Stevie and Chloe’s wedding, where do I start? Some weddings stand out because of the aesthetics, large floral scapes, or being the party of the century. And others stand out because of a connection. A connection to each other, a connection to family and a connection to the day. As an LGBT wedding photographer, these are the days that I’m drawn to. These are the days when memories are formed and connections are made. Emotional days where families are blended, and you can feel the love in the air. This was Stevie and Chloe’s wedding.
This day was particularly unusual. Stevie (they/them) and Chloe(she/her) opted to host their wedding in an untraditional way. Day 1 was the wedding, a family-only affair set on a rural Airbnb in Newcastle. And day 2 was for their friends at the same location. The morning of their wedding was low-key and relaxed. Where they got ready together and really savoured the moment. The moment of ‘omg we are getting ready’. Just before the ceremony, Stevie’s two boys arrived, and they all got ready together.
We got ready in their time; there was no rush, no pressure, no timelines to meet. When they were ready, the ceremony began.
The ceremony was one for the books. Led by Newcastle Celebrant Kez, there were laughs, tears and all the good stuff. You could tell that Kez really took the time to get to know them. As an LGBT wedding photographer, I have seen many queer ceremonies, from the grand to the low-key, but this one was a highlight. Kez truly showed that she is passionate about telling all love stories the same. With care and charisma.
Stevie and Chloes vows were special. They weren’t just to each other, but they were to their families as well. I haven’t seen this before, and it was quite a special moment to witness.
After the ceremony, we headed off into the paddocks for their portraits. We had to rush the portraits, unfortunately, as a large storm was rolling in. But we created some magic. Throughout the portraits, you could feel the electricity in the air, and that’s not just from the storm. The connection was real, and they couldn’t keep their hands off each other, making my job easy.
Being able to capture couples authentically is my favourite way to photograph them. Real smiles, real emotions. Being an LGBT wedding photographer, this is what I live for. Real and authentic.
We wrapped up the portraits right as the storm rolled in, and then Chloe and Stevie took a risk. They jumped straight into the pool with their wedding outfits still on. This moment was a huge surprise to everyone around. Everyone is belly laughing, and more people joined them soon after!
As a Central Coast inclusive wedding photographer, these sorts of weddings are by far my favourite.
Real memories were made at this wedding. And this is your little reminder that there are no rules when it comes to weddings. Memories are made from connections, not from Pinterest boards.
I’m sure everyone within Stevie & Chloe’s circles is going to be talking about this day for a while.
