It’s love, laughter, and a whole lot of joy for former rugby player Sam Stanley and his longtime partner, Laurence Hicks, as the countdown to their wedding officially begins.
Sam took to Instagram to share the big news with his followers, posting a sweet photo of the couple nestled in front of a vibrant floral backdrop.
His caption? “It’s officially our wedding week 🌈. Our love for one another & a coming together of our families and closest friends ❤️.” And honestly, who isn’t swooning?
This week, the couple is set to tie the knot in an intimate ceremony.
Even though the details are not clear, the ceremony will most likely be in Borgo Della Pineta in Sicily, where Sam and Laurence are building their dream Airbnb—because why just build a life together when you can build a literal slice of paradise?
Update: The ceremony was held on December 15 at St Albans Register Office in the UK, close to family and friends. As Sam puts it on Threads, “ ✈️ —> London 🇬🇧
My favourite city in the world… Especially at Christmas 🎄 plus I’m getting married.”
+Related: Gay Rugby Star Sam Stanley Is Engaged to Silverdaddy
For those of us who have followed Sam’s journey, this milestone is both heartwarming and hard-earned.
Back in 2015, Sam made headlines as the first English rugby union player to come out as gay while still active in the sport.
His bold honesty was a game-changer, but it’s his relationship with Laurence that has kept us all captivated.
The two met online nearly fourteen years ago, and despite their 34-year age difference, their bond has remained rock-solid.
In fact, Sam has said in past interviews that their love is based on authenticity, mutual respect, and, above all, a shared sense of humor.
Their engagement story is just as romantic as you’d expect.
Laurence popped the question on their Sicilian terrace—a view they’ll soon be sharing with Airbnb guests.
It’s clear that their relationship is one built not just on love but on shared dreams and adventures.
While the wedding details are being kept mostly under wraps (aside from what we can glean from Instagram and the Sicilian setting), one thing’s for sure: this ceremony is going to be as magical as the love story that brought it to life.
Congratulations to Sam and Laurence on their wedding week!
We can’t wait to see what’s next for these two lovebirds—though if their past is any indication, it’s going to be fabulous, authentic, and full of love.
+Related: Gay Rugby Player Challenges Homophobes
