Atlanta 11/17/2010 12:46:34 AM
News / Entertainment

Nicole Richie is planning to marry Joel Madden at her father’s house.

The socialite – who has a two-year-old daughter Harlow and 14-month-old son Sparrow with her fiance – will reportedly tie the knot in the garden of her singer dad Lionel Richie’s Beverly Hills home early next month.

A source said: "Christmas has always been about family and faith for Nicole and Joel, so there is no better time of the year for them to wed.”

According to the insider, the couple will be joined at her dad’s home by 75 of their closest friends and family, including DJ Samantha Ronson and singer Christina Aguilera – who is rumoured to be performing after the ceremony – for the service.

Harlow will be flower girl for her parents at the wedding, while Nicole’s best friend Masha Gordon will be maid of honour and Joel’s twin brother Benji will be best man.

The couple – who have been dating for four years and got engaged in February this year – will then spend the festive season with their families before jetting off for their first holiday as newlyweds.

The source added to RadarOnline.com: "Nicole and Joel will spend Christmas with their family after the wedding, before heading off on honeymoon.”

Lionel – who formally adopted Nicole when she was nine years old – has previously spoken of his delight with the impact Joel has had on his daughter’s life.

He said recently: "I think Joel had a lot to do with it, he's an anchoring soul for her. He came in the door once and said, 'Mr. Richie, I just want to let you know I've got control of this.' I was like, 'No you don't! Are you kidding me?'

"But I think that was the start; she found somebody that would challenge her stuff. They are a great team and I love him very much."