16 Years, A Daughter, And A Secret Wedding: Are Gretchen Rossi And Slade Smiley Still Together?

The enduring, often-scrutinized relationship between former *Real Housewives of Orange County* stars Gretchen Rossi and Slade Smiley has been a constant source of media speculation for over a decade. As of December 2025, the couple has defied countless critics and are, in fact, still very much together, navigating life as parents and business partners. Their journey, which began controversially on reality television, has evolved into a 16-year partnership, complete with a beautiful daughter and a recent, surprising revelation about their marital status that has finally put years of rumors to rest.

The biggest question surrounding Gretchen and Slade has never been whether they were together, but whether they had finally tied the knot after their iconic 2013 engagement. The answer, as recently confirmed by Gretchen herself, is a resounding yes—though the details are far more private and unexpected than any *RHOC* fan could have predicted.

Gretchen Rossi and Slade Smiley: A Complete Biographical Snapshot

The couple's relationship is one of the most memorable and controversial in *Real Housewives* history. Their connection began shortly after Gretchen joined the cast of *The Real Housewives of Orange County* in Season 4.

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Gretchen Rossi (as of 2025)

• Full Name: Gretchen Christine Rossi
• Date of Birth: October 30, 1978
• Age: 47
• Occupation: Television personality, entrepreneur, fashion and beauty brand owner (Gretchen Christine Collection).
• Known For: Starring on *The Real Housewives of Orange County* (Seasons 4–8) and guest appearances in later seasons, including Season 19.
• Previous Marriage: Christopher Rossi (2004–2007).

Slade Smiley (as of 2025)

• Full Name: Slade Smiley
• Date of Birth: October 29, 1968
• Age: 57
• Occupation: Television personality, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and former model.
• Known For: Appearing on *The Real Housewives of Orange County* with two different partners (Jo De La Rosa and Gretchen Rossi).
• Children: Son, Grayson, from a previous relationship (deceased 2023), and daughter, Skylar Gray, with Gretchen Rossi.

Key Relationship Milestones

• Began Dating: Circa 2008–2009.
• Iconic Engagement: Proposed by Gretchen in 2013 during *RHOC* Season 8 via a helicopter ride and a song.
• Daughter Born: Skylar Gray Smiley, July 2019.
• Private Marriage Ceremony: New Year's Eve 2022.
• Relationship Duration: Over 16 years as of 2025.

The Shocking Truth: Are Gretchen and Slade Finally Married?

For over a decade, the narrative surrounding Gretchen and Slade was that they were the perpetually engaged couple. Their 2013 engagement, where Gretchen took the lead in a grand, televised proposal, was a major storyline, but the wedding never seemed to materialize. This led to years of speculation, rumors, and criticism from fans and former castmates alike, who questioned the stability and commitment of their relationship.

However, the truth is far more recent and private than the public was led to believe. Gretchen Rossi recently revealed that she and Slade are, in fact, married. This news, which surfaced in late 2024, came as a surprise to many who still believed they were just engaged.

The couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony on New Year's Eve 2022. According to Gretchen, they were married by an ordained pastor in a small, intimate setting. This revelation clarifies the long-standing question, demonstrating that while they didn't have the massive, televised wedding many expected, they did formalize their union.

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The reason for the delay between the 2013 engagement and the 2022 ceremony was largely attributed to the complexities of life, including the challenges of IVF, the birth of their daughter Skylar Gray, and the sheer busyness of their careers. The focus shifted from planning a lavish wedding to building their family and navigating personal challenges, including the heartbreak Slade experienced with the passing of his son, Grayson, in 2023.

Life in 2025: Parenting, Business, and an RHOC Return

In 2025, Gretchen Rossi and Slade Smiley are focused on their life as a family and their entrepreneurial ventures. Their daughter, Skylar Gray Smiley, is now over five years old, and the couple frequently shares glimpses of their family life on social media, showcasing a strong, united front.

The couple's enduring partnership is built on more than just romance; they are also business partners. Gretchen's successful Gretchen Christine Collection, which includes a line of handbags, beauty products, and accessories, is a central part of their professional lives. Slade has often been involved in the business and management side, solidifying their status as a true power couple in the Orange County lifestyle sphere.

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The longevity of their relationship—now over 16 years—is a testament to their commitment, especially considering the "reality TV curse" that plagues many couples who appear on these shows. They have navigated financial difficulties, public scrutiny, and personal tragedy, emerging stronger than ever.

Gretchen's Return to *The Real Housewives of Orange County*

Adding another layer of interest to their current life is Gretchen's recent return to the *Real Housewives of Orange County* universe. She has made appearances as a "friend" in Season 19, bringing her back into the fold and reigniting her long-standing feuds and friendships with the current cast. This return confirms that the couple is still very much in the public eye and willing to share their life—including their relationship—with viewers.

Despite the drama that follows them, Gretchen and Slade maintain that their love is genuine and deep. They have consistently celebrated their anniversaries, often posting heartfelt tributes to one another, acknowledging the many people who predicted their relationship would never last.

The Verdict: An Unbreakable Bond

In conclusion, the answer to the burning question, "Is Gretchen still with Slade?" is an unequivocal yes. Not only are they still together after 16 years, but they are also officially married, having exchanged vows in a private 2022 ceremony. They continue to live their lives in Orange County, raising their daughter Skylar Gray and managing their various businesses. Their story is one of enduring love that has outlasted the reality TV spotlight and the relentless scrutiny of the public, proving that sometimes, the most dramatic relationships can also be the most lasting.