Stephanie & Ryan
Stephanie & Ryan

10 years later, we’re saying I do, but this time with you!

Stephanie O’Connor
and
Ryan O’Connor

Ryan and Stephanie met in 2011 while attending VCU. They remained friends for several years, attending the same sorority and fraternity functions. They hung in the same circle of people but fate and a series of events led them to each other in December 2014. Always drawn to Ryan, Stephanie finally caved and agreed to go on a date. A date she never expected would turn into anything significant, actually led her to find the person with whom her soul was meant for, the person who saw past her flaws and imperfections, the person who would become her forever. Fast forward to 2016. Life moved fast for the pair, they went through a whirlwind of both tragic events and very exciting events in their first two years together, they experienced loss, the birth of their first child, new careers, many life changes that even the strongest of couples would find hard to overcome. They persevered through it all and it ultimately made them stronger, but they were at a cross roads with all that life had thrown at them andmade the very difficult decision to forgo a wedding ceremony as they anticipated their first child, Ryan Sean Jr. together. Stephanie was newly out of nursing school and the overwhelming thought of planning a wedding, focusing on her new career, and most importantly preparing for a new baby, seemed all too overwhelming. They said their "I do's" with no one else present, not even their parents. This decision, Stephanie and Ryan both immensely regretted for quite sometime but in the moment, it seemed like the right decision at the time. Stephanie always dreamed of a big, beautiful wedding, and the presence of friends and family. Now, after 10 years of marriage, Stephanie and Ryan are ready to say I do again, but with you! They will retie the knot at Sandals South Coast. Be prepared for nothing short of an amazing weekend of lots of fun, sunshine and beautiful memories. They chose Sandals as their destination spot because vacationing became a way for the two to reset from their busy careers and most important job of being parents. They finally refocused on themselves after 5 years of marriage and realized the importance of taking time (even if it's just for a few days) to spend with each other. Looking ahead to their 10 year wedding anniversary in 2026, the couple couldn't think of a more perfect way to celebrate than in their favorite place, Jamaica, with all of their family and friends. 

Ryan and Stephanie know a destination ceremony is a big ask and requires planning and time off of work and away from family, so if you are unable to make it they completely understand. They also want this to be a mini vacation for you, so please feel free to book as many nights as you want. This is all inclusive (tips too). Once they receive the group rate for their block of rooms and nail down the itenirary, they will send those out. They will also send out save the dates and a formal invitation this winter to give everyone ample time to prepare!

Ryan and Stephanie want nothing more than your presence at this ceremony as your unwavering support over the years has meant the absolute world to us. Please no gifts. Stephanie and Ryan not only love to vacation in Jamaica but have been drawn to the vibrant culture and community therefore, they are asking that if you feel inclined to give a gift, to make a donation instead, to the Sandals foundation which supports the children of Jamaica.

Our Destination

Sandals South Coast

Set on a 2-mile stretch of Jamaica's South coast's most pristine white-sand beach and nestled within a 500-acre nature preserve, this spectacular seaside oasis brings guests closer than ever to the water including all-new Over-The-Water Bungalows, an Over-The-Water Bar, and a romantic Over-The-Water Serenity Chapel.