Scott and Samantha's Wedding

Our Wedding

Our Story

Photos

For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Pauline, and I’ve had the privilege of calling Sam my best friend for over a decade. That means I’m the person who has had a front-row seat to her life for many years. I’ve seen her at her best, her boldest, and yes, through a few dramatic chapters too — and through it all, she has remained one of the most loyal and loving people I know. Sam loves deeply and shows up fully. Seeing her this happy, this grounded, and this sure about her future makes my heart so full. Sam, I’m so proud of you and so grateful to stand beside on your wedding day and always.

Pauline Musa - Maid of Honor

Samantha is my cousin, my uncle’s daughter, and we grew up together, sharing countless childhood memories filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. She has always been kind-hearted, loving, and truly family-oriented, always putting the people she loves first.Although we had to part ways when she migrated, the bond we share has never faded. Now, after all these years, we have been blessed to reunite and celebrate one of the most important milestones of her life. It is truly an honor and a privilege to stand beside you on your wedding day.Watching you begin this beautiful new chapter fills my heart with so much joy, and I couldn’t be happier for you.Congratulations, cousin! I wish you and Scott a lifetime of love, happiness, and endless blessings. May God continue to guide your marriage and fill your home with peace, laughter, and unconditional love.

ANNTONETTE RICHARDS - BRIDESMAID

Chantel Gordon is a Bronx, NY native who met the bride freshman year of college. By day, Chantel and Sam were struggling through organic chemistry and clocking in hours at the library, and by night, bonding over big dreams (and bigger parties). Nearly two decades later, they’ve championed each other through med school, residency, and into the beginnings of their MD careers. Together achieving childhood dreams and booking Caribbean trips. Chantel is proud and honored to continue to be by the bride’s side as she steps into this next chapter.

Chantel Gordon - Bridesmaid

Jaharra has fond memories of long thoughtful conversations with Samantha from staying late in college dining halls to vulnerable chats in unexpected moments. Samantha has always had a motherly, deeply caring energy that makes her impossible not to love. It is absolutely beautiful what she has found a partner that appreciates her love. Jaharra is honored to be a part of this union and I wishes the bride and groom endless love, patience, laughter.

Jaharra Lawson - Bridesmaid

Samantha is my cousin, and we’ve shared a close bond for as long as I can remember. Growing up, we spent so much time together, creating wonderful childhood memories with our family. Although Samantha later moved to the United States and I remained in Jamaica, the distance has never changed the relationship we share.Samantha has always been someone who values her family, and seeing her so happy brings me so much joy. It is truly an honor and a privilege to be invited to witness and celebrate one of the most important days of her life.I am incredibly happy for Samantha and Scott, and I look forward to celebrating with them as they begin this beautiful new chapter together.Congratulations to you both. I wish you a lifetime of love, happiness, good health, and God’s richest blessings.

Josie Ann Leckie - BRIDESMAID

So, who would have thought that two master’s students—a Nigerian and a Jamaican—both striving to get into medical school would become lifelong friends, 11 years and counting? Well, this is Samantha and me.I met Samantha in the fall of 2014 at Rutgers Newark, and our friendship truly blossomed when we became housemates a year later in 2015. By then, I already knew Sam would be an easy person to live with. She was honest, fun, straightforward, thoughtful, family-oriented, and focused. These are qualities I continue to admire and value in her to this day.She was a constant source of motivation and inspiration. Together, we pushed through our master’s program and the medical school application process. By God’s grace, we both ended up at the same medical school in Brooklyn, with Samantha one year ahead of me. Naturally, we returned to our roomie status and found an apartment together during my first year and her second. It was truly special going through medical school with a trusted friend and sister. And of course, it didn’t hurt living with someone who appreciated a good pot of Jollof rice!Samantha guided and supported me every step of the way, whether through clinicals or as leaders in SNMA. Her advice was always clutch. Along the journey, our families became connected, and my mom and sister especially grew to love Samantha dearly. So when she matched into residency in Rochester—my hometown—we were beyond excited to welcome her.To see Samantha and Scott find each other in Rochester fills me with so much joy and hope. Scott is wonderful and already loved by my family. And once again, just as I did for medical school, I plan to follow Samantha—this time back to Rochester. I look forward to creating more memories, deepening our sisterhood, and growing our families together.Thank you for allowing me to witness and celebrate this beautiful union. I am forever grateful for your love and friendship. May God continue to bless you and Scott, grant you favor, and fill your marriage and home with love, joy, and peace. Love you both! Congratulations!

