Ovi Kabir and Hannah Claire Blackwell: A Multicultural Celebration of Love
On August 1 and 2, 2025, Big Brother season 21 contestant Ovi Kabir and his college sweetheart, Hannah Claire Blackwell, celebrated their love with a stunning two-day wedding in Sevierville, Tennessee. This event was not just a union of two individuals but a beautiful blend of Bangladeshi and Southern traditions, showcasing the couple’s rich multicultural background.
A Wedding with Meaning
In an exclusive interview with People, Ovi expressed that their wedding was "more than a celebration." He described it as a "stamp of affirmation," marking their love in a way that would be "written in history for all to see." This sentiment set the tone for a wedding that was deeply personal and culturally significant.
Day One: The Bangladeshi "Gaye Holud"
The first day of the wedding featured the traditional Bangladeshi "gaye holud" ceremony, a pre-wedding ritual where turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom as a blessing. This vibrant event took place inside The Glass House at Nichols Heir, where Ovi and Hannah danced joyfully with their loved ones, all while donning traditional outfits that honored Ovi’s cultural heritage.
Hannah wore a stunning lehenga, while Ovi sported a traditional panjabi. Many guests were introduced to these customs for the first time, adding an element of discovery and excitement to the festivities. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, music, and the warmth of family and friends.
Day Two: The American Wedding
The following day, the couple transitioned to a more Western-style ceremony at the Grand Hall of The Glass House. This event not only honored Hannah’s Southern roots but also incorporated elements of Ovi’s culture, creating a harmonious blend that reflected their journey together.
The aesthetic was described as "vibrant romance meets modern garden party," with floral arrangements in shades of pink and purple lining the aisle. The venue offered breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, enhancing the romantic ambiance.
A Love Story Rooted in Tennessee
Ovi and Hannah’s love story began at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, making East Tennessee a fitting backdrop for their wedding. They reminisced about their eight-and-a-half-year relationship, filled with late-night study sessions and weekend drives through the mountains. For them, Tennessee was not just a location; it was the birthplace of their love.
A Star-Studded Guest List
The couple’s wedding was attended by 190 guests, including several familiar faces from the Big Brother franchise, such as Tommy Bracco, Kat Dunn, Cliff Hogg, and Nicole Fontanez. Other notable attendees included Alex Ramo, Kellye Cash, Tatum Sheppard Filegar, Avery Rizzotto, and Synclaire Warren, all of whom contributed to the celebratory atmosphere.
Musical Touches
The ceremony featured a carefully curated selection of music that held special meaning for the couple. Family members walked down the aisle to "Dearly Beloved" by Yoko Shimomura, a nod to Ovi’s favorite childhood game, Kingdom Hearts. The rest of the wedding party entered to the Andante Maestoso segment from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, Op. 71, while Hannah made her grand entrance to "Harry in Winter" by Patrick Doyle.
Hannah looked radiant in a Wona Concept’s Devotion gown, complemented by a custom cathedral-length veil and Verstolo jewelry. Ovi and his groomsmen donned suits from Friar Tux, and even their pet corgi, Mowgli, was dressed in a mini tuxedo, adding a playful touch to the formal proceedings.
A Dream Honeymoon
Following the festivities, the newlyweds planned a week-long honeymoon at Conrad Punta de Mita in Mexico, where they could unwind and reflect on their beautiful journey together.
This wedding not only celebrated the union of Ovi and Hannah but also highlighted the beauty of blending cultures, creating a memorable experience for everyone involved. Their love story, rooted in shared experiences and mutual respect, serves as an inspiring testament to the power of love in all its forms.