Funky, fun, wild-hearted brides. Michelle and Renee’s ocean front wedding in Islamorada Florida
showcases a free-spirited vibe. These two enjoyed everything on their wedding day, from a cigar
bar, tambourines, a stroll on the pier to a quick McDonalds snack! Did we also mention their
awesome sunglasses and braided mohawk? This wedding is truly a one-of-a-kind two bride
wedding.
How did you meet?
We first met online way back when I was at uni (Nat) and she was still living at home in country Victoria (Tara) and we were both looking for friends to talk to. Just a few weeks after we started chatting, I decided to jump on a plane to Melbourne to meet her properly and go and stay with her family for a few days. We met at Spencer Street Station and then had to catch a 5 hour train to Warnambool then a bus to Heywood. Tara was EXTREMELY shy and barely spoke a word the entire train trip! We then missed the connecting bus and had to call her Mum to come get us (which was still an hours drive away!).
When did you know they were the one? Was there something they did?, etc
For me (Nat), it was knowing that I didn’t want to do life without her. Tara is really such a sweet, generous and loving person and is the best companion.
I always knew she was someone special. She is an amazingly nice person who always sees the positive in everyone and everything. And me being the shy person that I am, I always looked up to her and wanted to be like her.
About the proposal:
We had always talked about marriage from the early and we even toyed with the idea of eloping overseas because at the time it was still not legal here. However, we always came back to wanting to be surrounded by family and friends when the time came.
The proposal itself was not planned or orchestrated – it was a spontaneous hot mess! We were at home, watching TV together and it was the season finale of one of our favourite shows where there was a romantic and emotional wedding scene which set us off. Tara and I were crying over the silly episode and we looked at each other and Tara asked me to marry her and of course I said yes! 🙂 Not long after we got our matching engagement rings to mark the occasion however other than it was very low key. But in reality we have been engaged since 2010!! It has been a long time coming. 🙂
One thing you love most about each other:
Nat: I love the way that Tara takes so much pride in her work and is always going above and beyond for others. She treats people with respect and dignity and will always take the time to help someone, no matter what else is going on.
Tara: Her loving, caring and positive nature and a cute butt too!
If you feel comfortable, I’d love to hear something silly or quirky the other person does.
Nat: Tara turns down the music when she enters a car park and it always makes me laugh. She also tells everyone that she hates our dogs, but when no one is looking she is giving them lots of love and attention.
Tara: She has to have a lip balm in every part of the house and every pocket of every jacket and every pocket of every bag (and in the car too!).
Court and Ash visited from Australia for their intimate elopement with 2 guests at a Garden in Half Moon Bay for their ceremony before having dinner at the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay.
Ben and Joshua met in Atlanta GA while Ben was in school and Joshua was working as a pastry cook. After Ben finished grad school they decided to move up to New England to be closer to family. Their strong home values and desire to start a family of their own have been a pillar of their relationship from the start, and both knew that one day they would be married.
A question they often get asked is who proposed to whom, and they had decided early on in their relationship that they would each get a chance to propose when ready. They individually decided to take a knee and ask the other when on vacation in Paris.
When deciding on a wedding venue, Joshua knew the perfect spot–his family’s property in Rhode Island which they jokingly referred to as the “private family estate.” The property has been in the family for almost 80 years and had hosted his aunt and uncle’s wedding 30 years prior. Joshua viewed the project as a blank canvas and curated the wedding to his…or rather “their” dreams.
From picking the tent, growing flowers for the bouquets and centerpieces, to making the cake; a lot of the planning took place while Joshua was filming for Food Network’s Best Baker in America, and being a Pastry Chef he knew the food and dessert had to impress. He hired his coworkers of Harvest Restaurant in Cambridge MA to cater a customized menu for the event. The weather cooperated and presented one of the most beautiful days in September as they tied the knot surrounded by friends and family.
We met through a friend on Facebook. Samantha commented on Steph’s pictures telling her she was cute, followed by a message on Facebook and the rest was history. Steph took me to the place where we both realized that we were in love with each other and got down on one knee. We couldn’t be more perfect for one another. Our fave things to do is go to Disney World, play with our puppies, paint pottery, all the fun dates, but our absolute dream date would be a dinner in an igloo in Iceland under the northern lights.”
Location: Seymour, TN, US
Event Date: Jul 13, 2017
We created this styled shoot for a new venue, Chapel in the Hollow, who wanted to show that they celebrate love whatever the flavor. Krissy, the owner of Vintage Twigz, created a fun mix of soft boho elegance and rockstar drama.
The ceremony site is a twig teepee that was decorated with amazing florals by Melissa Timm Designs. She used a mixture of colors and textures that really made them pop.
The dress was borrowed from The Gilded Gown . We wanted something unique and different–not the traditional white–that an edgy girl would be proud to wear. Paired with a more relaxed look from Express and Buckle, these two ladies created some steam.
The fun sweetheart meal area was created from a plethora of rugs and pillows to give it almost a Moroccan feel, and Krissy provided the unique invitations and Party Like a Rockstar Favors to add a little fun flair.
Amanda and Crystal from Southern Sirens gave our ladies a rockstar makeover, and they looked amazing. From the fauxhawk to the bold eyes, every part of their look was perfect.
Star Noir Studio shot this in their Noir style, a darker style with a matte finish.
Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
Dress Store: The Gilded Gown
DIY or Handmade Goods Designer: Broken Twigz
Equipment Rentals: Vintage Twigz
Makeup Artist: Southern Sirens
Floral Designer: Melissa Timm Designs
Event Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
Photographer: Star Noir Studio
Location: Oswego, IL, US
Event Date: Oct 14, 2016
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Emily Karnick & Emily Beck
Emily and Emily. The fact that both of their names are Emily should have been my first sign that this couple and their wedding story would be anything less than unique. When I first met this sweet duo for coffee, we just sort of CLICKED. I felt like I had known them forever which made wedding talk that much more fun. As I sat there and watched how they interacted with one another, I knew this would be a beautiful couple to photograph. I immediately felt comfortable around them and saw that they were with each other. They already seemed as though they had been married for years. Emily A. – “We met officially when we both started working for the same police department in 2014. Although, we had gone to the same school for 4 years before that and had been unofficially introduced once before, we somehow never really knew each other until then.”I loved their proposal story! Emily A. – “Kind of a long story, but the first time Emily (Rachel) and I (Emily Anne) worked together, we were working the midnight shift on October 20th, 2014. At around 3am she told me to come outside with her. We stood outside under the most beautiful sky full of stars. She told me that the sky was the best part about working midnights. I think this was the first time we both felt that spark. Fast forward to July 30th 2015. Emily (Rachel) planned a day downtown and told me we were going to the Adler Planetarium. When we got there, we looked around for a while and then she told me she bought tickets to see a show about the night sky. After the show was over and everyone was leaving, the lights turned back off and our song started playing. At this point I was very confused and a little scared that we were going to get locked in the theatre hahaha. Then a clock came up on the big screen and time rewound back to October 20th and the exact same night sky we stood under was projected across the whole theatre. Emily Rachel got down on one knee and asked me to be her wife. Seriously, such an amazing day.” I always ask my couples what the most important aspect is when planning out their wedding. Emily and Emily’s was important on so many personal levels. “Being a same-sex couple, we really wanted to make sure all of our vendors were comfortable being involved in a same-sex wedding. That was our number one priority. The first thing we looked at and booked was the venue. Once we had that booked, we immediately started researching photographers. At the end of the day, all that we will have left to look back on is the pictures! All of the vendors we chose were amazing and made the day perfect.”This day was such a privilege to be a part of and I am so honored to call these beauties my friends.
Venue: Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Dress Store: David’s Bridal
Dress Store: The Crystal Bride
Caterer: Buddy’s Special Events
Other: Our Wedding Movie
DJ: Sounds Abound Entertainment
Floral Designer: Katydidit Florist
Design and Decor: Joanna Goss
Caterer: My Chef Catering
Event Venue: Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom
Photographer: Elizabeth Greve Photography
Location: Palm Coast, FL, US
Event Date: Sep 01, 2015
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Heather Woods & Jade Woods
Heather and Jade were married on March 14th, 2015 and I had the privilege of shooting with them for a Trash the Dress session! TTD is my absolute favorite thing to photograph and I was in photographer heaven to have the chance to shoot two beautiful brides in two beautiful gowns! I’m in love with all of these images and they are definitely my favorite Trash The Dress shoot I’ve done! Heather and Jade were amazing to work with and didn’t let the unseasonal heat and humidity or the hundreds of banana spiders (seriously, they were everywhere!) slow them down at all! I could not be happier and more proud of these images. This was my first same sex shoot and I am looking forward to working with so many more couples in the future! Love is love and it sure is beautiful to photograph.
Venue: Washington Oaks State Park
Event Venue: Washington Oaks State Park
Photographer: Lisa Siva Photography
Location: New York, NY, US
Event Date: Sep 27, 2015
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Chris Adasiewicz & Jason Bowman
Chris & Jay’s ceremony was absolutely beautiful. The weather, the view, and most importantly the friends and family that surrounded them as they said their vows. Chris’ brother, a professional vibraphonist (how cool is that?!) played as their mother walked down the aisle with the couple. August Gold made an incredible officiant and I love that their fathers acted as the ring bearers – each presenting his new son-in-law with a wedding band destined for his own son’s hand. And of course there was a moment of celebration during the service to acknowledge that their partnership is legally recognized throughout the country!When I asked Chris and Jay to write a little about themselves, this is lovely response I received:Three ways we’ve changed in the last five years togetherJason: I have been able to truly experience love. All the times I had thought I was in love, turned out to be ego-based. I love Chris on a soul level and its hard to articulate, but there is a big difference. I also feel Chris’ love for me. I am not scared around him. Fear rarely exists in our relationship and when it comes up, we handle it.I now understand partnership. It’s not always easy, but its worth it. Making an effort to give, being able to receive. Recognizing when I am being selfish. I love living with Chris. I remember the first time we spent an entire afternoon together without saying a word. We are very comfortable in each other’s presence.I learned how to create a future. Chris has taught me how to be responsible with our resources. We own a home together. We have no debt and a lot of savings.Chris: I am more loving. Jay has deepened my ties to family and friends and taught me to be more patient and proactive in relationships. He has also modeled for me what a partnership commitment truly means – a promise to always show up for the other person, even when it’s tough.I am more fully expressed. Jay has opened my mind to the value of greater self-awareness and more authentic communication. I love that he does disciplined work in this area and graciously shares it with me.I am more grateful. Every day being with Jay reminds me how incredibly fortunate I am. I know many people who don’t have someone they love as much as I love Jay and he loves me.How did you meet?We started hanging out through mutual friends in the spring and summer of 2002. We quickly moved to doing things just the two of us. Our friendship deepened in the summer of 2003 when our friend Sue founded S.W.i.S.H. – a gay-straight advocacy group, dedicated to furthering the LGBT rights movement. Alas, we dated other people while remaining friends for 7 years.Sunday, April 18, 2010 is the date we count as our anniversary. We had been to a concert at Lincoln Center the night before and had a wonderful time. Although we didn’t completely understand what was happening, Sunday turned into a magical, impromptu date. We went to the New York Public Library and a Tim Burton exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art. We had a romantic breakfast in the morning and pigged out on Mexican food in the afternoon. For dinner we ordered in Thai food and watched a nature documentary. It was an absolutely perfect day.Who proposed and how?Jason: I proposed at 7:30am on Tuesday, June 26, 2013 – the day DOMA (the Defense of Marriage Act) was overturned in the Supreme Court. They hadn’t yet released their decision, but Chris was leaving for work and I was feeling optimistic. So before he left, I put my coffee down and got down on one knee. It was a beautiful moment.
Venue: The Press Lounge
Officiant: August Gold
Other: Ted Baker
Restaurant: The Press Lounge
Photographer: Leslie Barbaro Photography
Location: Selma, NC, US
Event Date: Jan 16, 2016
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Michele Meisner & Colleen Balik
Who doesn’t love an engagement session that incorporates a couples favorite things? Michele & Colleen’s engagement photos were so much fun. We really got to know so much about them in just a couple hours. They chose to do their engagement session at their home in Selma since it they had bought it together and of course they were very excited about it. They also had some fur-babies and feather-babies that they wanted involved in the shoot. We have done shoots before with dogs, but birds were definitely a first for us. In addition to all of their pets they also wanted to include Colleen’s purple Dodge Charger and her purple Harley which Michele loves to be on the back of. After spending the afternoon with these two ladies in their home with their adorable little family and capturing some great moments between these two, I’m definitely excited to not only share these images but am so excited to photograph their wedding this spring!?
