LGBTQ Wedding

Crafting an Intimate Celebration of Love

Wedding Photography

brides beautiful wedding portrait at Square Club, in Bristol

Hello there!


If you’re gearing up for an LGBTQ wedding that celebrates love in its most authentic and touching form, welcome. As a Bristol-based wedding photographer, I have the joy of capturing moments that are not only profound but deeply personal. Today, I want to share how I approach photographing an LGBTQ wedding, particularly through the lens of an upcoming special day for an incredible couple, Rebecca and Kharla.

Rebecca and Kharla, two wonderfully creative and introspective souls, have chosen Bristol as the backdrop for their wedding—a city as vibrant and diverse as their love. They plan to weave their day with threads of tradition, personal flair, and deep meaning, all culminating in a beautiful portrait session at the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. This guide is for those who dream of a day filled with love, creativity, and a touch of Bristol’s unique charm.

Planning Your Dream LGBTQ Wedding: A Complete Guide


Embarking on the journey of wedding planning can feel daunting, especially when you wish to infuse every detail with personal significance. Let’s walk through the essentials of creating a day that feels as genuine and heartfelt as the love you share.

LGBTQ wedding portraits in square Club with Rebecca & Kharla in the secret Garden

Finding LGBTQ-Friendly Venues and Vendors


Your wedding venue is more than just a backdrop; it’s the stage on which your shared dreams take the spotlight. Look for spaces that not only speak to your aesthetic senses but also resonate with a spirit of inclusivity and warmth. Whether it’s a quaint bookstore that sparked your love for poetry or a serene beach where you shared deep conversations under the stars, choose a place that reflects your journey.

When it comes to vendors, seek out those who are not just LGBTQ-friendly but who celebrate and advocate for the LGBTQ community. These vendors should be allies who understand your needs and can translate your vision into reality with sensitivity and flair.

two brides are walking hand in hand in front of the Square Club

Incorporating Traditions: Making Your Ceremony Unique


In Bristol, a city known for its individuality and artistic heart, your wedding traditions can be as conventional or unconventional as you like. Feel empowered to adapt or create traditions that resonate with who you are. Why not incorporate Bristol’s rich maritime history or iconic art scene into your ceremony for a touch of local flavor? Tailor every element to reflect your personal narratives and shared experiences.

Creative Ideas for Personalising The Wedding Day


For the creatively inclined, Bristol is your canvas. Imagine a wedding where guests participate in a live art session, creating a piece that symbolizes your union, or where local musicians curate a soundtrack that echoes through the city’s lanes. As your photographer, I will seek to capture these vibrant, creative expressions, focusing on the spontaneous and heartfelt moments that define your relationship.

LGBTQ wedding in Square Club, The Secret Garden

Legal Advice for Same-Sex Couples


Navigating the legal landscape as an LGBTQ couple can be tricky. Understanding your rights and ensuring all legalities are squared away is crucial. This might mean consulting with a legal expert who specializes in LGBTQ marriages. Knowing that everything is in order legally will allow you to focus fully on each other, without underlying worries.

Portrait Session at Clifton Suspension Bridge

The highlight for me as a photographer will be the portrait session at Clifton Suspension Bridge. This iconic landmark is not just a stunning piece of architecture but a symbol of connection and enduring strength, much like Rebecca and Kharla’s relationship. We plan to capture moments of them together, against the dramatic backdrop of the bridge and the sunset over the Avon Gorge, creating images that they will treasure for a lifetime.

By infusing your wedding planning with intention and heart and choosing elements that truly represent your inner world, you’ll create not just a memorable day but a foundation of cherished memories to last a lifetime. As someone who values depth and authenticity, I would be honored to capture the essence of your day through my lens, ensuring that your love story is told in the most beautiful, genuine way possible.

LGBTQ wedding pictures with the Suspension Bridge at the background in Bristol

Do you have some questions?

Let me answer them!


Look for venues that explicitly state their support for LGBTQ+ weddings, showcase diverse couples in their promotional materials, and have staff trained in inclusivity. Checking reviews and testimonials from other LGBTQ+ couples can also provide insights into their experiences.

Consider including rainbow motifs, literature or quotes from LGBTQ+ activists, or traditions from queer culture. You might also choose to acknowledge the LGBTQ+ community during your vows or speeches, expressing solidarity or remembrance.

Yes, while same-sex marriage is legal across the UK, there are nuances in legal documentation and rights that you might need to consider. Consulting with a legal professional who specializes in LGBTQ+ rights can ensure you’re fully prepared.

Absolutely! Folly Farm is committed to sustainability, making it easy to incorporate eco-friendly touches into your wedding. Opt for biodegradable confetti, local wildflowers for décor, and even hire local vendors who share your values. The venue’s natural setting also offers a beautiful backdrop that requires minimal decoration—perfect for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Absolutely! Websites like The Queer Wedding Guide and Pink Wedding Venues are excellent starting points for finding LGBTQ+ friendly vendors and services that range from catering to photography, all committed to supporting and celebrating your love.

LGBTQ+ couples often embrace the freedom to break from traditional gender norms. You might consider custom suits, gender-neutral outfits, or designs that incorporate elements from both dresses and suits. Indiebride London and The Tailory New York offer great bespoke options.

It’s important to surround yourselves with love and support on your wedding day. Consider assigning a couple of trusted friends or a wedding planner to act as buffers. Communicate your expectations clearly with unsupportive family members beforehand, and don’t hesitate to limit their involvement to protect your space.

Think about having a drag performance, a queer DJ, or a dance-off featuring vogueing. These elements not only celebrate queer culture but also add unforgettable fun to your reception.

Destinations like Spain, Canada, and New Zealand are not only beautiful but also boast progressive laws and welcoming communities for LGBTQ+ weddings. For each, check the local marriage laws and LGBTQ+ rights to ensure a smooth experience.

romantic moments between the brides on an lgbtq wedding in Square Club, Bristol

READY TO

Capture your love story?

We would love to be a part of your journey and help capture every heartfelt moment of your special day. Whether you’re planning a quiet, intimate ceremony or a bold, expressive celebration, we’re here to document your love in its truest form.

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