Lynn Benson - Bridesmaid 

It honestly feel like just yesterday when Samantha and I was little girls running around together. We go way back, we attend primary school together and spend so many years growing up side by side before she migrate in her teens.Some of my favorite memories dem come from when we used to live on Henderson Avenue. Our older cousins would have we playing spelling games, and somehow dem make learning feel like the best competition ever. Those are memories I will always treasure.If there is one thing I can say about Samantha, it is that she always have a kind heart. She is the type of person who genuinely care about others and always treat me with so much love and kindness. She is also one of the smartest people I know. From a young age, Samantha had a brilliant mind and an incredible ability to figure things out, no matter how hard the situation was. She was always one of the top students in school, and it was clear even back then that she was destined for great things.Now for the funny part. Samantha was never one for drama or fighting. Whenever the rest of we cousins get caught up in arguments, she would quickly say, “I am not getting involved.” She wanted absolutely no part of the chaos. But every now and then, if she feel like somebody was truly in the wrong, she would surprise all of we by using her sweet little voice to tell them exactly how she feel. It was so funny because she look so innocent, yet somehow she would deliver the funniest little cuss out you ever hear. We could not help but laugh every single time.Samantha, you have grown into an incredible woman, and I could not be happier for you. You deserve every bit of the love and happiness you have found.Scott, thank you for loving my cousin and for making her so happy.Congratulations to both of you on your beautiful marriage. May your home always be filled with love, laughter, peace, and God richest blessings. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.

SEDESHIA ROBERTS - BRIDESMAID

Samantha and I first met during orientation in medical school. I’m pretty sure we were drawn to each other because of our shared West Indian background. We began as study buddies and at some point along the way I realized we would be lifelong friends . Samantha is so compassionate, caring and hardworking and I’m an so glad that she found someone like Scott who loves and appreciates her the way she deserves. I am beyond excited to stand by her side to celebrate their love and usher in this new chapter of their lives as husband and wife.

Tamasha Persaud - Bridesmaid

I met Samantha the way all great friendships are formed, surviving the trenches of residency. After three years of mild chaos, with some fun parties sprinkled in there, our friendship was officially formed.One of my favorite memories with Samantha was a road trip to Canada for a friend’s birthday weekend. Things were going great … until the GPS switched to Kilometers. For two very intelligent and resourceful women, this unexpected switch to the metric system caused just enough confusion that we got lost… twice. After a brief moment in our shared delusion, a mild panic attack and some quick math we eventually figured it out.I am beyond honored to stand by Samantha on her big day and couldn’t be happier to help celebrate this beautiful love story. Wishing the bride and groom a lifetime filled with joy, laughter and many more celebrations. Cheers to the beautiful life you’re creating together.

Tiffany Hackett -  Bridesmaid

Bridal Party

Q + A

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

Formal We’re celebrating in classic style—think polished, elegant, and refined. For gentlemen: a dark suit or tuxedo, dress shirt, tie or bow tie, and dress shoes. For ladies: a cocktail dress, formal midi or floor-length gown, or a dressy pantsuit; dress shoes or heels recommended. PLEASE AVOID casual denim, sneakers, or athletic wear. Our color palette for the day leans toward champagne, taupe, mocha, gold accents, and soft floral tones—feel free to incorporate those hues, but PLEASE AVOID bright red, royal blue, neon colors, stark white or ivory (reserved for the couple), and icy cool grays. If you have questions about specific outfits or need accessibility accommodations, contact us—we’re happy to help.

