When people hear the name Verna Aho, many think of her as the wife of NBA star Lauri Markkanen. But Verna is much more than that.
She is a model, a smart businesswoman, and a loving mom. She lives a quiet and simple life, far away from the noise of fame. Even though her husband plays on big stages, Verna chooses a calm and private path.
In this article, we’ll learn about who Verna Aho really is — her life in Finland, her love story, her fashion business, and the values that guide her every day.
Verna Aho Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Verna Aho |
| Date of Birth | April 15, 1997 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 29 years old |
| Place of Birth | Vantaa, Finland |
| Nationality | Finnish |
| Current Residence | Utah, United States |
| Height | Approx. 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 60 kg |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Education | Business Administration, University of Helsinki |
| Profession | Model, Entrepreneur |
| Famous For | Wife of NBA player Lauri Markkanen, Founder of Vernazza |
| Marital Status | Married to Lauri Markkanen (since 2017) |
Early Life in Finland
Verna Aho was born on April 15, 1997, in Vantaa, a city in Finland. She later lived in Helsinki, where she spent most of her early life.
Her childhood was simple and full of love. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Aho, taught her the importance of honesty, kindness, and working hard. These values became a big part of who she is today.
Growing up in Finland also helped shape Verna’s calm and peaceful personality. She loved quiet places, nature, and a balanced lifestyle — things that still matter to her even now.
How She Looks and Lives Today
Verna is often praised for her natural beauty and graceful style. She stands about 5 feet 5 inches tall and has dark brown hair and warm brown eyes. Her look is clean, simple, and very elegant.
But what makes Verna truly special is her soft personality. She is calm, private, and confident without trying to be in the spotlight. She doesn’t want attention — she just wants to live a good and peaceful life.
Her School and Studies
Verna always believed that education is important. She went to the University of Helsinki, where she studied Business Administration.
During her studies, Verna learned how to build a business the right way — with care, honesty, and strong values. She became very interested in sustainability and ethical business, which later helped her start her own fashion brand.
Her time in school wasn’t just about books. It was about learning how to mix business with purpose.
Her Modeling Journey
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Verna started her career in modeling. She began at just 16 years old and quickly gained attention for her clean and classic look.
She worked with big brands like L’Oréal and Max Mara, but she never used modeling to chase fame or become a celebrity.
Instead, Verna used modeling to learn about the fashion world. She observed how brands work, how trends change, and how style and business can go together. This experience helped her later when she started her own clothing line.
Starting Her Own Business
After some years in modeling, Verna decided to do something more meaningful. She wanted to mix her love for fashion with her deep care for the planet. That’s when she started her brand — Vernazza.
Vernazza is a sustainable fashion brand. It focuses on simple, eco-friendly designs made from responsible materials. Verna believes that fashion should not harm the earth. Her brand reflects her ideas of clean design, slow fashion, and ethical choices.
She works hard to make sure every piece in her brand matches her beliefs. For Verna, true beauty in fashion comes from kindness, not just looks.
Her Love Story with Lauri Markkanen

Verna’s love story with Lauri Markkanen began when they were teenagers in Finland. They met in school and became close friends before falling in love.
Even when Lauri moved to the United States to play basketball, their relationship stayed strong. Verna supported him from far away and believed in his dreams.
In 2017, they got married in a small, private ceremony. They didn’t want a big show — they just wanted a quiet, sweet wedding with close family and friends. That’s how they live their life even now: full of love, but always calm and private.
Family Life and Kids
After getting married, Verna and Lauri started a family. They have two sons — their first son, Alvar, was born in 2018, and their second son arrived in 2020.
Verna is a very hands-on mom. She spends most of her time with her children and tries to give them a calm, happy life. Even though their dad is famous, the boys are raised in a normal and loving way.
Verna teaches them both Finnish and English so they stay close to their roots. She also makes sure they learn about kindness, respect, and healthy living, just like she did when she was a child.
Life in the United States
When Lauri moved to play basketball in the U.S., Verna moved too. Now they live in Utah, where Lauri plays for the Utah Jazz.
At first, it was not easy. New country, new culture, and a new lifestyle. But Verna adjusted slowly and built a peaceful home there.
Even though she lives in the U.S., Verna still visits Finland with her family — especially during Lauri’s off-season. She wants her kids to know where they come from and feel proud of both their homes.
Verna’s Way of Living
Verna believes in living simple and living well. She follows a vegan diet, practices yoga, and loves doing things that bring peace — like reading or spending time in nature.
She once even challenged herself not to buy any new clothes for one year — just to support sustainable living. This shows how much she cares about the planet.
She doesn’t follow fashion trends. She follows her own clean style. Her days are filled with small, mindful habits that help her feel healthy and happy.
Why She Stays Private
Even though she’s married to a famous basketball player, Verna likes to stay out of the spotlight.
Her Instagram is private, and she rarely posts photos or personal updates. She also avoids big public events and interviews. She believes some things are better kept quiet and special.
This privacy helps protect her family, especially her young children. Many fans respect her choice to live this way. It shows she puts family first.
How She Supports Lauri
Behind every strong athlete is someone who helps them stay balanced. For Lauri Markkanen, that person is Verna Aho.
She supports him through every game, every team change, and every challenge. While Lauri is busy with training and traveling, Verna keeps things calm at home.
She makes sure the kids are cared for, the home is peaceful, and Lauri has someone to lean on. Her quiet support helps him focus, grow, and stay strong — both on and off the court.
Her Own Success and Independence
Verna is not just a supportive wife — she is also an independent woman. Her work as a model and her fashion brand Vernazza are proof of that.
Even though Lauri earns millions, Verna still chooses to earn her own money. Her net worth is around $100,000 as of 2025, built through hard work and smart choices.
She shows that even in a big sports family, you can still have your own dreams and career. Verna believes every person should have their own purpose.
The Values She Lives By
Verna lives by a few strong values: kindness, honesty, and balance. She believes in being gentle but strong, and she teaches her kids the same.
She follows her Christian faith, respects the earth, and avoids waste. She doesn’t chase money or fame. Instead, she builds a life filled with meaning.
She wants her children to grow up with good hearts and clear minds. That’s why her lifestyle is so calm and thoughtful.
Final Thoughts
Verna Aho may not be in the spotlight, but her story is full of quiet power. She is a model, a mother, a wife, and a businesswoman — all in her own peaceful way.
From her early days in Finland to her life now in the U.S., she has stayed true to who she is. She supports Lauri Markkanen with care, raises her children with love, and runs a fashion brand with purpose.
Verna Aho reminds us that success doesn’t always have to be loud. Sometimes, the quietest people are the strongest of all.
(FAQs)
Where was Verna Aho born?
She was born in Vantaa, Finland, on April 15, 1997. She later lived in Helsinki, where she studied and began her modeling journey.
What does Verna Aho do for work?
Verna started her career as a model and later became a businesswoman. She runs Vernazza, a fashion brand focused on eco-friendly and timeless clothing.
How did Verna Aho and Lauri Markkanen meet?
They met as teenagers in Finland and became close friends. Their relationship grew over the years, and they got married in 2017 in a private ceremony.
How many kids do Verna and Lauri have?
They have two sons. Their first child, Alvar, was born in 2018, and their second son was born in 2020.
Does Verna Aho live in the United States?
Yes, she lives in Utah, where her husband plays for the Utah Jazz. She still visits Finland regularly to stay connected to her roots.
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