MADISON, Ala — David and Katie Borden's wedding is bound to be one to remember: stunning floral arrangements, an adoring crowd, a full-size anthropomorphic raccoon among the guests of honor...
Sprocket, the Rocket City Trash Pandas mascot, was bound to be on the guest list. As winners of the baseball team's 2024 Wedding Giveaway promotion, the happy couple's special day took place Saturday before the scheduled game against the Tennessee Smokies.
The Shoals-area couple entered along with dozens of other couples when the contest was announced in late January. Entrants were asked to explain why they felt they were deserving of the lavish wedding, which came complete with formal attire from contest sponsors LaMariee Bridal and Oxford Street Menswear, rings from Meyer and Lee and other accoutrements and gifts.
The Bordens' entry read in part:
Hi, my name is Katie and this is my fiance David. We have been together for almost seven years! We have two fur babies and are big baseball fans.
I was just diagnosed with an aggressive form of Lymphoma at 30 years old. We were planning on having our wedding this fall [be] something small and intimate, but I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate our loving filled with one of the things we both love the most, baseball.
As part of Saturday's festivities, the wedding party received a catered reception at Toyota Field's double suite. Their first dance was displayed for all to see on the Dance Cam, and a fireworks ceremony is planned for the end of the evening, weather permitting.
In addition, the Trash Pandas celebrated the nuptials by wearing specially themed “Tuxedo Jerseys” which were auctioned off to benefit Wellstone Inc. and the Trash Pandas Foundation.
Rocket City ultimately won their Saturday game against the Smokies, 2-1.
This event is the latest in Toyota Field's history with romance in its short lifespan. The venue can be booked for weddings on a regular basis, and two staffers found love while working together on staff - leading to a surprise proposal.