Welcome Party

Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres

Wedding Day

Ceremony

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Our Wedding

It all started with a haircut. On a “normal” day in fall of 2020, I finally got my first normal haircut after some unfortunate quarantine cuts. When I got home, instead of getting props for the new haircut, Nick (groomsman) sarcastically looked at me and said, “do you have a date or something?” My immediate smart-ass response was, “maybe I do”. With the thought on my mind, I opened a dating app and luckily had a message waiting for me. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was a hockey themed message about beer league and was immediately interested. After only a short conversation we had a date set for Thursday of the same week. On the evening of the date, when checking to see how long it would take me to get to the brewery, I realized our original place closed. Part of me almost chose to cancel the date and stay home to watch football, but instead I suggested we go to my local watering hole at the time, Growler Guys. When I got to the bar, I immediately noticed Mikayla sitting in her car waiting to come inside, so I sent her a quick text to meet me in line. After a quick hello hug, we grabbed a beer and found a corner to ourselves outside in the cold. From the time we sat down the conversation never stopped, and it felt like we had known each other forever. One beer turned into two, we had found ourselves a new warmer spot, and then suddenly we were the only people in the bar being told to leave by the bartender subtly playing Disney music while he was cleaning. I still remember getting home after that first date and walking through the door with the biggest smile on my face. On that special day, I found my best friend, love of my life, adventure buddy, and everything in between. Mikayla is always there to support me in everything I do, and always there teaching me new lessons about caring for people because her heart is so big. She is always ready to follow me to the next crazy thing I plan, but ready to leave something the second we get there to go home and snuggle. There is no doubt in my mind she is my favorite person in the world, and I cannot wait for a whole lifetime of memories to come. Love you so huns.

His POV

The way I met Brayden was a true sign of the times. It was fall of 2020 and I had just moved back to Washington after graduating from Salve Regina University in Rhode Island. I was starting my nursing career in the midst of COVID, and I knew very few people in the area after being away. Seattle now felt familiar and brand new all at the same time, and I knew I had to put myself out there to start building my post college life. So, naturally, I downloaded all the dating apps. Social distancing and quarantine had made it difficult to meet people organically, so I said “why not” and started swiping on Tinder. It didn’t take long for Brayden’s profile to pop up on my screen, and I admittedly almost made the mistake of not swiping right on him after seeing that he also played hockey. The hockey stereotypes that I had come to know from college came to mind, but I quickly got over myself and realized “well, I also played hockey” and slid right into his DMs. I used a cheesy pickup line asking if we could play beer league together sometime, and I guess the boy was hooked. Our first date was shortly after that, and I remember getting ready in my tiny studio apartment, sipping a White Claw, and telling my friends back East that I was about to go on my first online date ever. I was excited, a little bit nervous, but my gut feeling was overwhelmingly positive. I showed up to Growler Guys, mask and all, and met the love of my life. We talked about anything and everything, and the feeling of familiarity caught me off guard. It was as if I had known him my entire life, and we were just two people catching up after some time apart. We stayed until closing, not realizing how late it was until we heard Disney music loudly over the speakers, a subtle hint telling us to leave. As Brayden walked me to my car, he asked if I would come to his Halloween party in a couple days. My answer was a confident “yes”, and I’d later realize this would become a theme for us. We never ended a date without knowing we would see each other again soon. Meeting Brayden changed my life in so many ways, both obvious and subtle. I wasn’t expecting the way his friends would welcome me with open arms and adopt me into their lives too. That’s something that means more to me than they probably know, and I’ll forever be grateful for their kindness. The chance I took that night on Tinder led me to meeting someone I can’t imagine my life without. Brayden’s infectious love for life and willingness to try anything once gave me a whole new perspective. He rolls with the punches, while still holding his ground when it’s the right thing. He’s silly, but one of the smartest and capable people I know. He knows exactly what I need before even I know, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the support he’s given me just by being him. Not to mention, he’s an incredible cook and my favorite restaurant is our house. I could go on forever, but I’ll save it for our vows. Love you forever, hun.

Her POV

Our Story

Photos

Mikayla and I bonded quickly during our freshman year Spanish class after we discovered we were both nursing majors and athletes who could commiserate on our tough workload and busy schedules. We now connect through our love for traveling and cannot end one trip without planning the next one to see each other. We may live on opposite coasts of the country but we do not let the distance keep us apart. When Mikayla met Brayden I knew she found her other half. The excitement she had for him was palpable and meeting Brayden I could see the love these two share for each other. I cannot wait to see these two get married and start the rest of their lives together.

