Who is Candace Cameron Married to? Inside Her 25+ Year Love Story with Valeri Bure
The Story Behind Candace Cameron and Valeri Bure’s Meeting
Candace Cameron Bure, beloved for her role as DJ Tanner on Full House, found her real-life love story thanks to her co-star Dave Coulier. In 1994, at a charity hockey game, Dave introduced her to a young, handsome Russian hockey player—Valeri Bure. That encounter led to an immediate connection, and the pair went on their first date the very next day.
Valeri, a talented NHL player, had recently moved to the U.S. and had even used Full House to learn English. Their quick chemistry was undeniable, and within a year, they were married. As Candace said in an interview with Us Weekly, “It was love at first sight” (Us Magazine, 2019). This love story continues to captivate fans, showing that sometimes, a little matchmaking from a co-star can change everything.
Candace and Valeri’s Early Years of Marriage
On June 22, 1996, Candace and Valeri tied the knot in an intimate ceremony. At the time, Candace was only 20 years old, while Valeri was 22. Their wedding day was a simple but elegant affair, featuring close family and friends, including Candace’s Full House co-stars. Over the years, Candace has shared numerous throwback photos from that day, showcasing the depth of their bond over the decades.
Not long after their marriage, they started a family. Their first child, Natasha Bure, was born in 1998, followed by two sons, Lev (2000) and Maksim (2002). Candace often posts updates about her family on Instagram, emphasizing the importance of family values and faith in their home. As she mentioned, “My family is my greatest achievement” (People, 2020).
Faith as the Foundation of Their Marriage
Both Candace and Valeri are devout Christians, which they credit as the foundation of their enduring marriage. Candace has openly discussed how her faith guides her daily decisions, from her career choices to her family dynamics. She once stated in an interview, “Our relationship works because of our faith in God. The Bible is our guide, especially when we face tough times” (People, 2020).
This shared belief system has helped them navigate the ups and downs of marriage. Valeri, a former NHL player, has fully embraced their faith as a core component of their lives. Their commitment to Christian values has set them apart in Hollywood, where long-lasting marriages are often rare.
Valeri Bure’s NHL Career and Retirement
Valeri Bure had an impressive career in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing for renowned teams such as the Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, and Florida Panthers. Valeri was known for his exceptional skills on the ice, playing for 10 seasons and earning recognition as one of the top Russian-born players in the league. He also represented Russia in two Olympic Games, winning a silver medal in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.
Unfortunately, recurring injuries led Valeri to retire from professional hockey in 2005. After retirement, he shifted his focus to family and business, including co-founding a winery with Candace in Napa Valley. Their winery, Bure Family Wines, has received praise for its quality, much like their resilient partnership over the years (The List, 2021).
How the Quarantine Strengthened Their Marriage
During the 2020 quarantine, Candace and Valeri experienced something unique—an extended period together without the usual travel that their careers demanded. According to Candace, “This was the longest time we’ve been together without interruption in years, and it made us stronger” (Us Weekly, 2021). Candace admitted that the quarantine forced them to reevaluate how they balanced their work and family lives.
Rather than strain their relationship, the extra time together deepened their connection. Candace’s Instagram post from late 2020 reflected on their time in quarantine: “I’ve learned that family time is priceless, and it’s the glue that holds us together” (Candace Cameron Bure Instagram, 2020).
Fun, Flirting, and Keeping the Marriage Exciting
One of the hallmarks of Candace and Valeri’s marriage is their ability to keep things fun and exciting. Candace has shared in interviews how flirting with Valeri is an essential part of their relationship. She commented, “We flirt all the time, it keeps the spark alive” (Confessions of a Crappy Christian Podcast, 2020). A now-infamous photo posted to Instagram showed Valeri with his hand on Candace’s chest, which sparked both admiration and criticism online.
Candace addressed the photo, saying, “He’s my husband; of course, he can touch me whenever he wants. This is what a healthy, loving marriage looks like” (E Online, 2020). Their playful attitude towards each other keeps their marriage vibrant, even after more than two decades.
Table: Candace Cameron and Valeri Bure’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Candace Cameron Bure |
| Spouse | Valeri Bure |
| Wedding Date | June 22, 1996 |
| Children | Natasha, Lev, Maksim |
| Valeri’s NHL Teams | Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers |
| Business | Bure Family Wines |
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Candace Cameron meet her husband?
They met in 1994 at a charity hockey game, introduced by her co-star Dave Coulier.
Who is Valeri Bure?
Valeri Bure is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the NHL for 10 seasons. He is also an Olympic medalist and now co-runs a winery with Candace.
How many children do Candace and Valeri have?
They have three children: Natasha, Lev, and Maksim.
How long have Candace and Valeri been married?
They have been married since 1996, making their marriage over 25 years strong.
References:
people.com
usmagazine.com
thelist.com
hollywoodlife.com
heavy.com
