JESSE WOLLENSCHLAEGER (LEFT) AND IMKE MEINTJES (RIGHT) PHOTOS: CORRIE UYS/ULTIMA ANTARCTIC EXPEDITIONS
Imke Meintjes and Jesse Wollenschlaeger, two women driven and united by wanderlust, made history by becoming the first female couple to marry at the Schirmacher Oasis, a stunning and remote location in Antarctica. Cape Town-based Ultima Antarctic Expeditions facilitated the ceremony.
Jesse, a seasoned chef from Bloemfontein, South Africa, has traversed the globe through her culinary endeavors. Imke, a spirited adventurer and accomplished hospitality consultant from Thabazimbi, South Africa, found her match in Jesse after years of friendship and working together in Abu Dhabi. Imke manages hospitality at Ultima Oasis Camp, and Jesse is a consulting chef there.
Their wedding ceremony was intimate, attended only by the couple, their officiant, and a photographer. Surrounded by pristine ice lakes, endless blue skies, and the shimmering light of the Antarctic sun, Imke and Jesse exchanged vows, popped a bottle of champagne and, hand-in-hand, walked over the ice to the frozen lake where they shared their first dance, surrounded by chandeliers of icicles.
Their wedding dinner featured South African Saldanha oysters and champagne. As the midnight sun cast a golden hue over the icy landscape, Imke and Jesse cut their wedding cake, a summer waterfall cascading onto the ice below.
Curve contacted Imke and Jesse to learn more about their love story and their future.
“It was as if the universe had conspired to bring us to this exact moment, and everything felt just right.”
— Imke
How, when, and where did you two meet?
JESSE
I met this crazy girl in Abu Dhabi and thought, ‘I like this one.’ I recently decided to keep her. I was originally born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and I’m a qualified chef. My cheffing has taken me all around the world. And I’ve been very fortunate for the amount of things that I’ve gone to see and the amount of things that I’ve gotten to do. And of course, crossing paths with Imke.
IMKE
I grew up in a very small town in the middle of nowhere, and I continue to find myself in small places in the middle of nowhere. After meeting Jesse in Abu Dhabi in 2016, our paths kept crossing over the years, and somehow, our lives have just intertwined. The universe literally said, ‘This is clearly the person you need to be with! And it just kept hitting us in our faces.
When did you know you wanted to get married, and who proposed?
IMKE
I proposed to Jesse in a simple, intimate moment that reflected our relationship-spontaneous and genuine. It all happened quickly, about six weeks before our extraordinary wedding in Antarctica, and it turned into an elopement. When we decided we were going to do it, we knew this was going to be the coolest adventure of our lives. And I think that if there’s ever been a moment in your life where you think maybe I should take the love of my life and go and get married and to hell with everyone else, this is the place to do it! Antarctica is an incredible space.
JESSE
Imke’s proposal was beautiful. We both knew that marriage was the natural next step for us. I think we just decided to keep it simple once Imke and I got over the shock of what would be happening in less than two months.
Why did you choose Antarctica for the wedding?
JESSE
Antarctica holds a special place in our hearts. We’ve spent a lot of time together working with Ultima Antarctic Expeditions. It felt like home, and we couldn’t imagine a more fitting place for our wedding.
IMKE
We chose Antarctica because it symbolizes our adventurous spirits and our unique bond. It was the perfect backdrop for our special day. Being part of the Ultima Antarctic Expeditions team and having them host our wedding the first LGBTQ+ wedding in deep-field Antarctica-has meant so much to us. It reflects the passion of this company in crafting extraordinary journeys. It’s something we’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Did the experience live up to expectations?
IMKE
The tranquility and beauty of the surroundings exceeded our expectations. We felt a deep connection to the place and each other. There was not a single breath of wind. There were blue, sunshiny days. The most incredible, spectacular, perfect blue rivers were everywhere, and everything worked perfectly.
If you treat Antarctica nicely, she will treat you nicely right back. And she’s done that for us, and I’m very grateful for that. I cannot imagine it being a better day, and if we were to be surrounded by our friends and family, it would obviously have been really special. But at the same time, I’m so glad it was just the two of us. We were actually able to hone in on each other, and that was spectacular.
JESSE
We had a beautiful cup of coffee to start the day and just took the day as it came. There was no rush. There was no ‘at three o’clock we have to be here, at four o’clock or at five o’clock somewhere. There was no expectation of us to be anywhere. Nobody was waiting for us. We weren’t waiting for anyone. And I think that made the day much more special.
What did you each wear?
