It’s a joy to finally share this styled wedding day that I had the privilege of photographing back in October! I shared part one of my amazing week with Styled in Pride a few days back. In this post, I share a little more about why I loved this opportunity so much (Plus some beautiful photos from our first wedding— you can get caught up here if you missed it!
If you’re looking for the long story short of it: The wedding industry needs more representation, diversity, and inclusion. Styled in Pride designs beautiful wedding days to do just that! The styled wedding was organized by Styled in Pride, a group committed to creating safe spaces for queer affirming wedding vendors to produce work to validate and represent the queer community within their portfolios. Their dedication to fostering an inclusive environment in the industry is both commendable and necessary after all, no couple should ever have to ask if you are queer affirming. It should be evident in the work you share!
Now a little more about my second day of styled weddings!
Our models for the day (Be sure to connect with them on Instagram!) were the absolute BEST!
Dre and Will are a married couple in the DMV, and not only are they absolutely gorgeous, but they are a BLAST! Their love for each other was palpable, making the experience even more special. Their vibrant personalities and genuine emotions added an extra sparkle to this beautifully styled wedding day… and the process of photographing it!
The stationery, reception setups, florals, and other details of the wedding day were carefully curated, resulting in a photographer’s HEAVEN.
Here are some highlights that left me looking like the heart eye emoji for weeks to follow our afternoon together:
- Jewel Tone Color Palette: The rich colors combined with stone fruit and dahlias created a breathtaking visual ensemble that was elevated, sophisticated, and so very unique!
- Floral Accents: Each groom wore a unique floral accent— one with a boutonniere and the other with a floral lapel. These were positioned on the sides of their suit facing the ‘crowd’ during the ceremony, adding a thoughtful touch to ensure both accessories would be on display throughout the “wedding.”
- Burying the Bourbon: This fun southern tradition added a unique twist to the day. While we staged this the day-of, in this tradition, a couple buries a full bottle of bourbon a month before the wedding day at their venue. On their big day, they dig it up, ensuring a rain-free day (or at least something delightful to sip on)!
- Dahlias: These stunning flowers deserve a second mention because I mean DANG! They were fluffy, fresh, and oh so colorful! I can’t get enough of these flowers that often make their appearance on the wedding scene in early fall!
Every detail of this styled wedding was thoughtfully curated to tell a story of inclusivity and affirmation.
Collaborating with others in the industry who share these values was both fun and inspiring. As a queer affirming wedding photographer in Baltimore, MD, I am grateful for the opportunity to grow my portfolio in such a meaningful way! Let’s continue to celebrate love in all its forms and ensure that every couple feels seen, recognized, and celebrated.
Now… are you READY to scroll through all the pretty?! As I guide you through the details and photos taken throughout our time together, I’ll add notes to provide context and explain the different aspects of the styled wedding day that may differ from a real wedding day!
A special shoutout to the amazing team that made this beautiful styled wedding a reality! If you are looking for a talented, queer affirming wedding vendor in the VA/DMV area, here is a GREAT list to get your search started:
Host and Coordination: Styled in Pride | Photography in this post: Cait Kramer Photography | Venue: Rust Manor House | Florals: The Fertile Burb | Planner: Evermore Occasions | Rentals: Curated Events DC | Invitation Suite & Menus: Beacon Lane | Cake: Lucy Qs Cakery | Calligrapher: Ranisha Singh | Styling Mats: Olive and Oak Mats | Favors: Harper G Designs
These two got into their suits separately so they could be surprised during their first look! I wish I could transport Rust Manor’s library into my own living room! How epic is this stunning space?!
After getting ready, it was time for the first look… followed by digging up the bourbon! Clearly the tradition worked as we had a beautifully rain-free afternoon! 😉
Then… it was time to get these two “hitched!” I mean when I told you I was in dahlia heaven…. I wasn’t joking!
Portrait time was abundant and SO much fun with these two!
There were TWO reception table scapes to photograph… and I’m still not sure which one was my favorite! I’ll start with the gorgeous indoor setup, lush with florals, stone fruit, and jewel tones!
The outdoor setup felt like something right out of Alice in Wonderland in the best possible way! I love how so many similar florals were used to create a completely different look! Plus… the hand-lettered terracotta place settings were just the sweetest touch!
We staged some toasts and some portraits with the outdoor setup, and I am OBSESSED! I mean that glassware? How CUTE!
Then, it was time to head inside for one final vignette: cake cutting! How gorgeous is this cake dripping in florals and fruit?!
If you enjoyed this blog post, you may also like:
STYLED IN PRIDE WEDDING DAY AT THE RIVERVIEW AT OCCOQUAN