How did the two of you meet?We met on an online dating site. Being two NJ girls we had plenty to talk about, but never ended up meeting before Colleen’s profile disappeared. One year later, she made a reappearance, and Michele was still her top listed match, so she awkwardly started conversation again. Michele didn’t find it awkward and was happy to meet, but wasn’t really thinking of it as a date since the two lived an hour apart. Eventually Michele wised up, and they realized they were meant to be!Tell us about the proposalWe planned a housewarming party a couple months after purchasing our first home together. Once Michele realized how many family members were going to be joining us she decided this would be the perfect opportunity for a proposal, since we had already been discussing marriage for a while. She called Colleen’s parents and then set it all in motion. Our families went out to dinner the night before our housewarming party, and after returning home Michele said she had planned a scavenger hunt for everybody. She handed out clues, which actually just sent the others to grab signs that Colleen’s mom had printed out. Michele joined Colleen in the bedroom for her part of the scavenger hunt finding photo collages of their early dates and eventually putting together a poster with photo memories leading up to the present time. Michele then took her out to where the other family members were waiting with a video camera and signs “Colleen, will you marry me?” and got down on her knee. Family joy commenced! A couple weeks later Colleen surprised Michele with her ring at their favorite restaurant way before Michele thought Colleen had the time to special order a ring for her really tiny finger!For more on the proposal story and to get to know us better feel free to check out our wedding website: www.mywedding.com/colleenmicheleWhat’s something annoying but cute that each of you do?What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in your life-after-marriage together?We are excited for wedding planning and excessive money-spending to be over!We can’t wait for relaxing and exploring Jamaica on our long honeymoon! We’re excited for any other future travel we will be able to do together.Eventually we look forward to expanding our family beyond animals!What do you both enjoy doing together with your free time?We love animals, and can’t seem to stop opening our hearts to more furry/feathery love! We have spent free time bringing in more animals, but we have to stop that for a while! We spend lots of time cuddling with our pets and teaching the birds to talk! Colleen steals all of Ducky’s cuddles!We also enjoy going to sporting, theatrical, and musical events! But we’re also very happy curling up on the couch at home watching TV or reading a book.Colleen likes to spoil Michele with cooked/baked treats (and flowers)! Michele also has her few standard meals she makes for Colleen!What is your favorite memory together?One of Michele’s favorite memories is receiving her one-year anniversary gift from Colleen. It is a beautiful box with things in it from every date from the first year. So this favorite memory is of lots of memories! Ironically, one of Colleen’s favorite memories was giving this box to Michele. Seeing her tear up and get emotional over it showed appreciation, and brought us closer together.The proposal(s) are also of course a favorite memory.We have lots of favorite memories of places we’ve gone together and concerts we’ve seen. A lot of the ones that stand out were surprises from one of us to the other.If you could both relocate anywhere in the world – where would it be?Colleen wants to go to Boston…Michele prefers the warmer weather.Ireland is up there for Colleen as well, and Michele would definitely be up for that one!
Venue: Private Residence
Cinema and Video: AO&JO Photography
Photographer: AO&JO Photography
Location: Snohomish, WA, US
Event Date: Feb 15, 2016
Inspired by the gorgeous french countryside and the classic simplicity of a green fern.
Venue: Dairyland
Hair Stylist: Saige Jacobs
Bakery: Delicately Sweet Confections
Jewelry: Aide-mémoire Jewelry
Favors and Gifts: Flour Dusted Countertops
Personal Stylist: Rachelle’s Bridal Blog
Other: Layered Design
Equipment Rentals: Snohomish Rental Co
Makeup Artist: KaylaKollection
Reception Venue: Dairyland
Photographer: B. Jones Photography
Location: NYC, NY, US
Event Date: Sep 19, 2015
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Kyle Davison & Nick Tann
Like many modern couples nowadays, Nick and I met each other on an online dating site. Having both been on many unsuccessful dates previously with guys we’d been chatting to online, we were starting to lose hope in finding ‘the one,’ especially on the Internet. After chatting for a couple of weeks online, we decided to meet up face to face and see if we had the same connection in real life. Our first date was truly magical. We met up at the seaside, had a romantic walk along the beach, went for ice cream and just spent hours chatting and getting to know each other. Time flew by, there was such a spark between us and we both didn’t want that date to end. We spent the next few months dating, and learning everything about each other. It was a whirlwind romance! After just 6 months of dating, we decided to take the big step of moving in together. For many couples, this can be the make or break point in a relationship and I can truly say that for us, it has moved us even closer together as a couple. Nick is my soulmate, the person I hope to spend the rest of my life with and grow old with. Even though we may irritate each other from time to time with our own little eccentricities, we love each other wholeheartedly and can’t imagine life apart.
Venue: Private Residence
Photographer: Casey Hendrickson Photography
Location: Harpswell, ME, US
Event Date: Aug 29, 2015
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Tina Smith & Jeanette Richelson
Rose petals spiraled down the yellow brick aisle as Jeanette walked down to the chuppah. Jeanette looked like a goddess in her hemp silk wedding dress. She was so beautiful TLove was short of breath. T was so nervous she had to ask her friend Alex for help with her bow tie. The ceremony was held among the apple trees and the reception was in a gorgeous rustic barn at the Live Well Farm in Harpswell, Maine.Jeanette and TLove closed their ceremony with a 125 person kaleidoscope yoga circle.
Venue: Live Well Farm
Event Venue: Live Well Farm
Fashion Designer: Tara Lynn Bridal
Photographer: Molly Haley
Location: Kansas City, MO, US
Event Date: Sep 23, 2015
On this years Autumnal Equinox, a select group of Kansas City’s wedding creatives created a beautiful Indian Summer Themed wedding and reception. The weather was perfect, and we were able to raise the doors at River Market Event Place and bring the outdoors in, for one last summertime hoorah. Anna Arnot, of Asteroid Florals played double duty and also modeled for our stylized shoot. Her real life girlfriend Dez modeled as well. We all loved how eloquent yet relaxed the decor was, and I personally was in love with all of the amazing textures in the florals, linens and paper goods. This was a perfect way to welcome fall and celebrate such an amazing summer.
Venue: River Market Event Place
Invitation Designer: Sugarbean Paper Company
Equipment Rentals: Ultrapom Event Rental
Equipment Rentals: Airstream Lounge KC
Apparel: Houndstooth
Dress Store: Altar Bridal
Bakery: babycakes
Floral Designer: Asteroid Floral
Reception Venue: River Market Event Place
Photographer: Morgan Miller Photography
Location: Denver, CO, US
Event Date: Aug 05, 2015
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Nicole Oudenhoven & Asher Eno
Initially Nicole a professional dominatrix and Asher a mental health therapist who identifies as gender queer, planned a big winter wedding at an upscale Denver hotel and ballroom with all the big wedding trimmings. Then they changed their minds and went the opposite way.They went small and made the day all about them, from a nice room at the Crawford Hotel at Union Station to a day full of gift giving, then a small courthouse ceremony and dinner for family. If it seems a bit non traditional, check out Nicole’s dress and Asher’s suit, there was no black and white here.They wanted their day to be about color, expression and creativity… We’re pretty sure they nailed it!
Venue: Denver Union Station
Ring Designer: The Shane Co.
Dress Designer: Sherri Hill
Dress Designer: Sherri Hill
Other Location: Denver Union Station
Photographer: Stark Bellamy Photography
Location: Raleigh, NC, US
Event Date: May 16, 2015
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Josh Gardner & Matt Cox
We met at the American Tobacco Campus for this special engagement session. Matt and Josh met for the first time in Raleigh since it was the halfway point from where they both lived, so it only seemed fitting to do their engagement session there!When Matt knew Josh was the one for him, he bought matching Claddagh bands, and got to planning! It was Valentine’s Day, and they had reservations at this delicious little spot that they had their eyes on for awhile. Matt had some connections, and secretly slipped the rings off to the staff, and that evening after they’d had dinner, a dessert platter was brought out. Josh noticed something different though – a little cute bag was sitting there, and he assumed it was just a Valentine’s Day special, like maybe some chocolates or something. As the waitress began telling them what each dessert was, she stopped when she got to the bag, and asked Josh to help her figure out what that one was. Josh looked up to see Matt smiling from ear to ear across from him, and he instantly knew. “Will you marry me?” Matt asked. Josh said absolutely, and the whole restaurant erupted in applause and cheers!
Venue: Private Residence
Photographer: Casey Hendrickson Photography
Location: San Diego, CA, US
Event Date: Nov 07, 2014
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Tori Minadeo-Kline & Jenn Minadeo-Kline
Jenn & ToriMarried 11/07/2014Hard Rock Hotel, San Diego, CACeremony and Reception: Hard Rock hotel, San Diego, CAWedding Planner: San Diego Weddings by GinaDJ: Injoy Entertainment, ChadPhotographer: Derek Chad PhotographyOfficiant: Morton Beruge (Friend)Cake: BabycakesHair: Gila Rut Aveda Salon (Nadia and Justine)Flowers: Sunrise Nursery/ organic floraI had an absolute blast photographing Jenn & Tori’s wedding at the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego. The Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego has an amazing space for a ceremony and when Jenn & Tori they were going to be married there I was incredibly excited. Such a perfect and gorgeous spot. It was absolutely perfect for Jenn and Tori, it matched them perfectly. And take a look at their dresses?! I mean, come on… SO PRETTY! I am incredibly honored that I was chosen to document their big day and I am so glad I met these two. These two have surely not seen the last of me, I consider them friends and can’t wait to hang out with them again. Congratulations Jenn and Tori!!!!!! You two are a blast and were incredibly gorgeous on your wedding day… inside and out.?
Venue: Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Photographer: Derek Chad Photography
Cake Designer: BabyCakes
Floral Designer: Organic Flora
DJ: Injoy Entertainment
Reception Venue: Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Location: Salt Lake City, UT, US
Event Date: Sep 25, 2014
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Ryan & Tyler
How did you two meet?
We tell everyone it was the gym, and considering our size everyone just assumes that makes sense. And we did actually see each other at the gym at least once, but neither of us would have assumed the other was gay, let alone single. In the end, the Internet did the introduction.
Tell us about the proposal!
Ty proposed. We had been dating for about 3 years, and the topic had definitely come up. It started coming up right in the beginning, honestly. But with family issues and other stress, we’d always put it off. Ty and his family were more ready than me and mine to support a gay marriage, so we’d just agreed that when I was ready we would. In the end, it happened on Valentine’s Day. We were on a trip to Mexico and the Caribbean. While at some Mayan ruins, Ty found a quiet place where the tourist crowds had vacated and got down on one knee on the steps of the big temple and asked me to marry him. I couldn’t have been more surprised. I had no idea. Apparently, all of our friends knew, but it was the best-kept secret of my life.
Describe your attire.
For the wedding ceremony in Hawaii, we wore light linen vests and slacks, with a white button-up shirt. Later, back in Utah for the reception, we wore vests and slacks again, but they were grey wool. What inspired the wedding day outfits? More than anything it was the location. It seemed right for Hawaii. And we just ran with the same idea and made it fit into a Fall in Utah.
Did you do a First Look before the ceremony?
Kind of. We were already in Hawaii, just the two of us. And we were staying in the same suite; drove to the wedding venue together. Our decision to go to Hawaii on our own pretty much dictated the wedding day logistics.
Was there a decor theme for the ceremony?
We were in Hawaii, so native Hawaiian flowers in a flower circle created a beautiful space for our vows. The beach had a diverse landscape of pristine sand, lava rock, and wild grass. It also had small pocket areas we could use for privacy in the event of anyone else being in the area.
Our favorite memories of our wedding:
Moments after the ceremony started the officiant stopped and told us we just had to turn around and see something. A huge, bright rainbow was streaked across the entire blue Hawaiian sky directly behind us. It hadn’t been there when we started.
THE RECEPTION
Our reception was held in Utah. We took a look at venues that were available when we wanted them and went through our wedding planner’s linen samples and went with what we thought looked classy and energetic. We incorporated bright fuchsia orchids. t?Anything You wish you had known about sooner rather than later?
How did you choose your vendors?
We found a ceremony planner on Maui and a reception planner in Salt Lake that knew what they were doing. We really trusted them to help guide us to a small number of choices that we could make decisions on instantly. That was key to us.
What is your very best advice to other couples?
Keep expectations realistic and enjoy the day. Don’t ruin it for yourself and others. Enjoy it!
Venue: Gallivan Center
Linens and Coverings: BBJ Linen
Reception Venue: Gallivan Center
Cake Designer: Layers Cake Company
Floral Designer: artisan bloom
Photographer: Logan Walker Photography
Event Designer: Silver Summit Event Design
Location: San Diego, CA, US
Event Date: Oct 11, 2014
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Jill Hamilton & Debbie Swanson
I was so excited to meet Jill and Deb! And after meeting we found out that we have a lot in common! They are a ton of fun and I love the way they look at each other. SO much love for each other it’s adorable. They are from Chandler, AZ and I was raised nearby in Mesa, AZ. But I found it interesting that they were getting married on the same boat that my Husband and I were married on in 2009! It is called the Emerald Hornblower and we both found it through Hornblower Cruises and Events. It was great to be back on the boat, but the best part was celebrating their love for each other. They had an amazing wedding with such a fun group of friends and family. A night they will never forget. We also took some extra time to get some photos of the two of them at their favorite dog beach in Ocean Beach. Aren’t those dogs adorable?!
