text him about an hour after saying, "thanks again, I wanted to keep hanging!" He immediately responded and asked if I wanted to meet somewhere. He was such a gentleman, he got dressed up and came to walk me from my apartment to Wundergarten, a cute, close by outdoor biergarten. We sat outside drinking Cutwater margaritas and talking about everything under the moon for hours into the night! We discussed all taboo first date topics: politics, religion, values.... and everything just aligned. Instantly, I knew he had a huge heart, devotion to his family and friends, and would be a supporting and loyal partner! From then on, we have been inseparable and I wouldn't have it any other way!
THE PROPOSAL
We were in the Maldives celebrating my Mom's 50th Birthday (which we were beyond thrilled we got the invite to)! We were a few days into our once-in-a-lifetime, dream vacation and Nic for once woke up earlier than me and starting getting ready, I'm talking gel in the hair, brushing his teeth, putting on my favorite tropical swim trunks and Tulum, linen shirt. I could hear him stirring around but didn't really think anything of it. Once I woke up, I was in a mad rush because we were supposed go snorkeling on the reef that morning at 9 am and we had planned to go grab iced lattes beforehand. I was flustered and was like "why didn't you wake me up!!!" He was unusually quiet.... As I'm getting ready he said, "hey babe, I'll be right back." To which I responded, "Where the heck are you going, we have to go!" He quite sternly said, "don't worry about it, just go sit outside on the deck." I did, not knowing he was sneaking out to go hide the engagement ring in an oyster. Suddenly, staff comes in and has a floating breakfast prepared in our pool! It was beautiful and Nic was taking watch very intently. I saw the dish with oysters and thought that was an interesting choice for breakfast, but what the heck.... I love oysters no matter what time of day. We both wade into the water and start nibbling some pineapple, just enjoying the morning sun rising and talking. Nic is still off and I can tell something is on his mind. He says he's going to have an oyster and I should to. So as I reach in and pick an oyster, I see the ring we had designed perfectly placed in the center one. I lit up and handed Nic the ring! My heart was racing and I couldn't believe what was about to happen. Nic got down on one knee in the pool (yes he's that tall and yes he was a merman) and blurted out the sweetest things. He forgot everything he had planned and I blacked out except for hearing my full name, "Avery Blair Douglas.... I cannot wait for you to be the mother of my children.....I love you.....Will you marry me?" That was all I needed to hear. I said "of course!!!!!!!!!" xoxoxoxoxo
AND TODAY... WE ARE GETTING MARRIED
WHERE & WHEN
CEREMONY
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM
The ceremony will take place on the Eclipse Lawn at 5:30 PM. We ask that guests arrive no later than 5:10 PM. In order to be in the present moment, we request that guests silence their phones and leave them in their pockets and clutches. Don’t worry, photographers will be onsite and will capture the occasion! As noted on the invitation, please wear Tropical Cocktail attire (see FAQ for ideas). Following the ceremony, guests will be bused or can walk to Fern Tree Spa.
COCKTAIL HOUR
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Once arriving at the Spa, let loose and make sure to sip on our signature cocktails and nibble on our favorite apps. We will join in the festivities following our photos!
RECEPTION
7:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Eat, Laugh, Dance, Party
Things To Do
Luminous Lagoon
The Luminous Lagoon is home to millions of dinoflagellates. At night, the lagoon sparkles and glistens when disturbed, as these microscopic organisms produce an eerie glow, reflecting the outlines of fish and other objects in the water. The lagoon is said to be the largest and most brilliant of four in the world, a fact that continually attracts and awes visitors and scientists from around the world.
Approximately 25 mins from Half Moon.
Dunn's River Falls
The falls are one of Jamaica's national treasures. It continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock due to precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river as it flows over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves. This, combined with its location near to the sea, gives it the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world.
Approximately 1.5 hrs from Half Moon.
Blue Mountains
Coffee lovers, this is your chance to see where your favorite cup of joe comes from. We recommend a scenic drive to Kingston and New Castle followed by a relaxing stop at Cafe Blue, known for its beautifully prepared Blue Mountain coffee. On the way back to Montego Bay, the tour take you to the Bob Marley Museum and through downtown Kingston, highlighting historic monuments along the way.
Approximately 3.5 hrs from Half Moon.
OUR GALLERY
FAQ
Where do I stay? BOOK BY MARCH 15, 2023
We kindly request our guests stay at Half Moon resort. We have negotiated a reduced room rate. Please follow the instructions below to secure your *rooms.
- Click on the reservation link: Douglas-Upchurch Wedding
- Select your preferred dates
- Enter number of adults (maximum 2)
- Click check availability-select preferred accommodation option
- Select view offers-this will display the deposit and cancellation policy for the booking
- If this option best suits you, click reserve to proceed with making the reservation.
- Proceed in entering your details under the heading CONFIRM YOUR STAY
- For the section that has "ANYTHING ELSE WE SHOULD KNOW"-there is a REQUESTS box-this can accommodate flight information, bedding, floor preference etc.
- Also select the tabs in this section that best suits you
- Confirm reservation
What is "Tropical Cocktail" attire?
For the ladies, flowy maxi or midi dresses are common tropical cocktail outfits, but formal jumpsuits are also appropriate. Don't shy away from vibrant colors or patterns! When it comes to accessories, feel free to have some fun with colorful statement earrings, fun block heels, or a cute straw clutch. Dressy sandals, wedges, and block heels are appropriate footwear. It's also perfectly acceptable to pack sunglasses since the ceremony will be at sunset.
For the men, wear either a suit or a long-sleeved shirt and tie with a jacket and slacks. Feel free to include prints or solid colors like variations of blues, cream, and white (avoid black). Consider a breathable fabric such as linen, khaki, or seersucker. Dress shoes that compliment the slacks are recommended, such as loafers or deck shoes. Shorts and sandals are not permitted.
Can I take photos during the ceremony?
We kindly request you to stay unplugged during the ceremony, a photographer will be present.
Does Jamaica require a passport?
Yes, so please make sure yours is up-to-date.
Does Jamaica require a negative COVID test for entry?
As of now, Jamaica has no COVID travel restrictions. We will keep our guests updated.
What is the dress code at Half Moon resort restaurants?
Delmare: collared shirt, dress or casual, long trousers and Bermuda shorts, no torn jeans, flip-flops, t-shirts, cutoffs, casual or cargo shorts allowed
Sugar Mill: collared shirt, dress or casual, long trousers and Bermuda shorts, no shorts
Hayward: casual
What weather should I expect?
Of course, we can’t guarantee anything, but it is HOT. Bring plenty of sunscreen.
Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors?
The ceremony and reception will be outdoors.
What should I expect after the ceremony?
After the ceremony, the immediate family of the couple will be taking pictures for around about a half an hour. Guests can walk a few steps to cocktail hour where food and beverages will be flowing. Dinner will and dancing to follow at Seagrape Terrace. Transportation will be provided.
Will transportation be provided? Is there easy parking at the venue(s)?
Half Moon will provide shuttle service to each wedding venue. You may also use your golf cart if your villa includes one!
How and when do I RSVP?
With your invitation, there is an RSVP postcard that you can fill out and return. Please RSVP by March 1, 2023.
Can I bring a guest?
We are at capacity with our venue which means we are sadly unable to accommodate additional guests. We will only be able to accommodate those listed on your invitation. If you have any questions, please reach out.