Love, laughter, and a touch of Oprah magic! TV icon Gayle King unveiled the enchanting story behind her son’s fairy-tale wedding at Oprah’s iconic estate. She shared behind-the-scenes moments, heartwarming surprises, and a glimpse into the star-studded celebration.
Will Bumpus and his newly-wedded wife, Elsie Smith | Source: Instagram/gayleking
TV personality and CBS News broadcast journalist Gayle King is beaming with pride. The 69-year-old enthusiastically announced her son’s marriage during Tuesday’s broadcast. Her son, William ‘Will’ Bumpus Jr., wed his fiancée, Elsie Smith, in an intimate ceremony over the weekend at none other than Oprah Winfrey’s home.
King shared photos from the special day, revealing why the couple chose June 2 for their wedding. She explained the date marked significant milestones in their relationship as they met, got engaged, and now married on the second.
As the wedding photos illuminated the screen, King referred to her son and new daughter-in-law, saying, “My favorite Will and my new favorite daughter-in-law Elsie Smith tied the knot on Sunday.”
She elaborated that the ceremony was a private family affair. She then hinted at future celebrations, mentioning that the couple planned to host a “big dance party for their friends later on.” King also remarked how fortunate they were to have a family friend who let them use her house.
Oprah Winfrey, Will Bumpus and Gayle King | Source: Instagram/gayleking
“Oprah of course was there because it was at her place,” she said, causing her co-anchors to laugh. “It’s always nice when she lets us use her house,” she added.
King went on to share her “favorite part” of the wedding, noting that it was when her son Will and Smith exchanged their vows. She revealed the couple wrote their vows and what stood out for her was when Will said, “I know the man I am, but with you, I know the man I want to be.”
Gayle King hugging her son Will Bumpus | Source: Instagram/gayleking
She told her co-anchors that the moment she heard her son say that, it gave her goosebumps, “I was like, where did that come from.”
Later on, King took to social media to share the joyous news with her followers. On her Instagram page, she posted photos and videos from the couple’s wedding, along with moments from the rehearsal the day before.
Will watching as Elsie walks down the aisle | Source: Instagram/gayleking
In her wedding photo series, the first image showcased the happy couple holding hands. The second slide featured King warmly hugging her son Will, while another photo captured Will watching his bride walk down the aisle.
Other snapshots included the beautiful bride arriving with her mother and guests wiping away tears. King accompanied the photos with a heartfelt caption, “Favorite son Will found the girl of his dreams and now lovely @elisemariesmith is an official member of the family. It was truly a spectacular family wedding!”
Photo capturing Elsie Smith walking down the aisle | Source: Instagram/gayleking
She mentioned she walked her son down the aisle, while Smith’s father officiated the ceremony. Her daughter Kirby Bumpus served as best woman, Smith’s sister was maid of honor, Luca was the ring bearer, and the bride’s mother gave her away.
King also expressed gratitude to her best friend Winfrey, noting that the wedding was magical in her backyard. She praised Winfrey for making her son’s big day a success, and for being an excellent wedding planner.
Will Bumpus and Elsie Smith having a romantic moment | Source: Instagram/gayleking
Among other details, King shared that both she and the bride wore strapless Amsale gowns. The final photo depicted the newlyweds driving away in a decorated mini-jeep with “We married” written on it.
In a different post, King shared sweet snapshots from their laid-back rehearsal and a fun family meal at the Rosewood Miramar Beach resort. In her caption, King noted that it was a significant weekend for her son and daughter-in-law. She included photos from the rehearsal, highlighting the lavish decor at the restaurant.
A video captured the breathtaking arch of colorful flowers at the entryway to their reserved area. Other photos showcased various guests, including her family members and, of course, Winfrey.
Gayle King and Oprah Winfrey | Source: Instagram/gayleking
Her carousel post also featured a video of the couple and their loved ones enjoying an impromptu dance party. In one of the videos, King was seen having fun beside the couple, who were spotted gazing into each other’s eyes at one point.
Will, whom King shares with her ex-husband William Bumpus and their daughter Kirby, proposed to Smith in February with a little help from Winfrey.
Gayle King took to social media to share the magic of that day, posting video clips that offered fans a peek into the unforgettable moment. These behind-the-scenes videos were brimming with love and joy, capturing the essence of the newly engaged couple.
Elsie Smith and Will Bumpus | Source: Instagram/gayleking
One of the videos featured King and the ever-charismatic Winfrey, orchestrating the proposal. Her post was a captivating carousel of pictures and videos that told the love story of the proposal.
In her heartfelt caption, she wrote, “a lot of planning went into this moment, so here’s some behind the scenes…now just waiting for the date of the wedding!” The involvement of family and friends infused the occasion with warmth and celebration, making it an unforgettable event.
Will Bumpus, Elsie Smith and their family | Source: Instagram/gayleking
Winfrey’s hands-on involvement in the planning process was highlighted in a video. She and King were discussing the perfect spot for the photographer’s positioning.
In an enchanting scene captured from a window inside what seemed to be a cozy home, footage of the actual proposal unfolded. Will and Smith wandered through a sprawling, flower-filled garden, setting the stage for the big moment.
Will Bumpus and Elsie Smith | Source: Instagram/gayleking
As Will positioned himself in front of Smith and dropped down on one knee, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. The cheers of excitement from onlookers underscored the sheer joy of the moment.
The festivities continued indoors with a jubilant celebration that greeted the engaged couple with applause and cheering. Smith’s radiant expression mirrored her happiness as she clutched her chest, showcasing her stunning ring for all to see.
Further snapshots offered a romantic peek into the couple’s love story. One photo captured them posing amidst the enchanting garden backdrop. Another showcased a heartwarming family moment, painting a picture of love and togetherness.
As the couple embarks on this exciting new chapter of their lives, may their journey be filled with endless love, joy, and beautiful moments.
