Jaleel White, best known as Steve Urkel from “Family Matters,” and Nicoletta Ruhl, a visionary tech executive, recently tied the knot. Their lavish wedding, held on May 4, 2024, was not only a celebration of love but also a stunning showcase of their distinct worlds coming together.
Nicoletta Ruhl and Jaleel White on their wedding day, as seen in a May 8 Instagram post | Source: Instagram.com/people
In a dazzling ceremony filled with elegance and a touch of Hollywood glamor, Jaleel White, beloved for his role in “Family Matters,” exchanged vows with tech executive Nicoletta Ruhl. The couple’s special day unfolded at the scenic Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, known for its stunning views and exquisite architecture.
The wedding was celebrated amidst close family and friends. It was not just an expression of their love but also a showcase of their unique personalities and life’s work. They had “5 star food” and a lineup of three DJs ensuring the music never stopped. Their photographer was luxury wedding photographer, Alex W.
Nicoletta Ruhl and Jaleel White on their wedding day, as seen in a May 8 Instagram story | Source: Instagram.com/alexwphotography/
The decor was tastefully done in neutral tones. This complemented the natural beauty of the venue and set a serene backdrop for the day’s festivities.
From the outset, the wedding was marked by luxury and meticulous attention to detail. The couple treated their 175 guests to a gastronomic delight with their dinner menu. Highlights included dishes like filet mignon and branzino accompanied by a selection of fresh vegetables. For dessert, the couple cut into a multi-flavored red velvet wedding cake, offering layers of lemon, funfetti, and vanilla.
Nicoletta Ruhl and Jaleel White’s wedding cake as seen in a May 8 Instagram story | Source: Instagram.com/alexwphotography/
Adding a personal touch to the ceremony, White and Ruhl shared their vows in an intimate setting. Those who have significantly impacted their lives surrounded them as they exchanged vows.
One of the standout features of the evening was a choreographed dance performed by the newlyweds to the classic tune “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye.
The guest list was made up of those famous in entertainment and sports. This reflected White’s long-standing connections in the industry and Ruhl’s prominent role in the sports tech world. Notable attendees included Omar Miller, Lamorne Morris, Adam Ray, Hannah Stocking, Mekhi Phifer, Alyson Felix, Camilla Belle, and Sina Sadighi.
Omar Miller at the the amfAR Gala Los Angeles 2017 at Ron Burkle’s Green Acres Estate on October 13, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images
While the wedding marked a high point in White’s personal life, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges he has faced. In the past, White was embroiled in legal and personal disputes that grabbed headlines.
Notably, in 2010, allegations of domestic battery surfaced, which were vigorously denied by White and eventually dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
Jaleel White on the “Today” show on October 23, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
This incident was a significant ordeal for White, compounded by its timing during his participation in reality TV shows like “Dancing With The Stars.” Reflecting on these challenges, White has expressed that such allegations were deeply hurtful, especially considering their timing and impact on his custody dispute over his daughter.
These events, he felt, were attempts to undermine his success and tarnish his reputation during pivotal moments of his career. Despite these accusations, White has maintained his dignity and focus, striving to be a loving father and a positive figure in his daughter’s life.
Now, Ruhl is also a significant figure in White’s daughter’s life and has even shared images of them at public appearances together. The first was in 2022, when she shared a photo of herself with White and his daughter at the “Hustlers” film premiere. The trio smiled happily at the camera and looked comfortable in one another’s presence.
White, famed for his iconic TV character and being an accomplished author, recently penned the book “Growing Up Urkel.” The book is set for release in November. His bride, Ruhl, is a formidable presence in the tech world. She is recognized for her innovative work in sports technology and her leadership at Status Pro.
White first gained fame as the lovable and nerdy Steve Urkel on the hit TV show “Family Matters.” His character, known for the catchphrase “Did I do that?”, became a cultural icon of the 1990s. Transitioning from his sitcom success, White has continued to work in entertainment while also exploring his passion for writing.
Jaleel White on “Family Matters” Season 5 on October 8, 1993 | Source: Getty Images
This is evident in his upcoming book, “Growing Up Urkel,” where he reflects on his experiences and growth both on and off the screen. Ruhl, on the other hand, has carved out a significant niche in the tech industry. A former Yale swimmer and Stanford Graduate School of Business alumna, she has been at the forefront of merging technology with sports.
As a business development leader for Status Pro, she has been instrumental in pioneering virtual reality training products for athletes. These have transformed athlete training regimes. Her previous experience with the Los Angeles Chargers saw her building their digital and social media presence.
The couple’s paths crossed during the pandemic as they both frequented UCLA’s track. They both found solace in physical activity during uncertain times. Their relationship blossomed from shared interests and mutual respect. Their public debut came on New Year’s Day 2022 when Ruhl shared a cozy photo of the couple celebrating the new year together.
Through their vows, both White and Ruhl shared insights into their journey together and their hopes for the future. “It was important for all of the people that carry an impact on our daily lives to be present and for each and every one of them to enjoy themselves and feel as though they were part of something intimate and meaningful,” Ruhl expressed.
as Nicoletta Ruhl, Jaleel White, and their wedding party as seen in a May 8 Instagram story | Source: Instagram.com/alexwphotography/
Reflecting on their relationship dynamics, Ruhl noted, “We don’t rush anything and we always have honest intentions for one another.” She believes that their careful and considerate approach to their relationship has been a key factor in its strength. “When you force something, it won’t result in the best outcome, and because of this, we’ve seen a lot of blessings in our life together thus far,” she added.
Nicoletta Ruhl and Jaleel White at Giorgio Baldi restaurant on March 29, 2024 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
The wedding of White and Ruhl was not just a celebration of their union but also a vivid illustration of their journey together—marked by mutual respect, shared dreams, and a commitment to positively impacting the world around them.
Nicoletta Ruhl and Jaleel White at the 13th annual NFL Honors at Resorts World Theatre on February 08, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on the day, White remarked, “I felt like a prince,” capturing the joy and fulfillment that both he and Ruhl experienced. The festivities, filled with love, laughter, and a few tears of happiness, were a perfect testament to the depth and sincerity of their relationship.