AnnaLynne McCord, known for her role in the popular series *90210*, has tied the knot with former rugby player Danny Cipriani in an intimate backyard ceremony at their home in Los Angeles. The couple celebrated their union on August 22, surrounded by 81 close friends and family members, whom McCord affectionately refers to as her “soul family.”
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Speaking to PEOPLE, the actress expressed her joy, stating, “It’s not a dream come true because I never knew I could dream this big.” She emphasized the significance of having their loved ones present to bless their new life together. With the wedding styled as an “elegant bohemian” affair, the couple infused personal touches throughout the event.
The wedding festivities commenced with a “sacred day of blessings,” organised by bridesmaid Helena Heyman in Malibu. The day’s activities included sound healing, shamanic rituals, and traditional ceremonies featuring cacao and roses, all set against the backdrop of sacred Chumash land. A meet-and-greet brunch followed at The Garland Hotel’s restaurant in North Hollywood, culminating in a casual soccer match between the bridesmaids and groomsmen.
On the day of the wedding, the couple incorporated the ancient Celtic tradition of handfasting into their ceremony, symbolising their unbreakable bond. A dear friend and shamanic healer of McCord, Benjamin W. Decker, performed the ceremony, walking the bride down the aisle to the music of “I Get to Love You” by Ruelle.
In a departure from traditional wedding vows, both McCord and Cipriani exchanged spontaneous vows they crafted on the spot, aiming to be fully present in the moment. McCord explained her decision, noting her experience in performing and expressing her desire to speak from the heart during such a significant occasion.
Once pronounced husband and wife, Cipriani expressed feelings of “deep grace,” revealing his admiration for McCord. “I married the woman of my dreams,” he stated, highlighting McCord’s unique qualities and the love they share. In return, McCord spoke affectionately about Cipriani’s transformative influence on her life, describing him as a ‘fierce presence’.
Children also attended the wedding, adding to the joyous atmosphere by showering adult guests with rose petals—an idea that stemmed from the couple’s affection for kids. McCord noted the playful intent behind the invitation, which encouraged mischief amongst the younger guests.
The reception offered a buffet-style Middle Eastern feast from Carnival Restaurant, along with a two-tiered white wedding cake from Half Baked Co. Guests were entertained by live music, featuring saxophonist Alek Sanchez-Tellez, violinist Katarina Baumgart, and a special performance from McCord’s uncle, who composed an original song for the couple.
Attention was given to every detail, from the floral arrangements consisting of pale pink roses and burgundy dahlias to the handcrafted wooden trellis that served as a backdrop for the ceremony. The couple aimed to create a heartfelt celebration that would be the foundation of their future together. McCord, dressed in two elegant gowns by designer Mark Zunino, embraced the communal aspect of their wedding, acknowledging the effort of friends and family who contributed to making the day special.
Reflecting on their journey, McCord revealed that she had previously vowed never to marry after witnessing painful divorces growing up. However, her perspective shifted considerably, viewing the ceremony as a sacred ritual that symbolised bringing her soul home. Cipriani shared similar sentiments, expressing the sanctity of their union and the honour it represents in their shared lifetimes.
The couple first crossed paths on the dating app Raya nearly a decade ago, dating intermittently before ultimately reconnecting and making their relationship official on Instagram in April of this year. Their wedding marks a new chapter in a relationship that has weathered ups and downs, solidifying their commitment to each other with a celebration steeped in love and personal significance.
In a heartwarming conclusion, McCord said, “If the entire event fell apart, but they were all still there with us, we have what truly matters: people who know us deeply and love us for who we truly are.” Their commitment to each other and their community was poignantly summed up by McCord’s reflection time: “It’s not a dream come true because I never knew I could dream this big.”