WS Chronicle

On March 7, 2025, Nia Franklin, renowned for her tenure as Miss America 2019, tied the knot with Shannon Patterson in a ceremony held at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Winston-Salem.   

“It was an elegant wedding,” said Wayne Patterson, Franklin’s new father-in-law. “I don’t say daughter-in-law, she’s my daughter-in-love. This is an awesome union; they are so blessed.” 

The couple’s deep-rooted connection to the church was evident, as the ceremony was officiated by Dr. Serenus T. Churn Sr., who had previously baptized Franklin and officiated her parents’ wedding.  

Music played a pivotal role in the nuptials. Franklin, a classically trained opera singer and composer, crafted a special piece for solo viola, performed alongside works by Johann Sebastian Bach during the ceremony.   

Last year, Franklin joined the Winston-Salem Symphony for a performance entitled “At Last: Nia Imani Franklin,” where Franklin showcased an array of musical talents as composer and performer.   

She walked down the aisle to the hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” carrying a bouquet of red roses symbolizing their Christian faith. ​  

When The Chronicle asked the groom about how it felt to be living most men’s dream, being married to ‘Miss America’, Shannon gushed. 

“It’s amazing! I see Nia as more than just Miss America. She’s a God-fearing woman that’s supportive, ambitious, nice and caring. She is extremely talented, and Miss America is one of her many accomplishments,” said Shannon Patterson.  

The couple spent a week in Rome for their honeymoon and plans to make Winston-Salem their home.