In a celebration that perfectly encapsulated their adventurous spirits and unique bond, Young and the Restless sensation Camryn Grimes exchanged vows with esteemed voice actor Brock Powell. Their highly anticipated nuptials unfolded on November 8th at the historic Columns Hotel in the heart of New Orleans, transforming the Big Easy into a canvas for a truly unforgettable event. Far from a conventional ceremony, this intimate gathering for 75 cherished guests was a meticulously crafted experience, designed to immerse friends and family in the magic, mystery, and vibrant culture that both the city and the couple embody, culminating in a joyous street parade, whimsical personal touches, and an atmosphere brimming with love.
The Allure of the Crescent City: Why New Orleans?
For Camryn Grimes and Brock Powell, the choice of New Orleans as their wedding destination was deeply intentional. The city represented a harmonious “intersection of a lot of different passions and loves” shared by the couple. Their vision extended beyond a simple ceremony; they aspired to create an immersive adventure for their loved ones. “Travel is very important to both of us,” the couple revealed to People Magazine. “We wanted our friends and family to feel like they’re on an adventure with us — a few days to explore a new place, eat some incredible food, and take in everything New Orleans has to offer. And at the end, throw an incredible party and thank them for their support and love!” This sentiment underscores their desire to share not just their union, but also their passion for discovery with those dearest to them, making their wedding a true celebration of shared experiences.
The Setting: Columns Hotel’s Timeless Charm and Whimsical Touches
The historic Columns Hotel, a grand dame of New Orleans architecture, provided the ideal backdrop for Camryn and Brock’s unique aesthetic. Grimes described the venue as “a little moody, a little funky but at the same time very classy and historic,” perfectly capturing the sophisticated yet slightly mysterious vibe they envisioned. Brock Powell, with his background as a former Disney tour guide, was instantly captivated by the location’s distinctive ambiance. He noted, “Visiting the venue gave us a classic Haunted Mansion feel, and as a former Disney tour guide I was in love instantly.” This playful nod to a beloved theme park attraction added another layer of personal charm to their chosen setting. Further personalizing their ceremony, the couple walked down the aisle to Yoko Shimomura’s “Dearly Beloved,” a cherished theme from the popular Kingdom Hearts video game series, showcasing their shared interests in an incredibly touching way.
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The Bride’s Distinctive Bridal Style
Daytime Emmy Award winner Camryn Grimes radiated elegance on her wedding day in a stunning two-piece ensemble by KYHA. Her journey to finding the perfect dress was surprisingly swift and intuitive. During her very first bridal appointment at En Blanc in Santa Monica, California, she discovered the unique design. “That was it!” Grimes recalled. “I’m not a terribly fussy shopper and I could just tell when I got it on that it was the one for me.” This effortless choice reflected her personal style and ensured she felt authentically herself, complementing the sophisticated yet unconventional atmosphere of their New Orleans celebration. Her bridal look perfectly harmonized with the moody, romantic aesthetic they had so carefully curated for their special day.
Weaving Traditions: Celtic Handfasting and Heartfelt Vows
Embracing their shared Scottish and Irish heritage, Camryn and Brock incorporated the ancient Celtic ritual of handfasting into their wedding ceremony. This deeply symbolic tradition, which involves gently binding the couple’s hands together, literally represents the phrase “tying the knot” and signifies their inseparable union. Adding another layer of profound intimacy, the bride and groom exchanged vows they had personally penned, making the commitment uniquely their own. For them, this sacred moment was about “solidifying our love in front of our friends, family and our first son Bridger,” who was born on December 13, 2023. Powell beautifully articulated the essence of their union, sharing, “Marriage represents a commitment to the best versions of ourselves, each other and a promise to help make the dreams of the other person become a reality.” Their vows were not just words, but a testament to their deep-rooted partnership and shared future.
An Iconic Voice Officiates Their Union
Adding another extraordinary and deeply personal touch to their ceremony, the couple had their nuptials officiated by Bill Rogers, affectionately known as “The Voice of Disneyland” for his iconic park announcements. Rogers holds a truly special place in Camryn and Brock’s hearts; he played a pivotal role in a heartwarming holiday surprise in 2020. During the early days of pandemic lockdowns, when the couple first met, Rogers helped bring a piece of Disneyland magic home to them, forging an unforgettable memory. His presence at their wedding not only brought a touch of whimsical magic but also served as a beautiful full-circle moment, symbolizing the enchanting journey of their relationship from its unique beginnings.
