Introduction:
May 1st marks a deeply emotional and historic milestone for Priscilla Presley and the Presley family, as it commemorates the 57th anniversary of her iconic wedding to Elvis Presley — the King of Rock and Roll. Although their marriage ultimately ended in divorce, their love story continues to captivate fans around the world, and Priscilla remains a key figure in preserving Elvis’ enduring legacy.
Their story began in 1959 when a then-24-year-old Elvis met 14-year-old Priscilla Beaulieu while stationed in Germany during his military service. Despite their age difference, their connection grew over the years, and by the time Priscilla turned 18, she moved to Graceland to begin life with the music legend. They officially tied the knot on May 1, 1967, in a private yet widely publicized ceremony at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas. At the time, Elvis was 32 and Priscilla was 21.
The wedding, while intimate, was rich in symbolism and style. Elvis wore an ornate black tuxedo with his signature slicked-back hair, while Priscilla stunned in a long white gown, her voluminous jet-black hair and dark eyeliner becoming iconic in bridal fashion. The ceremony was followed by a champagne breakfast reception and a press conference — a fitting blend of romance and celebrity. Elvis had proposed during Christmas 1966 with a dazzling diamond ring crafted by renowned jeweler Harry Levitch, featuring a 3.5-carat center stone surrounded by 20 detachable diamonds.
Despite separating in 1973 after six years of marriage — when their daughter Lisa Marie was just five — Priscilla has never wavered in her devotion to Elvis’ legacy. On this year’s anniversary, she took to Instagram to share a heartfelt black-and-white throwback photo from their wedding day. In the image, Elvis lovingly holds her hand as she gazes at him, capturing a moment of pure affection. “May 1st, 1967 — our very special day in a lifetime of beautiful memories,” she wrote, accompanied by a red rose emoji.
Fans flooded the post with admiration and appreciation. One commented, “You looked so beautiful on your special day — just like a doll.” Another wrote, “Only Priscilla can keep the legacy alive like this. Such precious memories to treasure forever.”
In the decades since Elvis’ untimely death at age 42, Priscilla’s commitment to honoring him has only deepened. Her bold decision to open Graceland to the public in 1982 — five years after his passing — not only saved the Presley estate from financial hardship but also transformed it into a global destination. What Elvis bought for $100,000 in 1957 is now estimated to be worth over $500 million, with the estate generating more than $10 million annually.
Graceland today also features a special exhibit titled Growing Up Presley, dedicated to Lisa Marie. It includes a collection of her childhood photos, school memorabilia, and outfits — including the black jumpsuit she wore at her final public appearance at the Golden Globes.
This anniversary serves as both a tribute to a legendary love story and a reflection of the enduring cultural legacy built by Elvis and preserved so lovingly by Priscilla.