Venue: Hornblower Cruises and Events
Event Planner: Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Boutique
Photographer: Derek Chad Photography
Cake Designer: Twiggs Bakery and Coffee House
Shoes: TOMS
Dress Store: Uptown Bridal & Boutique
Reception Venue: Hornblower Cruises and Events
Location: Daytona Beach, FL, US
Event Date: Mar 30, 2015
We searched for the perfect LBGT couple for our country glam chic styled shoot. I came across these lovely gentlemen that had JUST gotten married for real in a courthouse in New York. Very much in love, and lamenting their lack of wedding pictures, this adorable couple jumped at the chance to be our models.? Add in one of the best cake designers in town, a few of our areas best photographers, Daytona’s leading wedding officiant, a top notch floral and linen company, and a new up and coming vintage rental company, and a vision, and this is the result!!! (THEY are considering this shoot their actual wedding pictures)The contributors for this styled shoot are a new non profit wedding organization called FLOWER, or, the Florida Organization of Wedding and Event Representatives. Our motto is “bettering our community through the celebration of life & love”, and we strive to do just that. Currently we are working on several wedding events whose ticket sales and vendor fees will fund our charity events and charity weddings. We believe that by joining our individual talents, from photography, baking, dj-ing, and more, we can make a difference in our community.
Venue: Private Residence
Heirlooms and extras: Vintage Flair event rentals
Linens and Coverings: Special event linen rental
Cake Designer: DELECTABLE DELIGHTS
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: John’s Bridal & Tux World
Dress Store: Bridal Ltd.
Officiant: A Lovely Engagement
Floral Designer: Flowers Omg
Other: Classic Photography
Photographer: Jennifer Juniper Photography
Location: Toronto, ON, CA
Event Date: Sep 02, 2018
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: S Jess & W Athena
Jess and Athena’s wedding on Toronto Island.
I don’t think I have ever laughed as hard at a wedding as I did at this one. Between the officiant’s stellar interpretation of Jess and Athen’s blossoming love, to both their father’s wacky and charming sense of humours I was just in stitches the whole day. Besides the non-stop smiles and jokes, there was a tremendous amount of love going around this day; a deep appreciation that we live in a country and an era where this day was possible. Whether subconscious or fully expressed I think these feelings of thankfulness add a lot of extra tenderness to a wedding day. It feels good to be grateful!
Thanks you for trusting me ladies, and thank you for climbing on that cart!
Design and Decor: Ding Dong Decor
Transportation: Island Princess Ferry
Caterer: Urban Acorn
Makeup Artist: The Beauty Movement
Officiant: Unboring Wedding
Event Venue: Algonquin Island Association Clubhouse
Event Planner: Love Collective
Equipment Rentals: A Good Fork
Photographer: Christine Hewitt Weddings
Location: Torotno, ON, CA
Event Date: Dec 16, 2017
Client Orientation: Hetero
Client Names: P Iris & S Ascena
Iris & Ascena’s intimate winter wedding at Cluny Bistro in the Distillery District, Toronto.
All of the love and coziness you could want in a small wedding was present on this December evening. Yes it was freezing outside, and yes it was the crazy Christmas Market…but love makes you warm all over!
These amazing women first met in grade 9 (that’s around 1999) sneaking cigarettes behind a portable at an all girls Catholic school! I love it, imaging the scenario makes me smile and makes my heart do a little flutter. And here they are, after many years of adventure, travel, life and love; in a small ceremony with close friends and family, celebrating that connection that started so many years ago.
Venue: Cluny Bistro, Distillery District, Toronto Canada
Officient: Christine Lafazanios, Woven Threads
Wedding Dress: BHLDN, Taryn Gown
Suit Jacket: Ellie Tahari
Hair & Make-up: Michelle Gomes
Flowers & Decor: Patchouli Design
Floral Designer: Patchouli Designs
Makeup Artist: Michele Gomes Makeup and Hair
Dress Store: BHLDN
Officiant: Woven Threads
Event Venue: Cluny Bistro
Other Location: Distillery District
Caterer: Distillery District
Photographer: Christine Hewitt Weddings
Location: Auburn, WA, US
Event Date: Oct 29, 2017
Vibrant Firs is a new wedding venue in Auburn, WA. It has a charming Colonial structure right by the lake, dock access, barn, gazebo, and 50 acres of land. Its exterior paint and front door design left a great impression on our first visit. As soon as we pull in the roundabout driveway, at the end of the brick path is the tiffany blue and white painted, column entrance. Along with the lake view, we immediately decide that we will be setting up a reception style table on the dock and some lounge pieces outdoor.
Along with its exterior paint and the romantic storybook setting vibe, we put together the color palette in the range of cream, periwinkle, French blue, Tiffany blue, and moss, agate green. Our design concept focus heavily on vintage, antique items, layers of fabrics, and accessorize with gold. Thus, we name our theme Colonial Fairytale. The advantage of choosing Vibrant Firs as a wedding venue is that it is very versatile. Couples can design their weddings more rustic, boho, or elegant and Vibrant Firs would be perfect in any of these settings. It also provides plenty of indoor space inside the barn in case the weather changes.
While putting together the reception table, we made the floral centerpieces smaller to showcase and blend into the gorgeous nature surrounding. We also fan out the flatwares a bit to make the place setting less formal and more homey. We layered two different type of lighter fabrics on top of the deep blue velvet table cloth and to make them jump out visually, the reception chairs are also clothed in Parchment Linette. At this point, we simple add more textures with taper candles and votives.
Our favorite part of the table is definitely the spools of ribbons that double as place cards and add a really personalized, special finishing touches. The delicate Robin Egg Blue silk ribbons are from Stella Wolfe, the width is 0.5”, skinny enough to leave lots of blank space on the plates. Our stationery designer worked wonders on the ribbons and wrote beautiful names in calligraphy.
Flowers:
We like to incorporate floral design when composing for the overall concept since they are so intimately tied together. For this design, we used lots of feathery, soft texture. Our centerpieces are composed of field grown roses, queen anne lace, nigella, delphinium, yarrow cottage, eryngium, astilbe, and purple feather acacia. We also create two different style of bouquets, one more tender and aerial with cotton and another more exquisite with more blue floral pieces. The floral installation are set up indoor to feature the venue’s gorgeous fireplace and stairway. With our theme, we add Jasmine vines and virginia creeper vines to build the installation structure.
Catering:
Olive is inspired by the nature and utilizes her home grown herbs such as rosemary to dazzle the gourmet hors d’oeuvres. Its lemony tang counterbalances a mild ricotta cheese on a floral olive oil polenta coins.
For the other much crunchier bites she creates a roast beef rainbow carrots tartlet to pair with ceremonial champagne toast. Blue and pale purple hues are her personal favorite. It creates a sense of elegance and turns the romantic elements more sensual. Blackberry and purple carrots were used as accent pieces to complements meat dishes.
Cake:
Jan creates a two-tier wedding cake featuring a smooth color block design with a blue watercolor top-tier and a center cascade of pure, hand-piped buttercream flowers inspired by the lake setting. Every aspect of the cake focuses on the simplicity of a traditional wedding cake while also capturing the unique detail and placements present in the buttercream flowers.
Stationary:
The gorgeous Vibrant Firs venue and the “Colonial Fairytale” theme both played an equal part in my design process for the calligraphy and paper pieces of this shoot. Soft blues, long calligraphy strokes, and an illustration of the venue’s iconic front door brought the suite pieces to life.
For the menu design, I drew inspiration from reading by candlelight in the colonial era; the wax remnants of a romantic, soft white wax seal are suspended in time alongside delicate calligraphy paired with a classic typeface. Finally, a love note and dusty blue vow book: perfect heirloom pieces for the romantic bride.
Venue: Vibrant Firs
DIY or Handmade Goods Designer: The Copper Pine
Model: Cristina Bologan
Jewelry: Heidi Hull Designs
Model: Tierney Jones Model
DIY or Handmade Goods Designer: Stella Wolfe- Hand dyed silk ribbons
Bakery: Jan Kim Grumbles: Cake Design
Linens and Coverings: Choice Linens
Equipment Rentals: CORT Party Rental
Equipment Rentals: Wander Event Rentals
Dress Store: The Dress Theory – Seattle
Invitation Designer: Sablewood Paper Co
Floral Designer: Oh Miss Chic
Design and Decor: Oh Miss Chic
Caterer: Cooking Dolls
Makeup Artist: Christy K Makeup Hair
Event Venue: Vibrant Firs
Photographer: B. Jones Photography
Location: Traverse City, MI, US
Event Date: Nov 11, 2017
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Jenni Molinaro & Lisa Peoples
Lisa & Jenni truly embody what it means to be in love, and we were so honored to be part of their special day. In their spare time, Jenni & Lisa enjoy Painting, wine and cheese at Brys Estate Vineyard, photography, attending concerts, road tripping, camp firing, binge watching, house planning and redecorating, repurposing and buying vintage things, building their unique life. The universe had a really beautiful way of bringing these two amazing souls together. When asked what one word would best describe their relationship, they agreed that “Serendipitous” was what came to mind. From the moment we arrived with a soft blanket of snow covering the ground, we knew this was going to be quite a sight to see. The love they have for each other is absolutely palpable – so much so that we were brought to tears during their thoughtful and heartfelt vows. Lisa is an extremely talented artist & photographer, so the bar of photographic expectations was set high.
Venue: Private Residence
Apparel: Express Men
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Floral Designer: Lilies of the Alley
Dress Designer: Melissa Sweet
Ring Designer: Zales
Jewelry: Wanderlust Jewelers
Dress Designer: David’s Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal
Specialty Foods: Blake’s Hard Cider
Shoes: Sperry
Hair Stylist: Up north perfection
Photographer: Exposures by Rah
Location: Philadelphia, PA, US
Event Date: Apr 29, 2017
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Jesse Sutow & Alexander Frazer
Jesse and Alex’s Smith Memorial Playground Wedding in Philadelphia was definitely one for the books! Honestly, when have you ever been to, or heard of, a wedding at a 16,000 sq. ft. mansion that was converted into a playhouse with a massive 6.5 acre playground as a backyard?! They picked this venue because they love having a good time and just wanted their guests to be able to have fun and relax. The beginning of the day went extremely smooth considering Alex and Jesse were getting ready at a hotel that was in Center City, Philadelphia in the middle of the NFL Draft celebration. We left the hotels after first look and managed to make it to Smith Memorial Playground with a bunch of time to spare. We finished up portraits at the mansion playhouse which led into the outdoor ceremony on the front courtyard. Cocktail hour followed where the guests were able to find their name and table locations attached to their own unique Pez Candy Dispensers. From there, guests were able to drink and play on the 40ft Wooden Slide and Playground. The reception begun with food catered by a Taco Food Truck and a Macaroni and Cheese Food Truck. The party started and got wild before the guests were able to dig into their awesome Doughnut Cake created with Federal Doughnuts from Philadelphia.
Venue: Smith Memorial Playground
Floral Designer: London Flower & Variety Inc
Makeup Artist: Cheers 2 U
DJ: Synergetic Sound and Lighting
Caterer: Cricket Catering
Event Planner: Creative Eventology
Specialty Foods: Mac Mart
Specialty Foods: Federal Donuts
Other Location: Smith Memorial Playground
Photographer: Joe Dantone Photography
Location: Oceanside, CA, US
Event Date: Apr 14, 2018
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Katie Coughlin & Stormie Westendorf
We cannot say enough wonderful things about Katie & Stormie. Spending the day with them, their family and friends was nothing short of magical. Their love for one another is inspiring and represented so vividly with those who surrounded them. They fully committed to their ‘Secret Garden’ theme that was carried throughout their whole wedding planning process. From Stormie’s proposal to Katie during the ‘Garden of Lights’ Christmas celebration at the Encinitas Botanical Gardens, to their engagement session we shot at Felicita County Park in Escondido, and finally to their romantic garden inspired wedding by the sea in Oceanside at Spring Hill Suites by Marriott. Katie & Stormie’s day was full of so many special family details. They were married by Stormie’s Aunt Liz, Katie’s sisters completed her bridal party, they shared a double father-daughter dance and we know they were joined in spirit by Stormie’s late mother and Katie’s late second mom. The day was perfect and we are so honored to have captured it. They truly showed that love surely WINS in #KatiesPerfectStorm!
