Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. is eager to tie the knot with Chariah Gordon — just as soon as the 2025 Super Bowl is over.
“Wedding planning has definitely taken a backseat for now. The season has had us both locked in, and it’s been tough to find the time to really focus on the details,” Hardman, 26, told The Knot in an interview published on Thursday, February 6. “We’ve still been making moves behind the scenes — talking to planners, checking out venues, and getting a feel for what we want. Once the season wraps, that’s when we’ll really lock in and start making things happen.”
He added, “It’s funny because everything has to be planned around the off-season, but we’re excited to finally put our full energy into it and get the ball rolling.”
Hardman is currently gearing up for Super Bowl LIX, where his Chiefs will take on the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, February 9, at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome. Gordon is set to attend, recently flying to Louisiana with fellow Chiefs partner Sheawna Weathersby via private jet. (Gordon and Weathersby, the girlfriend of defensive tackle Chris Jones, shared social media footage of the jet on Friday, February 7.)
Gordon has been Hardman’s No. 1 cheerleader since they started dating in 2021. He proposed three years later in June 2024. The couple, who share son Mecole III and daughter Ci, have also narrowed down the theme and location for their nuptials.
“We want to combine the city girl-meets-country boy vibe,” Gordon told The Knot. “Mecole’s from a small town, so we’re blending that with my love for city life. … We really want the ceremony to feel intimate and personal, something that feels grounded and connected to nature.”
Gordon also told the outlet that the pair hope the reception will “be a party.”
“We want everyone to have a blast and create lasting memories,” Gordon teased. “We really want it to feel like a retreat. A place where we can just focus on each other and the people who mean the most to us. It’s going to be magical.”
While Hardman and Gordon live in Kansas City with their children, the wedding will not take place near their home.
“We’re keeping the destination tightly under wraps, but it’s a peaceful, secluded space away from the chaos of the world,” the pair told the bridal magazine. “Picture tall trees, stunning views, and an intimate setting. Just us and about 200 of our closest friends.”
It is also likely that Hardman’s teammates — and their significant others, such as tight end Travis Kelce and his girlfriend, Taylor Swift — could make the guest list.
“My team has been such a huge part of my journey, so it only makes sense to have them there celebrating with us,” Hardman added. “It’s a special moment, and we’re excited to share it with the people who mean the most to us.”