Photo Credit:  Buddy Vlz/Chris Read

It was a star-studded affair over the weekend as the owner of the Malta Poker Festival, Ivonne Montealegre, married her longtime boyfriend, Petter Redemo, surrounded by the who’s who of ladies’ poker at the infamous Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas.

The ceremony kicked off in true Las Vegas fashion when the festivities commenced with a lively 50s-themed young Elvis impersonator. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her best friend’s husband, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. As vows were exchanged, the guests couldn’t help but chuckle and applaud, as the couple opted for Elvis-style songs to seal their love. The grand finale came in the form of Elvis serenading the newlyweds with “Viva Las Vegas,” prompting everyone to join in the celebration, dancing in the aisles.

Several notable personalities attended the event, including renowned poker player Chris Read, who had just finished fourth in the World Poker Tour (WPT)  Ladies Championship at the Wynn Casino. Sherry Pluskota, a long-time advocate for the Women’s Poker Association, was also present. She hosts a popular “Space” on X, which was formerly known as Twitter. Donna Morton, known as the godmother of UK poker, arrived directly from the airport, fresh off her flight from the UK. Tara Windsor-Smith, the current President of the Women’s Poker Association (WPA), was also in attendance, alongside AJ Rudolph, the Vice President of the WPA, WPT commentator, and Director of Poker Power. The event also saw the participation of Rebbecca Scales and Australian Tatiana Fox, who host the Real Poker Girls of Las Vegas podcast, as well as Lisa Renko Roberts and her husband Scott, who are international traveling poker pros. Buddy Vlz, a popular and beloved poker pro from Canada, was also present, accompanied by some of Ivonne’s close friends.

The celebration moved from the downtown Chapel, to a nearby dive bar that is situated in the same parking lot as the famous Pawn Stars, reality TV show on the History channel. The celebration continued late into the night, with everyone wishing Ivonne and Peter all the best as they embark on their new journey as husband and wife.