When Paris Jackson announced her engagement to music producer Justin Long in December 2024, she admitted the prospect of marriage was both thrilling and terrifying. Now, as the 27‑year‑old singer dives into wedding planning, she’s determined to honor her late father, Michael Jackson, at every turn (nz.news.yahoo.com, The News International).

A “Big Leap” and a “Bittersweet” Journey

Paris first confirmed her engagement via Instagram snapshots on December 6, 2024, though eagle‑eyed fans spotted a sparkling ring as early as September during Paris Fashion Week. “It’s terrifying,” she told Entertainment Tonight when asked about being on “Cloud Nine.” “It’s a leap. It’s exciting and it’s thrilling and it’s a big step.” Yet, she immediately reassured, “I know that I made the right choice”

Behind the scenes, Paris has “just started working with a wedding planner,” she revealed, praising, “He’s absolutely wonderful. We’re working on venues and dresses”

Keeping Dad Front and Center

A source close to Paris tells Life & Style that “[her] dad is always front and center on her mind,” and she “still feels incredibly connected to him, so it’s important to her that he be a big presence for her at the wedding” . Wedding‑planning ideas being tossed around include:

A Reserved Chair: A special seat draped in photos of Michael, symbolically keeping him at the head of the aisle.
Michael’s Music: Including his timeless hits in the ceremony soundtrack to evoke his spirit.
Heirloom Jewelry: Incorporating pieces from her dad’s collection into her bridal look, so she “feels closer to him when she walks down the aisle.”
Personal Vows: Paris plans to write her own vows, likely mentioning how much Michael “would love Justin,” according to the insider.

“No matter how much she honors him, it’s still going to be a bittersweet moment without her dad by her side,” the source concedes (The News International).

From Professional to Personal

Paris and Justin’s bond began on The Tonight Show in 2022—he was the sound engineer for her performance—and evolved into romance the following June. Their engagement “has been a whirlwind,” Justin shared, and Paris agrees, calling him “the one” who understands her world both onstage and off.

A Cautious Heart

Before Justin, Paris dated musician Gabriel Glenn for two years, a relationship she described as “heartbreaking” on Red Table Talk in 2021. After that split, she vowed to be “very careful with who I spend time with… I’m very guarded and trying to protect myself,” a lesson she’s carried into her engagement (The News International).

As Paris Jackson steps into this new chapter, she balances excitement with poignant remembrance—ensuring that, though her father may not walk her down the aisle, his legacy will illuminate every moment of her wedding day.