Nephi Sewell, an NFL star who plays with the New Orleans Saints, and his wife Maddie recently celebrated their long-awaited wedding in Draper, Utah. The couple first tied the knot in a spontaneous courthouse ceremony back in December 2021, and this larger celebration was a chance for them to share their love story with family and friends. The event, held at the Siempre resort, was attended by 250 guests, including Nephi’s brothers Penei and Noah Sewell, who are also NFL players.
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The wedding celebration, meticulously planned by Irene Katzias of Irene + Co Events, was described as “breathtaking” by the couple. Maddie mentioned that it wasn’t about starting over but rather about finally being able to share their journey with their loved ones. The couple envisioned an “elevated party” with a black-and-white color scheme embellished with silver accents. The ceremony took place at golden hour, followed by an outdoor cocktail hour with mountain views and a candlelit dinner under the stars.
The reception was a highlight of the evening, featuring a custom dance floor, disco wall accents, lounge sets, and a stunning ceiling installation that left guests in awe. According to the event planner, Irene Katzias, the ceremony felt like a fairytale, while the reception was a joyous celebration filled with thoughtful details and love. One of the most touching moments of the celebration was when Nephi honoured Maddie’s Māori heritage by performing the haka, a ceremonial dance.
In return, Maddie paid tribute to Nephi’s Samoan roots by performing the taualuga during the reception. These traditional dances symbolised the merging of their cultures and the significance of their union. The couple also incorporated Polynesian elements throughout the wedding, from the food to the floral decorations, to showcase their unique love story. The feast for the evening, catered by Culinary Crafts, featured a range of delicacies from hors d’oeuvres to a delectable dinner buffet and gelato bars for dessert.
Nephi and Maddie’s love story is filled with serendipity, starting from their initial meeting as teenagers in Hawaii to their reunion in Utah and their spontaneous courthouse wedding. Two and a half years after their first wedding, Nephi proposed to Maddie at Kawela Bay in Oahu, fulfilling her childhood dream of a fairytale wedding with their children present. The couple, now looking forward to a future of adventures and shared moments, expressed their joy at finally celebrating with their loved ones in a magical and unforgettable way.
As the couple embarks on this new chapter in their lives, they are cherishing the memories of their special day and the love and support of their family and friends. With their unique blend of cultures and unwavering bond, Nephi and Maddie Sewell’s wedding celebration will be remembered as a beautiful testament to love, unity, and the power of shared traditions.