Crystal Harris, Widow of Hugh Hefner, Marries Businessman James Ward in the Remote Cook Islands

The widow of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, 39-year-old former model Crystal Harris, recently celebrated a significant milestone in her life by marrying her beloved, Hawaiian businessman James Ward. The ceremony took place in a modest and secretive format on the picturesque island of Aitutaki, the second-largest island in the Cook Islands archipelago, on Thursday, April 2. This was reported by the popular publication People.

Crystal Harris, who was married to Hugh Hefner from 2012 until his death in 2017, explained the choice of location for the wedding: "We chose the Cook Islands because of their remoteness." The ceremony was held without any guests, emphasizing its intimate nature.

During the ceremony, a local music group performed a popular Maori love song known as Akaipoipo Taua, featuring Puasau Josselyn Taia and Teuira Williams. Throughout the festivities, the couple exchanged handwritten vows and wedding rings. Following this, they celebrated their wedding by taking a boat ride across various parts of the lagoon, opting out of a traditional wedding cake. The couple's first dance was to the song Safe With Me, performed by Ike Dweck.

Crystal Harris shared her thoughts on the choice of wedding venue, stating: "There are no big chain hotels on the island, which creates an incredibly peaceful and authentic atmosphere. Additionally, it has one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Since James and I both love the ocean and nature, it felt like the perfect place to begin this chapter of our lives."

Interestingly, at her wedding, Crystal Harris wore a dress from the Ukrainian brand OKSANA MUKHA, specifically a model named Margo. This lace transformer dress was adorned with over 5,400 Swarovski crystals, adding elegance and luxury to her appearance.

It is noteworthy that James Ward, the owner of a tourism company in Hawaii, proposed to Crystal Harris on April 25, 2025. The couple began dating in April 2024. Before this relationship, Crystal was in a five-year marriage with the late Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. She gained popularity after her debut in 2009 on the show The Girls Next Door on E!, when she lived in the Playboy mansion and dated Hefner.

This event marks a significant moment for Crystal Harris, who is attempting to start a new chapter in her life after the loss of her husband. Her choice to celebrate this moment in such a remote and beautiful location reflects her desire for new beginnings and happiness.