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Engaged couple, both 215 lbs, took an oath six months before their wedding — their dramatic transformation stunned guests

Their progress became visible through a short Instagram video that told the story clearly.
PUBLISHED 1 DAY AGO
(L) An overweight engaged couple. (R) Shocked wedding guests. (Representative Cover Image Source: Getty Images | (L) jhorrocks, (R) Klaus Vedfelt)
(L) An overweight engaged couple. (R) Shocked wedding guests. (Representative Cover Image Source: Getty Images | (L) jhorrocks, (R) Klaus Vedfelt)

Big changes often start with quiet promises made long before the spotlight turns on. An engaged couple, each weighing 215 pounds, made such a promise six months before their wedding. They committed to healthier habits, hoping to feel better when they stepped into marriage. Their journey later, shown in a transformation video, was shared on Instagram on January 8, 2026. As reported by PEOPLE, the video was shared by user @rileezzzz and quickly gained traction online, drawing attention to the couple’s shared commitment and months of quiet discipline behind the scenes.

From the early weeks onward, the plan became real for Riley and Isaac Anastasiu. They began their weight loss routine in May 2025, both starting at 215 pounds, and worked steadily toward their wedding on November 21 that same year. “We realized we weren’t feeling our best physically or mentally, and our habits weren’t aligned with how we wanted to show up for this next chapter,” Riley told the outlet, explaining that the decision came from both of them. She said the goal was not only about appearance but also about confidence. “Wedding photos last forever,” she added, noting they wanted memories without regret, pressure, or distraction. The couple agreed that feeling present and proud mattered more than chasing fast results or extreme plans. The couple has now lost a significant amount of weight collectively, with Riley weighing 175 pounds and Isaac weighing 160 pounds. 

Woman working out to lose weight at gym. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images| Photo by Westend 61)
Woman working out to lose weight at gym. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images| Photo by Westend 61)

Their progress became visible through a short Instagram video that told the story clearly. It opened with clips from an earlier event, showing the couple at a heavier weight, paired with the text, “What if we absolutely locked in for our wedding?” The next scene shifted to their wedding day, where they posed together during photo sessions, looking noticeably leaner. The clip was captioned, “collectively down 90 lbs. from our engagement party to our wedding day,” and has earned more than 6.5 million views since posted. Supportive comments also poured in from many internet users. @alex.schinderle wrote, "Obsessed in all forms but mostly because I am sure it was an amazing bonding experience too before your wedding!" @kaileylewisss exclaimed, "You both look incredible in both." @itsashleymelissa commented, "I thought you both were lookers before, but health is wealth. Congratulations!" 

Image Source: Instagram | @grossypelos
Image Source: Instagram | @grossypelos

Image Source: Instagram | @mrs.portugal
Image Source: Instagram | @mrs.portugal

Behind the scenes, their methods stayed simple and steady. Riley focused on calorie tracking, daily walking of more than 10 thousand steps, better sleep, and whole foods, while Isaac leaned into running and intermittent fasting. “One of the biggest turning points for us was buying a treadmill,” Riley said, explaining how it removed excuses. On their wedding day, the result felt deeper than appearance. “We felt incredibly proud, confident, and fully present. Standing there, we weren’t thinking about our bodies or second-guessing how we looked in photos. We were simply enjoying the moment, soaking it all in, and celebrating the work we put in as a team,” she shared. Riley now advises others to start small, stay consistent, and lean on support, reminding couples that lasting change grows through teamwork. She also stresses patience, self-respect, and focusing on health rather than numbers when beginning any long-term lifestyle shift together as partners.

For more healthy tips and motivation, follow @rileezzzz on her Instagram account.

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