There is nothing unusual about wedding day jitters, but when you are walking down the aisle (or standing at the altar) and set your eyes on the person you intend to spend the rest of your life with for the very first time, those nerves may escalate into a full-blown panic.
On the Married at First Sight season 3 premiere, which aired December 1, experts including a psychologist, sociologist, sexologist, and spiritual adviser, narrow down a pool of 20 thousand applicants to only six carefully chosen men and women who are ready to marry complete strangers. Although the couples-to-be undergo extensive interviews and a battery of scientifically-based assessments, the true test is just ahead.
The singles rely on blind faith to make it the 15 days between finding out they have been matched and the most important day of their lives. In that time, they must tell their family and friends, choose the perfect wedding day outfit, and arrange their part of the wedding party. It’s a chaotic whirlwind, and it’s so much fun to watch! Let’s get to know the brides and grooms-to-be…
David Norton & Ashley Doherty: David, 29, is a software account executive who has attempted long-term love in the past with a less-than-stellar record. He’s ready to settle down, and he’s trusting the experts to find his perfect match. Ashley, a 30-year old nursing student, has been in serious relationships, but she is open to the opportunity to meet her match via the experiment. These two were paired because they are “thoughtful and communicative.”
David, who expects laughter and fist-bumps when he shares his wedding news with friends, is met with silence and negativity. His mother and sister offer the same reaction, although his mom does come around, stating that she simply wants him to be happy. Ashely’s mom is in shock initially, but it doesn’t take her long to jump on-board. The bride-to-be calls her stepfather, who quickly agrees to walk her down the aisle on her special day. Ashley has a difficult time finding the perfect wedding dress, but when she finally does, she is in awe (and so are we!).
On the morning of the wedding, Ashley is busy doing homework for nursing school, and David crafts a sweet note to his future bride’s parents assuring them he is ready to commit to his marriage. Nerves are setting in, and we can hardly wait for the next episode to see David’s reaction to his beautiful bride!
Neil Bowlus & Samantha “Sam” Role: Neil is a 31-year old compliance specialist who has attempted online dating to no avail. He’s paired with Sam, a 30-year old bank manager, due to their shared “quirkiness and independence.” Neil has a way with words, stating that “love is defined by vulnerability.” He’s looking for a best friend for life. Our fingers are crossed that Sam becomes just that!
When Sam tells her mother that she’s been matched, her mom admits that she wishes Sam was in love. Sam, who describes herself as “not traditional,” seems to be going with the flow (well, until the wedding day, that is). Although Neil’s mother is nervous about her son’s marriage, the concept is not new to her. Neil’s grandparents, who are of Indian descent, had an arranged marriage, and Neil is more than open to carrying on the family tradition.
The wedding day inspires Neil to send a gift of two spoons to his future wife, and he refers to her as his “little spoon.” Sam reciprocates by sending a hand-painted picture to Neil, which seems to intrigue the soon-to-be groom. Will this pair hit it off in person? Time will tell! We do know that Sam is incredibly nervous to walk down the aisle, but she insists she’ll be fine once she gets to the altar. Breathe, Sam…
Tres Russell & Vanessa Nelson: Tres, a 27-year old luxury car specialist, has trouble trusting people. His mother left when he was young, and he wants to create a better life for himself and his future family. Vanessa is a 26-year old event planner who lost her mother recently, but not before receiving her blessing to find true love on Married at First Sight.
When Tres announces his upcoming wedding to his family via video chat, his aunt is hesitant, but the entire family proves supportive. Vanessa’s mom is understanding but concerned. When the future bride goes wedding gown shopping, she’s looking for a “sexy, fun dress.” She certainly finds it! Vanessa looks stunning in her blush-colored, unique gown.
On their wedding day, Vanessa and Tres both look impressed with one another as the gorgeous bride makes her way to her man. Tres describes her as “beautiful,” but both parties are overcome with anxiety, and Tres walks away from the altar. We’re willing him to come back. We’ll find out on the next episode if this couples makes it to “I do.”
