The love story of Sarah Fickes and Matthew Cobb was more than a decade in the making.
Though they grew up in Houston mere miles apart, they didn’t meet until 2006, when Sarah paid a visit to her brother at Texas Tech University. Unable to pick her up from the airport himself, he sent his friend Matthew.
The future Mr. and Mrs. hit it off but were headed in different directions. While Sarah got her bachelor’s degree from The University of Oklahoma and attended grad school at Texas A&M University, Matthew remained in Lubbock at Texas Tech.
Call it kismet. But after graduating from their respective schools, they both landed in Dallas.
They’d been dating for a little over a year when Matthew dropped to one knee during a hike at Angelina National Forest in East Texas. Sarah says it was “the best hike ever.” Until it came to an end, that is.
Upon return, they found themselves locked out of their Airbnb — dog and belongings trapped inside — and ultimately had to break a window. Admittedly, it was a rocky start to the engagement. But Matthew saw the silver lining.
“We knew we were ready to conquer all of life’s challenges together,” he says.
Starting with: planning a wedding.
Fortunately, Matthew and Sarah were perfectly aligned in their vision for the May wedding. Above all, they just wanted everyone to have fun.
“We wanted good music, good food, free drinks, and lots of dancing,” says Sarah. “We opted for an outdoor ceremony, which is something I didn’t think I’d do. But I fell in love with the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.”
With the date set and the venue booked, they got down to details like planning the menu, picking florals, and deciding on a gold, gray, and pink color scheme.
Far from the bridezillas of wedding lore, Sarah was decidedly laid back. She tapped into her love of DIY projects for reception decor and penned invitations herself.
When it came to choosing dresses for her 10 bridesmaids, she simply requested each wear something pink or gray. Groomsmen were instructed to bring their own black suits from home and provided with ties and pocket squares. The result was an eclectic mix that paired perfectly with the idyllic garden setting.
Though the forecast leading up to the big day called for 100 percent rain, fate smiled on Sarah and Matthew once more. The weather agreed, and with the sun shining, they exchanged vows under an arbor built by Sarah's father and brother, surrounded by family and friends.
A party years in the making followed. With food aplenty, drinks flowing, and a full dance floor, it was everything they imagined and more.
“Weddings are when two families become one,” says Sarah. “Our hearts could have burst seeing everyone we love in one room.”
Venue: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Event Coordinator: Pop Parties
Photographer: Lightly Photography, Annie Kercho
Videographer: Emily Paige Films
Caterer: Gil's Elegant Catering
Florist: Timeless Fiori
Cake: Dallas Affaires Cake Co.
Hair Stylist: Willie & Coote
Sarah Fickes and Matthew Cobb were married May 17, 2017 at Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Klyde Warren Park has recently announced an ambitious expansion project. Photo courtesy of Klyde Warren Park