Venue: Private Residence
Bridesmaid Dresses: JJ’s House
Ring Designer: Weisfield Jewelers
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Men’s District
Dress Store: Poppy & Rose Bridal
Dress Designer: Justin Alexander
Makeup Artist: Mobile Beauty Team
Musicians: Celeste Barbier Events
Cake Designer: Kiki’s Custom Confections
Caterer: Hello Betty
Floral Designer: Kendra’s Floral Design
Cinema and Video: Paul Douda Photography
Reception Venue: SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Photographer: Paul Douda Photography
Location: San Francisco, CA, US
Event Date: Feb 11, 2017
Client Orientation: Hetero
Client Names: Gilbert Carrasco & Isaiah De La O
After Gilbert finished school, he was interested in finding friends and searched social media to find people who shared common interests. Isaiah had a video featuring RENT the movie on his MySpace and that connection started their future relationship. To steal a line from “A Walk to Remember,” Gilbert told Isaiah they could hang out, but he had to “promise he wouldn’t fall in love with him.” Six years later, the Supreme Court made the decision to make their future a legal possibility. Gilbert planned an event packed trip to Las Vegas to enjoy concerts, great food, gambling and a sweet surprise. Gilbert planned this trip all around Isaiah with him thinking Celine Dion would be the highlight. They traditionally went to a nice restaurant as part of their trips and so they went to the Eiffel Tower restaurant. They magically gave them a table across the Bellagio Fountains with red long-stem roses and personalized menus. Isaiah felt they were so lucky and was oblivious to the activity happening around him due to his heavy posting on social media. When Gilbert came back from the “bathroom,” their dessert came out. However, only one dish came out covered when we had ordered two. Isaiah’s puzzled look turned into a gasp of surprise as the server uncovered a plate of roses with chocolate writing and a single diamond ring for Gilbert’s single treasure in life. The rings were picked with their personalities in mind, but with one belief. The rings are two-tone and a combination of white and yellow gold. Marriage is not about 2 lives becoming one, but about 2 lives moving in sync like the fusion of 2 metals. Both metals are still different, yet inseparable.
As for planning of the look of the wedding day, they decided to keep it simple and let the city and the San Francisco Bay bring the excitement.
Custom-made three-piece suits were a must, but they didn’t want to wear the same color and neither of wanted to wear a light color. Therefore, they chose 2 different style suits and 2 different fabric colors. The cufflinks reflected their nerdy side as Star Trek and Harry Potter fans, respectively.
Since it was and evening wedding, they chose white florals on illuminated pedestals. The sweetheart table had a deep red arrangement of tropicals to celebrate Isaiah’s favorite color and add color accent.
The ceremony space was simple with the Bay Bridge as the backdrop and an aisle of dark rose petals to lead the way. Because Isaiah’s parents were not a part of the wedding their best friends escorted them down the Aisle. Gilbert’s niece led the processional and as the chorus to “Footprints in the sand” by Leona Lewis began, his sister and best friend escorted him down the aisle and Isaiah and his bestie there after. They needed no recessional song as the continued applause down the aisle was enough.
The reception was open seating and with an open bar, it wasn’t long before the room began to erupt with laughter and joy. Isaiah and Gilbert do not care for sparkling wine very much, so they had red wine goblets made with inverted cityscapes of San Francisco etched around the glass. Gilbert’s glass was always kept full. They went around and thanked their friends for coming before heading to the top deck of the yacht to begin the party after the meal. According to Gilbert, “Isaiah doesn’t dance in public very well” so they thought about the first dance and planned to dance for about 45 seconds and invite all the married couples to join us for an anniversary dance. It was a great way to share our joy with other couples.
Advioce from the couple is, “this event is all about you both and stressing about it only affects you. In the end, it will be a great event. Not everything will go according to plan, but no one will notice but you. So don’t sweat the small stuff. Good vendors will have a process and they will help guide you to make your day special. Remember, you are a novice at weddings, so leave the stressing to the experts around you that have the experience. ”
Floral Designer: Susan Bell Flowers
Bakery: Cakes Made By M.E.
Apparel: Suit Supply
Event Venue: Commodore Cruises & Events
Caterer: Commodore Cruises and Events
Photographer: Apollo Fotografie {Fine Art Wedding Photo & Video}
Location: Kihei, Maui, US/CA
Event Date: Nov 13, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Andrew Keith & Rian Greer
Rian and I looove spicy. I have currently around 25 hot sauces on my counter! Anyway, we live in Bellingham, Washington and this is our second tie around being together. It was meant to be, we were just too young the first time around. Back together for 3 years now, Rian and I originally met and dated in 2004-2006. we met at a nightclub that I snuck into underage. Fast forward 15 years and we now own that LGBTQ+ nightclub as well as the lounge next door. We both love the finer things in life but are very laid back and loving of each other and others. I am sensitive and empathic in nature, I nurture and take care of our home, manage drag performers and DJ’s at work….and he is the golden hearted workaholic currently building our empire. We have 2 elderly dogs and live on a small little lake in Bellingham called Toad. Rian is about to turn 39 and I will be 33 this month. Our honeymoon will be next summer in France, Italy and Greece!
Venue: Private Residence
Photographer: Amy Jayne Photography
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: Being a gay couple, we are blessed with the ability to have 0 traditions forced upon us, so we were able to create our own! Maui is so easy because declarations are almost not needed with all the gorgeous scenery. But we did focus on vibrancy is food, drink and floral and we chose to have our fathers present us with each others rings, which was very special.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: We provided embroidered beach towels that were arranged in multiple ways around the pool area, as well as matchbooks that read ‘The Charleses’. We also gave away our tiki glassware that we bought for the cocktails
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: We used many types of island flowers and foliage. We went for a more masculine design, using willow branches, 4 types of palm leaves, pineapple and coral for centerpieces on top of white tablecloths. Further, we had birds of paradise, yellow orchids, and oriental lilies to line the aisle on the gorgeous beachside lawn.
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: We personalized with the food and drink. Mai Tais with Liliuokalani foam that Rian prepared, as well as fresh Ono fish and Ahi that my nephew had caught on a deep sea fishing trip the day of!
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: We both wanted relaxed beach vibes while still in suits, so we chose a Calvin Klein slim fit suit but in separate colors as to chow that we are not the same in personality or preference. Then, we aimed to do a Calvin Klein white shirt with the top unbuttoned, sans tie and even rolled up our pants while we took photos in the waves!
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: We met in 2004 in a gay nightclub that Rian worked in at the time… I was just 17 but happened to get through the door somehow without ID. Fast forward 14 years and Rian proposed to me in our hot tub at our little lakeside home. Right after engagement, we ended up buying the nightclub we met at, then opened another lounge/bar next door! Full circle!
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: Our vows were the most anticipated. The walk through the palms with Amy Jayne, just before sunset had to be the most special moment.
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: Yes! Spend money on help and never underestimate how much work there is to do. Set yourself up to enjoy every minute and don’t do any of the work!
Location: Chapel Hill, NC, US
Event Date: Aug 04, 2019
I was a part of a styled shoot that included deep tones and gorgeous flowers. The models were a real life married couple, Chris and Jim and a beautiful model.
Dress Store: Gilded Bridal
Bakery: 10 Bloom Cakes
Invitation Designer: Cute Buttons
Equipment Rentals: Cottage Luxe
Beauty: Wedded Kiss
Linens and Coverings: CE Rentals
Floral Designer: Wild Flora Farm
Event Designer: Harmony Weddings and Events
Floral Designer: Barn of Chapel Hill
Reception Venue: Barn of Chapel Hill at Wild Flora Farm
Photographer: Morgan Caddell Photography
Location: Benton Harbor, MI, US
Event Date: Jun 09, 2018
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Mckenzie Harris & Katie Hojara
Mckenzie and Katie were the best brides I could have ever had. Their massive party of 16 girls filled the room with laughter and joy. I have never seen such a happier wedding party, couple, and families in my entire years of photographing. I myself even teared up multiple times, which doesn’t happen often to me. This wedding was hands down, incredible.
Hair Stylist: MAK Salon and Spa
Dress Store: Davids Bridal
Dress Store: Greta’s Bridal Shop
Event Venue: Sundance Studios
Photographer: Apaige Photography
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: The inspiration behind our day was a vintage garden theme. Our colors were blush, hints of navy, and a lot of greenery.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: All of the decor was DIY! We can’t thank McKenzie’s mom enough for truly carrying out the vision in our heads. She took vintagey garden and turned it into something truly breathtaking. We used several terrariums, silk flowers, and lanterns for our centerpieces. With hints of eucalyptus provided by our amazing florist, Bouquets by Stacy! McKenzie’s mom went a step further to add extra touches. She incorporated our puppy, Ollie, who couldn’t make the big day by featuring him at our head table. She even had a friend of her make doggie treats for guests to take home to Ollie’s fur friends who couldn’t make the “pawty” (cute, we know!) Lastly, because our family and friends mean the world to us, we had them sign a globe as our guestbook….another one of McKenzie’s moms ideas!
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: Our florals were a mixture of roses, football mums, baby’s breath, eucalyptus and succulents. Our florist, Stacy, did an excellent job with our vision. Her and her husband helped our families set up on wedding day, and were always willing to go above and beyond to make our floral vision come true! She also helped with our wedding favors, which were an assortment of succulents that our guests could take home to “let love grow”!
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: Personalization is the guestbook, and doggie treats mentioned in Q2. On top of this, we had Mimi’s Cupcake truck attend the wedding. Instead of a typical cake cutting, Katie and I fed each other cupcakes of our choice to one another, then our guests were welcome to jump in line to help themselves! The owner of Mimi’s, Elvie, is absolutely fabulous. All ingredients are made completely from scratch. The guests couldn’t stop raving about them!
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: Katie fell in love with the first dress she tried on, and I took a little longer to make a decision. Katie and I can’t keep any secret from each other, so we actually ended up showing each other our dresses before the big day, because we actually got our alterations done together. Galina at Greta’s Bridal in South Bend, IN was simply amazing! From day 1, the three of us just clicked. We both wanted to add a few unique touches to both dresses, and she completely exceeded our expectations. As far as hair and makeup, we both wanted simple, yet romantic hairstyles with natural looking makeup. Both salons that did our hair and makeup did an outstanding job of capturing the looks we were going for! We can’t thank MAK Salon and Spa and Bare Beauty Bar and Spa enough for helping us both to feel so beautiful on our big day! Although we both saw each other in the dresses before the big day, there was nothing like seeing Katie for the first time on that day. She looked completely stunning, and it is something I will never forget.
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: Katie and I met at a college bar called Kilroy’s while attending Indiana University. We were set up by a mutual friend, but it took Katie some liquid courage to work up the nerve to approach me at the bar. In fact, she was so nervous that the only thing she could mutter was, “hi”. However, I knew that she was a keeper from that very first night. When we decided to propose, because like I said, we can’t keep a secret, we chose to spend a weekend in Chicago together. We knew that both of us would propose to the another during this weekend, but did not know when or how the other would do so. Katie ended up going first, she had my friends distract me at a bar, while she decorated our hotel room with hanging signs mapping out our biggest moments together from the past year. At the end of the trail was a letter from Katie and her down on one knee. Very well done. Katie and I always love trying fun new restaurants, so I chose to propose at the 3 Arts Cafe. We sat down for lunch, and towards the end I gave her a book with all the reasons why I love her on each page, of course by the ending I was down on one knee as well. The entire weekend was full of love, tears, and fun. Luckily, several of my friends live in Chicago l, so they were able to join in on fun with us!
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: The most special moment of our wedding day was our wedding ceremony. We asked one of our good friends, Jenny Case, to officiate our wedding. When we picked Jenny, we knew she would do a great job; however, what we didn’t know was that she would do an absolutely amazing job! Jenny far exceeded all of our expectation! In fact, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. This moment is something we will cherish forever.
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: For all the couples out there planning a wedding, don’t forget to relax on your big day. All the stress and headaches leading up to the big day will be completely worth it. Your vendors, family, and friends will help to make it the most perfect day, so don’t forget to thank them for being so amazing! Enjoy every second of the day, because it will be over in the blink of an eye.Well, we’ve only been married for 3 weeks…so I certainly don’t have much advice to share, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned from both sets of our parents it’s that marriage isn’t a fairytale, you must work at it every day. You must learn to say you’re sorry, don’t go to bed angry, and love them unconditionally.
Location: Roseland, VA, US
Event Date: Oct 26, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Augusta Smallwood & Sam Feldmann
Ever since Gussie and Sam met on Tinder, their love affair began.
