Embrace the Magic: An Unprecedented Wedding Experience
A Dream Come True for Football Enthusiasts
For many couples, planning a wedding involves months of meticulous preparation. However, for Erin Doolin and Erik Yakes, their dream wedding unfolded in an unexpected yet exhilarating manner. Winning the “Football Fantazees” contest organized by Cheez-It, they secured a rare opportunity to exchange vows on the field of Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This unforgettable event took place during halftime of the Citrus Bowl game between South Carolina and Illinois, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience that neither could have imagined.
The couple's journey to this moment was nothing short of remarkable. Both avid fans of college football, they had been following the sport for years. Yakes, an alumnus of Florida State University, and Doolin, a Penn State alumna, found common ground in their shared passion for the gridiron. Their spontaneous personalities and love for adventure made them perfect candidates for this unconventional wedding setup. When they stumbled upon the contest, applying felt like a natural fit. Little did they know, this decision would lead to one of the most memorable days of their lives.
Celebrating Love with a Touch of Orange
The day of the wedding was filled with vibrant energy and excitement. As the clock ticked down to the two-minute timeout, anticipation built among the crowd. Officiated by none other than the iconic Cheez-It mascot Ched-Z, the ceremony itself was a blend of tradition and innovation. Yakes donned an orange suit with a Cheez-It bow tie, while Doolin wore a classic V-neck wedding dress adorned with custom-made Cheez-It earrings. Her nails featured playful orange designs, and she carried a bouquet of red, yellow, and orange flowers, symbolizing the colors of their favorite snack.
After exchanging heartfelt vows, the couple sealed their commitment with orange wedding bands, adding another layer of uniqueness to the occasion. They promised to support each other in all their endeavors, from competing on Survivor to living abroad or cycling a Gran Fondo. This promise highlighted not only their deep affection but also their shared adventurous spirit. For Doolin and Yakes, this wedding was more than just a ceremony; it was the beginning of a new chapter in their life together, filled with endless possibilities.
An Epic Reception Fit for Champions
Following the ceremony, the newlyweds were whisked away to the end zone for a reception that matched the grandeur of the main event. Surrounded by six of their closest friends and family members, they celebrated with a mini dance floor and a stunning three-tier ombre orange wedding cake. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone basking in the joy and excitement of the moment. It was a celebration that perfectly captured the essence of their relationship—spontaneous, joyful, and full of love.
Reflecting on the day, both Doolin and Yakes expressed immense gratitude for the experience. “This was an unbelievably magical day,” Yakes said. “We never thought we’d get to marry the love of our life in front of 50,000 people, with a big Cheez-It as our backdrop. It’s now a cherished part of our love story.” For them, this wedding was not just about the event itself but the memories it created and the adventures it promised for the future.
A Perfect Match Made in Football Heaven
Doolin and Yakes first met on the dating app Hinge in Washington, D.C., where they quickly fell in love after their first date on December 13, 2021. Less than three years later, Yakes proposed, setting the stage for what would become a dual celebration. Initially planning a traditional wedding, they saw the “Football Fantazees” contest as an opportunity to push up the timeline and enjoy a second wedding of their dreams. Choosing “September” as their first dance song, they honored the month of their engagement, adding a personal touch to an already special day.
When they applied for the contest, their families thought they were “crazy,” but also recognized how fitting it was for the couple. Known for their spontaneous personalities, Doolin and Yakes embraced every aspect of the experience with open hearts. From the moment they won until the final slice of cake was cut, they reveled in the magic of the day, creating memories that will last a lifetime. For these superfans, marrying on the field of the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl was not just a dream come true—it was the start of a beautiful, unforgettable journey together.