Dress Code

We have reserved room block at discounted rate for our wedding at the Strathallan. Please book at the link below. <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/hinds-hill-stay-tapestry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hinds Hill Wedding - Guestroom Block</a> The Strathallan - a DoubleTree by Hilton features a garden, shared lounge, a terrace and restaurant in Rochester. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property provides an ATM and a concierge service for guests. Each room includes air conditioning and a flat-screen TV, and certain units at the hotel have a balcony. Guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Popular points of interest near The Strathallan - a DoubleTree by Hilton include George Eastman House, The National Museum of Play and Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Greater Rochester International Airport is 6.2 miles away.

The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton

Hyatt Regency Rochester is accessible from the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport, as well as train station, bus station, all within 3 mi radius. The hotel is 3117 feet from Strong National Museum of Play. Located 492 feet from the Genesee River and connected to the Rochester Riverside Convention Center by a sky bridge, Hyatt Regency Rochester features a restaurant, lounge and fitness center with sun terrace. The air-conditioned rooms at the Rochester Hyatt Regency feature wood flooring and Hyatt Grand Beds. The rooms are equipped with 42-inch flat-screen TVs and WiFi. Each room is furnished with a coffee maker and seating area. American cuisine is offered at Astor on Main in the Hyatt Regency. Center City Terrace and Lounge is open for cocktails and light meals in the evening. Savory cuisine is available any time of the day at The Street. There is also a local coffee shop and a 24-Hour Market at the property. After working out in the gym, guests can swim in the heated indoor pool. The 24-hour business center has fax and copy services available.

Hyatt Regency Rochester

Located within 2.7 miles of Seneca Park and 3.7 miles of George Eastman House, Holiday Inn Express Irondequoit by IHG provides rooms in Rochester. With a fitness center, the 2-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The hotel features family rooms. Guest rooms at the hotel are equipped with a TV with cable channels and a safety deposit box. All rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Guests at Holiday Inn Express Irondequoit by IHG can enjoy an American breakfast. Free private parking and a business center are available, as well as a 24-hour front desk. Rochester Riverside Convention Center is 3.9 miles from the accommodation, while The National Museum of Play is 3.9 miles away. Greater Rochester International Airport is 8.7 miles from the property.

Holiday Inn Express Rochester NE- Irondequoit by IHG

Featuring 3-star accommodations, Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown is located in Rochester, a 4-minute walk from The National Museum of Play and 0.8 miles from Blue Cross Arena At the War. Offering a restaurant, the property also has a bar, as well as an indoor pool. Susan B. Anthony House is 1.8 miles away and University of Rochester is 2.9 miles from the hotel. At the hotel, rooms contain a desk. The rooms in Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown are equipped with a flat-screen TV and free toiletries. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a buffet or a continental breakfast. Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown can conveniently provide information at the reception to help guests to get around the area. Popular points of interest near the hotel include Rochester Riverside Convention Center, George Eastman House and The Little Theatre. Greater Rochester International Airport is 5.6 miles from the property.

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

This hotel is located 3 miles from downtown Rochester and one mile from Irondequoit. The hotel offers an indoor heated pool, gym, business center and rooms with 32-inch flat-screen TVs. Hampton Inn Rochester- Irondequoit rooms include a microwave and refrigerator. The rooms are equipped with a coffee maker. The Rochester Hampton Inn provides guests with a daily breakfast and all day coffee and tea. The Hampton Inn is 3 miles from Durand Eastman County Park. The hotel is 3 miles from the Seneca Park Zoo and the Seabreeze Amusement Park.

Hampton Inn Rochester Irondequoit

Offering an indoor pool and a restaurant, Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown is located in Rochester. Free WiFi access is available. Each room here will provide you with a TV and air conditioning. Complete with a microwave, the dining area also has a coffee machine. Featuring a bath or shower, private bathrooms also come with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Extras include a desk and bed linen. At Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown you will find a fitness center. Other facilities offered at the property include luggage storage and laundry facilities. The property offers free parking. The hotel is 328 feet from Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 1312 feet from Blue Cross Arena At the War and 2297 feet from The National Museum of Play.

Samantha & Scott

Samantha & Scott

Dress Code

FORMAL

Ideas & Advice

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