Television host Martha Stewart has built an impressive brand over the past several decades. But back in the 1960s, she was a young bride with larger than life dreams.
In a new interview, the entrepreneur, now 85, is looking back on her wedding day in 1961. Though her marriage ultimately ended in divorce, Martha Stewart has wonderful memories of preparing for the special day with her family.
During the interview, Stewart shared a throwback photo from the day, revealing herself as a stunning young bride. And as the businesswoman recalls, she only had a 19-inch waist at the time.
Martha Stewart Made Her Own Wedding Dress in 1961
When Martha Stewart was 19, she married Yale Law student Andrew Stewart in 1961. They went on to welcome their daughter, Alexis, in 1965. After several years of marriage, the Stewarts separated in 1987, finalizing their divorce in 1990.
Though the marriage didn’t work out, Martha Stewart still fondly remembers many details of her wedding day.
“#MarthaStewart is breaking down everything she remembers from her 1961 wedding look, from her 19 inch waist to the number of buttons down her back,” the official PEOPLE Instagram account shared.
“We got married at Columbia University in St. Paul’s Chapel, a beautiful chapel right there on the campus. A wonderful organ,” the 85-year-old told PEOPLE. “He chose the music. I made my dress with my mom that was Swiss organdy, embroidered.”
It was common for brides to make their own wedding dresses in the ’60s. Back then, the television host remembers being incredibly petite.
“My waist was 19 inches, I remember that,” Stewart reminisced on her wedding day. “And there were about 40 tiny little organdy covered buttons down the back with little loops and a little pill box hat, ode to Jackie O. One strand of pearls, I think those were my mother’s. And daisies. That’s what I carried, a bouquet of simple daisies. I was madly in love. Of course I have very fond memories. We were a very fine couple. Wherever we went, we were ‘the couple.'”
The Television Host Still Has So Much Life to Live
Despite turning 85 this month, Martha Stewart is still incredibly active. While speaking to PEOPLE, she shared that she loves keeping her mind sharp and picking up new skills. And of course, she also enjoys exercise and eating well.
“I am doing stuff that I probably didn’t think I would do. I’m learning all about AI and agentics,” she told the outlet.
Though Martha Stewart has built an empire, she also admitted that she was never in it for the fame or money.
“I couldn’t care less about being rich and famous,” the television host continued. “All I want to be is comfortable, have beautiful gardens, have enough money to support my family and treat my friends well.”
However, there is one symbol of luxury that Martha Stewart wouldn’t mind having.
“I would like a yacht — a big yacht. I don’t have that yet,” she joked to the outlet.
