Sam Orme’s Journey After Below Deck Season 1: What You Need to Know

Samantha Orme made her notable entrance on the first season of Below Deck, and fans are eager for an update on her journey since then. Since its debut in 2013, Below Deck has captivated audiences by bringing the glamorous world of yachting into living rooms, quickly becoming a reality television phenomenon that spans four popular spin-offs. In her initial role as the third stewardess, Sam showcased her extensive yachting experience, which she had gained by working charters for her family. However, her assertive nature and her willingness to challenge authority quickly distinguished her from her peers.

Throughout the season, Sam faced several confrontations with Chief Stew Adrienne Gang, culminating in a dramatic moment when she and Second Engineer C.J. LeBeau were discovered swimming in the ocean with a beer bottle—a clear violation of yacht protocols. An unexpected romantic spark also developed between Sam and C.J., although their relationship was short-lived, marked by an awkward kiss without further progression. By the end of Season 1, Sam had won the hearts of viewers, yet she made the surprising decision to not return for Season 2, expressing a desire for growth beyond the confines of life on a mega yacht.

Sam Is A Wife & A Mother

Sam’s Life Has Transformed Significantly

In April 2019, Sam Orme put her fans in a whirl when she shared the news of her marriage to Brad Ulmer. According to Showstar News, before meeting Brad, Sam had been in a serious relationship with a man involved in Florida’s fishing tourism sector, but they parted ways in 2018. Shortly thereafter, she crossed paths with Brad, a skilled Coast Guard Helicopter Pilot, and their connection flourished rapidly, leading to their wedding just a few months after they began dating.

While Sam announced her marriage via Instagram, details regarding the presence of her former Below Deck castmates at the ceremony remain unknown. Together, Sam and Brad have welcomed children into their lives. She proudly announced the birth of their first child, Blake, on July 16, 2020, followed by the arrival of their second child, Molly, in December 2021.

Currently, it’s uncertain whether the couple has plans to expand their family further, as they appear to be enjoying their life as a family of four. In 2024, their adventures took them from Charleston, South Carolina, to Florida, and even on an international trip to the British Virgin Islands. Sam hinted at a significant change with the hashtag “#dutycalls,”suggesting that the family is relocating from Alabama, potentially due to her husband’s military duties. While Sam sometimes faces weeks apart from her family due to his work commitments, she continues to thrive financially, albeit not primarily as an influencer.

Sam Has Transitioned Away from Yachting

Transitioning to a New Career

Below Deck season 1's Samantha Orme with her husband and kids.

Post-Below Deck, Samantha decided to pivot her career away from yachting, believing her skill set suited her for different challenges. Relocating to Los Angeles, she initially assumed the role of Vice President of Engineering at a solar energy company, although she soon transitioned to a senior Project Manager position elsewhere. With a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Sam later secured a role as an Enterprise Program Manager at Fidelity National Information Services.

While she may not possess a verified status on Instagram, Sam has gathered a following of 16,600 users. She takes advantage of her social media presence by promoting an Amazon storefront in her bio, where she earns commissions on travel-related products for toddlers, tennis merchandise, Father’s Day gifts, and summer essentials. Additionally, she engages with fans on CAMEO, offering personalized video messages for $25 each.

Is Sam Still Connected With Below Deck Alum?

Her Social Media Offers Insight

Significantly distanced from her yachting days, Sam Orme seems to carry some dissatisfaction towards her fellow cast members and the Below Deck franchise, as evidenced by her choice not to follow any of her former co-stars on social media. Although she is followed by notable figures like Chef Ben Robinson and season 1’s Second Stew Kat Held, she opts not to reciprocate the follow. The reasons behind her unwillingness to engage with the Below Deck community remain uncertain. Outside of her reality TV past, Sam enjoys boating and has developed a passion for tennis.

Since her time on Below Deck, Sam has consciously chosen to distance herself from reality television fame. However, she has experienced significant personal and professional growth since her departure from the show. Though she hasn’t participated in any subsequent seasons, her legacy as an original cast member continues to influence the series’ ongoing success.

Below Deck Down Under is set to premiere on Monday, February 3 at 8 p.m. EST on Bravo.

Sources: Showstar News, Sam Orme/Instagram

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