Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli has married his long-time partner, Neila Brenning, in an elegant ceremony at a luxury ranch in California’s Napa Valley.
The couple exchanged vows on Thursday, less than a year after Bontempelli proposed during a holiday in Italy.
Brenning shared a photo from the occasion, while Melbourne-based florist Andrea Sanchez posted a collection of images from the event.
“Currently waiting to board my flight back to Melbourne and have had some time to process how incredible this week has been!” Sanchez wrote.
“I feel so grateful to have been given this opportunity. It was all so surreal and wonderful.
“Here are some in-between moments before, during and after setup for the beautiful wedding of Neila & Marcus.”
A number of Bontempelli’s teammates attended the celebration, which followed pre-wedding festivities in Las Vegas.
Among the guests were Cody Weightman, Aaron Naughton, Tom Liberatore, Ed Richards, Jason Johannisen, Rhylee West, Bailey Williams, Laith Vandermeer, coach Luke Beveridge, and former teammates Lin Jong and Caleb Daniel.
The destination was fitting for Brenning, who is Canadian and met Bontempelli in Western Australia shortly after the 2021 AFL grand final.
Bontempelli, 29, has built a decorated career, earning three AFLPA MVP awards and multiple individual honours. After winning his second Leigh Matthews Trophy in 2023, he paid tribute to Brenning and his family.
“I’ll start with where it all begins and finishes, and that’s with my family, the support you get from people in your corner: my folks, three sisters and their partners, and especially my partner Neila,’’ Bontempelli said.
“Through all the good things and also the challenges at times, I’m so lucky to be so well supported through thick and thin, and family is one thing you can always rely on no matter what. Thank you to my family, it’s a special experience to have you all here with me.”
Images: Instagram
