I learned about Dustin and Annie's impending nuptials while working on another story and worked fast to ensure I'd be able to cover it. What was supposed to be a private ceremony atop Mt. Lemmon turned into an on-ice wedding during half-time, and I was thrilled to go behind the scenes with the couple and their families as they celebrated their special day.
— Caitlin Schmidt
Annie and Dustin Powers kiss after getting married on the TCC ice during the first period intermission of the Roadrunners’ game against Colorado on Friday night.
Jaely John tucked a loose strand of her mother’s red hair back into place with a pearl-capped bobby pin. With everything perfect, the pair linked arms and began their walk down the aisle toward Annie Powers’ soon-to-be husband.
As an instrumental version of the Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris” played overhead, Dustin Powers smiled broadly at the sight of his bride, glowing in white.
The couple exchanged handwritten vows, their parents flanking each side, and sealed the union with a kiss.
The wedding attendees — all 3,750 of them — roared. Red hockey pucks floated down onto the Tucson Arena ice.
The newlyweds — wearing their custom-made “Bride” and “Groom” Roadrunners jerseys — walked off the ice and slipped away for a few minutes together before returning to greet family and friends.
There was, after all, a game to watch.