Ashley Biden, the youngest daughter of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, has lived a life that, while often in the public eye, remains deeply personal and devoted to service. Yes, Ashley Biden is married. She tied the knot with Dr. Howard Krein, a prominent Philadelphia-based surgeon, in a beautiful ceremony that blended her Catholic faith with his Jewish traditions.
A Special Day in Delaware
The couple’s wedding took place on June 2, 2012, at St. Joseph on the Brandywine, the same church in Greenville, Delaware, where Ashley was baptized. The choice of venue added a personal touch, marking the event with a sense of continuity and tradition. The ceremony was intimate, attended by around 200 close friends and family members, a reflection of the couple’s desire to keep the day focused on their shared values and loved ones.
Blending Traditions: A Catholic-Jewish Ceremony
One of the most unique aspects of Ashley and Howard’s wedding was the incorporation of both Catholic and Jewish traditions. The ceremony was officiated by a Roman Catholic priest, Rev. David F. Murphy, and assisted by Rabbi Joseph Forman. This dual-faith ceremony honored the religious backgrounds of both Ashley and Howard, showcasing their respect for each other’s beliefs and their commitment to building a life together that embraced diversity.
A Personal Touch from the Biden Family
The Biden family’s involvement in the wedding went beyond mere attendance. President Biden, then Vice President, took an active role in preparing for the wedding, particularly at the reception, which was held at the Biden family’s lakeside home in Wilmington, Delaware.
The Vice President personally laid fresh sod in the backyard, while Jill Biden planted special fast-growing vines around the party tent. This hands-on preparation added a warm, familial atmosphere to the event, reflecting the close-knit nature of the Biden family.
A Wedding Dress to Remember
Ashley Biden’s wedding dress was a highlight of the day. She walked down the aisle in a custom Vera Wang mermaid gown, which featured a circular organza petal skirt and draped tulle. Her hair was styled simply, left down to flow naturally, and was complemented by a Chantilly lace veil. The elegant and understated look was perfectly in keeping with Ashley’s personal style, emphasizing grace and timeless beauty.
The Love Story of Ashley Biden and Howard Krein
Ashley and Howard’s relationship began in the summer of 2010, introduced by Ashley’s late brother, Beau Biden. Their connection quickly blossomed, leading to a proposal in October 2011. Howard chose the picturesque cliffs of Big Sur, California, as the backdrop for this significant moment, ensuring that it was as memorable as it was romantic. Before popping the question, Howard sought the blessing of Ashley’s father, a gesture that highlighted his respect for family traditions and solidified his bond with the Biden family.
Life Together: Building a Future in Philadelphia
Following their wedding, Ashley and Howard made their home in Philadelphia, a city that’s just 28 minutes away from the Biden family’s residence, according to President Biden’s own estimation. The proximity allows Ashley to maintain close ties with her family while pursuing her career and personal passions.
Who is Ashley Biden?
Ashley Biden is more than just the daughter of a prominent political figure. She is a dedicated social worker and activist with a strong commitment to helping those in need. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and later a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. Her professional career has been marked by a focus on developing programs for children in the juvenile justice, foster care, and mental health systems.
Ashley’s passion for social justice led her to serve as the executive director of the Delaware Center for Justice, where she advocated for criminal justice reform and supported programs for those impacted by the justice system. Although she stepped down from this role in 2019 to work on her father’s 2020 presidential campaign, Ashley’s commitment to making a difference has never wavered.
A Heartfelt Moment at the Democratic National Convention
Ashley Biden also played a key role in her father’s 2020 presidential campaign, speaking at the Democratic National Convention. In her speech, she painted a personal and touching portrait of Joe Biden, highlighting his values and the lessons he imparted to his children. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, especially when she described her father as “the OG girl dad,” emphasizing his unwavering support for her and her siblings.
Conclusion: A Life of Service and Family
Ashley Biden’s life has been shaped by her dedication to social justice and her close-knit family. Her marriage to Dr. Howard Krein is a testament to her values, blending tradition with modernity, and demonstrating a deep respect for diverse cultures and beliefs. Together, Ashley and Howard continue to build a life rooted in love, service, and commitment to making the world a better place.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Ashley Biden married?
Yes, Ashley Biden is married to Dr. Howard Krein, a surgeon based in Philadelphia. They were married on June 2, 2012, in Delaware.
2. What does Ashley Biden do for a living?
Ashley Biden is a social worker and activist. She has worked extensively in developing programs for children in the juvenile justice and foster care systems. She also served as the executive director of the Delaware Center for Justice.
3. How did Ashley Biden and Howard Krein meet?
Ashley Biden and Howard Krein met in the summer of 2010 through Ashley’s late brother, Beau Biden. Their relationship quickly blossomed, leading to their marriage in 2012.
4. Where was Ashley Biden’s wedding held?
Ashley Biden’s wedding was held at St. Joseph on the Brandywine in Greenville, Delaware, the same church where she was baptized.
5. What is unique about Ashley Biden’s wedding ceremony?
The wedding ceremony was unique as it incorporated both Catholic and Jewish traditions, reflecting the couple’s respect for each other’s religious backgrounds.