Haley Cavinder, a former Miami Hurricanes basketball standout and current influencer, recently married Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson at Miami’s historic Biltmore Hotel. Cavinder, captivated by the venue during her initial visit, knew immediately it was the perfect place for their celebration. Ferguson also appreciated the hotel’s classic ambiance, envisioning it as the ideal backdrop for a lively gathering of loved ones. Despite Ferguson’s lighthearted claim of minimal involvement in the planning, his key contribution was a request for a ranch dressing fountain, a testament to his fondness for the condiment.

The couple’s love story began online in 2023, with a playful disagreement over who initiated contact. Ferguson insists Cavinder “liked” his photos first, leading him to slide into her DMs. Cavinder, however, counters that he was the one who “slid in.” Regardless of the origin, their connection was undeniable, culminating in a 10-day continuous hangout during Ferguson’s visit to Florida, where Cavinder resided. This initial spark quickly led Ferguson to realize he wanted to spend his life with her. Their engagement followed in April 2025, with Ferguson proposing on a Florida beach.

The Miami Fairytale: A Love Story Takes Flight

Haley Cavinder, a noted figure from the Miami Hurricanes basketball team and a prominent influencer, exchanged vows with Jake Ferguson, the esteemed tight end for the Dallas Cowboys, at the luxurious Biltmore Hotel in Miami. Cavinder recounts that her first encounter with the hotel instantly sealed its fate as their wedding venue, drawn in by its undeniable charm and elegance. Ferguson echoed her sentiments, highlighting the venue’s timeless appeal and its suitability for a grand celebration with their closest friends and family. Their wedding planning, though seemingly casual, included unique touches like a ranch dressing fountain, a personal request from the groom reflecting his quirky preference. This laid-back yet personal approach underscored their desire for a celebration that truly mirrored their personalities.

The couple's romantic journey commenced in 2023, sparked by online interactions. A friendly dispute exists between them regarding who made the first move on social media, with Ferguson playfully accusing Cavinder of initiating contact through “likes” on his photos, which he then followed up with a direct message. Cavinder, however, playfully contests this narrative. This initial digital exchange quickly blossomed into a profound connection, leading to an intense 10-day period of continuous dates when Ferguson traveled to Florida. This pivotal time solidified their bond, with Ferguson realizing his desire for a lifelong partnership with Cavinder. Their commitment was formally sealed with a romantic proposal on a Florida beach in April 2025, marking the beginning of their shared future.

Personal Touches and Unforgettable Moments

The wedding ceremony was imbued with personal flair, from their unconventional entrance to Fergie’s “Fergalicious” to their first dance, a poignant moment set to Brad Paisley’s “Then.” The officiating duties were handled by Will Grier, a former teammate of Ferguson’s, adding another layer of intimacy to the proceedings. Miami, the city where their online courtship began and flourished, was chosen as the wedding location, holding significant sentimental value. Cavinder donned a custom-designed lace princess gown by Galia Lahav, a designer favored by celebrities, while Ferguson sported a “Bond-esque” white dinner jacket crafted by Mitch Purgason of Stitched by Mitch. This blend of elegance and personal touches made their special day truly unique.

Their approach to wedding planning diverged from conventional intensity. Cavinder, despite her organized nature, confessed to not being “a big detailed girlie about flowers,” prioritizing a relaxed atmosphere over meticulous floral arrangements. Ferguson, on the other hand, enthusiastically took charge of the food tasting, ensuring a delectable culinary experience for their guests. A significant financial milestone, Ferguson’s $52 million contract extension with the Cowboys, allowed for lavish groomsmen gifts, including custom golf putters and Rolex watches, with a special rose-gold, ombré-dial Datejust for his best man, his brother Joe. The couple’s wedding bands were from Brilliant Earth, complemented by Cavinder’s cherished family jewelry. They also made clear decisions for the reception, opting for no slow dancing, “YMCA,” or “Cha Cha Slide,” a mini-honeymoon in the Bahamas, and an adults-only guest list to ensure a truly unrestrained celebration.