Bridget

I first had the pleasure of meeting Mikayla during our freshman year of college. We shared an instant connection over our mutual love of ice hockey, coming from 3,000 miles away for school, and of course, both being Andersons. L.Anderson and M.Anderson quickly became best friends, coming together to pull pranks on the Salve hockey team. For reference, there are a number of past team members who still 100% believe we are half sisters. In the 8 years that I've been lucky enough to know Mikayla, we've experienced some of the most joyful, hilarious, and loving moments of my life. I truly cannot imagine life without her. The Mandy to my Landy! I wouldn't want to share a last name with anyone else. And while I'm sad to be losing my fellow "Anderson" sister, I could not be more excited for Mikayla and Brayden to embark on this journey together. From the moment she first told us about him, it was incredibly obvious that the two are soulmates. Cheers to Mikayla and Brayden!

Lexie

I remember the first time I heard about Mikayla I was told she was also Filipina and a nurse (go figure). Little did I realize she was working on the unit above mine for almost half a year before we met; the universe was just patiently waiting for us to cross paths at the right time. Over the past 3 years of knowing her, we have shared a lifetime of laughter and adventures. But the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Mikayla are our carpool sessions. Nothing heals my soul quite like going for a drive with her - whether it’s to work or running errands. You could stick us in a car for hours and we’d be talking the entire time about anything and everything. I am so grateful for her sisterhood and so grateful that she found Brayden, a brother I didn’t expect to gain later in life, who gives her all the love and smooches she deserves. Love you both so much and can’t wait to celebrate y’all ringing in this new chapter of your lives together!

Jamie

Mikayla and I first met during our freshman year at Salve Regina. Shortly after meeting, Mikayla joined my parents and me at a little Mexican restaurant outside of Newport after a hockey game. Our friendship was just budding at the time, but somehow my parents knew we’d be integral parts of each other’s lives… and they were right! Together, Mikayla and I grew through the challenges and celebrated the achievements that both came with being student-athletes. We took advantage of all Newport had to offer! Although saying goodbye to my west coast best friend upon graduation was not ideal, I now take comfort in the fact that she shares her life with such a loving and supportive man. Mikayla and Brayden bring a sense of comfort, playfulness and joy everywhere they go. I can’t wait for all that’s to come for this special couple throughout their wedding season and beyond. Cheers to the Hansens!!!! ❤️

Caroline

It only took hours of being on the same college campus that I knew we were destined to be friends. Discovering a shared love of hockey at freshman orientation made for an instant connection.
Our friendship continued to grow through a range of shared experiences. Whether it was staying after practice to shoot a few extra pucks, going to the gym, eating hot pockets after getting home a little too late, roomie snuggles, or not being able to decide who should use the outdoor shower first, Mik filled these seemingly small moments with love and laughter. Whenever I heard Mik call my name from her room, I knew it could only mean one thing… she needed me to help her self tan her back when she couldn’t reach.  (I now pass that responsibility on to Brayden, make sure her tan is even!) I’ll always have her back literally and metaphorically, and I know Brayden will for the rest of their lives.
Knowing that she found the love of her life on the west coast trumps any sadness I feel that she is no longer over here on the east coast. I am so excited to reunite to celebrate the love that Mik and Brayden share. Let’s get these two married!

Ally

From late-night study sessions to spontaneous trips to Diego’s or Ocean Drive, Mikayla and I forged an unbreakable bond during our college years. Living together in our cozy house, we created countless memories and it was clear I had made a life-long friend. Fast forward to today, every moment spent together still never fails to be filled with endless amounts of love and laughter. When I was first introduced to Brayden, it was evident he shared Mikayla’s caring nature and fun spirit. There was no doubt in my mind that they were destined for each other and it is truly something special to see these two build their life together. Congrats loves, and cheers to a lifetime of love and adventure!

Maddie

I had the greatest hockey carpool that ever was— Mikayla and I sat in the back seat. Our love for the sport, eagerness for a good time and genuine enthusiasm to live life always brings us to together. You can never have a bad day if part of it is spent with Mik— she brings so much love and light everywhere she goes. She is always there, she will always listen, and she will always love you. The world needs more Mikaylas, but I am grateful that the one and only is my friend. When I met Brayden, there was essence of my first time meeting Mik. He brings light and a presence that you’ve known him since you were young. I’m so happy Mik has found her person, she deserves the world and I know Brayden will do everything he can to give her the universe.

Gabi

I’ve known Brayden since we were 5-6 years old. We lived in the same neighborhood as the only child kids and would hangout almost 24/7 and had a common love for Power Rangers. Before my brother, Brayden was my first sibling, my brother from another mother, and we were always there for each other. We got separated in Middle school since I moved to a different neighborhood, but it wasn’t until 9th grade Japanese class where we connected again. Scared and nervous he wouldn’t remember me, we picked up where we left off and I knew we were going to be lifelong friends. When I met Mikayla for the first time, Brayden had this big smile on his face and I knew that she was the one. I’ve had the opportunity of seeing them grow together, hearing about all the adventures they’ve had, and witnessing the love they have for one another. I wish them both all the best and am excited to spend the big day celebrating these two on their next chapter together ❤️

