Venus Williams has shared her heartfelt reflections on her recent weddings to actor Andrea Preti, expressing that the most cherished aspect of the ceremonies was the opportunity to celebrate alongside loved ones. The tennis champion, who recently graced the cover of The Knot, detailed her experiences in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
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The first of the couple’s two nuptial ceremonies took place in Ischia, Italy, on September 18, 2025. This picturesque location holds special significance for the pair, as it was also where they first met during Milan Fashion Week. Williams described the Italian ceremony as both poignant and fitting, stating, “It was so special to have the ceremony in Andrea’s home country. It was where everything started for us, so it felt incredibly natural and right to celebrate our love there.”
Following the destination wedding, Williams and Preti held a legal ceremony in Palm Beach, Florida, on December 19, 2025. This second celebration was infused with personal touches, making it a memorable event for everyone involved. Williams elaborated, “The most meaningful part for me was simply being able to celebrate with the people we love. We were really intentional about creating an experience for our guests, something that felt special from start to finish.”
Among the highlights of the Palm Beach wedding celebrations was a fun-filled sports day, which contributed to a lively atmosphere. Williams noted, “It added a fun, lighthearted energy, and a little friendly competition made it even more memorable.”
In reference to her experience of being featured on The Knot’s cover, Williams described it as “an incredible experience,” particularly since it allowed her to don her wedding dresses once more. She remarked, “I’ve truly loved embracing my bridal era, and getting to wear my wedding dresses again was so much fun—it’s made this already special chapter of my life feel even more magical.”
Preti also shared his emotions on the moment the couple secured their marriage license in Florida, labelling it as one of the most significant moments in their journey together. He expressed the thrill of realising a lifelong dream, stating, “If you thought for all your life that you want to get married one day, and you want to have a family, and the day comes? You know that, of course, you have to [feel it]: That’s the day.”
Preti described the experience as overwhelming, likening his emotions to “fireworks” and summarising the day with a sense of triumph, exclaiming, “Yeah, we made it. We are here today. Now let’s start our new journey together.” He conveyed the joy he felt at beginning a family life with Williams, saying, “I always wanted to have a family.”
After the celebrations, the couple has begun to establish a new rhythm in their life as husband and wife, ensuring that they prioritise their relationship. Preti emphasised the importance of such choices, stating, “She’s a choice. Every day, those small things are also a choice.” He highlighted the simplicity of their daily gestures, such as exchanging “Good morning. I love you” each day, which fosters a nurturing environment in their relationship.
For her part, Williams is reveling in her newlywed happiness. She expressed the unique joy of being in love and ready to share her life with someone. “I think it’s one thing if you love someone, but you’re not ready to spend your life together. But when you love someone and you’re ready to spend your life with someone, it’s just an amazing feeling,” she told reporters.
Both Williams and Preti are evidently embracing this new chapter in their lives, leaning into the love and joy they have created together. As they share moments and rituals, it is clear that their commitment to one another is both intentional and heartfelt, paving the way for a promising future.