They did!
On Thursday night, Jan. 4, the Golden Bachelor's Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist said "I do" in a live ABC television special.
Speaking to PEOPLE before their big day, Nist called the wedding a "family event," giving credit to the couple's daughters (she has one, he has two) for all the work they put into the planning.
"I envision it as such a fun, warm, wonderful day, a day filled with joy and laughter and positive energy and everyone being happy to be there," said Nist, 70. Added Turner, 72: "We want it to be a party." And that it was!
Here, all the gorgeous photos (and celebrity guests!) from the couple's Golden Wedding.
Theresa's Wedding Dress
“I was presented with these incredibly gorgeous gowns from Badgley Mischka, and I was overwhelmed,” Nist told PEOPLE. “I asked each one of these beautiful women to go pick their favorite. And then I picked three of mine, and I walked down the stairs with them. And when it was the dress, they unanimously thought this was the good gown."
Theresa's Bridal Accessories
The bride's sparkly shoes matched the delicate shimmer on her what she called her "traditional and modern" gown, which featured a strapless plunging neckline and fitted bodice with mermaid silhouette. It also had a voluminous tulle train for added drama down the aisle.
The Wedding Flowers
The flowers were equally soft, a mix of white, pink and blush blooms.
Theresa's Bridal Glam
Atop her Badgley Mischka gown, Nist wore a traditional veil and a diamond-and-pearl drop necklace with complementary earrings. She kept her hair and makeup natural for her closeup.
Solo Stroll
Turner, in a classic black tux, walked himself down the aisle with a big smile.
The Groom
He grew emotional watching Nist make her way down the aisle.
The Happy Couple
In their vows, the pair recalled the milestones in their relationship.
“From the first sip of chocolate shake to the last taste of Costa Rican coffee, I learned that you are the woman I can't live without," Turner said. "I learned that you make me calm, with the touch of your hand. I've learned that you make me laugh with the easy comfort of long lost friends.”
'So Much Love to Share'
The couple made some jokes about their ages in their vows, too, but kept it all sincere.
“We have that same deep love of family,” Nist said. “We have so much love to share and now so many more people to share it with. I promise to be calm in the storm, to comfort you when you're sad, to laugh with you when you're happy, and to stick with you throughout it all, but most of all, to have fun. For the rest of the days that we have left on this earth, which could be another hour."
The Celeb Officiant
Former Golden Bachelor contestant Susan Noles officiated the ceremony (she's been ordained for 10 years!).
“I can't even tell you how excited I am right now and so grateful to welcome you all here to celebrate this love that these two have found,” Noles shared as the ceremony began.
After the vows and formalities, the couple exchanged Neil Lane rings.
Kiss the Bride!
Mr. and Mrs. shared a passionate kiss and hug after they were pronounced husband and wife.
The Newlyweds!
The newly married pair led the way down the aisle into the reception, a portion of which was televised.
To Have and to Hold
“You were the love that came silently and without warning. You were authentic, Theresa, you have my heart and I have yours," Turner said in his vows.
Charlee Young, Jenny Young, Angie Warner & Payton Young
Turner's daughters Jenny Young and Angie Warner were bridesmaids for the evening; they wore ruffled mint-green Badgley Mischka dresses for the big moment. The groom's granddaughters Charlee and Payton Young served as junior bridesmaids and wore contrasting gowns.
Jen Woolston & Amanda Nist
Nist's daughter, Jen Woolston, was matron of honor, with her daughter-in-law Amanda Nist serving as a bridesmaid.
Kathy Swarts & Charity Lawson
The evening's special correspondent was former Golden Bachelor contestant Kathy Swarts, who spent time with the most recent Bachelorette, Charity Lawson.
Ryan & Trista Sutter
Trista and Ryan Sutter — the first Bachelor Nation couple to ever wed on TV — were among the many franchise guests.
Jason & Molly Mesnick
Another Bachelor Nation success story, Jason and Molly Mesnick arrived arm-in-arm.
Jesse Palmer
Bachelor host Jesse Palmer was on hand to host the festivities, though said he might have to leave if his wife went into labor!
Brayden Bowers & Christina Mandrell
In a big surprise, Bachelor in Paradise contestants Brayden Bowers and Christina Mandrell got engaged live on TV just before the wedding!
"Like Gerry said, it's like, you know, we have such little time and ... I just know that I want to spend the rest of my days with you," Bowers said in part while popping the question.
Joey Graziadei
Will he be next?! The upcoming Bachelor star Joey Graziadei made a splash at the event.
Jared Haibon & Ashley Iaconetti
Bachelor Nation favorites Jared Haibon and Ashley Iaconetti coordinated in black.
Tayshia Adams & Natascha Hardee
Former Bachelorette Tayshia Adams snapped a selfie with Golden Bachelor's Natascha Hardee.
Kenny Braasch & Mari Pepin
Bachelor in Paradise newlyweds Kenny Braasch and Mari Pepin were also at the wedding.
Zach Shallcross & Kaity Biggar
Bachelor bride- and groom-to-be Zach Shallcross and Kaity Biggar enjoyed a night out.
Michelle Young & Jack Leius
Former Bachelorette star Michelle Young brought boyfriend Jack Leius as her date.
Patty James, Nancy Hulkower, Anna Zalk & Joan Vassos
Many of the Golden Bachelor contestants were in attendance, including Patty James, Nancy Hulkower, Anna Zalk and Joan Vassos, who greeted each other on the gold carpet.
The Setting
The ceremony took place at the scenic La Quinta Resort and Club in La Quinta, California, as the sun set.
The Drinks
Cocktails included some favorites with cheeky names, like the "Turner into a Mrs." (vodka, cranberry juice and lime) the "Birthday Suit" (a spicy margarita) and "The Final Rose" (an Old Fashioned).