Alex

I met Brayden in the 9th grade during our Japanese class. Random seating assignments are always nerve-wracking but all it took was one dumb joke and we were off to the races on our life-long friendship. Whether it was our marathon video game sessions, 5am tennis classes, or family vacations, Brayden would exponentially multiply the number of times I would laugh. When Brayden talked about Mikayla for the first time, I knew he had met the love of his life. Seeing Mikayla and Brayden share their love for adventures, life, and each other makes me root for them like I’m watching Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams in the Notebook for the first time. Wish y’all a lifetime of happiness and congrats! ❤️

Andrew

Brayden wasn't just any dorm neighbor, he was the "guy next door" on my floor. Our friendship started with the classic cool guy head nod, graduating to high fives, then eventually epic chest bumps. Soon, I knew him as the Shampoo Bandit, the FiberOne bar champion eater, my ski buddy, and an ice-skating ninja. He's never been afraid to push the envelope, like the time I watched him charge, some might say sprint, miles through Spokane in Birkenstocks for ice cream, then hitchhike back to save it from melting. One thing for sure, Brayden is always good for some laughs and a great time. A true experience pusher, he exposed this small-town kid to things I never imagined. I'm pretty sure he got a kick out of seeing my jaw drop at restaurants. And then there was Mikayla. When Brayden described her, it felt like the stars aligned. Corny, I know. They were a match made in heaven, one of those things that just clicks. Cheers to forever you two!

Mitch

I met Brayden six years ago, over the tried and true foundation of any great friendship: a few cold beers. The years following that first night out have included everything from being cubicle neighbors in the home office to navigating a Hawaiian storm in a golf cart. Brayden is always the life of the party, but I’ll never forget the party he disappeared from. He got home hours later that night, kicked in the front door and screamed “I’m in love!” after his first date with Mikayla. I knew the first time I saw them together they were meant to be, and definitely believed it when I found myself on the set of “You, Me, and Dupree”. Brayden and Mikayla are two of the best people I’ve ever known, and I’ll consider them both family for life. I can’t wait to see the life you two build together. Love, Dupree.

Cody

Brayden and I grew up playing hockey together since we were 8 years old. We reconnected when I asked him for a tour of Eastern. Brayden showed up with a big ol’ grin and slightly hungover (I assumed), and we picked up right where we left off. His tour felt like something out of ‘Selling Sunset,’ and he convinced me to become an Eagle. Brayden is someone people naturally gravitate towards; he’s always up for an adventure, whether it’s taking selfies with random people at U of I or going on a bar crawl in Rome. That infectious energy is what I love about him. When Brayden introduced me to Mikayla, I instantly understood why they were perfect for each other. She complemented Brayden’s adventurous spirit seamlessly. Together, they radiate joy, and their love is truly infectious. Cheers to the beautiful couple!

Trevor

I met Brayden in college. He was this interesting kid with a walk that could rival a 50 year old cowboy. Little did I know I had just met one of my truest friends. Someone I could relate to, play sports with, and eventually get kicked out of an Irish hostel with. When Brayden met Mikayla, I had a feeling. If he didn’t fuck this up, she could be the one! I am beyond excited for these two wonderful humans to start a life together, and wish them nothing but the best❤️

Paul


I had the pleasure of meeting Brayden at our 9th grade lunch table. Our silly high school antics quickly blossomed into a friendship. Some of my fondest memories of Brayden include him blowing a hole in my parents trashcan with fireworks, serenading passing cars while blasting Jason Derulo, and getting second place in a pickleball tournament we barely practiced for. Though my favorite memory of all is teasing him post haircut asking if he had a date or something, little did I know that comment would drive him to setup his first date with Mikayla. Seeing your friends in love is one of the most heartwarming feelings and I am so happy I get to be a part of their lives.

Nick

Wedding Party

Q + A

Our destination wedding venue! We hope you all get as excited as we do when looking at their website and social media. Instagram: @secretsplayablanca

Please reach out to our travel agent via guests@paradiseweddings.com or by 877-737-0177 if you have any questions regarding booking. To book using the link below, use the room block code 0510. Alternatively, our travel agent can also assist you with booking via email or phone. There is a 3-night minimum required in order to use the room block price. DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT PLAN: 1st Deposit: $150 USD to hold your room. 2nd Deposit: 50% of the room’s total cost due by December 17th, 2024. Final payment: Balance due by January 14th, 2025.

Paradise Weddings Booking Website

Need a roommate?

Please reach out to Brayden or Mikayla if you are interested in finding someone to room with you! We are happy to connect people to help cut down on cost.

Airport Transportation

Shared roundtrip airport transportation is $85.00 USD per person. This private service is only shared with wedding guests arriving/leaving together (+/- 30min).  Important - - Flight details are required before March 24th, 2025 to schedule transportation. Please provide our travel agent with a screenshot of both departure and arrival flights.

Travel

For those flying in Thursday or earlier, join us for a welcome party to kick off the wedding festivities! Celebration will take place at our resort in the evening, details to come.

Mikayla & Brayden

Mikayla & Brayden

Things to Do

Welcome Party