In Gussie’s words, she never really dreamed about her own wedding growing up because the lack of marriage equality made her feel excluded. However, all she ever wanted to do since meeting Sam was to give her the ring and wedding of her dreams and have a little family of their own #endgame
Their wedding was a perfect blend of faiths, and a celebration of their love and for all of those who fought so hard to give them the chance to do so. The Horah was amazing and they even built their own Chuppah. These two are free spirits that love hard and picked the perfect Virginia Brewery to celebrate this remarkable day.
Makeup Artist: Makeup by Ravishing
Cinema and Video: Beyond Videography
DJ: All About the Music
Musicians: Plum Blossom Music
Floral Designer: Willow Branch
Second Shooter: Eichner Studios
Dress Designer: BHLDN
Event Planner: day by fay
Event Venue: Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery
Photographer: Michelle Turek Photography
Location: Crofton, KY, US
Event Date: Apr 28, 2018
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Britney Walters & Molly Walters
I met with Britney and Molly earlier this year and just loved these two together. You can instantly tell how much they love each other and how excited they were to finally be married. They planned for an early spring wedding on April 28th and hoped that Molly wouldn’t get deployed before the big day. Luck was on their side because not only did their wedding go off without a hitch but those pesky April showers held off for their big day.
I entered the bridal suite that morning to find Britney, Molly and their wedding party all getting ready. Molly was finishing up her hair and makeup before heading over to her suite to get ready. Britney did a first look with her dad out on the bridal suite porch after her mom helped her into her dress. Britney and Molly chose to forgo a first look and do a traditional wedding which was stunning. Seeing Molly’s face light up as Britney walked down the aisle was something to see. The two exchanged the sweetest vows and just like that Mrs. and Mrs. Walters was announced. Britney’s most anticipated part of the day was “saying our vows. I was excited to hear Molly’s and I couldn’t wait to let everyone know just how much we love each other!” Molly loved watching Britney walk down the aisle and realizing she was her forever.
We spent some time together photographing their families, their wedding party and then it was time for the two of them to take a little time together to soak in the day and have their couple portraits taken. Couple portraits are one of my favorite parts of the day. It’s a great time to look into your partner’s eyes, take some time and realize that you just married the love of your life. These two were naturals. Their love was so clear and sweet and I couldn’t be happier with how the photos came out.
After that, it was party time! Britney and Molly loved celebrating with their friends and family. Molly surprised everyone with a special dance with her mom that everyone loved! During the reception they got to slow down and take in the day because it really did fly by.
I asked the two of them what their favorite wedding details were and here’s what they had to say. Molly – the cake was really beautiful. I like the “The Walters” sign my Matron of Honor made. Britney picked out both of those things! Britney – I really like the centerpieces and cork name card holders. We got the ideas on Pinterest and enlisted the help of our family and friends to gather the bottles and corks leading up to the wedding. It became kind of a fun collecting project and made me feel like we had a little of our friends/family right there in the decorations.
Now that they’re a married couple, they can officially offer advice to future newlyweds. When asked what they wish they would have known or what they’d like to tell couples planning their wedding they said: Britney – Hire a day-of wedding coordinator so you can enjoy the whole day without worrying about having to field calls/questions from vendors or family trying to set things up. The less you have to do in the lead up to the wedding, the more you can actually enjoy what’s happening on your wedding day! Molly – Remember its your day. Do what you want for your wedding, you only do this once! They both recommend starting early. They felt like time really crept up on them in the last couple of months so they recommend putting together a checklist so you don’t forget anything.
Hair Stylist: Lovely You with Lecia Doss
Floral Designer: Sango Village Florist
DJ: EPIC Music Services
Bakery: Gallardo’s cakes and bakery
Cinema and Video: Tower Studios
Dress Store: Wedding Belles
Event Venue: Burdoc Farms
Photographer: Liz Courtney Photography
Location: Ramona, CA, US
Event Date: Sep 13, 2014
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Melissa Robinson & Charena Lafayette
How they met:?It all started with Charena sending Melissa an “icebreaker” on YAHOO personals back in 2004. Melissa declined but Charena was persistent. Melissa eventually gave in and the two began to chat. After chatting for awhile they decided to meet in person. During our first date it was evident to both of us that we had found the one but we did not express this. We have pretty much been inseparable since that day!The proposal: ?Charena was being deployed to Afghanistan and we decided to have a going away party with our closest friends. Little did Melissa know that Charena had planned to propose to her. We went to Karl Strauss and had dinner a few drinks then headed over to Boomers for some miniature golf. After playing a round a golf Charena asked Melissa if she wanted to play another round and even though Melissa was not up for it she said yes and began to walk. Charena called her name and Melissa turned around Charena was on one knee and asked her to marry her. There were tears shed by all in attendance and Melissa said “YES”! Melissa and Charena wanted a fun and casual backyard wedding with family and friends.?The wedding:?The morning started out with Melissa and her daughters who were the bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done at the venue/house. First look shots were taken at the Mt. Woodson Castle Country Club, the look on Charena’s face when she saw Melissa was priceless. Guests were arriving back at the house and the ceremony started around 4pm on this warm September day. The ceremony was officiated by the creative and lovely Bethel Nathan who by getting extra information about the couple was able to weave a beautiful ceremony that included a handfastening ceremony and a special ceremony for Melissa’s girls where they too got special rings. There was so much love at this ceremony most of the guests were even teary eyed.?The reception featured a very tasty buffet, mason jar favors that were perfect for the custom cocktails from the bar , a photo booth, a smores bar with Ghirardelli chocolates and a dance floor next to the pool. It was a very fun night that friends and family enjoyed.
Venue: Private Residence
Caterer: Personal Touch Dining, Inc
Shoes: Converse
Apparel: Men’s Warehouse
Beauty: Beauty By Brittany
DJ: Choice Entertainment
Cake Designer: Flour Power
Floral Designer: Flowers by Sheri
Officiant: Ceremonies by Bethel
Dress Store: David’s Bridal
Photographer: Trista Maja Photography
Location: St. Augustine, FL, US
Event Date: Sep 02, 2017
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Mark Solana & John Whitesell
Mark and John’s love story spans decades and includes a lot of love… Both for each other and the family and friends they adore. Wanting to celebrate their nuptials with their nearest and dearest by their side, they along with their planner, STA Events, planned an extended course, Spanish inspired dinner menu with the head chef at their favorite local restaurant, Michael’s. There has never been a more thoughtful, or more beautifully detailed wedding… For favors, each guest received a silk bag filled with their individual birthstones… Even the butterflies released during the ceremony knew it was a special day, because one refused to leave and hung out on one of the Groom’s shoulders for over a half hour before flying happily away! These two, their enduring love story, and the fact they have been supported by their dear friends and family proves love really does win!
Event Planner: STA Events
Event Venue: Michael’s
Photographer: Heather K. Purdy
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: We highlighted the 4 elements – earth, wind, fire and water throughout the entire wedding, reception and dinner.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: We were married in an outdoor courtyard that was part of the restaurant we held our wonderful reception and outstanding 15-course, paired with wine for each specific course for dinner.
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: We hired a local florist to create the most spectacular tablescape/runner – We have never before seen something so stunning and it captured everything we wanted – all 4 elements.
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: We hosted all the wedding guests before had for cocktails and a toast on the front porch of the B&B we were staying at. We had all of our guests picked up in the local trolley train and dripped off at the front door of the B&B. After the cocktails, we proceeded in unison as an entire group to the restaurant courtyard for the wedding.The 15 course meal, that also followed the same theme of the 4 elements – earth, wind, fire and water – was prevalent throughout the dinner as prepared by Chef Michael Lugo. Each course had is own specifically selected wine to pair with the course.
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: Grey tuxedos with long tails – classic and stylish!
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: We met at a bar nearly 28 years ago. Mark approached John to introduce himself. We played pool that night and had great conversation. Mark asked him out that night for a date the next night. We went to a movie. We have been together ever since.Family is really important to both of us – we are extremely close. So Mark asked John to marry him in front of the entire family on Christmas Eve 2016. We were married on September 2, 2017.
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: The 15 course meal
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: Do you want you want and enjoy. There are no rules – it is your wedding. Everything else takes care of itself.
Event Date: Sep 24, 2012
Client Orientation: Hetero
Client Names: Daphne Early & Gina Javier
From the moment I met Gina and Daphne, their smiles won me over- they both have an incredible twinkle in their eyes. Or perhaps that was just their sincere joy at being together. They chose to celebrate their union in the glorious garden of their parents’ home, below strands of bright oranges, yellows and greens. The sunset cooperated and provided a beautiful backdrop for an evening of dancing under the stars. It was a DIY wedding extraordinaire.
Venue: Private Residence
Photographer: Holman Photography, LLC
Location: Long Island City, NY, US
Event Date: Sep 20, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Judy De Lacruz & Gwendolyn Moore
We wanted to have a modern, New York wedding. We wanted the wedding to feel warm and welcoming, like one big party with a lot of fiends and family. Since it was in September, we stuck to a fall color palette, using a rich, deep red and off white as our main focus colors. We did not want to have a religious ceremony, however, my wife’s uncle married us and he is a pastor. It was important to her that he marry us because, even though he is very faithful to his religion, he was thrown out of his church after coming out as gay. As a same-sex couple, we thought it was important to have someone represent us during our ceremony.
Veils and headpieces: Bridal Styles Boutique
Dress Store: The White Gown
Floral Designer: james anthony floral
Accomodations: Ravel Hotel
Photographer: True Love Wedding
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: We wanted to have a modern, New York wedding. We wanted the wedding to feel warm and welcoming, like one big party with a lot of fiends and family. Since it was in September, we stuck to a fall color palette, using a rich, deep red and off white as our main focus colors. We did not want to have a religious ceremony, however, my wife’s uncle married us and he is a pastor. It was important to her that he marry us because, even though he is very faithful to his religion, he was thrown out of his church after coming out as gay. As a same-sex couple, we thought it was important to have someone represent us during our ceremony.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: The ceremony was very simple, but the reception took the most amount of work. We had a lot of DYI pieces on display, and a lot of decor that also functioned as keepsakes for our guests. I LOVE flowers, and so finding a good flourish was important to me, which we did! Our center pieces were very tall, pieces of wood with bunches of dark red roses and crystals dangling down. We had a big floral arch that functioned as decor for our ceremony and backdrop for our sweetheart table. They were breathtaking!
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: Flowers for me were very important! My bouquet was a large cascade of red roses and white calla lilies. My bridesmaids also had their own bouquets, which I was happy to present to them because they are very close friends, and they had never been to/been part of a wedding where real flowers were used. So it was a real treat for them. With 9 very tall centerpieces, and low-lighting, the reception room looked stunning! It looked like a fairly tale garden.
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: There were small personal touches to the wedding. But my overall favorite was the photo booth we had. It was a very large standing mirror with a camera on the inside, and it allowed you to text yourself the picture you took. We also had a signature drink we created with the reception vendor, and it was a huge hit. I’m still getting compliments on it!
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: My wife is not the dress type, so she wore a suit. It was a beautiful white suit, with maroon on the inside of the jacket. The jacket was textured to add dimension, and it was paired with a straight, skinny pant. I had two dresses for the occasion. My ceremony dress was called Epico, by the designer Pronovias, and I purchased it at a small boutique in downtown New York called The White Gown. It was so comfortable. It was a strapless dress with a sweetheart neckline, with a flower petal detailing on the bust and along the sides. It had a long train, which I really wanted because I did not want a veil, and buttons going from the back all the way down the train. My second dress was by Essence of Australia, that I bought at a boutique called Lotus Bridal in Brooklyn during a trunk show they were having. It also had a sweetheart neckline and thin straps that had a line of pearls on it. The bust was somewhat see-through before going into a long train that had lace detailing all along the bottom edge. We both had on heels for our pictures and most of the day, but when it came time to party, we ditched the heels for our custom made converse sneakers.
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: My wife and I met at a job we both had. We used to work at a restaurant where she was a server and I was a hostess. We were introduced through a mutual friend that was also working there, and we kind of just hit it off. There was a park across the street where we used to go and talk after our shift, and that is also where she took me back and popped the question. At the time I was in school, so alone time for us was very limited and hard to come by, but she stuck with me through it and we have been inseparable since.
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: It’s hard to answer this question. When it comes to our friends and family.m, they were looking forward to the entire event. It was a long two year planning process, and they were just excited it was finally happening! For myself, walking down the isle was a special moment. I didn’t know what she was going to look like, I’ve never felt that nervous/excited before, and it was all just really overwhelming to stand in front of so many people and read your heart out in your vows. But, I will say, the moment I was looking forward to the most, was the dessert parade! The venue had never had a bride actually take part in it, but I grabbed some sparklers they handed me and stood up front as a line of servers handed out mini desserts, and it was so much fun!
