NASHVILLE, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Colton Dixon says saving sex for marriage made his wedding night more meaningful.
The 24-year-old singer explained his choice in an interview with People magazine published Friday. Dixon, who competed on American Idol Season 11, married fiancée Annie Coggeshall on Jan. 8 after three years of dating.
"We wanted to remain pure in that area," the star said. "There were lots of moments [on our wedding night] of -- 'Oh, you're not going back to your [own] room. That means we're married!' It made it really special for us."
"It was not easy," he admitted. "But I believe sex was designed for marriage and I knew it would be more meaningful to wait. That was something I grew up thinking and feeling, and I believe the Bible backs it up as well."
"It wasn't because someone was telling me this is what you should do," Coggeshall added. "Deep down in my heart it felt like it was the right thing. And we're really glad we did. We know God's hand is on our marriage."
Dixon shared a photo from his wedding Jan. 9 on Instagram, writing, "Married my best friend last night. I love you @anniecog What a great night with family and friends!" The couple left their wedding reception by horse-drawn carriage before traveling to Polynesia for their honeymoon.
Dixon placed seventh on American Idol in 2012, and released his debut studio album, A Messenger, the next year. He last released The Calm Before the Storm in September, and recalled his journey in an interview with the Christian Broadcast Network in 2012.
"I couldn't sing until I was 13 years old," the star said. "He gave me a voice at a piano recital. It was out of nowhere. The preacher that Sunday said, 'You know, sometimes God calls you to things in unexpected areas and things you least expect. But it's obvious when He does.' And it kind of hit home and I was like, 'This is what I"m called to do.'"
