Hockey, 7Five Brewing, and “The Enforcer” are all words you would associate with Vegas Golden Knights’ right winger, Ryan Reaves. But would you ever think wedding officiant would be a word to describe “The Grim Reaver”? While most professional hockey players use the Summer to get married; Reaves took the opportunity to marry one lucky couple in a ceremony at Chapel of the Flowers on September 1st, 2019.
Chapel of the Flowers ran a social media contest in August 2019 for one hockey-loving couple to win a ceremony performed by Reverend Reavo himself. After thousands of entries, only one lucky couple was selected to receive this once-in-a-lifetime experience, and that couple was Laura & Justin Long.
About the Couple
“I never win anything!” Laura exclaimed when she heard that she won a ceremony performed by one of her favorite Golden Knights.
Originally from New York, Laura grew up watching the New York Rangers and has loved hockey for many years. She has now converted to a diehard VGK fan and knew she had to enter the “Get Married by Ryan Reaves” contest as soon as she saw it.
Laura affectionately stated, “I was wanting a hockey team in Vegas forever and was so excited when we finally got a professional team. The Golden Knights do so much for the community, and they are the heart and soul of Vegas.”
It was love at first sight for Laura and Justin after meeting through a mutual friend, Maria. The happy couple tied the knot 4 years ago and have since created a loving and devoted family together. Laura felt the “Get Married by Ryan Reaves” contest was the perfect opportunity to renew her wedding vows with Justin, and to have all their loved ones there to witness the nuptials.
The Golden Wedding
It was a scorching hot Summer day on September 1st, 2019, when Ryan pulled up to Chapel of the Flowers. Professional hockey players may get first game jitters when they play their first NHL game, but a different type of nerves was stirring inside Ryan as he walked through the La Capella Chapel doors.
“Love was in the air, and that helped keep the butterflies down” – Ryan Reaves
The vow renewal ceremony was full of heart along with Reaves famous chirps; including a bit about being Kane’s worst nightmare (poking fun at his ongoing feud with nemesis Evander Kane).
One of the most memorable moments was when honored guest Maria was a no-show. Maria introduced the couple and is the reason they are married today. Since Reaves already wrote a mention of her in the ceremony script, the Chapel arranged for a “Maria” stand-in to make sure Reaves was able to still mention their loving friend in the ceremony.
“Fake Maria was one of my favorite parts of the ceremony”, Reaves stated. He continued to say, “This was my first time doing a ceremony. I am not much of a public speaker, but I think it went pretty good.”
The décor was perfect for any sports fan with all the personal touches. From the guests waving custom-made “Married by Reaves” rally towels to VGK attire worn by guests; the ceremony oozed Vegas Born spirit.
Custom Wedding Rally Towel
Golden Knight Bridal Bouquet with hand-painted golden succulents and keepsake bracelet
Rally towels waving for Reverend Reavo
Watch the Full Ceremony Here
After the thrilling ceremony, wedding guests had their opportunity to get their photos taken and meet with Reaves in the La Capella Chapel, as well as take home an unforgettable signed souvenir from Laura & Justin’s vow renewal.
Wedding Venue
Chapel of the Flowers has planned thousands of weddings since opening their doors in 1960 on the Las Vegas Strip and knew that this hockey-inspired ceremony had to be one for the books. With a full staff of wedding planners, photographers, and florists, Chapel of the Flowers is a one-stop-shop for a stress-free wedding experience.
The Las Vegas Strip location offers 5 on-site ceremony locations and 4 off-site locations, which give a variety of venues perfect for any style and budget. Whether you are looking for a glamorous Chapel ceremony, a hockey-themed wedding or 3-course reception celebration, the wedding planners at Chapel of the Flowers can assist you with planning and designing your dream wedding, vow renewal, or commitment ceremony.
