The Couple's Sixth Nuptials - "Connected in marriage": Richard Lugner ties the knot with Simone Reiländer
Austrian construction businessman Richard Lugner has tied the knot for the sixth time. He and his bride, Simone Reilaender, exchanged vows in the Vienna town hall on Saturday. The 91-year-old, who's known for his extravagant hosting at the Vienna Opera Ball, had kept the mediaupdated on the wedding plans and been interviewed frequently before the ceremony. Reilaender, a 49-year-old DIY store deputy manager, was a she of interest too - with cameras capturing her getting ready in her hotel room and showing off her long white wedding dress.
Lugner says this will be his last marriage
Lugner and Reilaender were seated in front of the registrar around 2:00 p.m., with a few dozen guests and numerous photographers present. Reilaender fought back tears, as she was getting married for the first time. After their "yes" and the ring exchange, they shared a kiss. "We're connected now," said Lugner. He stated that he didn't like being alone, leading to this new marriage. With four children from past relationships, his eldest son could also be the father of his bride. His eldest son was born in 1963. "This will be my last marriage," Lugner said, just before the celebrations.
Reilaender will not be going on a honeymoon her husband mentioned, as she has to get back to work on Tuesday. She has resigned from her job. He plans to promote her to a high position in his company in the summer, per his own statements. Lugner manages, among other things, a shopping center in Vienna.
The entrepreneur gushes over his new wife: "She truly works hard, like your nickname says," he says about Reilaender, whom he prefers to call "Bee" (bee). Just like all his former partners, the 42-year-old received a nickname with an animal theme - one she's not fond of. Honoring her wishes, Lugner stated.
In one of the multitude of interviews, he was asked about his happiness. "Happiness is overblown," he answered. "Satisfaction is normal for me. My entire life has been filled with contentment. I don't regret anything. I simply leave out the negatives."
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The wedding ceremony took place in the Vienna town hall, a location known for its grandeur. Lugner and Reiländer's wedding was an anticipated event, given Lugner's reputation for extravagant hosting at events like the Vienna Opera Ball. After the wedding, they might have considered a honeymoon, but Reilaender mentioned she needed to return to work. Despite not having a honeymoon, their marriage will be recognized at the Vienna Opera Ball, an event Lugner is famous for organizing. In the future, Reiländer will hold a high position in Lugner's company.