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: When it comes to planning, do everything as far in advance as possible. The more you have done before-hand the better. I was done with my planning a month before, so I was able to focus on just pampering myself when it came time to countdown for the big day. And the day off, everything had been taken care of so I was cool, calm and collected. As far as marriage advice: communicate, communicate, communicate. My wife and I do it with everything: small topics, big topics, unimportant and important. Make sure to check in on each other, and that you are on the same page. Be open to agree to disagree, and always have each other’s back. Respect is key, and make sure you listen, while also feeling like you are heard.
Location: San Francisco, CA, US
Event Date: Sep 09, 2018
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Jenelle Bloom & Ragan Riley
Their first dance was to Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love.”
What advice would you give to engaged LGBTQ+ couples?
We would say be patient and prepare yourselves. Our community is still on its way to having LGBTQ-owned wedding resources/companies. Though it may get frustrating with vendors and others assuming gender roles, being confused about “how it would work” and pronoun misuse—in the end, this was a beautiful opportunity to educate people in the wedding industry. And be honest with your vendors. Tell them what you want, you deserve it. And if you get a wedding coordinator, make sure they get you and you can feel 100 percent comfortable. Our words were, “We want someone who will understand and laugh at our gay jokes.” And the wedding planning company said, “Okay. We know exactly who to pair you with.”
Advice for vendors and venues working with LGBTQ+ couples?
Take the time to understand an LGBTQ+ couple’s perspective, experience, culture and the world we come from. The vendors we saw that either had prior experience with the LGBTQ+ community or we could tell really wanted to learn how to work with us: That’s who we wanted to share our experience with. If we seemed like just another dollar sign or source of income for their company, on to the next.
What challenges did you face as an LGBTQ+ couple planning your wedding?
We weren’t anticipating having to emphasize many times that we were a gay couple. If a vendor would slip up and say groom, we would have to correct them to say bride. And the biggest challenge I think we faced was the constant reminder of how hetero-centered the wedding industry is. Looking on all the websites, photo galleries, terminology on the websites—rarely did we see a photo of an LBGTQ+ couple, or gender-neutral terminology, or a story other than with just a bride and groom. It can feel excluding and lonely sometimes, but when you do the work to find the vendors and people involved in your wedding that you’re comfortable with, and you openly communicate with each other, it became an amazing experience regardless of the hiccups and ignorance in the field.
Did you encounter any pleasant surprises as an LGBTQ+ couple planning your wedding?
The owner Sue of our DJ company was wonderful. We talked to her on the phone and originally their website had just a regular survey for couples to fill out, and then they had a separate same-sex wedding survey to fill out. We got to talking about it and she was so open and willing and wanted to know how she could make that experience better. I gave her some ideas and she said she would respond to me after the wedding, she just emailed me about three weeks ago! She fixed her form so that there’s only one form, with gender-neutral wording so it doesn’t matter who is filling out the form; any couple can do it. And she was incredibly excited and grateful that we were soft and welcoming and honest. That we weren’t rude or took things super personally to where we took away the only opportunity to educate and help someone be more inclusive.
Cake Designer: teeny cake
Culinary: Comforts Cafe
Professional: Michael Thomas Clothiers
Event Planner: CMG Events
Event Venue: Falkirk Cultural Center
Photographer: Briars Atlas
Location: Asbury Park, NJ, US
Event Date: Jul 21, 2020
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: A.J. Primavera & Nick D’Ottavio
AJ and Nick met in 2016 on Tinder. For the first two weeks, they talked every day and about everything to figure out exactly who they were and what they wanted out of the “relationship” moving forward. On the weekend of Thanksgiving, Nick invited A.J. over for an impromptu movie night at his mom’s while he was home in Staten Island for a few days. All they did that night was talk. They didn’t even watch the movie they intended to. A.J. said they put it on in the background to fill the void.
From the beginning, they always felt the magnetic connection to each other. Everything felt comfortable and they could be themselves around each other. They worked through their issues being long distance. A.J. said that they consider their love to be like a beautiful plant – if you give it love and attention it deserves and you take care of it, it is going to grow and bloom & be the best it can be. They got engaged in Copenhagen in 2019 and have been on cloud 9 ever since.
Their engagement session was done on the boardwalk in Asbury Park, NJ. When I met with A.J. and Nick they said they wanted to do the beach but not the beach. We originally wanted to shoot in Long Beach Island, but when we spoke about 2 weeks before the session, we decided on Asbury Park Boardwalk. The vibrancy of the murals on that boardwalk as well as the color palette they chose for their outfits was superb. I love that you can see how much they love each other through the photos. It makes me really happy when my couples bring out their personalities, like A.J. and Nick did, during their session. It makes the session run so much smoother and everyone has a good time.
Other Location: Asbury Park Convention Hall
Reception Venue: The Asbury Park Boardwalk
Photographer: Tom Russo Photography LLC
Q1: Let’s start at the beginning. How did you two first meet?
A1: We met during the holiday season of 2016 on a spur of the moment first date. We met online (thanks Tinder!) about two weeks prior to actually meeting each other face to face. For those two weeks, we talked about everything and anything you can imagine – just trying to figure out exactly who we were and what we wanted out of this “relationship” moving forward. At the time, Nick lived in Philly and A.J. lived in central NJ (or Northern – whatever you think exists) so the probability of a long-distance relationship was slim, but we gave it a shot anyway. The weekend of Thanksgiving, Nick invited A.J. over for an impromptu movie night at his mom’s while he was home in Staten Island for a few days. OK – probably not the smartest idea going over to your Tinder date’s mom’s house for the first time, but we did it anyway. A.J. met nick’s mom and stepdad and we had an amazing night. We did nothing but talk and throw on some background movie to just fill the void. I think we actually talked so much that by the time we started to watch a movie it was after midnight. We didn’t wrap up our “first date” until about 3:00 AM. From there – the rest is history!
Q2: What makes your relationship special? Tell us some things that you both value in your time together. (example: pushing each other to new limits, love to travel, huge comic book fans, foodies, etc.) What makes your relationship unique?
A2: We are very grounded in those comfortable moments spent at home. Don’t get us wrong, we love going out, spending time with friends and family, and all that entails, but at the end of the day we love making comfort food and watching a great movie or the latest and greatest on Netflix!As far as our lives go, we both constantly push each other to think outside of the box at work and in ways to succeed. There’s never a moment where we wouldn’t automatically try to help the other achieve the goals we set our mind too. It has always been a staple of our relationship and every year we find new ways to help the other get to where we envision ourselves.We love to travel. After only a few weeks of dating, we went on a trip with some friends to Washington D.C. and since then we have been on at least 20 trips in 4 years. It’s an opportunity for us to relax, unwind, and forget our responsibilities and we always have an amazing time. Nick has been to more countries than anyone could imagine, so A.J. enjoys the excitement that Nick likes to share when it comes to learning about other cultures and ways of life!
Q3: How did you know your partner was the one? When did you first know this in your relationship? (these may often be the same moment, but aren’t always)
A3: For us, we really knew that our relationship was the endgame when we went on our first trip to Mexico – Cancun. It was a spontaneous trip we took after dating for a few months, but it was still one of our most favorite trips. We had a lot of great dinners with lots of wine that gave us the opportunity to just talk and learn things we hadn’t learned yet. We were in our most relaxed and comfortable state just having fun. When we got home, there was a conversation that the two of us had that we just knew this was it. We were ready to take whatever life threw our way and
Q4: Give us all the details about the proposal. How and where did it happen? Was it a surprise? What was the planning process?
A4: Nick proposed to A.J. in Copenhagen Denmark on September 24, 2019. To backtrack, Nick had been planning the proposal since June of that same year. He took his mom’s engagement interlock band to a jeweler that month and had a new ring made for A.J. from the diamonds in her band. We were scheduled to go on a mini-Eurotrip in September into October that would cover Copenhagen, Berlin, Munich, and Amsterdam. Nick had a sentimental connection to Copenhagen because it’s where he studied abroad, one of his favorite places in the world, and it’s where he came out – so he knew that is exactly where he wanted to ask A.J. to marry him. We had been in Copenhagen for about 2 days and Nick set the scene perfectly – Nick had already shown A.J. most of Copenhagen, but he wanted to take A.J. to the Church of Our Savior to see the entire city in one shot. After climbing to the top of the church (after a little panic from A.J.’s fear of heights that Nick didn’t know about), Nick pointed out each part of Copenhagen from above and why it meant so much to him. He then proceeded to explain that this would be the most special place in the city on top of all of them because we were together. Nick then got down on one knee and asked A.J. to marry him! We spent the rest of the trip on cloud 9. To this day, it was the best day of our lives!
Q5: We’re all about the bling… Tell us all about that ring!
A5: Nick had A.J.’s engagement ring custom made by Buono Jewelers in Staten Island. The ring is made with 1 carat of baguette diamonds in a 14K white gold setting. The diamonds have a sentimental meaning to both of us because they are a part of Nick’s mom’s wedding ring. Nick repurposed the diamonds and it holds a special meaning now for our entire family.
Q6: What are you most excited about when it comes to your wedding planning?
A6: We are most excited about having everyone we love in one place celebrating our relationship together. Every thought that we have had about our wedding has been with the intention of the people we are sharing this entire moment with. For us, that is a significant piece of our union – the people that have supported us and have always fought for our love!
Location: Stanford, IL, US
Event Date: Oct 12, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Jessie Bolen & Danielle Bolen
“Our first dance means a lot to us because it really speaks to how a lot of people tried to make fun of us for being gay. We lost some friendships along the way and we chose it because of the hard work we put into our relationship. We ignored what people were talking about and chose to be happy together and it worked!”
Venue: Private Residence
Apparel: David’s Bridal
Photographer: McKenzie Bigliazzi Photography
Location: Rockport, TX, US
Event Date: Aug 03, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Loren Elkins & Lora Naismith
“So we met back in college. I had just started working at Starbucks with Lora’s coworker and he introduced us, probably not knowing that he’d be in our wedding one day. After a few months, Lora and I started talking and hanging out more frequently. Unfortunately, around that same time I was getting ready to move to San Antonio. I lived there for a few months before coming back and moving in with Lora. There were two proposals. I proposed first in Amsterdam. Lora was on a three month backpacking trip with her best friend (and maid of honor) and I wanted to meet up with her for my birthday and pop the question. A quick 10 hour flight later, I arranged a romantic walking tour of Amsterdam and proposed on a bridge at the very end. She had already guessed that I was proposing, but that’s what happens when you fall in love with a Sherlock. Lora’s proposal happened here in Texas. She took me out for a jazz and poetry night in Deep Ellum in Dallas. I thought it was just a simple date night and we get five minutes in before we realize this was going to be just a bunch of old guys playing the trumpet really badly. We hightailed it out of there and found ourselves wandering around Klyde Warren park. She took me to the big tree in the middle and read a poem that she had written for me.”
Venue: Pavilions at Rockport Beach
Event Venue: Pavilions at Rockport Beach
Photographer: Jennifer Ryals Photography
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: The inspiration behind the day was family. We are both really family oriented and we wanted the day to reflect that. We tried to model our color palette after the beach so the linens were gold and pink, the bridesmaids were given a blue color palette to pick from, and we had greens everywhere. We didn’t bring in a lot of cultural or religious traditions. The only cultural aspect would be the food. My family comes from the Middle East and so we had locally made falafel and baklava from a local middle eastern restaurant as well as homemade baba ganoush.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: My aunt Julie took point on the decorations. She gave us almost all of our decor and so she knew what went well and we told her our style and she took it and ran with it. I also had an architect in my bridal party so she had really cool design ideas and how to make the space really functional without sacrificing aesthetics.
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: We actually didn’t use any flowers except for my bouquet. The centerpieces were made up of a combinations of greens, we used palm fronds, fern, eucalyptus, and more. We used a local florist and gave her creative control over what she thought would bring the best nature feel. My wife loves nature and so her bouquet was entirely greens as well.
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: Our personal touch was the food. All of the food, save the falafal and baklava, was homemade. My father in law made four different types of ceviche with local shrimp, my mother in law made all the desserts, it came straight from the kitchen. I would say my favorite part of the wedding was hanging out with my wife. We had our head table be just the two of us, it was marked by a banner that we had made for our engagement photos that said Mrs. & Mrs. It was great to talk with her and hang out during the party, it was like our own little bubble.
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: Fashion is not my strong point, but I am very proud that my wife didn’t know what I would be wearing at all. I had tricked her into thinking I was going to wear a jumpsuit (which was the original plan) but I fell in love with this very simple strapless dress, that had a very beachy feel to me, a little Mama Mia-y. I picked my jewelry based on an accident. I had packed a set of pearls my dad had given me a few years ago and I couldn’t find them the day of the wedding. I had asked my dad to bring me my mom’s old pearl earrings for my something old and borrowed, my godmother had given me a crystal evil eye bracelet as something new, and another tia of mine gave me a necklace to wear as a wedding present that same day. For Lora, she is a beautiful, tall, blonde hair blue eyed woman and she fell in love with the first dress she tried on. It was this gorgeous fitted dress with lace that made her look like she should be in a bridal magazine. You’ll agree once you look at the photos of her in the field of flowers. Because she cut her hair short a few years ago and it hadn’t grown back to a length she wanted, she had the stylist do a really creative updo that gave the illusion of long hair without having to add extensions. She also picked this gorgeous crown out from the bridal store that tied everything together.
