The “Miracles” singer and formerAmerican Idolcontestant is expecting his first child with wifeAnniethis fall, his rep confirms exclusively to PEOPLE.
“Becoming a dad is something I’ve always looked forward to. Whether seeing other kids with their parents or reminiscing on the times I had with my own when I was young, these are moments to be cherished,” says Dixon, 28. “Annie and I are ecstatic about this exciting new chapter! We are also relieved that this is no longer a secret.”
“I asked a girl the other day, whom I’d never met before, if she liked her stroller. She didn’t hesitate to stop and give me the sweetest advice and encouragement,” recalls Annie, 31. “It was so kind. I believe the world is more beautiful when we help each other.”
“I think I will be able to understand life in new ways, and though I know it’s a big learning curve, I’m excited for the next chapter,” she continues. “Colton and Ihave always wanted children. We’ve alwayssaid, ‘One day.’ And that day is here! I am so grateful for this gift of bringing a child into the world! Even though I’m not looking forward to the literal side of that so much.”
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Colton Dixon and wife Annie.Julia Cox
Colton Dixon (L) and wife Annie.Julia Cox
The couple justcelebrated their fourth wedding anniversarylast month, having tied the knot in January 2016 during a ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee, in front of 160 guests.
Theirwedding was a family affair for Dixon, a Christian music artist who placed seventh on the eleventh season ofIdol. His uncle played piano and his sister Schyler, who had also auditioned forIdol, sang “How Great Thou Art” as the couple lit a unity candle and took communion.
The bride and groom, whogot engaged at Disney World(Dixon hid the ring inside a glass slipper), incorporated their own storybook touches into the evening, including a horse and carriage — “like Cinderella’s!” Dixon told PEOPLE — to take them from their reception at Nashville’s Bell Tower. “It’s like our own fairy tale,” added Annie.
Fellow Christian artistSteven Curtis Chapmanmade a special appearance at the reception to perform his song “Cinderella” for the father-daughter dance. “That’s something my dad and I will never forget,” Annie told PEOPLE exclusively at the time.
Colton Dixon and wife Annie in 2016.Rick Diamond/Getty
RELATED VIDEO:American IdolRocker Colton Dixon: I Used to Be Very Preppy
However, “It wasnoteasy!” to wait, he added with a laugh. “But Ibelieve sex was designed for marriageand I knew it would be more meaningful to wait. That was something I grew up thinking and feeling, and I believe the Bible backs it up as well.”
Dixon’s newest single, “Miracles,” is streaming now onamazon.com.
source: people.com
