*Actress and singer Sheryl Lee Ralph is basking in the joy of seeing her son, Etienne Maurice, marry ABC News journalist Stephanie Wash in a beautiful ceremony set against the stunning backdrop of Jamaica.
The “Abbott Elementary” star shared her heartfelt emotions with People, expressing her elation over her son’s union with Wash, whom she describes as a smart and beautiful partner.
“I am so blessed and happy to see my son find and marry such a smart and beautiful partner who has added so much to his life,” Ralph remarked. “It fills my heart with overwhelming joy and happiness. It is as if all the love and good vibes in the world have come together in this spectacular moment, blessing their union with boundless hope and endless possibilities. And grandchildren too!”
The couple got engaged in the summer of 2023 and chose to marry on July 6 in the lush surroundings of the Good Hope Estate, embracing a tropical, bohemian ambiance meticulously designed by Shikima Hinds and Krafted by Design. Despite Hurricane Beryl’s looming presence, the wedding went ahead as planned, a testament to the resilience and dedication of the couple and their loved ones, People reports.
It looks like the hurricane Beryl has passed and is running like a Jamaican track star off to another race! Thank you all for your good vibes and prayers. We did not get a direct hit and we are grateful but Carriacou needs help. pic.twitter.com/7ADmPiAvH5
— sheryl lee ralph (@thesherylralph) July 4, 2024
Ralph had earlier posted a poignant video on X asking for prayers as the island awaited the storm. Remarkably, the wedding saw 300 guests travel from around the globe, overcoming the hurricane’s disruptions to attend the event, illustrating the strength of love and determination.
Wash, an Emmy-winning TV producer with impressive credits including “20/20” and “Soul of a Nation,” alongside Maurice, a filmmaker, actor, and philanthropist who founded the wellness organization WalkGood LA, marked their celebration with meaningful personal touches. Maurice honored his grandmother’s legacy through the bespoke karibas worn by the groomsmen, designed by Naid’s Studios, and he looked dapper in a double-b breasted, off-white linen tuxedo by Waraire Boswell.
“I knew I was in good hands,” Maurice said, praising Boswell’s craftsmanship and expressing how stress-free it was to rely on his expertise.
The event saw a plethora of notable attendees, including Wash’s aunt, “The Young and the Restless” actress Victoria Rowell, “Coming to America” star Vanessa Bell Calloway, “P-Valley” breakout Brandee Evans, Lynn Whitfield, Vanessa Estelle Williams, chef Alexander Smalls, ABC News national correspondent Steve Osunsami, casting director Robi Reed, and Emmy-winning director Nneka Onuorah. The ceremony featured musical performances with the groomsmen entering to Ginuwine’s “Differences,” and the bridesmaids—including Grammy nominee Elle Varner—walking in to Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo’s duet, “Nothing Even Matters.”
As the couple exchanged vows in front of family and esteemed friends, it became evident that their love had not only weathered a literal storm but stood strong and triumphant.
The joyous occasion, filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt moments, showcased not just the union of two individuals but the coming together of their communities, families, and rich legacies.
Reflecting on the day’s events, Ralph shared, “I’m still in awe how 300 people from around the globe made it through a hurricane, didn’t give up, and showed up for this spectacular celebration of love. What a story to tell my grandchildren!”
With such a memorable wedding, Etienne Maurice and Stephanie Wash have undoubtedly set the stage for a life filled with love, legacy, and resilience—a sentiment that surely resonates deeply within their families and friends.
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