Andi Dorfman – The Bachelorette

This past year Andi Dorfman has been on a non-stop search for a soul mate— first as a dark horse favorite on season 18 of The Bachelor, then as the single star of The Bachelorette this summer. The 27-year-old Georgia attorney and LSU graduate wrapped her season in July with a new fiancé and a flurry of media attention. Now, with US Weekly covers behind her and wedding plans in the works, Dorfman can finally relax.

Why become The Bachelorette?
I was very reluctant at first. I was ready to move past The Bachelor. But I found myself still single and still wanting to find love. I kept asking myself, ‘Why not?’ And I could never come up with a valid answer, so I went for it.

Is it hard to fall in love on camera?
It is not as hard to form relationships in front of the camera as it might seem. Sure, at first, it’s awkward. But you start to know everyone who works behind the camera so well that I really forgot the cameras were there. I will say it can be incredibly awkward kissing and knowing there are cameras capturing every moment of it.

What has been the most unexpected outcome from the show?
Definitely my fiancé Josh and the deep love that I feel for him. I was hoping to find an amazing love, but I never knew if I really could.

What are the biggest lessons you’ve taken away from The Bachelorette?
I learned to not sweat the small stuff and to look at the bigger picture. I learned that kindness can go a long way, and the way you treat people is almost always how they will treat you. Also, when you know millions of people will be watching your every move, it’s natural to guard yourself and to feel insecure and embarrassed. But I learned to just embrace it and laugh at myself.

So what’s next?
It seems like I haven’t taken a breath in about a year, so unpacking my suitcases is first on my to-do list. I am going to enjoy being engaged and spend some quality time with Josh. I am going to take a little break from law. I have a unique opportunity to do some really cool things in life right now and to follow my passion for fashion. And when the dust settles, I plan on going back to my law career. It took a lot of hard work to get my law degree, and it’s something I am very proud of and not ready to give up.