A GYPSY bride has revealed how she had planned the wedding of her dreams – marrying her sister’s ex-husband.
Karen, 18, from Ohio, appeared on TLC’s My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding, and tied the knot with Maison Lovell, who had been her brother-in-law.
Maison had been married to Karen’s sister, single mum Melissa, two and a half years before filming the show.
However, just two weeks into the marriage, Maison found that he preferred her younger sister, Karen.
Maison shared: “I’ve been married to Melissa, Karen’s sister, and that didn’t really work out too well.
“Melissa, she’s definitely not gypsy wife material whatsoever.
“She was constantly running around behind my back, disappearing. She was never home. I didn’t appreciate that.
“Karen would always tell me what was going on. And the more Karen told me, the more I knew she cared.”
Maison insisted that he had a better friendship with Karen, than a romantic relationship with Melissa
He added: “Karen is all around better than Melissa because Karen’s always there. Karen never leaves my side.
“I’m glad that God gave me an angel, a gypsy angel.
“It was the wrong sister who had to get the right sister.”
Karen was equally smitten with Maison, agreeing: “I’m the right one.
“I love Maison more than anything, he means everything to me.”
After deciding they wanted to be together, Karen and Maison had packed up their things and “ran away.”
They shared: “We’ve had a hard life because we’ve always had people try to tear us apart, and we’ve always had to have been scared of people trying to look for us.”
However, the two decided to make things official and get married on the show, with Karen wearing a voluminous blue tiered dress and a glitzy tiara.
Karen gushed: “This wedding means so much to me. I want the perfect wedding that we’ve been dreaming of.”
Understandably, her sister Melissa, 26, was fuming about the wedding and didn’t hold back during the episode.
She ranted: “Karen and I really grew up together really close. She was my best friend.
“I never in a million years imagined that she would do this to me, out of all people. I felt very betrayed by Karen.
I’m glad that God gave me an angel, a gypsy angel
Maison
“Maison is a two-timing, cheating, who now dates my sister. I can’t stand him, can’t stand the sight of him.
“Basically, he’s going to end up cheating on my sister again. Like, there’s no doubt about that.
“They’re going to have a gypsy wedding, and I think it’s stupid as hell.”
She added: “How would anybody feel? And it’s not that he’s getting married again, it’s that he’s getting married to my own sister. I’m pissed.”
Family rage
Karen and Melissa’s mum Sheila was equally fuming about the match.
Clearly annoyed, she shared: “Maison disgraced my family, and I’m going to be the one that’s going to make him pay for what he done.”
During the episode, the wedding ceremony initially went smoothly following the bride’s show-stopping entrance.
However, the scorned Melissa and mum Sheila shocked guests after bursting into the ceremony mid-way through causing a scene.
I never in a million years imagined that she would do this to me, out of all people. I felt very betrayed by Karen
Melissa,
After they were removed from the room, Maison shared: “When they came through, they tried to ruin my wedding.
“I wasn’t letting it happen. I’m used to the struggle. Get them the f*** out of here if my wedding continued.”
Meanwhile Karen said: “My mum can f***. My sister can f***. Me and Maison have been through so much.
“We are the real f***ing gypsies. Ain’t nobody going to stop us.”
Many people were baffled at their story, with one person writing on social media: “Out of all the men she could’ve dated and married, she chose her ex brother-in-law.”
Another added: “WHY AM I WATCHING THIS. BUT I CAN’T STOP WATCHING.”
A closer look at gypsy traditions
HERE we take a look at some of the traditions many gypsies follow…
Family-Centric Living: The family is the cornerstone of Romani life, with extended families often living close to one another. Elders are highly respected and play a crucial role in decision-making and maintaining cultural traditions.
Nomadic Heritage: Many Gypsy communities maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving seasonally to find work or attend cultural gatherings. This tradition is deeply rooted in their history and identity.
Distinctive Décor: Romani homes, whether they are caravans or fixed abodes, are often brightly decorated with vibrant colours and intricate patterns. These decorations reflect their rich cultural heritage and love for beauty.
Communal Gatherings: Social gatherings are a significant part of Gypsy life. Celebrations, such as weddings and religious festivals, are grand affairs involving music, dance, and feasting, often stretching over several days.
Spiritual Practices: Many Gypsy families incorporate a blend of Christian beliefs and traditional spiritual practices. Homes may feature religious icons and amulets believed to offer protection and bring good fortune.
Craftsmanship and Artistry: Romani people are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in metalwork, woodwork, and textiles. These skills are often passed down through generations and are a source of both pride and livelihood.
Hospitality: Hospitality is a valued tradition. Guests are treated with great respect and generosity, often being offered the best food and drink available as a sign of honour and goodwill.
Sharing Stories: Storytelling is a vital part of Romani culture, preserving history, morals, and lessons through generations. Elders often share tales that are both entertaining and educational.
