“Exclusive Inside Look: NFL Star Pete Werner & Emily Chernoff Say ‘I Do’ at Dreamy Garden-Themed Affair”
- New Orleans Saints linebacker Pete Werner exchanged vows with Emily Chernoff during a customary Catholic matrimonial service at Saint Joan of Arc Church, followed by a garden-themed celebration at Scottish Rite Cathedral in Indianapolis on March 22
- Multiple tributes to Werner’s football career appeared throughout the event, including the bride throwing a pigskin ball rather than floral arrangements
- “We envisioned this as a remarkable festivity – an unforgettable gathering bursting with joy and cherished moments among loved ones,” the bride shares with PEOPLE
NFL athlete Pete Werner has tied the knot!
The Saints defensive player wed Emily Chernoff on March 23 in a formal ceremony at their hometown’s Saint Joan of Arc Church, succeeded by a sophisticated reception at Indianapolis’ Scottish Rite Cathedral.
“Our union ceremony became the pinnacle of happiness for us both,” Chernoff reveals exclusively to PEOPLE. “Witnessing our families and friends unite with such overwhelming affection created indescribable magic. The seamless connection between our relatives made everything more meaningful.”
Approximately 300 attendees witnessed the couple’s “everlasting” wedding celebration, including teammates from Werner’s Saints roster and Ohio State University days. Notable guests included: Cowboys’ Payton Turner, Giants’ Paulson Adebo, Cardinals’ Blake Gillikin, Eagles’ Zack Baun, Bengals alumni Sam Hubbard, along with Saints players Zach Wood and D’Marco Jackson.
“Football has gifted us incredible bonds,” Werner shares with PEOPLE.
During the afternoon ceremony, Chernoff traversed what she describes as “the most elongated procession path” while adorned in a glittering Rosa Clará gown from Marie Gabriel Bridal. The halter-neck design featured intricate beadwork and a garza overlay. Salon 1|4 crafted her half-up hairstyle, while Chelsea Lasiter perfected her natural makeup look.
Werner complemented his bride in a classic black tuxedo, accessorized with a boutonnière from Pomp & Bloom blending yellow orchids, soft-hued roses, and foliage in green, blue, and pink tones.
Beneath radiant stained glass artistry and an awe-inspiring ceiling mural, the duo pledged lifelong commitments in what the couple describes as a “magical ecclesiastical setting.”
Honoring Chernoff’s Irish heritage, bagpipe maestro Robert Wood performed during the ceremonial exit procession.
Post-ceremony festivities featured an elaborate charcuterie display during cocktail hour, accompanied by shrimp hors d’oeuvres, citrus-glazed poultry, and petite potato bites.
The reception’s “vintage Italian garden” theme featured gourmet courses including mixed greens with brie, candied pecans, and pomegranate dressing. Entrée options comprised braised beef ribs, Atlantic salmon, or stuffed bell peppers with quinoa. Younger guests enjoyed crispy chicken strips.
Kahn’s Catering orchestrated the culinary offerings.
PHOTO:
Sara Ackermann Photography
Evening entertainment included a football-themed twist: Instead of tossing blossoms, Chernoff hurled an NFL-approved ball to unmarried guests. Later, the newlyweds performed their first dance to Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey” before unveiling a cupcake wall and chocolate fountain.
Event coordination was handled by Kate Murphy Special Events, while Sara Ackermann Photography captured the memories.
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PHOTO:
Sara Ackermann Photography
The dessert table showcased an elegant three-tiered confection draped in ivory buttercream, featuring a delicate tulle ribbon accent and botanical embellishments. The almond-flavored base layer supported a chocolate-raspberry middle tier and lemon-infused upper section, crowned with a playful figurine of their English cream dachshund Tony peering from the cake’s foundation.
Pastry offerings extended to individual almond, chocolate-raspberry, and vanilla cakes courtesy of Top Tier Cakes for guests’ enjoyment.
“We envisioned an extraordinary festivity brimming with joy and meaningful connections,” Chernoff reflects on their nuptial event.
Musical entertainment stood as a paramount consideration for the pair.
“A poignant moment occurred when our attendees observed our inaugural dance to John Legend from the balcony vantage point,” Chernoff recounts. “This perspective allowed mutual appreciation between dancers and spectators.”
Revelers enthusiastically filled the dance area as the Endless Summer Band delivered dynamic performances throughout the evening.
“Securing exceptional live music ranked among our highest priorities,” Werner emphasizes. “We required performers who could maintain infectious energy and audience engagement consistently.”
“The dance floor witnessed impressive – and occasionally overzealous – displays of movement, contributing to the night’s vibrant atmosphere,” he adds with humor.
The bride’s father elevated toast traditions by incorporating a digital slide presentation chronicling the couple’s relationship through 200+ images.
“His speech sets an aspirational benchmark for future wedding toasts,” Werner acknowledges.
New Orleans-inspired elements paid homage to Werner’s athletic career, featuring a floral-adorned beverage cart, powdered beignet desserts, and gourmet sliders served during late-night festivities. Chernoff concluded celebrations by tossing a botanically decorated football instead of traditional bouquet.
The high school acquaintances turned collegiate sweethearts began their romantic journey while attending separate universities, culminating in their 2024 engagement. Future plans include establishing roots in both New Orleans and Indianapolis while anticipating parenthood.
“We’re eager to build upon family traditions while savoring newlywed life,” the couple shares. “Presently, we prioritize appreciating our shared moments as partners.”
Creative Collaborators:
Event Coordination: IndyGigz Wedding Planning @indygigz
Cinematography: Camden Claire @camdenclaire_
Invitations: Pickle Prints @pickleprintsinvitations
Event Décor: Nate Bennett @nbeeventgroup
Transport Services: Antique Limo and Indy Trolley
Source: Adapted from People
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