Imagine, starting a reality TV romance on your birthday! Theresa, a spirited 70-year-old financial services professional, did just that. Little did she know that her "Golden Bachelor" journey would lead her to Gerry Turner, a 72-year-old retired restaurateur. Their love story, unfolding on ABC, is a beacon of hope, proving that love can find you when you least expect it.
The charming couple, both parents of two, embarked on this journey after the loss of their spouses. Gerry, a seasoned restaurateur, and Theresa, a financial services pro, found a second chance at love in each other. As they sit down for a chat with PEOPLE just four days before their televised wedding, the excitement in their voices is palpable.
Planning a wedding is a monumental task, and doing it in a matter of weeks during the holiday season adds an extra layer of excitement. But for Gerry and Theresa, it's been a family affair. Theresa's daughter Jen, 39, has played a crucial role in the preparations, showcasing the power of familial support. The couple emphasizes the warmth and involvement of their loved ones, highlighting the significance of family in their journey.
Speeches are a traditional part of weddings, and Gerry and Theresa eagerly anticipate the heartfelt words their loved ones will share. Surprisingly, they haven't vetted the speeches, opting for an element of surprise. It's a testament to their trust in their children's judgment and a desire for genuine, unrehearsed moments.
The wedding, set to take place in Southern California, is described by Gerry as "very elegant but not stuffy." Theresa's choice of "pale colors of pinks and peaches" with gold accents promises a visually stunning and light ambiance. The ceremony, officiated by former "Golden Bachelor" contestant Susan Noles, features a carefully selected four-piece string orchestra, adding a touch of classical elegance.
One can't help but wonder about the music that will accompany this union of hearts. Theresa, after listening to 138 different pieces, has chosen selections that resonate with the couple's journey. It's a beautiful reminder that, in the midst of grandeur, it's the small details like music and flowers that make a wedding truly memorable.
The couple shares a lighthearted moment about the vows, expressing the universal hope that they say the right words. Gerry, already envisioning himself getting misty-eyed as Theresa walks down the aisle, draws parallels with the emotional experience of giving away his daughters at their weddings. It's a touching acknowledgment of the emotional depth embedded in such life-changing moments.
Family plays a central role in the wedding party, with sons, daughters, grandsons, and even a son-in-law participating. The inclusion of family members not only reflects the couple's commitment to their loved ones but also paints a vivid picture of the merging of two families into one.
Theresa's description of her bridal look as "traditional and modern" piques curiosity about the gown that will likely bring Gerry to tears. The collaborative effort of her daughter, daughter-in-law, and fellow "Golden Bachelor" contestants in choosing the gown adds a personal touch, making the dress selection a shared and memorable experience.
As a gardener, Theresa's attention to flower choices adds a delightful touch to the wedding. She envisions a bouquet with a wide array of flowers, predominantly roses but with a mix of other beautiful blooms. It's a nod to her love for flowers and a testament to the thoughtfulness put into every aspect of the ceremony.
The first dance is a significant milestone in any wedding, and Theresa had initially expressed the desire to choreograph it. Now, with a dance plan in place, the couple anticipates a dance that aligns with their vision of a joyous and warm celebration. Gerry's admission of not being a graceful dancer adds a humorous touch, showcasing the couple's ability to find joy in the imperfections of life.
The mention of Gerry's sweet tooth sparks curiosity about the evening's food choices, especially the cake. The couple's decision to have two cakes, each chosen by one of them, adds a personal touch to the culinary aspect of the celebration. Gerry's thoughtful arrangement to send a small replica of the wedding cake to his 92-year-old father in Indiana, who can't travel, speaks volumes about family bonds.
The couple's desire for the wedding to be a joyful party is evident in their food choices, which include five appetizers during the cocktail hour and a diverse selection for the main course. Gerry's eagerness to get to the cake, coupled with the anticipation of celebrating with loved ones, sets the tone for a night filled with laughter, joy, and positive energy.
Once the festivities wrap up, Gerry and Theresa plan to reflect on their next chapter. While a mini-moon is on the horizon, they are keeping the details under wraps, savoring the element of surprise. A trip to Italy, gifted during the "Golden Bachelor" finale, is also on the agenda, showcasing the couple's enthusiasm for new adventures.
The couple's consideration of relocating to different places adds an interesting dimension to their post-wedding plans. Gerry's affinity for Charleston, S.C., and Theresa's New Jersey home being 15 minutes from the ocean present multiple options. Their open communication and ability to resolve issues bode well for their future decisions, reinforcing the importance of commitment and trust in a successful relationship.
As Gerry and Theresa look forward to their wedding, they navigate the challenges of public speculation with grace and humor. They acknowledge the entertainment value of online commentary while focusing on the positive messages they receive. It's a reminder that, even in the age of the internet, genuine connections and shared moments hold more weight than virtual narratives.
In the midst of wedding planning and life's whirlwind, Gerry and Theresa's story is a reminder that love is timeless. Whether you're in your 20s or your 70s, the essence of saying "I do" remains unchanged. It's a commitment to one person, a public statement declaring, "This is the person I choose."
As Gerry looks at Theresa, he sees an unselfish partner he can trust with anything. It's a sentiment echoed by Theresa, emphasizing the strength of their bond. The Golden Wedding, airing on ABC, is not just a celebration of two individuals coming together; it's a celebration of love's enduring power, proving that, indeed, it's never too late for a happily ever after.