Mia Chard and Sam Perez have officially tied the knot, celebrating their union in a heartwarming ceremony on 2nd May. The event took place at the picturesque home of Chard’s aunt and uncle in Kanarraville, Utah, where the couple exchanged vows in the company of 45 close friends and family members. The setting, chosen for its beauty, holds a special significance for the couple, who share a love for the desert landscape.
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Chard, 43, gained widespread recognition on TikTok over the past two years when she candidly discussed her experiences of being single her entire life. Sharing her story with over 170,000 followers, she aimed to connect with others who felt similarly isolated. Her viral video, which touched on the strength gained from such experiences, resonated widely, garnering an impressive 12 million views.
It was during this period of vulnerability and openness that Perez, 40, entered the picture. The pair, both residing in Utah, began communicating via direct messages on TikTok, leading to their first date by the end of 2024. Their relationship blossomed swiftly, culminating in an engagement in November 2025.
The wedding itself was a celebration of family and community. Chard’s brother officiated the ceremony, and her siblings took on the roles of flower boys, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. To further honour their loved ones, two seats were left vacant—one for Chard’s father and another for Perez’s grandmother—both of whom had a profound impact on their lives.
While planning their wedding, Chard and Perez adopted a laid-back approach. With about six months of preparation, the couple’s “Type B” personalities meant they preferred a relaxed atmosphere throughout the planning period. However, as the big day approached, the stress began to creep in. Chard expressed her desire to walk herself down the aisle, a decision that held deep personal meaning for her, particularly in light of her father’s passing.
Chard’s wedding dress, a simple yet elegant ivory lace gown, was discovered during a shopping trip in Salt Lake City with a friend. Perez complimented her choice, stating it fitted her beautifully. However, he sported a more casual look with khaki trousers and a mint jacket adorned with Navajo Pearls—an homage to their cultural heritage.
Chard’s TikTok community played a unique role in the wedding festivities. Many followers expressed a wish to participate and, rather than bring gifts, were encouraged to send cards to celebrate the occasion. The couple received around 150 cards from supporters across the United States, as well as international well-wishers from places like Canada, Australia, and the UK. Chard, her mother, and sister-in-law creatively displayed these cards as a focal point at the reception.
As part of the ceremony’s soundtrack, Chard walked down the aisle to “Sand Drawing” by Judah Earl, a last-minute decision that captured the couple’s spirit. The newlyweds enjoyed their first dance to “All Your’n” by Tyler Childers, a song that had been significant early in their relationship.
After the wedding, the couple opted for a staycation honeymoon in Utah instead of an elaborate getaway. Both Chard and Perez expressed their eagerness to embrace the simplicity of everyday life together. As Perez affectionately put it, the beauty of routine is enhanced when shared with someone you love.
Reflecting on their journey from TikTok to the altar, Chard noted the powerful impact of authenticity and vulnerability. She expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from their community, especially fellow late bloomers who have shared in her journey. She acknowledges the joy of seeing others celebrate what she once yearned for, giving her an overwhelming sense of appreciation.
In the wake of their wedding day, Perez remarked on the joy of being surrounded by loved ones in such a stunning location, proclaiming it an unforgettable experience. Chard echoed these sentiments, affirming the day’s significance and the importance of remaining in the moment, made easier by the encouragement from attendees.
Despite a few hiccups—most notably, Perez’s mother’s favourite sugar-free cheesecake falling prior to the cutting— the couple managed to maintain a light-hearted perspective. They saved what remained to celebrate nonetheless, turning the mishap into a cherished memory. As Perez succinctly stated, “Things happen, life happens, and you pivot,” highlighting their commitment to embrace both the joys and surprises of life together.