Bestselling author DeVon Franklin and celebrity trainer Maria Castillo tied the knot this weekend in a star-studded Beverly Hills wedding, PEOPLE reports.
On Saturday (Aug 2), the couple exchanged both traditional and personal vows in a “deeply spiritual” lakeside ceremony at Casa Lago Beverly Hills. , Celebrity guests included Kelly Rowland, LeToya Luckett, Israel Houghton, Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, and more.
“So often people look at a wedding as the end of a love story, but it’s just the beginning. We wanted this event to capture that, so people can really experience our love for one another,” Franklin told People Magazine.
Castillo, who wore a custom Galia Lahav gown handmade in Israel, told the outlet, “I’ve always dreamed of walking down in something timeless, elegant, and romantic, but rooted in my culture,” she shared. As for Franklin, he kept it classic in a Giorgio Armani suit and Christian Louboutins.
“I wanted everything I said to come from God and my heart.”
Violinist Jeremy Green performed Hillsong UNITED’s “Oceans” as the wedding party walked down a white aisle adorned with white florals from Butterfly Floral & Event Design.
Renowned pastor Touré Roberts, led the hour-long ceremony which was set against a serene lake overlooking the Los Angeles skyline. “We spoke from the heart,” Franklin shared with the outlet. “I wanted everything I said to come from God and my heart.”
Following the ceremony was an elegant reception that blended romance and warmth. The reception’s theme included soft neutral tones rich textures, laces and linens. Cream and blush floral arrangements and flickering candlelight adorned table tops.
“There’s something really beautiful about knowing we get to grow and evolve and walk through every season of life together. From the ordinary moments to the extraordinary ones, we get to witness each other’s lives,” Castillo said. “I’m looking forward to creating a home with him filled with love, purpose, and faith. Building a life that reflects our values and ultimately giving God the glory.”
How They Met
Franklin and Castillo got engaged last December during a vacation to Hawaii, where he proposed during a photoshoot at The Ritz-Carlton Maui.
According to People Magazine, the couple met through a mutual friend and went public with their relationship in October of 2024.
“I just never would have thought that I would have met Maria and had love again. I do believe if you look in the dictionary you see the word ‘love’ you’re gonna see her picture because that’s how loving she is. And it’s also really cool that she’s also Latina.”
This marks Franklin’s second marriage, following his divorce from actress Meagan Good in 2021.