“I put the shoot together because I’m frustrated with the lack of diversity and heteronormative vibe of many of the wedding industry social feeds. I wanted LGBTQ+ people to be able to be inspired by beautiful, realistic wedding images created for them by members of their community and its strong allies. I have made a commitment to my allyship with the LGBTQ+ community as a celebrant, and I want to show my intention to not be another kindly face in a sensible dress with a folder under my arm and a penchant for misgendering and using words like hubby. As a collective, we were influenced by the genuine relationship of our models and their personal styles, alongside the extreme industrial and creative location and its anarchic, free-thinking ideals.”
“Our couple wanted to reflect themselves and their relationship by modelling wedding attire that they loved and that had no formality or convention to it. As a real, lesbian couple with very different tastes from each other, this was important. Loosely, we were aiming for a vintage-inspired, Western vibe with a sustainable heart. To ensure this message was clear, our styling was collaborative and an open forum for ideas from the get-go. Unusually for a styled shoot, we involved the models from the start in creating their own authentic looks for the day to add to the realism and keep confidence to the maximum. Jess and Bonita’s wedding outfits were created using statement pieces from our couturier, Tessa from Beyond the Veil Bridal and accessories maker, Janie from The Lucky Sixpence, paired with clothing that they felt expressed their true selves, highlighting their jewellery choices and body art. Bonita’s gold and beaded necklace, bracelet and earrings were custom made from vintage and UK-sourced and reworked materials, by The Lucky Sixpence. Bonita’s Rolling in Roses ‘Longing’ gown is partially made from the by-products of the cotton industry which would otherwise go to landfill, so it has a Global Recycling Standard certificate; sublime sustainable luxury. It’s lined with 100% organic bamboo. Jess’ Rolling in Roses ‘Devotion’ trousers are made from sustainable satin, the Vegan alternative to silk. Their rings were chosen from Christina Oswin’s collection which is all made from recycled gold or silver and ethically sourced stones. They both wore shoes they felt great in (classic Vans and black and white cowboy boots). Jess wore her favourite hat and Bonita’s fringed vintage suede jacket felt perfect to complete the look.”
Rockaway Park
The Styling
Planning Advice
“Consider choosing a photographer from within the community member or is an active ally, not just someone who (in their words) ‘has photographed loads of gay weddings’. However, regardless of your sexuality, photographers are the suppliers who are with you the most on your big day, so someone who understands your brief and that you want with you for these hours is key. Do a vibe check, is what I’m saying.
“When it comes to your dress don’t be pressured into thinking a conventional wedding dress is always the answer. An outfit that makes you feel incredible is the answer. There are LGBTQ+ boutique owners, tailors and couture-makers who are ready to listen first, hear you and see you before they clothe you. This applies when it comes to your hair and make up too Jess and Bonita chose simple makeup looks that enhanced their complexions and felt natural to them. We were a cruelty-free and Vegan shoot, so if this is what you want, don’t be afraid to do it yourself or ask for it!”
“Florals in such an industrial, colourful venue were key for this inspiration. We wanted that natural, delicate colour pop of the bouquet. We kept our flower budget small to minimise waste and used in-season, low-impact and UK-grown blooms where possible. Talk to your florist about how arrangements can be used and repositioned during your day, and show them as much colour and texture as you can to help them create something that compliments your chosen theme.”
“Vow booklets which match your wedding stationery are a super keepsake of the day and should be made pocket-size – the bigger the document, the more they wobble if your hands are a bit shaky with nerves! Wedding rings can be sourced sustainably and made from recycled or reused materials. We think a ring should be chosen to suit the wearer, not to match that of your partner. It’s also worth considering exchanging other items instead of wedding rings, such as bracelets, watches or necklaces. Bonita’s jewellery was designed especially for her multi-pierced ears and to suit her skin tone.”
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