In a joyful and intimate civil ceremony, actor Paul Wesley, known for his role in “The Vampire Diaries,” has wed model Natalie Kuckenburg. The couple announced their nuptials via Instagram on July 13, where Kuckenburg shared a series of heartfelt photographs from their outdoor wedding.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Paul-Wesley--Natalie-Kuckenburg07-02042024-c8f5309362604993bda280b161a92aa7.jpg)
The couple, who first crossed paths at a bar in New York City, exchanged vows surrounded by charming palm trees and their beloved dog, Greg, who was affectionately dubbed “the best boy” in Kuckenburg’s Instagram post. The ceremony exuded warmth and elegance, with Kuckenburg donning an ivory dress from the Galia Lahav ready-to-wear collection, while Wesley opted for a stylish navy suit paired with a black tie.
Paul Wesley, 43, and Natalie Kuckenburg, 26, first ignited relationship speculation in November 2022. The couple’s engagement was declared in July 2025, when Kuckenburg posted a black-and-white image encapsulating their love and the engagement ring. In her caption, she expressed her commitment, saying “Yes 🤍 Always and forever.” Wesley also shared a romantic photograph celebrating their engagement on his Instagram Stories.
The couple’s engagement occurred soon after they were seen enjoying a yacht trip along the Amalfi Coast, a region that holds special significance for them. Wesley later shared details about the proposal during an appearance on “Live with Kelly and Mark,” revealing that he had popped the question at the very hotel where they had shared their first official date.
Wesley described the moment, saying, “It was fantastic. She fell for it. It was a surprise.” Despite Kuckenburg having a “feeling” something was afoot, she was overcome with emotion during the proposal. Kuckenburg explained their profound connection to the proposal location, the Caruso, a Belmond Hotel in Italy, stating in an Instagram post that it reminded them of their first trip together three years prior, a time filled with cherished memories.
While the timeline of their relationship remains somewhat private, their first public appearance together in November 2022 showcased them enjoying a romantic dinner in the picturesque Italian seaside town of Nerano. Their chemistry was palpable, as they were seen exchanging affectionate gestures and shared photos from the same location soon after.
Wesley reflected on their classic meeting, noting that they encountered each other in a New York City bar — an increasingly rare occurrence in the modern dating landscape dominated by online interactions. He described their meeting as a classic “look” that drew him in, thanks to a mutual friend who facilitated their introduction.
In March 2024, Wesley offered a glimpse into their relationship, highlighting the importance of laughter in their bond. He stated, “There’s two people that are the funniest people in my life — number one, my dog, and number two, frankly, my girlfriend.” This light-heartedness, he believes, is crucial to the strength of their relationship.
As the couple embarks on this new chapter as husband and wife, their love story, steeped in shared experiences and emotional connections, continues to capture the hearts of fans and followers. The couple’s journey from their serendipitous meeting to their elegant wedding encapsulates a modern romance that resonates with many, showcasing that love can flourish in both the simplest moments and the grandest gestures.