The recent wedding of Abbey Weitzeil, a three-time U.S. Olympian, marks a milestone in her life. On Saturday, September 21, the 27-year-old swimmer married Michael Jensen at Silverado Resort in Napa, California. Weitzeil shared with PEOPLE that the event was a heartfelt family affair, with many loved ones playing meaningful roles throughout the ceremony and reception.
“The presence of our family made the day exceptionally special,” Weitzeil stated, crediting Curated by Grace + White for their assistance in planning the occasion.
Her uncle, Richard Lamoureux, officiated the ceremony, while her aunt crafted a personalized wedding cake adorned with white chocolate ganache and buttercream frosting. The floral arrangements were created by her cousin, Aubree Nelson, through her business, Lavender Haven Floral.
Weitzeil, who won gold and silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is now taking a year-long break from swimming to enjoy married life with Jensen
“We wanted to gather everyone we cherish in one place to celebrate together,” the athlete expressed. “One of our greatest joys is uniting our friends, and we envisioned a grand celebration filled with dancing and merriment.”
The couple also carved out intimate moments for themselves, such as a first look that provided a “private moment together” before the ceremony commenced. After their first look, Weitzeil and Jensen exchanged handwritten vows in front of their friends and family. “We loved the idea of sharing with everyone the reasons for our celebration,” Weitzeil noted.
In anticipation of the wedding, the couple organized several enjoyable activities for their loved ones, including a wine-tasting event at their favorite winery, Whitehall Lane, on Thursday, followed by a men’s golf tournament on Friday, which led into a rehearsal dinner and welcome party.
The wedding day arrived with Weitzeil making her entrance in a stunning strapless Kim Kassas gown, featuring a corseted design and drop waist. She described the dress as “one of the most flattering items” she had ever worn.
For her entrance, the bride selected an original piano arrangement of a Taylor Swift song, performed by her friend and fellow Olympian Elizabeth Beisel. Weitzeil’s wedding-day beauty was expertly managed by Beauty on Set.
After the ceremony, she changed into a minidress that allowed her ample “space to dance,” showcasing the skills she and Jensen acquired during their dance lessons. Their practice paid off as they gracefully waltzed on the checkerboard dance floor, provided by Bickner, to Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey.”
Status the Band energized the dance floor throughout the night.
For a more relaxed atmosphere at the reception, the couple opted against a formal sit-down dinner. Instead, they arranged various food stations offering a selection of small bites, from poke to tacos and sliders, since they both enjoy finger foods.
A 360-degree photo booth from Life in 360 added a fun element, allowing guests to capture memorable video clips from the night. The wedding memories were beautifully documented by photographer Stephanie Lynn, videographer Cabie Films, and content creator Ce Jour Creations.
Describing the wedding as “a dream come true,” Weitzeil expressed immense joy in marrying her “best friend” surrounded by their loved ones. She attributed the seamless execution of their wedding plans to their lengthy engagement. Jensen proposed during a family trip on November 23, 2022, just before Thanksgiving, leading the couple to spend nearly two years fine-tuning their special day.
The athlete appreciated the “extra time to plan,” stating, “Planning was also an outlet for me to divert my mind from swimming during a challenging Olympic year. I had an incredible wedding planner who ensured everything was stress-free.”
This past summer, Weitzeil competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning gold and silver medals in two relay events. She subsequently announced a year-long break from her swimming training. With the wedding behind her, Weitzeil eagerly anticipates embarking on a new journey alongside her husband and best friend.
“We’re thrilled to spend the remainder of this year celebrating our marriage while I take a break from swimming,” she shared with PEOPLE. “For now, we’re just embracing whatever life brings our way.”
