Lauren Conrad Finds Happiness After Reality TV

The 'Laguna Beach' alum opens up about life as a mom, wife, and fashion designer after leaving the spotlight.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:18am

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An abstract close-up image of shimmering sequins in high-contrast studio lighting, capturing the glamour and luxury of Conrad's fashion design work.The glittering textures of Lauren Conrad's fashion design legacy reflect the enduring allure of her reality TV fame.Laguna Beach Today

Lauren Conrad, the former star of MTV's 'Laguna Beach' and 'The Hills', has found a quieter, happier life away from reality TV. After exiting the spotlight in 2009, Conrad has focused on her family, fashion design, and reconnecting with old friends from her reality TV days. She now lives a 'really quiet life' back in her hometown of Laguna Beach with her husband and two sons.

Why it matters

As one of the first major reality TV stars, Conrad's journey provides insight into how some celebrities adapt to life after fame. Her story highlights the challenges and benefits of stepping away from the limelight, and how she has maintained relationships with former castmates while pursuing new passions.

The details

Since leaving 'The Hills' in 2009, Conrad has continued her fashion design work, launching successful clothing lines at Kohl's and her own high-end brand Paper Crown. She has also written several books. Conrad revealed she moved back to Laguna Beach when she was pregnant with her first child in 2017, and now enjoys a quieter life with her husband William Tell and their two sons. While she initially 'grew apart' from her best friend Lo Bosworth after the show, they have since reconnected. Conrad also said she has maintained relationships with most of her original 'Laguna Beach' castmates.

  • Conrad starred on 'Laguna Beach' from 2004 to 2005.
  • She then led 'The Hills' from 2006 to 2009.
  • Conrad and husband William Tell were set up on a blind date in 2012 and married two years later.
  • Conrad welcomed her first child in 2017 and her second in 2019.
  • Conrad returned to TV briefly in April 2026 for 'The Reunion: Laguna Beach' special.

The players

Lauren Conrad

The former star of 'Laguna Beach' and 'The Hills' who has since focused on fashion design, writing, and raising a family in her hometown of Laguna Beach.

William Tell

Conrad's husband, whom she was set up with on a blind date in 2012 and married two years later.

Kristin Cavallari

Conrad's former 'Laguna Beach' co-star, with whom she has reconnected in recent years, bonding over motherhood.

Lo Bosworth

Conrad's best friend from 'Laguna Beach' and 'The Hills', with whom she has rekindled their close friendship after initially growing apart.

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What they’re saying

“I don't [miss it]. I'm so happy.”

— Lauren Conrad

“It was just easy with him. It felt very safe. I loved him very quickly. Like, too quickly. I think we were like a month in and openly in love.”

— Lauren Conrad

“We had an issue with each other, but it had been squashed [by the time filming started].”

— Lauren Conrad

What’s next

Conrad has said she is ready to move on from reality TV, with 'The Reunion: Laguna Beach' being her last TV appearance. Fans will have to follow her fashion and writing endeavors to see what she does next.

The takeaway

Lauren Conrad's journey from reality TV star to devoted wife, mother, and entrepreneur shows how some celebrities can find fulfillment and happiness outside the spotlight. Her story resonates with audiences who have watched her grow up and transition into a quieter, more balanced life.