Olympic Medalist Melissa Jefferson Marries College Sweetheart Rolan Wooden II in 'Dream Come True' Wedding (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Melissa Jefferson and Rolan Wooden II.Photo:Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

Track and field starMelissa Jeffersonhas tied the knot!

“This is definitely a dream come true,” Jefferson exclusively tells PEOPLE.

Melissa Jefferson and Rolan Wooden II.Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

The bride and groom are based in Central Florida, and chose a venue close to home so that their families could see the area where they plan to start the next chapter of their lives together.

The couple chose to have an unplugged ceremony to ensure everyone was “free from distractions and fully present in the moment.” They said “I do” after exchanging both traditional and handwritten vows.

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding party.Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

“Melissa is the calm to my storm,” Wooden tells PEOPLE. “She brings peace and balance to my life and I love her for that. She makes me better.”

“Rolan is the most patient person I know and he treats me like I’m the only girl in the world and protects me in every situation,” Jefferson adds.

“When planning the wedding, I envisioned an environment where our entire families could gather to celebrate our love,” Jefferson says. “It was imperative to create a memorable experience that our family would cherish, and the younger generation present has a visual of a healthy illustration of Black love.”

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding reception.Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding cake.Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding reception.PHOTO:Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image PhotographyRolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding cake.PHOTO:Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding reception.Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding cake.

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding reception.

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding cake.

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding reception.PHOTO:Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image PhotographyRolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s wedding cake.PHOTO:Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

“I loved the fit, the train and the timeless details,” Jefferson says. “Not to mention I cried before saying ‘yes’ to the dress.”

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson’s first dance.Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

“The most special day of my life with my best friend in front of our family and friends,” says Jefferson, who changed into a halter-style, one-piece jumper later in the evening.

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Guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres before enjoying a dinner of salmon with lemon butter sauce, freshly baked French bread, and Carbonara with sautéed chicken. Vanilla cupcakes, red velvet wedding cake and dessert shooters served as the final course.

Rolan Wooden II and Melissa Jefferson.Nathalie Gaines ofEpiphany Image Photography

Jefferson and Wooden met four years ago when they were both student athletes at Coastal Carolina University. Jefferson ran track while Wooden played on the football team. In October 2023, Wooden surprised his love witha romantic proposal on the beach. Now that they’re married, they look forward to what comes next.

“The world is ours!” Jefferson exclaims.

Their honeymoon in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, won’t take place until Jefferson’s outdoor season concludes. Until then, Jefferson says that she and Wooden are excited to continue sharing “the best and worst moments of our lives together as husband and wife, knowing that we are each other’s best friend and ride or die mate.”

Additional Credits:

Wedding Planner: D’Perfect Touch Weddings & Events

Florals: Royal Event Services

Caterer/Bar Service: Cuisiniers Catering

Baker: The Baking Realtor

Videographer: Mbition VOYS Productions

Rentals: Gala Rentals and Longwood Events & Rentals

Transportation: Original Groundbreakers Luxury Transportation

DJ/Lighting: GQInvites

source: people.com