Typically, the only things exchanged on the ice at Van Andel Arena are elbows, threatening glances and the odd punch or two. That will change dramatically on March 29, when a couple from Minnesota exchange their wedding vows before thousands of Griffins fans.


STEVE AND JODIE ARE GETTING MARRIED...




...AT A GRIFFINS GAME!


Steve Wegleitner and Jodie Larson of Zimmerman, Minn., were chosen through the Griffins’ “Wedding on Ice” contest to get married during the first intermission of the Griffins’ March 29 game against Cleveland.

Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell will officiate the hockey-flavored ceremony and, thanks to the Gilmore Collection Banquets & Catering and a host of Griffins partners, all elements of their wedding will be provided:

• Rehearsal dinner at The B.O.B. (Gilmore Collection)
• Champagne reception at Crush after the game – all fans 21 and older are invited! (Gilmore Collection)
• Bridal gown (Bridal Elegance)
• Groom and Best Man tuxedos (Afendoulis Tuxedos)
• Wedding rings (The Diamond House)
• Bridal bouquet and boutonnieres (Sunnyslope Floral)
• Honeymoon hotel (Courtyard by Marriott)
• Photos (Mark Newman Photography)
• Game tickets for their friends and family (Pepsi)

Here’s where you come in! Through online voting, fans have already chosen Steve’s tuxedo and Jodie’s dress (see photos above). Now through Sunday, March 20, you can help choose the couple’s rings and Jodie’s flowers!

By voting, you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a Thursday night party for 10 at Dr. Grins Comedy Club. Another winner will receive a pair of 1/4 carat diamond earrings, courtesy of The Diamond House.

And remember, if you are planning a wedding, book your reception with The B.O.B. or Trillium on the Lakeshore before March 30 and receive a 10% discount by mentioning the Griffins’ “Wedding on Ice” promotion.





STEVE AND JODIE’S STORY

Steve, a full-time staff sergeant with the Minnesota Army National Guard, and Jodie, an account manager for Decisionone, met at a Minnesota Wild / Detroit Red Wings game several years ago. Steve was deployed to Italy in 2003 and proposed to Jodie during her visit to Venice (hence, their engagement photo). They are thrilled to be able to exchange their vows on the ice at Van Andel Arena.

But why at a Griffins game, you ask? Steve, a former Ferris State student and hockey fanatic, bought a section of boards from Joe Louis Arena. On their road trip back from Detroit, they attended the Oct. 30 Griffins game against San Antonio. Long story short, they had a great time and fell in love with the Griffins - Jodie even purchased Darryl Bootland’s Halloween jersey that night! They’ve returned for the New Year’s Eve game and several others, and they cheered on the Griffins as they played Houston at the Xcel Energy Center (Steve and Jodie’s home turf!) on March 7.

Their love for each other and their passion for the game will bring them together on the ice. They encourage you to come meet and toast them at Crush after the game!

May they live happily ever after!