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38 %uf098 A l a s k a B r i d e & G r o o m %uf099 2026Bride%u2019s name: Maddelynn SamboGroom%u2019s name: Robert HaanHow they met: %u201cOn our first job as recent graduates, I made a bet with Robert that I could beat him in a nordic ski race. After multiple ski dates, I lost that bet, but won Robert%u2019s heart.%u201dNumber of guests: 47 guestsWedding colors: Light blueUnique and special aspects of the day: %u201cI%u2019m I%u00f1upiaq and one thing that was very important to me on my wedding day was including hints of my culture and supporting Alaska Native artists. Our wedding venue, my beaded earrings, the ring pillow, and our shoes were all representations of my Alaska Native heritage. Our wedding officiant wore kamiks, traditional Alaska Native boots.%u201dMost memorable moment%u2026For her: %u201cWhen I was in high school, my first job was at the Alaska Native Heritage Center as a cultural host, working at the I%u00f1upiaq traditional home during the summer. Years later, standing alone in that same traditional home, waiting to see my husband for the first time, was a full-circle moment.%u201dFor him: %u201cThe most memorable part of the wedding for me was our vows. We both worked hard on them, and everyone, including us, was crying during them because they were beautiful, heartfelt, and honest. They were so wonderful and touching that I ended up crying throughout the ceremony.%u201dFunniest moment: %u201cMy groomsman/cousin Jackson was changing right before we were about to head to the wedding venue. When he walked out in his suit, his pants were so tight they looked like short leggings and were making his feet go numb. Real WeddingMaddelynn & RobertJune 7, 2025Photography byJulia Wallace Photography