Following Leon Draisaitl’s wedding at Domaine de Manville in Les Baux-de-Provence, the summer celebrations extended as former Oilers forward Sam Gagner and his wife Rachel, along with Columbus Blue Jackets alternate captain Erik Gudbranson and his partner Sarah, continued their European trip. The group’s activities showcased a relaxed and intimate gathering following the Leon Draisaitl wedding celebration in southern France.
A Glimpse into the Post-Wedding Getaway with Friends
Rachel Gagner shared moments from their weekend through Instagram stories, highlighting a casual lakeside meal under a bright white gazebo. Around the circular table, the group included Erik and Sarah Gudbranson, Sam and Rachel Gagner, and a few other friends enjoying the peaceful setting. Rachel lightheartedly captioned one photo, “Can’t get rid of them.”
Other images showed the group outdoors, holding a pink basketball jersey marked “Ibiza 22,” signaling part of their travels. Another story featured a group of four women seated at the open rear of a camper van, drinks in hand, while two others relaxed inside, emphasizing the informal and spirited nature of their extended vacation.
Prior to attending the wedding, Sam and Rachel had visited Ibiza, Spain, as part of their European tour. During these travels, Rachel crossed paths with Connor McDavid’s wife Lauren at Paris International Airport, who was en route to Italy, further highlighting the close community among these NHL families.
Rachel Gagner Shares Scenes from Pre-Wedding Festivities
Leading up to the wedding, Rachel Gagner revealed glimpses of the pre-wedding celebrations for Leon Draisaitl and Celeste Desjardins in France. One photo captured Rachel with Madison Brown, wife of former Oiler Connor Brown, both dressed elegantly for the occasion. Rachel wore a pale pink strapless gown with a striking floral detail at the neckline and carried a round blue beaded handbag. Madison chose a soft blue dress featuring delicate floral appliqués paired with matching heels.
Another story showed Rachel engaged in laughter with Lauren McDavid on a lush outdoor lawn. Lauren appeared in a fitted halter dress adorned with pastel floral embroidery, complementing the event’s refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
Rachel also posted a photo alongside the bride, Celeste Desjardins, who looked stunning in a white gown with a plunging neckline and flowing long sleeves. Rachel added a heartfelt caption,
“The most angel of angel brides ever,” she wrote in the caption.
Rachel then shared a warm embrace with Celeste before taking a picture with her husband Sam, who stood confidently in a light grey suit paired with a patterned button-up shirt and sunglasses.
Continuing Bonds Among NHL Families in Europe
This extended European visit, bridging Leon Draisaitl’s wedding celebrations with casual reunions in France, Spain, and beyond, illustrates the close-knit connections among NHL players and their families. The relaxed gatherings and shared experiences provide a backdrop of friendship and camaraderie beyond the rink. As summer fades, the lasting impressions from these moments of unity and celebration are a testament to the evolving bonds within this sports community. The post-wedding festivities, filled with personal interactions and joyful escapes, hint at more reunions and shared occasions to come in the future.