Heritage, Hustle, and Milestones: Jay Burgesson-Carter in Focus
Allow us to introduce our founder, Jay Burgesson-Carter, whose journey is as rich and compelling as the stories behind these four photographs.
From his deep pride in his Ghanaian heritage to navigating the challenges of starting his culinary career in London, Jay’s experiences reflect resilience, passion, and joy.
These snapshots also celebrate two unforgettable weddings, each marking a unique chapter in his life.
Let’s dive into the moments that define Jay’s inspirational journey.
Back to the motherland
Growing up, it was glaringly obvious to me that I was different, and my parents would always explain that this difference, having African heritage, was something special. We used to visit my West African family in London, and I would enjoy many delicious, authentic Ghanaian dishes cooked by my nana, who is still with us today and still cooking up feasts at the grand age of 91. Throughout my upbringing, I was told stories of how life was in Ghana, how my dad and aunties were brought up, and I developed a burning desire to visit.
It had to be with my whole family, so in 2017 the Burgessons, including my nana, who was 85 at the time, took a long-awaited family trip to Ghana. I’ll never forget taking this picture with my dad at Independence Square, also known as Black Star Square, just a stone’s throw from where he was born and raised. In that moment, it clicked into place that my heritage really was something special, and it is something I am extremely proud of.
Miracles do happen
In my earlier years, after moving to London and beginning my journey in hospitality, my mum became quite unwell. We had always been close, so it was a hard blow to navigate a new home, city, and job whilst she was unwell. Thankfully, she was only a train journey away, and I spent a lot of time visiting her, taking her to the hospital, and being present at her appointments.
After five years, we received an exciting call: my mum was being rushed to hospital for a much-needed kidney transplant. It was a whirlwind, but I will never forget her waking up after a mammoth ten-hour operation and taking this picture with me. Sadly, the kidney failed, and she is now back on dialysis, but she’s doing great and that moment remains an incredible memory that I will treasure forever.
First at the Tower
For many, 2020 is a year to be forgotten, but for me, it’s actually a very special year. I married my amazing husband, Jonathan, in January 2020.
Thankfully, we took the bold decision to get married in the coldest depths of winter, well ahead of the Covid crisis that was about to take hold. The most special memory for us is that we became the first couple to legally marry at the Tower of London.
Not only did we make history, but we also had the privilege of representing both my heritage and my sexuality within walls so entrenched in British history. It was an incredibly special moment for us.
Marrying my best friend
Because one wedding simply wouldn’t suffice for someone who works in events, my husband and I decided to enjoy all the seasons and have a second wedding in South Africa.
This held incredible meaning for us as it allowed me to honour my love as close to West Africa as possible.
Sadly, due to the political landscape, two men getting married in Ghana was not an option, but South Africa already held a special place in our hearts after many visits, so it felt right to decamp 52 of our nearest and dearest halfway across the globe to marry again, this time in the sun.