The Rhythmic Heartbeat of New Orleans: A Second Line Extravaganza
No New Orleans wedding would be complete without the vibrant energy of a second line parade, and Camryn and Brock’s celebration enthusiastically embraced this beloved tradition. Following the heartfelt ceremony, a lively brass band led the newlyweds and their ecstatic guests through the historic streets, dancing joyfully with handkerchiefs waving in the air. This iconic parade, a symbol of exuberance and new beginnings, perfectly captured the spirited essence of their union and the city itself. The celebration continued indoors with the couple’s first dance to the enchanting sounds of Stevie Nicks’ “Crystal,” a romantic choice that further underscored the unique and soulful atmosphere of their evening. The blend of traditional New Orleans festivity with their personal musical tastes created an unforgettable experience for everyone present.
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Culinary Delights and Endearing Tributes
The reception was a feast for both the senses and the soul, featuring a delectable buffet-style dinner designed to satisfy every palate. A highlight of the culinary offerings was the freshly baked beignets from the Beignet Box, served “with a special wedding flair,” adding a delightful local touch to their celebration. Beyond the joyous festivities, Camryn and Brock ensured that their loved ones who had passed were not forgotten. They thoughtfully created a special table dedicated to deceased family members and friends, allowing everyone to “celebrate with them in spirit.” This poignant gesture underscored the depth of their family values and the inclusive nature of their love, ensuring that even those no longer present physically were remembered and honored during their most significant life event.
A Love Story Forged in Unprecedented Times
Camryn and Brock often joke that their wedding was “a long time coming,” a testament to their enduring connection. Their romance blossomed in early 2020 after they met amidst the initial pandemic lockdowns in Los Angeles. What began during a period of global uncertainty quickly evolved into a profound partnership. Two years later, Brock orchestrated an unforgettable “Up-themed” proposal on January 7, 2022, a poignant tribute to Camryn’s 32nd birthday and their shared vision of adventure. Camryn’s emotional reaction perfectly captured the moment: “Honestly, my mind was blank and all I could say was, ‘Oh, my God,’ over and over again… It was so deeply touching.” She continued, reflecting on their journey, “I knew very early on that I wanted to do life with this person, and we have had some crazy things to contend with thus far. Every day we choose each other, so as a team, anything seems possible.” Their love story is a powerful narrative of resilience, commitment, and finding profound connection in unexpected circumstances.
The Journey Ahead: New Adventures for the Powells
As Mr. and Mrs. Powell embark on their new chapter, their future is already brimming with exciting plans. The newlyweds are looking forward to a family trip to the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, promising new memories for their growing family. Following this, they anticipate a romantic, secluded getaway to Fiji, dedicated solely to the two of them. Their creative collaboration also extends to a heartwarming project: a children’s book dedicated to their son, Bridger. This endeavor beautifully merges their passion for storytelling and their cherished routine of reading bedtime stories to him. “[We look forward to] sharing a name and being able to publicly celebrate this partnership every day we are together,” the couple shared, expressing their joy in solidifying their union. “And building a life and home together with intention and wonder.” Their journey forward is clearly defined by adventure, creativity, and a profound commitment to each other and their son.
The Enduring Magic of a Personalized Union
The wedding of Camryn Grimes and Brock Powell was far more than a mere celebrity event; it was a masterclass in personalized celebration, an authentic reflection of two souls deeply connected by shared passions, heritage, and an adventurous spirit. From the moody charm of the Columns Hotel to the joyous brass bands of their second line parade, every detail was meticulously chosen to tell their unique story. Their decision to weave ancient Celtic traditions with modern, whimsical touches, and to honor both living and departed loved ones, underscored a wedding that was rich in meaning and emotional resonance. As they step into their future, the Powells have not only celebrated their love but have also crafted an inspiring blueprint for a union built on intention, wonder, and the enduring magic of choosing each other, every single day.
