Tia Marries DJ Genius In African-Themed Affair

ST. CROIX — They are about the same height, and even look alike. Their support for each other has been evident in real life as it has on social media, and the couple have spoken openly about their relationship on morning radio as a bond that, though already cemented in their hearts, would have been legally secured through the commitment of marriage.

So it was only fitting that when Tiara Mason — a local celebrity singer known as Tia, and disk jokey DJ Genius, whose real name is Phillmore Mills — stepped into the Botanical Gardens in Estate St. George on Saturday afternoon to dedicate themselves to each other for an eternity, their affection was visibly embodied in their expressions, and effortlessly displayed as they vowed to love one another until separated by death.

“I feel good,” were the only words DJ Genius, 32, managed as he passed near this reporter who was invited to the wedding, while the reception was ongoing. His bride, 25, stunning in her African attire that rightfully stood out amongst all other wear yesterday, could not wipe the smile off her face during the celebration, enamored with the moment and unmistakably overjoyed that her day had finally arrived.

[Related story: Locals on the Rise: Tia]

The setting was a stroke of genius (no pun intended). Following the ceremony, the newlyweds simply strolled onto the well-kept lawn and picturesque forest-like setting of the Botanical Gardens for their professional pictures, shot by Irene Ali of Mrs. Ali’s self-named photography company.

It wasn’t too long before the couple, who were preceded by the bridal party, came striding down a red carpet from the south entrance of the facility, with a welcome fit for royalty as dancers spread yellow rose petals on the floor to welcome them. Hand in hand they walked, danced and smiled as they made their way to their table. With the newlyweds still standing, the dancers, a total of eight, performed an African dance that could have been presented before kings and queens.

The performance was followed by the bride and groom’s first dance, which saw the couple embracing each other, talking words that the world may never know.

Toasts followed, as family and friends spoke of their experiences with the couple, and encouraged them to continue loving each other. In a moment of laughter, the bride’s mother told DJ Genius that once he could take orders from her, the marriage would be fine. Also in a lighthearted moment, the groom’s mother recalled rejecting a woman that preceded Tia who DJ Genius introduced to her. The crowd laughed at the manner in which DJ Genius’s mother explained the situation.

With Tia, however, the story was different. DJ Genius’s mom fell in love with the songbird immediately.

Tia and DJ Genius represent a couple whose demonstration of love through partnership has been an inspiration. Their unique personalities embody sincerity and kindness, and such dispositions have blessed them with favor. Furthermore, their willingness to support each other’s vision, once continued, will not only serve as an example of relationships that thrive through years of marriage, but as a model of the goodwill that follows those who live selflessly.

During the last toast, Tia and DJ Genius were treated to a trip to the Jamrock 2016 Reggae Cruise, which takes place from November 14-19, by a group of friends who had been planning a surprise wedding present for the couple.

“You are an amazing, beautiful, awesome couple, who deserve an opportunity of a lifetime,”said Kim Jerome, who is also the creator of V.I. Outspoken, a platform for Virgin Islands poets. “And so we are sending you on a surprise honeymoon to Jamrock 2016.”

The bride was speechless, so too was the groom. It was a fitting gift for a couple well deserving.

Feature Image:  Phillmore and Tiara Mills. (Credit: Irene Ali Photography)