‘Married At First Sight’ Season 11 Bride Olivia Was Inspired By Jephte And Shawniece

Lifetime’s “Married at First Sight” has a dedicated fanbase, and now, a big fan of the show is joining the cast. Olivia, 30, told International Business Times that she loved “MAFS” long before she signed up for the reality show, which introduces strangers to their spouses at the altar. The Louisiana native, who has her Master of Science in Nursing and works in a comprehensive stroke center, explained via email why she was willing to join the experimental show.

International Business Times: Why did you want to participate in “Married at First Sight?”

Olivia: I wanted to participate in “MAFS” because I am a fan of the show. I have watched for many seasons and seen the love and growth from the successful couples. I like to think that I am a pretty easy going person and would be able to be successful in this experiment.

IBT: Did you watch “MAFS” previously? Do you have any favorite couples?

Olivia: Yes, I am a fan of the show. I think two of my favorite couples are Bobby [Dodd] and Danielle [Bergman] and Shawneice [Jackson] and Jephte [Pierre]. Watching the growth Jephte had during the show really proved that if you are willing to work on yourself and the marriage, you can be successful.

IBT: Did you know how many “Married at First Sight” couples get divorced?

Olivia: I honestly don’t know how many couples have gotten divorced. I think the premise of the show is for marriages to work. I try to focus only on the positive outcomes.

[Editor’s Note: Twenty-five “MAFS” couples have divorced and nine remain married.]

IBT: Were there any characteristics that you definitely didn’t want in a partner?

Olivia: I tried to be as open-minded as possible without being too picky. I did not want someone who was arrogant, a poor communicator or selfish when it came down to qualities in my husband.

IBT: How did your friends and family react to your decision to get married at first sight?

Olivia: I think all of my friends took it well. My family supports me no matter what. It took me a little while to get my mom fully on board with the idea of “Married At First Sight.” Once I got her on my side I knew it would be no problem with the rest of my family.

IBT: What was your biggest concern when you chose your dress?

Olivia: Dress shopping was very stressful for me. First impressions are everything in this experiment. This is the first time we see each other and I wanted everything to be perfect. I went in not wanting a strapless dress and, of course, I say yes to a strapless dress, go figure.

IBT: What was the most surprising part of the process?

Olivia: The most surprising part of the process is how fast everything moves once you are matched. One minute you are single and two weeks later you are MARRIED!! It is also surprising how quickly you get comfortable with your spouse. At the end of the day, only the two of you know what it’s like going through the process.

IBT: What was the most difficult part of “MAFS”?

Olivia: The most difficult part about "MAFS," I think, is the documentation portion. Letting the world into your life and everyone knows your business. The cameras are around all the time. You really just have to open up and ignore them or else you will never be fully true to yourself and your marriage.

READ: See ‘Married At First Sight’ Season 11 Wedding Photos

IBT: Who would you recommend to join “Married at First Sight”?

Olivia: I don’t know anyone in particular in mind for “MAFS” as just about all of my friends are married. I definitely think it’s worth the risk!

IBT: Most importantly, do your cats like Brett?

Olivia: My cats do like Brett. I think the more important question is does Brett’s cat like me?? Me and ole Tyrian didn’t see eye to eye at the beginning. [smile emoji]

“Married at First Sight” Season 11 airs Wednesdays on Lifetime.