Leon Draisaitl traded his hockey skates for wedding vows last weekend, marrying longtime partner Celeste Desjardins in a picture-perfect ceremony at a French chateau. The Edmonton Oilers star was surrounded by NHL teammates, close friends, and family as he tied the knot in the south of France. But it’s what happened after the “I do” that gave fans the best glimpse yet into Draisaitl’s life away from the rink.
How Did Leon Draisaitl Share His Wedding Weekend With Fans?
A few days after the ceremony, Draisaitl gave fans a behind-the-scenes look through his Instagram stories. One photo stood out: a poolside hangout featuring Connor McDavid, Darnell Nurse, and other close friends lounging in the French sunshine.
He kept the caption simple: “Some great men.” The relaxed image offered a stark contrast to the intense, game-day version of Draisaitl that hockey fans know so well.
Another story showed worn suede slides resting on a Persian rug, playfully tagged as the “MVP of the weekend: if you know you know!” The casual footwear clearly made an impression on the groom.
But perhaps the most revealing shot caught Draisaitl mid-afterparty, cigarette in mouth, sitting on the floor while swapping into those famous slides. It was pure spontaneity captured in the moment.
Leon Draisaitl STUNS in wedding photo pic.twitter.com/cKHXxzEvey
— What Chaos! (@WhatChaosShow) August 7, 2025
The French wedding came about a year after Draisaitl’s proposal to Desjardins in Mallorca, Spain. That beachside moment at sunset included both families and set the stage for this weekend’s celebration.
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Former Edmonton Oilers forward Connor Brown also documented the weekend festivities. His Instagram post captured moments from the ceremony, the open-air reception, and casual group gatherings, all wrapped with the caption, “Cheers to The Draisaitl’s 🇫🇷 🥂.”
Which NHL Stars and Celebrities Attended the French Celebration?
The guest list mixed hockey talent with entertainment figures. Evander Kane brought fiancée Mara Teigen, while former Oilers forward Warren Foegele arrived with wife Alexandra. The celebration featured dining under a natural canopy of trees, with music and dancing extending well into the night.
The couple’s first dance became a highlight moment, set to The Teskey Brothers’ “Take My Heart.” Lauren Kyle filmed the intimate moment, capturing the newlyweds as they swayed together. Kyle, who is McDavid’s wife and one of Desjardins’ maids of honor, shared the romantic scene with followers.
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Actress Sarah Fisher also joined the celebration, later sharing afterparty clips that showcased a DJ set, floating bubbles, and a glowing red neon sign spelling out “The Draisaitls.” The party atmosphere clearly extended well beyond the formal ceremony.
Draisaitl, born in Cologne, Germany, has been with Desjardins for nearly seven years. The couple went public with their relationship in 2018Â and have consistently supported each other’s careers and major life events.
The celebration didn’t end with the reception. Just days after exchanging vows, Draisaitl was back on the water, this time racing jet skis with McDavid while their wives watched from a nearby yacht. Kyle captured this moment as well, sharing the playful scene online.
These glimpses reveal a side of Draisaitl that fans rarely see: relaxed, laughing, and completely absorbed in one of the most important weekends of his life. Away from the pressure of NHL arenas, the German superstar looked every bit the happy groom celebrating with his closest friends and new wife.
