Parker McCollum, the rising country music star known for hits like 'Pretty Heart,' is gearing up for an eventful year as he and his wife, Hallie Ray Light, prepare to welcome their first child into the world. The couple tied the knot on March 28, 2022, and recently shared the exciting news of their pregnancy. As they embrace this new chapter of their lives, let's take a closer look at Hallie Ray Light, the woman who captured McCollum's heart.
Hallie Ray Light hails from McAlester, Oklahoma, where she spent her high school years as a cheerleader with dreams of attending Oklahoma State University. After graduating, Light pursued a degree in marketing and successfully earned her diploma from the university in 2019. Today, she runs a clothing brand called Kihk with her sisters Kaylee and Kam, combining their initials to create a meaningful venture.
McCollum and Light's paths crossed through a mutual friend, coinciding with the blossoming of McCollum's music career. However, Light initially wasn't impressed when they first met. McCollum admitted that he was intrigued by Light even before their encounter, liking her name so much that he wanted to include it in a song. Despite her initial reservations, Light eventually attended one of McCollum's shows and heard the song he had written for her. This marked the beginning of their romantic journey together.
Their relationship faced early challenges as Light was pursuing a nursing degree, leading to a period of long-distance dating. However, Light's laid-back nature, similar to that of her father, helped her understand the demands of McCollum's career. Although the distance wasn't always easy, their commitment to each other and the support of Light's parents, who had experienced a long-distance relationship themselves, helped them navigate the ups and downs.
At the end of 2020, McCollum and Light briefly ended their relationship for what McCollum describes as a 'goofy reason.' This separation meant that Light missed McCollum's debut performance at the iconic Grand Ole Opry. However, that night proved to be a turning point for McCollum. Realizing he couldn't imagine performing without Light by his side, he resolved to rekindle their love.
Six months later, McCollum proposed to Light on July 1, 2021, confident in his decision to spend the rest of his life with her. The couple tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony on March 28, 2022, at Boxwood Manor in Texas. Light looked radiant in a simple strapless white dress, while McCollum opted for a classic black tuxedo. The wedding included touching moments, such as Light's choreographed dance during the reception.
Reflecting on their journey, McCollum shared that their first dance song, 'One More Day' by Diamond Rio, held significant meaning to them. Sharing their love with family and friends on their special day cemented their commitment to one another.
One year into their marriage, McCollum continues to find inspiration in Light, even penning songs about her. However, his preference leans towards heartbreak love songs, which he later tweaks to add a darker, pensive tone. Nevertheless, McCollum acknowledges that Light is an extraordinary person who continuously supports him in his career.
As McCollum's star continues to rise, he and Light have embarked on the next chapter of their lives. In February 2024, they announced their pregnancy, expressing their excitement and love for their unborn child. The couple shared a heartwarming photo on Instagram, capturing a tender moment between McCollum leaning down to kiss Light's pregnant belly.
With their shared journey and unyielding love, it's evident that Parker McCollum and Hallie Ray Light are poised to embrace the joys and challenges of parenthood together. As fans eagerly await the arrival of their child, they cannot help but be touched by the enduring bond between this country music duo.
