LGBTQ+ Summer Luxe Styled Wedding Shoot At Blackfriars Priory

May 30, 2022 Melissa Woods

Sam sitting on Cole's lap, in front of an ancient castle brick wall. Gorgeous summery flowers of white and blue are in the foreground

Photography by Stepanie Dreams Photography

Here’s the real talk: When we think of an LGBTQ+ wedding, immediately most people think of “same sex” couples. In reality, same sex couples make up such a small percentage of the LGBTQ+ community. But what about the representation in wedding media?

We are seeing more and more LGBTQ+ representation in wedding media, and it’s come such a long way to what we once knew. But something we strongly believe is that there’s always room for more improvement, more representation, more love.

Invitations laid out on powder blue linen, with a yellow ranunculus flower next to them. The invites have a gorgeous floral sketch with watercolour paint

That’s why in this shoot and workshop by Love For All LGBTQ+ Wedding Workshops, it was important that a trans couple was represented. Representing the Black LGBTQ+ community is crucially important, as they are such a minority in what we see in wedding media.

We don’t want to make LGBTQ+ weddings just that… As if an LGBTQ+ wedding is just a reason to shout about sexuality and identity, instead of the love that bought two beautiful souls together. We want to showcase things that allow everyone to see themselves in the inspiration.

Sam peeping over the top of her gorgeous bouquet that's mostly white, but has flecks of powder blue and peachy tones

This styled shoot takes inspiration from luxe, lazy summers. Laying under the shades of trees, green leaves and petals scattered around the ground… Warm breezes, wispy wildflowers, and summer evenings.

Styled by Little Wedding Helper, and set in Blackfriars Priory, the shoot gives off sun-drenched summers in Italy vibes. All of the classic elements, but with details that give it a modern edge; like the bride’s Crazy In Love jumpsuit, and the perfectly messy floral displays by Clementine Moon scattered amongst the ancient brickwork.

One of the most enticing things about how this shoot is presented is that though the colours chosen are at first glance very summery and spring-y colours… Mixed with the timeless and grand venue, everything included could absolutely work for an autumn or winter wedding, too.

The table layout with a blue table cloth, gold cutlery, and sea glass blue plates. The flowers are in long vases, spraying up like wildflowers growing freely

A simple white wedding cake with metallic edges, sitting on a wooden table decorated with summery florals.

A simple place setting idea for a summer-luxe wedding with a floral print menu on some textured crockery surrounded by delicate flowers.

Part of the gorgeous inspiration in this Love For All LGBTQ+ workshop came from the real life couple models themselves.

Cole had previously worked on a Love for All LGBTQ+ shoot, hosted by photographer, Stephanie, before. Stephanie remembered his infectious smile, energy, and beauty, and since he was now in a relationship, it seemed like the perfect time to get them both involved!

Cole and Sam were the perfect addition to this summer castle-style wedding inspiration.

“They were so much fun. You could see the real connection and love between them the whole time”

How people identify could be something we possibly don’t see from just how they look. There are too many sad and negative stories we hear of trans people being misunderstood or misrepresented. It’s important these stories are told, but it’s just as important that we show how much trans people deserve love and having what they want for their weddings! Being loved by a trans person is so wonderful.

If you’d like to see more spring/summer wedding inspiration, take a look at this seriously cool, colourful, pearl-encrusted spring elopement, or this hot pink, alternative elopement in Bordeaux!