JESSE
Our outfits were a mix of practicality and elegance. We had high-top Vans, crampons for the ice, beautiful dresses, and big white sunglasses. It was a unique blend that represented us perfectly. We didn’t overthink anything. We just got dressed as our normal selves. We did our hair and makeup; obviously, it’s Antarctica; we’re not used to doing makeup there.
Please describe the moment of the vows and the exchange of rings.
IMKE
I was in tears, but very quiet tears. I felt all the emotions. There I was, standing with a girl I would spend the rest of my life with, and the moment was just perfect. The Ultima team beautifully put together the ceremony itself. I knew that when the person marrying us was going to say kiss the bride, I knew I needed to kiss the bride.
JESSE
Our rings were simple yet elegant, symbolizing our commitment. I think we were both so in the moment. I felt completely at home. I knew exactly where I needed to be. And I think it was mostly because Jesse was standing right next to me. I think the replay in our heads will be there for the rest of our lives.
“Just the two of us, holding hands on a rock in the middle of nowhere. It was a moment of pure calmness and connection.”
— Jesse
With such an unusual destination wedding, did you also have a honeymoon?
IMKE
Our entire experience felt like a honeymoon. We didn’t specifically plan a separate one but took the time to explore and enjoy each other’s company.
JESSE
Every moment in Antarctica felt special. Imke and I have rigorous work schedules and are passionate about our work. We savored every bit of our wedding in Antarctica. It felt like an extended honeymoon.
What are your next steps: maybe a house, pets, kids one day?
JESSE
We’re open to settling down in the future, but for now our focus is on our shared adventures and careers. We’ll see where life takes us.
IMKE
We love our adventurous lifestyle, but we’re not opposed to the idea of settling down someday. For now, we’re enjoying the journey.
What has travel taught you about LGBTQ+ acceptance?
JESSE
Traveling has shown us that acceptance varies widely. However, we believe that overall tolerance is growing. It’s important to share our stories and build understanding. We’ve encountered many places where people are incredibly welcoming and supportive, which gives us hope for the future.
IMKE
While we have seen progress in many parts of the world, our travels have also taught us the importance of being mindful and careful in countries where same-sex relationships are not accepted. There are still places where we have to be cautious about showing affection or discussing our relationship openly. It’s a stark reminder that while acceptance is growing, some regions still have significant cultural and legal barriers. Sharing our stories helps build understanding and tolerance, but we must also navigate these spaces sensitively to local customs. Our experiences in South Africa, a country that has legalized same-sex marriages and offers us protection, contrast sharply with other places where such freedoms are not yet a reality.
What are your ongoing roles with Ultima Antarctic Expeditions?
IMKE
I’m working with our upcoming season commencing in November this year. Availability is limited to 250 seats, so the expectation is high to ensure our guests have the most unforgettable experiences. Logistical and operational aspects are ever-changing in Antarctica. We must be flexible and ready to adapt to whatever the environment throws at us. This includes everything from adhering to strict environmental regulations to ensuring we preserve this precious ecosystem. Working with Ultima has honed my ability to adapt and innovate, to make sure every aspect of our expeditions is meticulously planned, with guest safety and comfort as the foundation of our service excellence.
JESSE
I oversee the culinary offerings for Ultima Antarctic Expeditions. Working in Antarctica is far more complex than the beautiful photos suggest. It’s a place that keeps you on your toes, and being prepared for anything is crucial. I thrive under these unique conditions to push the boundaries when creating exceptional dining experiences for guests, even in the most remote locations.
What can we expect from Ultima Oasis Camp?
IMKE
Ultima Oasis Camp offers two plush Scandi-style accommodation units for at least 14 guests, a beautiful dining facility with scenic views, and a traditional Banya (sauna), ensuring utmost comfort amidst the Antarctic wilderness. Each accommodation unit at Oasis can be customized to suit guests’ preferences, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. With shared bio-shower and bathroom facilities, guests can enjoy warmth and convenience during their stay, without compromising on comfort. The plush lounge areas boast spectacular views of the Oasis Ice Lake, providing the perfect setting to unwind and marvel at the Antarctic landscape.
How do Curve readers get to Ultima Oasis Camp?
IMKE
Flying to Antarctica through Cape Town, South Africa, offers a unique and valuable experience compared to other routes, such as cruising from South America. This option significantly reduces travel time for North American travelers compared to traditional sea routes. South Africa is also a visa-free destination for North Americans. Flights from Cape Town typically land on the Antarctic continent itself, providing direct access to the interior. This contrasts with most cruises that only reach the Antarctic Peninsula, giving travelers a broader and more diverse experience of the continent’s landscapes and wildlife.
JESSE
Antarctica is a magical place, and we’re excited to share its beauty with others. It’s the ultimate place to make memories to last a lifetime.