Billionaire Ankur Jain, the Founder and CEO of
Bilt Rewards, and former WWE wrestler
Erika Hammond, celebrated their union in a stunning wedding extravaganza against the backdrop of the Egyptian pyramids. The couple, surrounded by approximately 130 guests, exchanged vows in a spectacle of love and grandeur.
A Spectacular CelebrationThe festivities began with pre-wedding events, including a safari dinner in the heart of the
South African jungle, followed by an adventurous jungle safari experience. The South African excursion reportedly cost a staggering $2,000 per night. After the safari, the couple and their guests flew to
Egypt in a private jet.
Commenting on the celebrations, 32-year-old Erika told People magazine that she had not seen the venue ahead of the ceremony.
Speaking to
People,
Jain added, “We’re New Yorkers and there's something so special about being in a completely different world environment. So we decided, our wedding is about having a moment together to celebrate the new beginning, having a really special party with our friends somewhere where you're in a different world." Speaking on his wedding in Egypt, he added, “I’m obsessed with ancient history and society."
Further adding he told
People, “We're not traditional wedding people. Why do you have to spend $20,000 on flowers? It doesn’t make sense. And none of that should matter when you're getting an opportunity to sit and have dinner at the base of the pyramids!"
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An Unconventional Love StoryThe couple's love story began when Jain, 33, met Hammond, 32, at the celebrity-favored gym Rumble Boxing, where she was a fitness instructor. Jain initially joked about getting married in space, but Hammond preferred a more down-to-earth celebration. They decided on Egypt, citing their love for ancient history and a desire for a unique environment to celebrate their new beginning.
“My first pitch to Erika for the wedding was to get married in space," Jain told
People, to which she said, “I don't want to die on my wedding day!"
A Wedding Unlike Any OtherThe wedding in Egypt was marked by its unique elements. The couple opted for no bridal party, skipped the traditional wedding cake, and delegated much of the planning to coordinators. They also arranged transportation for guests from the safari in Africa to the wedding venue in Cairo.
A Safari Adventure in South AfricaThe pre-wedding festivities kicked off with a safari dinner in the heart of the South African jungle, followed by an adventurous jungle safari experience. The three-day excursion reportedly cost a staggering $2,000 per night. However, their journey to Egypt hit a snag when their private Egypt Air flight faced an unexpected delay due to intervention by the South African government.
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A Memorable EveningDespite the setback, Jain and Hammond worked tirelessly to ensure their guests' arrival in Egypt. Their efforts paid off, and they managed to resolve the issue, albeit with a delay. The welcome event, held at the Muhammed Ali Palace, started three hours later than planned but was a resounding success. The event, with a 'Modern Cairo' theme, featured belly and fire dancers, creating a magical atmosphere for the guests.
Celebrity Attendees and Emotional MomentsProminent faces, including Lance Bass, Robin Thicke, 'Shark Tank' investor Kevin O'Leary, and several politicians and businesspeople, attended the lavish wedding. The festivities culminated in a spectacular fireworks display, leaving the couple and their guests in awe.
A Non-Traditional AffairJain and Hammond's wedding was a testament to their non-traditional approach. They questioned the need for extravagant spending on flowers and other traditional wedding elements, choosing instead to focus on creating a unique and meaningful experience for themselves and their guests.
The wedding in Egypt was marked by its unique elements. The couple opted for no bridal party, skipped the traditional wedding cake, and delegated much of the planning to coordinators. They also arranged transportation for guests from the safari in Africa to the wedding venue in Cairo.
A Unique Love Story ContinuesThe couple's wedding saga reflects their adventurous spirits and their desire to create unforgettable memories. Their love story, rooted in a shared passion for fitness and adventure, promises a future filled with excitement and joy.
Meeting at Rumble BoxingHammond, a former
WWE NXT Diva turned fitness coach, met Jain at Rumble Boxing, where she was a founding trainer.
Ankur Jain and Erika Hammond's wedding was a testament to their love, adventurous spirits, and non-traditional approach to life. The extravagant celebrations in South Africa and Egypt captured the essence of their unique love story, promising a future filled with love, adventure, and unforgettable moments.