Married at First Sight: Kirsten Grimes

Reality TV has a way of capturing life’s biggest moments, and for Kirsten Grimes, Season 16 of Married at First Sight Nashville was just that—a defining experience that changed her perspective on love, relationships, and personal growth. Now a successful real estate agent, influencer, and podcast host, Kirsten joins us to share her journey before, during, and after the show.

Before stepping into the spotlight, Kirsten was already thriving in her career. As a Nashville native, she built a successful real estate business over the past eight years, helping clients find their dream homes. Beyond her profession, she’s a self-proclaimed foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, spending time with family, and traveling.

“I’m a unicorn in Nashville,” Kirsten shares, referencing the rarity of being a true local. Her strong ties to the city made the decision to join Married at First Sight both exciting and nerve-wracking.

The process of joining the show wasn’t an overnight decision. Kirsten went through a rigorous four- to five-month application process, answering over 300 questions to determine if she was a match. As someone who deeply values love and marriage, she felt ready—but doubts lingered.

“I was in my 30s, single, and wanted to be married,” she explains. “But I kept asking myself, ‘Is this what God wants for me?’” Her faith played a significant role in her journey, and even when fears crept in, she remained committed to the process.

Unlike what many might expect, Kirsten didn’t receive a simple phone call. Instead, Married at First Sight expert Pastor Cal visited her at an open house to deliver the news.

“He started describing my match, and my friends immediately knew what was happening before I did,” Kirsten recalls.“I was terrified.”

That same day, she had to pick out a wedding ring for her soon-to-be husband. In just a few days, she found herself engaged to a complete stranger, preparing for a wedding that would be broadcast to millions.

Kirsten’s wedding day was an emotional whirlwind. As she walked down the aisle, nerves took over. One of the most talked-about moments of the season was when her husband leaned in for a kiss—only to be met with a well-timed cheek turn.

“I don’t allow men to kiss me,” she explains. “I love hugs and other forms of intimacy, but my lips? That’s personal.”

Her decision wasn’t about rejecting her match but rather about maintaining her boundaries in a highly emotional moment. With cameras rolling and strangers watching, Kirsten was overwhelmed, wondering if she had made the right decision.

Since her time on Married at First Sight, Kirsten has focused on personal growth, career success, and her new podcast, The D-List Diaries, which she co-hosts with fellow cast member Gina Nicole. The podcast is an outlet for open and honest conversations about relationships, self-improvement, and life post-reality TV.

Now in her “single season,” Kirsten is embracing the journey of self-discovery, dating, and balancing her many professional pursuits. Despite the challenges, she remains grateful for the experience and the lessons it taught her about vulnerability, commitment, and resilience.