The Bachelorette Alum Luke Pell Marries Hayley James in 'Western Formal' Wedding at His Family's Texas Ranch

The Bachelorette alum Luke Pell is married!

Pell tied the knot with his girlfriend Hayley James at his family's ranch, Traditions, in Burnet, Texas, on Saturday, May 10. The "western formal" wedding was attended by 170 of the couple's closest friends and family, including Bachelor Nation's Chris Soules.

The nuptials evoked true Southern charm, kicking off with a "Dust Off Your Boots Welcome Reception" at Perissos Vineyard and Winery. And, of course, cowboy hats were "non-negotiable" the entire weekend. 

With James being a former wedding planner, it was "pretty smooth" planning her own big day. She and Pell looked at "several destination options" for their wedding, but ultimately couldn't stray away from "the beauty of the Texas Hill Country in the spring."

Outside Traditions, nestled below a towering tree with cascading branches, is a large wooden cross. The religious symbol was decorated with white florals and greenery, and served as the backdrop to Pell and James' simple and serene ceremony. 

The couple tells PEOPLE their wedding was a "full circle moment for both of us," adding that they were most looking forward to "celebrating with our friends and family who all had an impact on our life." 

James walked down the aisle as "Goodness of God" played. She wore a mermaid-style wedding dress with a plunging neckline and appliquéd embellishments from Bridal Boutique in Lewisville, Texas. Following the boho vibe, the bride's long hair was styled down in soft curls. Her hair and makeup was done by Think Brink Beauty. 

"I love Hayley's commitment to her faith and her resilience and beauty; inside and out," Pell tells PEOPLE.

The groom wore a classic black suit with a black tie and black boots for the special occasion, and accessorized with a white rose boutonniere. 

"Luke is patient, kind and gentle," James says. "He came into my life at the most unexpected time and showed me a love I've never experienced. His love mirrors God's love for us."

Pell and James exchanged traditional vows during their ceremony, which was officiated by Rick Blackington. In an especially intimate moment, the couple's parents and wedding party prayed over them.

Luke Pell and Hayley James.Credit: 

Megan Kay Photography

Luke Pell and Hayley James.Credit: 

Megan Kay Photography

The newlyweds then took photos in the grass at sunset. James put on a white cowboy hat while Pell wore a black one. For the reception, James swapped her gown for a shimmering white jumpsuit.

The pair shared their first dance under string lights to "With You I Am" by Cody Johnson. The couple and their wedding guests were then treated to live performances from Jordan Kahn Music Company — the same entertainment Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert selected for their wedding.

An abundance of comfort food was available, with stations of street tacos, barbecue and roasted chicken and waffles at the reception. As if that wasn't tasty enough, Whataburger was provided as a late-night snack.

For dessert, Pell and James ditched wedding cake for delicious peach cobbler and banana pudding. 

James was first introduced to Pell after he slid into her Instagram DMs, though the two didn't officially meet in person until late February 2024. 

The couple got engaged just five months later on July 20, 2024, in Napa Valley, California. They announced the news in a joint Instagram post the following day, with James writing, " 'Every good and perfect gift is from above.' James 1:17!! Lifting our eyes up towards our Father — the One who not only answered our prayers, but exceeded them. So thankful for His perfect timing. The easiest yes. I love you forever 🤍."

Pell and James tell PEOPLE that they view marriage as "finding the best friend and life partner that God meant for us." After their honeymoon in Maui, Hawaii, they say they look forward to "building our life together and starting a family."

Additional Credits:

Content Creator: Mariahs Moments Media 

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