Leslie & MJ’s Beautiful Wedding at the Dena’ina Center in Anchorage

While the world is returning to pre-pandemic normality, the wedding industry is a little delayed in correcting. Schedules fill up fast and far in advance, many wedding vendors learned the hard way that burnout is real. Weddings are a big event and we pour so much of ourselves into these events and we need appropriate time to recoup so we can serve each couple to the best of our ability. It’s a never ending battle between – Can I take on one more? Or will it push me over the edge. Due to fluctuating restrictions, Leslie & MJ were forced to redirect their weddings plans in the final hour. When they reached out to me, just one month prior to their wedding, my books were actually closed for Summer 2022. Cue the internal warfare.

I was able to chat with Leslie a few months prior about their love story. Almost 15 years in the making, Leslie and MJ have tackled it all together. Between exploring Mayan ruins, walking the streets of Paris, falling in love in Santorini, and deciding on forever in Bali, Leslie and MJ have traveled the world hand in hand. Was it hard a decision to help them embark on their next adventure as Husband and Wife? Absolutely not.

Leslie and MJ, Thank you so much for trusting me with your precious memories. You are an absolute joy to be around and you love for one another is undeniable. It was an honor to be by your side on the start of the rest of your lives together. You treat each other with such kindness, such tenderness, and so much love. While your travels are impressive, that is the most notable thing about your relationship. Congratulations newlyweds, I can’t wait to see where life takes you next!

Venue: Dena’ina Center Wedding Planner: Alaska Celebrations Hair Artist:Ebb and Flo Hair Boutique Make Up Artist: Kierra Manion Grooms Attire: Men’s Warehouse Catering: Dena’ina Center Bakery: Arctic Moon Bakery Videographer: Carter Damaska