Ryan Sutter, who found love on the first season of The Bachelorette two decades ago, has opened up about the ups and downs of his marriage to Trista Sutter. In a heartfelt Instagram post celebrating their anniversary, the 49-year-old reflected on the challenges and unpredictability they've faced together. "We struggled, we cried, we laughed, and we loved. Through it all, we stuck together, hand in hand, heart to heart," he shared.
The couple first met on season 1 of the Bachelor spinoff and got married in December 2003 during their ABC special, Trista & Ryan’s Wedding.
Ryan expressed, "It all began in front of millions, but today it's just the two of us. No wedding special, no fanfare, and no red carpet. Just Love. That's all we've ever needed. I love you @tristasutter now and forever. Happy Anniversary!!! HIF️."
Trista commented with gratitude, "As someone who appreciates words of affirmation, thank you for your kind words and, most importantly, your love. You are my safe harbor, my happy place, and my favorite love story. Cheers to living life and taking chances. HIF." Despite facing significant challenges, including Ryan's health battle and eventual Lyme disease diagnosis, their love has continued to thrive.
Courtesy of Ryan Sutter/Instagram
Trista, who is 51 years old, provided an exclusive update on her husband's journey of "ups and downs" to We in January. She mentioned that Ryan "has been feeling great" ever since he began bee venom therapy.
Ryan started experiencing health issues in February 2020, and despite not having immediate answers for his symptoms, he revealed his Lyme disease diagnosis on his wife's "Better Etc." podcast in May 2021. "I tested positive for Lyme disease," he shared. "It looks like something I'll have to live with, but now that I know, I can work on strengthening my immune system to fight it off."
Despite the difficulties they have encountered, the original Bachelorette couple has continued to stay strong over the past two decades by prioritizing their relationship.
"I feel like when we first got married, the advice that I was giving — at least [to] the people who were coming off of the show — was really focus on your relationship. Enjoy all the things that are coming your way, all the fun invites that you’re getting, [but remember] it’s about your relationship,” Trista told Us exclusively in February. “So, put that first, and we did that in moving to Vail, [Colorado], and really prioritizing him and me.”
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Son Max was born in July 2007, followed by daughter Blakesley in April 2009. Despite the 20 years that have passed with Ryan, their teenage children serve as a constant reminder of their enduring love.
Trista told Us in February that "Sometimes you have to remind yourself because we are just an ordinary couple. Twenty years ago... I feel like I met him yesterday, but at the same time I look at my kids who are taller than me now and think, 'Yeah, that didn't happen yesterday.'"