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: So we met back in college. I had just started working at Starbucks with Lora’s coworker and he introduced us, probably not knowing that he’d be in our wedding one day. After a few months, Lora and I started talking and hanging out more frequently. Unfortunately, around that same time I was getting ready to move to San Antonio. I lived there for a few months before coming back and moving in with Lora. There were two proposals. I proposed first in Amsterdam. Lora was on a three month backpacking trip with her best friend (and maid of honor) and I wanted to meet up with her for my birthday and pop the question. A quick 10 hour flight later, I arranged a romantic walking tour of Amsterdam and proposed on a bridge at the very end. She had already guessed that I was proposing, but that’s what happens when you fall in love with a Sherlock. Lora’s proposal happened here in Texas. She took me out for a jazz and poetry night in Deep Ellum in Dallas. I thought it was just a simple date night and we get five minutes in before we realize this was going to be just a bunch of old guys playing the trumpet really badly. We hightailed it out of there and found ourselves wandering around Klyde Warren park. She took me to the big tree in the middle and read a poem that she had written for me.
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: For me, the special moment of the day was the first look. Our photographer had sent Lora out to the beach to do her pictures while I got to the venue. Jennifer pops out and calls me out for not wearing the oh so promised jumpsuit. My maid of honor Paloma walked me down to the beach, I had to have my eyes closed or else it would spoil the surprise, where I met up with Lora. We were back to back first and then Jennifer told us to turn around and after a few seconds, Lora realizes its a dress and couldn’t believe that I had lied about it. Jennifer got that moment on camera and I will be forever grateful.
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: For marriage advice; communicate. Your partner may be your soulmate but they are not a mind reader and neither are you. Now, communicating isn’t an excuse for “brutal honesty”. Communication is only effective when both parties act as a unite and attack the problem, not each other. Wedding planning; spend the money on the photographer and maybe opt out of flowers. We saved a lot of money by not using fresh flowers and opting for fresh greens instead. And don’t forget, at the end of the day a wedding is just one big party to celebrate you and your person.
Location: Stanardsville, VA, US
Event Date: Apr 06, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Megan Ottati & Marisa Jack
Megan and Marisa had a beautiful spring wedding weekend in the mountains! They wanted their day to have a laid back atmosphere, and to just have fun in the woods with their friends and family.
Apparel: Suit Supply
Bridesmaid Dresses: Vanel Designs
Dress Designer: Sareh Nouri
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Bindle and Keep
Equipment Rentals: MS Events
Ring Designer: Michael Gabriels
Ring Designer: Allurez
Cake Designer: Chandler’s Bakery
Caterer: Blue Ridge Cafe & Catering
DJ: Nathaniel Davis Music
Officiant: Reverend Kate Adamson
Floral Designer: Colonial Florist
Event Planner: Lauren Donnally Events
Event Venue: Lydia Mountain
Photographer: Megan Rei Photography
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: Our wedding was actually over a weekend at Lydia Mountains, in Stanardsville VA, near Shenandoah. We specifically wanted to have a wedding in an outdoors atmosphere that could be extended over a weekend. We also wanted a fire pit! Our inspiration for this was actually based on my uncle’s wedding. It was an entire wedding weekend, which I loved. The weather was beautiful, the whole thing was outdoors, the stars were out, but really what I loved was that it gave everyone, family and friends, the opportunity to spend a lot of time together. So we went for it! We also recognized that it was going to be early spring and we didn’t know what the weather was going to be like which is partially why Lydia Mountains was perfect. It provided us with indoor and outdoor atmosphere. We wanted everything to be very relaxed, yet classy. The color patterns were charcoal gray and lavender. As for the ceremony, neither of us are particularly religious, but we do consider ourselves spiritual. Rev. Kate was amazing at tying in the spiritual aspect of our marriage and keeping us very grounded and in the moment.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: A lot of that was more in Marisa’s field. She is a lighting designer and works for an event production company, so she had a much better idea of what all needed to be done and little ideas for decor. She and the DJ enjoyed working together and they came up with the idea to have the purple/lavender lighting, which looked amazing. We also had help from both of our mothers and some recycled wedding decor from my cousin, which always helps. We wanted to incorporate lavender, but it isn’t in season in April, so we made do with bouquets of lavender colored flowers and the tables had fake lavender bouquets.
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: Lavender was sort of the theme. So the bouquets were all lavender colored flowers and the center pieces were all fake lavender bouquets. We also had loose lavender strewn on the dining tables (organic and edible, just in case any found it’s way onto a plate).
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: One thing in particular that we loved was that we had the best of both worlds. There was the indoors, with the dance floor and DJ, but if that wasn’t someone’s thing there was the outdoors, beautiful weather, tables and a fire pit. It also provided us, two introverts, with the opportunity to decompress from all the attention for short periods of time if we felt like we needed it. At the very end of the night when the DJ was packed up and the caterers were gone we spent some time just sitting around the fire pit chatting with our friends. Between the weekend with everyone and the fire pit, we really enjoyed ourselves.
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: I knew that I wanted a strapless dress, beyond that I had no idea what I was looking for, just not poofy and not too Lacey, it’s just not my style. The first place we went I found a dress with a leaf like pattern on it and said to my mom “if I’m getting married on a mountain maybe I should incorporate the atmosphere into my dress!!” It was really mostly a joke, but I did come to like the idea. Eventually I found my dress. It was very nice, not too poofy and not really Lacey. It was perfect! Marisa wanted to get a suit made, she found a place in Brooklyn, NY that specifically tailors suits made to fit you and your body type. She picked the fabric, the inside lining, everything. She also sported some vegan, gender neutral shoes. What is nice is that she has already used it over and over again for work.
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: Like any good quiet, introverts in the 21st century, we met online! She messaged me one day, starting off with something like ” I never do this, but…” and she thought that there was no way that I would respond…but I did! After talking for a few days we eventually had our first date, a few drinks at Clyde’s, followed by a few games of pool at a bar across the street ( I won!) We quickly became inseparable. I proposed to Marisa one night over a scrabble game accompanied by a dinner of home cooked eggplant parm with sausage and meatballs. Towards the end of the scrabble game I handed Marisa a puzzle box. In it was a note from my cat, Silly, explaining that she believed that Marisa had been trained well enough and asked her to be her mommy. I also snuck the engagement ring into the tile bag. She finally got the puzzle box open at the very end of the game and read the note while she was picking the last tile pieces….and her ring! Then I kicked out my spare scrabble tiles from behind the coffee table that were glued together to spell out Will you Marry Me? She said yes!
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: There were several special moments for us. One of the most unforgettable moments was a complete accident. My nephew, the ring bearer is 4 years old. At the very beginning of the wedding ceremony Rev. Kate was quieting everyone and explaining that the ceremony was unplugged, so to get a photo and then put the phones away. Right after that, in the silence that followed, my nephew shouts out “Poopy!” It was so funny, memorable and a nice grounding, ice breaking moment. Really though, I think the entire weekend was one long special moment. It allowed us to spend a lot of time with everyone and made it less of a blur because the wedding was just the highlight and continuation of fun of the whole weekend. We caught up with people, ate good food, enjoyed each other and were able to share our moment with those we love.
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: It is all worth it. This is your day, and you should do it your way. Also, try to surround yourself with people that will make it all easier, whatever that means for you. Whether that means helping you make decisions or just being a calm presence if the attention thing isn’t you. We did that and it made a world of difference. Even our vendors made us feel at ease. All of them were great, starting with the photographer, who completely understood our aversion to posed photos and want for a lot of candids. Especially the officiant, who spent time getting to know us and made our ceremony so personal. She made it so easy to focus on the ceremony in the moment. It was a moment that I imaged the rest of the world would just fall away because all that mattered was us and what that moment meant for us, and it did. It was just us up there. So definitely make it yours and do it your way.
Location: San Diego, CA, US
Event Date: Oct 05, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Melissa Arambula & Mari Patino
We fell in love with Melissa & Mari the second we met them and we fell in love with their story even more! Melissa met Mari in 2014 when she attended one of her work out classes in San Clemente, CA. After several classes, they started chatting and realized they shared a love for football. Mari is from a small town in Washington called Yakima, so she is by birth a Seahawks fan. Melissa grew up in Orange County and had no ties to any football team until college when she became a Steelers fan (Although she went to UCSD, the Chargers never won her over). One day as they were gearing up for pre-season football, Mari asked Melissa to go with her to a Seahawks/Chargers game (even though Melissa despised both teams). Decked out in her Steelers gear, Melissa drove with Mari for a weekend trip to San Diego. It was the first time we ever hung together outside of the gym. It was on this trip that they learned the most about each other and became instant friends! It wasn’t until 2017 that their friendship blossomed into something more! Over the course of 3 years, through travel adventures, Masters programs and late night talks, Melissa & Mari knew they wanted more out of their friendship. Finally in 2017, Mari decided to share her feelings on a trip to Cancun and they have been together ever since!
According to Melissa, “There have been some major obstacles for us to overcome, mostly because this is both Mari and I’s first same sex relationship which was extremely difficult for some people (including family) to accept. But despite these challenges, building a life together has been so easy! And even on our toughest days, what keeps us going is that we love to laugh and we don’t ourselves too seriously. We love to be in the moment and be authentically ourselves! And that is what we are trying to bring to our big day.” As our eyes filled with tears, it was such an honor they chose us to capture their love on their wedding day. Melissa & Mari decided to host a small 13-person wedding in La Jolla, CA at Windandsea beach and a small reception on the rooftop of a private residence just walking distance from the ceremony site.
Their style, you ask? “Tequila and tacos on china”! They wanted to have a balance of casual and elegant all at the same time. They wanted the ceremony and first look to feel intimate and romantic, but we want the after party, to be a party! The brides DIY’d snacks, signs, music, flowers and flatware. Even Melissa’s wedding ring was a family heirloom with lots of love extended from Mari’s late grandmother. Although Mari’s family did not attend the wedding, the brides were surrounded by so much love and support of friends and family. Fully equipped with a dance off up the makeshift aisle of all the guests in attendance. Everything was pure perfection! Wishing Melissa & Mari a LIFETIME of happiness!
Bakery: Churros El Tigre
Reception Venue: La Jolla Private Residence
Location: WindandSea Beach
Makeup Artist: Mobile Beauty Team
Dress Designer: BHLDN
Specialty Foods: The Martini Agents
Caterer: Gringas Tacos and Catering
Dress Store: Davids Bridal
Photographer: Paul Douda Photography
Location: Riverdale, GA, US
Event Date: Apr 08, 2017
Client Orientation: Hetero
Client Names: Cork Primo & Cork Tony
Following their courthouse nuptials the guys decided to have a wedding reception with a few their closest family and friends to celebrate finally tying the knot after many years together. It was sweet and intimate with amazing details.
Venue: Cha’le Gardens
Event Venue: Cha’le Gardens
Photographer: MNA Photography
Location: San Francisco, CA, US
Event Date: Jun 21, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Jonathon Towle & Kyle Prosen
Da Karai and Kyle are hilarious, romantic, gorgeous, and deeply in love. I’m unbelievable lucky to call them friends and I could not be more thrilled to have been chosen to capture their wedding day. Cheers to sunrise kisses, rainbow balloons, and unequivocal love.
Ceremony Location: City Hall
Photographer: Katherine Elyse Photography
Location: San Antonio, TX, US
Event Date: Dec 31, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Christina Jacinto & Richelle Morales
Paris, the City of Love
Although Christina’s and Richelle’s paths had crossed thousands of times, it wasn’t until a friend’s wedding that Richelle stopped – stared – saw the real Christina – and decided “she’s the one.” Richelle had stolen a plate of cookies, encouraged by her aunt, and was running them back to her assigned guest table when Christina turned and said, “so that’s where all the cookies went.” Richelle froze – turned red – stared again at Christina – then proceeded to take the cookies to her aunt. This was in November 2016.
From that night on, Christina and Richelle have been inseparable.
In November 2018, Richelle decided to propose and ask Christina to be her wife. While it was scary and incredibly exciting to think about proposing, Richelle knew she wanted it to be special. It seemed like a cliché, but Richelle could not think of a more romantic place than in front of the Eiffel Tower during their European vacation. And it was romantic!!! Getting down on one knee, saying her full name, asking her to marry me, veux-tu m’épouser – hearing her say yes, knowing we are the loves of each others lives – I couldn’t have been happier, said Richelle. Cliché and all.
