On December 12, 2018, one of our dearest friends texted us with exciting news: “We’re getting married December 29th. You two are invited. Details coming soon.”
Just five days later, the bride-to-be sent a private Facebook message revealing the wedding and reception plans. We were all set for an outdoor winter wedding.
Embracing the Magic of a Winter Wonderland
On a crisp, starry night with temperatures dipping to 37 degrees, my husband and I joined the Rekemeyer and Holland families on a trolley ride to the Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie, Texas. Holiday music filled the air as we journeyed through a dazzling light show featuring whimsical scenes like Bug Christmas and a Test Kitchen, all curated by the City of Grand Prairie Parks and Recreation Department. Our journey paused at the park entrance, where the Candy Cane Man welcomed us with sweet treats.
The highlight was the Holiday Magic Walk-Through Forest, where we followed the wedding party, their path lit by lumineers, through a winding dirt trail adorned with giant light displays. The scene was set for an unforgettable exchange of vows.
A Wedding Party Reflecting Individuality and Style
Breaking from tradition, this wedding party embraced the couple’s unique style with a forest wonderland theme. The dresses were an eclectic mix of floral patterns, a departure from the usual solid satin and sequins. The bride stunned in a pink champagne bronze lace and silk midi dress, reminiscent of the chic and free-flowing fashion of the pre-Raphaelite women of the late 19th century. She paired her look with taupe leather wedge shoes and kept warm with a white faux fur wrap. A dainty copper laurel headband, featuring a diamond jewel at its center, added a touch of classical elegance. Her green leafy bouquet mixed with evergreens perfectly complemented the ensemble.
The bridesmaids, equally stylish, wore long floral dresses over dark boots, each crowned with handmade headbands of forest greenery and wrapped in faux fur shawls representing a wolf, bear, and fox.
The groomsmen also showcased their individuality with a mix-and-match style, donning navy, charcoal, and black dress coats over casual pants or jeans. The groom stood out in a midnight blue suit, sans tie, with all the groomsmen sporting white shirts and matching boutonnieres.
A Ceremony to Cherish
The ceremony was a heartfelt celebration of the couple’s love. Each of their children participated in an hourglass ceremony, pouring sand into a vessel that symbolized the blending of their family. This hourglass, an enduring symbol of time, now serves as a treasured family heirloom. Pastor Joe Centineo of Crossroads Arlington pronounced Sean and Tonya Rekemeyer husband and wife, and the groom sealed the moment with a deep, loving kiss. We ended the ceremony by surrounding the couple, offering prayers for blessings and wisdom in their marriage.
Afterward, we strolled through the twinkling lights, capturing photos amidst scenes depicting holiday celebrations from around the world. The market area buzzed with activity as guests enjoyed hot chocolate, popcorn, corndogs, and corn in a cup. However, I opted to save room for the dinner awaiting us at the Oasis Restaurant at Joe Pool Lake.
Afterwards we briskly strolled through the trees that had tens of thousands of lights. There was so much to look at including an arranged scenery depicting how the holiday season is celebrated around the world. There was definitely many great spots to take some photos. It got pretty crowded in the market area for hot chocolate topped with marshmallow, popcorn boxes, corndogs and corn in a cup. I didn’t partake of the carnival food, because I was saving room for the dinner at the Oasis Restaurant at Joe Pool Lake.
We boarded the trolley and travelled through a finale of lights to the special and unforgettable reception where more guests awaited for the newlyweds arrival.
A Reception by the Lake
We boarded the trolley for a final tour of lights before arriving at the restaurant, where more guests awaited the newlyweds. The Oasis Restaurant, perched on Joe Pool Lake, is a local favorite known for its live music, seafood, and stunning lake views. We crossed the dock and were greeted by a charming host who directed us up to the enclosed upper deck for our private party.
A Unique Guestbook and Dining Experience
Upon entering the coastal-themed room, guests were invited to sign little wooden maple leaves, later placed in a shadowbox frame. These leaves adorned a chiseled wooden tree with an engraved heart, a beautiful keepsake to remember the loved ones who shared this special day.
The reception tables, draped in white linens, featured lighted centerpieces that added to the romantic ambiance. The lumineers from the ceremony were repurposed as part of the decor. In a refreshingly unconventional approach, guests ordered their meals from the bar. This allowed everyone to choose their favorites, adding a casual and personalized touch to the celebration.
We ordered house salads and shared the Dockside Platter, a generous serving of spicy bell poppers, shrimp, catfish, fried alligator, calamari, and fries—perfect for two. The food was served hot and fresh, and the alligator was exceptionally tender, the best we’ve ever had. The staff provided attentive service, making the evening even more enjoyable.
A Rustic Chic Wedding Cake
The wedding cake was a rustic chic masterpiece—an almost-naked, three-tiered cake with a top layer of rum-spiced cake, a middle layer of red velvet, and a bottom layer of marble. The faux-bois icing added a touch of earthy elegance, perfectly complementing the unique, intimate theme of the wedding. The cake was deliciously moist, and I savored every bite without it crumbling.
Cheers To The Rekemeyers
As the evening came to a close, we raised our glasses to the newlyweds, toasting to their joyous future together. Tonya and Sean, you are a perfect pair, deeply and unapologetically in love. Here’s to the incredible, exciting journey that lies ahead. Thank you, Tonya, for finding joy in everything, including Sean. May your life together be filled with love and happiness. We love you both and are so grateful to have been part of your special day.
Photography Credit:
Wedding photography by Tracy Autem. Visit www.TracyAutem.com to learn more about her and her services.
Additional photo credits to Amy Vinson, Matthew Harris, and Loretta Morales.