Christina and Richelle were married on New Year’s Eve – celebrating and reflecting on their love while 2019 was ending and 2020 was beginning. The Gatsby inspired wedding was elegant and timeless – with a view overlooking the entire city, three foot tall letters of LOVE, balloons dropping and fireworks popping, and at mignight loved ones whispering “bonne année.”
Second Shooter: Joshua Michael Photography
Musicians: Las Altenas Mariachis
Transportation: San Antonio Limo
Favors and Gifts: Magnet Street Weddings
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Dress Designer: A.Cherie Couture
Other: Emerald Media Wedding & Elopement Films
Floral Designer: HEB Blooms
Ceremony Location: The Villa at Cielo Vista
Photographer: Shelly Beck Photography
Location: Edgewater, MD, US
Event Date: Jun 21, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Tiffany Hipple & Kirstie Mullins
June 21st was the first day of the summer solstice and also the day that Tiffany and Kristie chose to celebrate their love for each other by getting married! When Tiffany proposed to Kristie, it was the beginning of the winter solstice, so the changing of the seasons means a lot to them and made the wedding date that much more special. Their wedding was held at a relative’s beautiful home just outside of Annapolis in Edgewater Maryland. Originally, the couple planned to get married in a courthouse ceremony but their families helped make their intimate wedding possible by helping in various ways, from the arch and decor to food, florals, and hair/makeup. In memory of Kristie’s mother, the couple set up a table with a potted tree that had been significant to her, and clippings of the plant were given to guests as wedding favors. Kristie’s also held a photo of her mother in her bouquet as another sentimental touch
As Tiffany and Kristie’s exchanged their marriage vows overlooking the water, they also made vows to each other’s children as the ceremony blended their families together. After the ceremony surrounded by their closest family members and friends, Tiffany and Kristie toasted with their children to their new family before the couple went out towards the pier for photos. Let me tell you, the sunset was one of the most beautiful that I have seen this year and showed up to celebrate this lovely couple! As the sun set, the Tiffany and Kristie danced their first dance together as a married couple and were also toasted by their family with a very special toast by Kristie’s Grandmother and matriarch of the family. There were a few tears and many smiles for the happy couple. Congratulations Tiffany and Kristie!
Venue: Private Residence
Photographer: Katherine Elizabeth Photography
Location: Boerne, TX, US
Event Date: Feb 22, 2020
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: CJ Alaniz & Tony Alaniz
This wedding was truly extraordinary! The couple included everything regal, including custom made crowns, and a cape. They had a firework show, a full drag show for guest entertainment during the reception, and rainbow smoke bombs!
Caterer: Got it Covered
DJ: Platinum DJ Entertainment
Cake Designer: Creations Cakes
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Other: Bartenders4you
Floral Designer: Freesia Designs Events
Event Venue: Kendall plantation
Photographer: Snap Chic Photography
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: I felt traditional was not the way for us. My now husband has always made me and our niece whom we have taken care of for a few years now together feel as if we are royalty everyday … so we went with the royalty theme and lions because we show so much pride and strength when we are with one another.. along with that pride we used rainbow accents for representation of our LBBTQ+ community.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: I really am a simple color palette man so we went with gold, blacks and a few accents of white just too keep it simple, elegant and welcoming. As well as a few family and self portraits around the venue and our amazing Acrylic Texas Sign in book. Our only DIY was our welcome sign.
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: We had hydrangeas with gold accents. We did 5 centerpieces that were white and 5 others that were sprayed black with gold accents as well as gold painted curly willow in vases with rocks and a generous amount of LED candles spread throughout the venue as well as going up each side of the stair case inside the venue. We also had a love table and 2 throne chairs fit for kings.
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: We decided on everything for that day the color scheme which was the black, gold and white accents as well as we had an amazing fire work display by Fx Fireworks, as well as a drag show hosted and MC by the amazing Vivi La Grand with performances by Gemini B York , Kitana Sanchez ( whom also married my partner and I ) Yaitza Lee, Meghan De Lux , and Amerie Parker I feel like everything about this wedding was Us as LQBTQ+ people it was fabulous!
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: We wanted to keep it in theme with royalty so we started out our looks with Crowns provided by The Royal Crown it started off with white blazers with black lapels and all black in the inside then escalated from there with add on’s such as our gold harnesses custom made by Sir Rat leather out of Austin, Tx to our Lion Brooches and custom bow ties and to kick it off our amazing red bottom shoes by Christian Louboutin. Then came the thought on how I was gonna gag our guests in gay term. ( gag) meaning shock them so I had Vivi La Grande make me a custom satin 12 foot cape with gold accents and chains with lion heads and a key hole back to catch all that air.
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: Omg !!! We actually met through Facebook and we both lived in Corpus Christi Tx and talked for a while before we actually had our first date. Which was me taking him to my condo on padre island and making him arroz con pollo I felt like me cooking for him would be more genuine so that’s what I did ..( The Proposal ) when I proposed too him we were actually in Napa valley he was working up there with that all fires that were happening in Northern California it takes a very special man to leave his family to go work for a extended period of time away from us. He is amazing and I knew this at first sight.
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: Seeing all of our hard work and planning come together as one… WOW!! it was so nerve wrecking but the most special moment was when they closed the doors ready for me to burst out into the aisle with my huge cape catching all the wind all I felt was joy and love and at that moment I only saw him no one else walking down that aisle.
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: Make sure you check on your vendors constantly I had a few cancel on me and was in a rush to find new ones … also always be honest and up front about things marriage isn’t just love it’s trust, respect, and honor always own up to your mistakes and never and I mean never take your partner for granted.
Location: Boulder, CO, US
Event Date: Jul 06, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Chris Churma & Erik Arend
Chris and Erik invited their closest friends and family to an intimate and intentional wedding celebration in the Colorado foothills. The couple live together in Boulder, and choose Colorado Mountain Ranch in nearby Gold Hill to show off the beautiful area to their guests. Chris DIY’ed all their graphic design, from their invitation to unplugged ceremony signs to the beer growlers that doubled as flower vases and wedding favors. The couple chose to get ready together instead of waiting for a first look or the ceremony, and the whole day was built around letting them spend as much time together and with their families as possible.
DJ: Colorado Wedding Productions
Cake Designer: Shamane’s Bake Shoppe
Caterer: Savory Cuisines
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Bonobos
Event Venue: Colorado Mountain Ranch
Floral Designer: Fawns Leap
Photographer: Larsen Photo Co
Location: Raleigh, NC, US
Event Date: Sep 14, 2019
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Terell Carter & Christopher Brandon
#ATaleofTwoKings documents the love story between Terell and Chris on their beautiful wedding day. They are the true quintessence of a black, gay couple thriving in every aspect. The beautiful couple wed at a beautiful black tie event at the Embassy Suites hotel in Raleigh NC in September 14, 2019.
Location: Embassy Suites, Brier Creek
Floral Designer: Fresh Affairs
Photographer: Jeffrey Lynn Media
Location: Charter Oak Country Club, Hudson, MA, US/CA
Event Date: Oct 27, 2018
Client Orientation: LGBTQIA+
Client Names: Christopher Krueger & Steven Krueger
Steven and Christophers wedding was so over the top amazing. The overall theme for their day was family, friends and flowers. They poured their heart and soul into all of the details of their day and the love and joy of this day will forever be etched in my mind.
Steven was finishing up his medical degree while Christopher was planning their wedding. Watching all of the pieces come together for them was nothing short of heartwarming.
I hope you consider this for your publication. These two are amazing and their day was full of love.
Bridesmaid Dresses: Vera Wang
Invitation Designer: Emerald Invitations
Favors and Gifts: Tiffany & Co
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: The Black Tux at Nordstrom
Linens and Coverings: Peak Event Services
Linens and Coverings: P.S. Event Rentals
Ceremony Location: Martha Mary Chapel
Cinema and Video: McElroy Films LLC
Event Planner: Daylynn Designs
DJ: DJ Danny Walsh
Musicians: Gilded Harps of Boston
Bakery: Gerardo’s Bakery
Floral Designer: The French Bouquet Florist
Reception Venue: Charter Oak Country Club
Photographer: Debbie Segreve Photography, LLC
Q1: Tell us about your wedding! What was the inspiration behind your day? Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette? Did you incorporate any cultural or religious traditions in any part of your day?
A1: Since we had never actually been to a same sex wedding, we decided to create our own flow for the day that was both traditional and unique. We wanted a formal vibe without feeling stuffy so we opted to do that with color and volume. We worked very closely with our florist and opted to go with lots of white flowers and gold accents.
Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
A2: We loved our venue because it conveyed a masculine, country club feel. As guests moved from the cocktail space with a large fireplace through white french doors into the ballroom, they were met with tables covered in ivory linens, candles, gold chargers and flatware, and tall, voluminous white floral arrangements. Our head table, which sat our entire wedding part, was the focal point in the center of the ballroom. The wedding cake was four tiers with ivory and gold foil layers. Our seating chart was a hand-painted glass sign surrounded by flowers. We wanted an ultimate elegant experience for our guests from the minute they walked in the door!
Q3: What were the florals like in your wedding? Did you use flowers in any of your design elements like the bridal bouquets, centerpieces or ceremony backdrop? Did they play an important part in the overall style of your wedding?
A3: Flowers played a major role in our wedding. About one quarter of our overall budget went to flowers. Since we wore black tuxedos (for the first part of the wedding), we decided to accentuate the space with a variety of beautiful white flowers. We had floral arrangements at the entrance, up the staircase, in the rest rooms, in the cocktail space, and in the ballroom. The arrangements on the tables in the ballroom were thirty-six inches in diameter. That was a major focus for us.
Q4: Did you personalize the day in any way (food trucks, guest entertainment etc.)? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A4: We opted to have a unique head table. We had a twenty-by-five foot head table in the middle of the room with large florals and candles down the center. We had the first names of our entire wedding party (and guests) made out of wood and painted gold. This was strategic so that we could get people to sit in specific seats for purposeful photo opportunities. Other favorites:- We had customized drinks waiting in the venue’s wedding suite for when the wedding party first arrived after the ceremony.- We worked very closely with our photographer so that we were able to maximize the number of photos captured and to ensure we captured specific moments we wanted in a timely fashion. All formal photos were taken prior to the ceremony.- We wore black tuxedos for the ceremony and cocktail hour, and then changed into ivory coats for our introduction and reception.- We hired a wedding coordinator who was invaluable on the day of the event. Among many other tasks, she ushered us around the tables so that we could greet all of our guests during dinner and still have time to enjoy the night.- Because gold was such a prominent part of our palette, we worked with our bakery to have 18-karat gold foil added to our cake for an authentic gold color.- We had multiple boutonnieres made to ensure they always looked fresh (and our coordinator made sure to swap them out throughout the night). This also helped to ensure our photos were always sharp.
Q5: Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
A5: We went with classic black tuxedos and bowties for the ceremony, and accessorized with black and gold cufflinks. We changed into ivory coats for the reception, which was a crowd favorite. We loved both looks in the store, so we decided to include them both in the wedding day! The outfit change helped to define the dinner and dancing from the formal part of night.We purchased ivory silk pocket squares for all the groomsmen and fathers, champagne pocket squares for our black tuxedo jackets, and then used black silk pocket squares for our ivory jackets. The fabric of the pocket squares matched the fabric of the tuxedo lapels.The bridesmaids wore champagne-colored Vera Wang gowns to complement the ivory and gold color palette. Our three flower girls wore ivory silk gowns with champagne-colored ballet flats and a champagne-colored ribbon tied at the waist.
Q6: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
A6: We met when Steven was a first-year medical student and Christopher worked for a medical device company. Three years later, Steven proposed to Chris on a dock in Newport, RI. We went on a yacht cruise around the harbor drinking champagne and listening to our favorite songs, and as the boat pulled back into the dock, our families were waiting on an observation deck to celebrate with us! We ended the night with an unforgettable candlelit oceanside dinner at the Safari Room in Newport with our families.
Q7: What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
A7: It’s hard to pick just one favorite moment from our wedding day! A few of the major highlights include exchanging wedding gifts surrounded by our wedding party, the “best men” speech, and finishing the night dancing to a remix of our wedding song (Ten Feet Tall).
Q8: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
A8: – Start early. – Build in a 20% contingency budget (everything will cost more than you expect).- Prioritize what’s most important to you, and don’t waiver from that despite other people’s opinions.
Steven and Christopher’s wedding was so over the top amazing. The overall theme for their day was family, friends, and flowers. They poured their heart and soul into all of the details of their day and the love and joy of this day will forever be etched in my mind.
Steven was finishing up his medical degree while Christopher was planning their wedding. Watching all of the pieces come together for them was nothing short of heartwarming.
I hope you consider this for your publication. These two are amazing and their day was full of love.