Maddi (she/her) and Allison (they/them) are an LGBTQ+ wedding couple that had their Midcoast Maine celebration on a sunny fall day. The couple had already eloped a few years ago, so it was important to them that they had a celebration to reflect their ongoing love story. They incorporated special moments with their loved ones, as well as quiet time with each other, for a day that felt truly authentic to them.
Interested in tips for planning your own LGBTQ+ wedding? Check out my top tips here!
LGBTQ+ Engagement Photos
The first time I met Maddi and Allison in person was for their engagement photos. We chatted for about an hour before the session about wedding logistics, nerves, and excitement! While we talked, I bonded with their cat, Iris, which was definitely a highlight for me. The quickest way to my heart is to tell me that your cat who’s showing me a ton of affection doesn’t usually go up to strangers.
For the engagement photos, we focused on their playful and loving relationship. Allison loves the family boat, and the two of them spend a lot of time on it together, so I made sure to incorporate it in the photos. Throughout the session, we laughed a lot and bonded over the romantasy books we’re reading.
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LGBTQ+ Wedding Ceremony
Maddi and Allison decided that walking down the aisle together felt the most comfortable to them. I always encourage veering from tradition if that feels the most authentic to your relationship. They also incorporated their people by having one friend officiate and other friends speak. I was smiling along with the guests hearing all the sweet things Maddi and Allison’s friends had to say about them as a couple. A little detail I loved about their ceremony was the usage of mismatched chairs and benches for guests to sit on during the ceremony. It felt very natural to the casual, backyard wedding vibes that were at the forefront of their celebration.
Incorporating Important Elements
When I asked Maddi and Allison what parts of the celebration they were most excited about, they talked about the barn that they were transforming into a dance floor, complete with a fog machine and a disco ball. Throughout the day, I helped them find quiet moments where they could enjoy spending time with each other and taking in the space they worked so hard to set-up. I don’t know that I’ll ever stop obsessing over the late afternoon light that filtered into the barn! Shoutout to the vendors that made sure we took advantage of it.
LGBTQ+ Wedding Reception
The fun continued long into the night with Maddi and Allsion’s reception that followed cocktail hour on the lawn. Family members’ speeches had everyone laughing and reminiscing. The food provided by Stone Cove Catering was a HUGE hit. I hear a lot of people say that no one will remember the food at your wedding, but I know for a fact Maddi and Allison’s guests were talking about it months later! They continued the celebration with a dance party in the barn that spilled out onto the lawn. Allison’s aunt and uncle surprised everyone with epic fireworks to end the evening!
What I loved most about Maddi and Allison’s day was their willingness to slow down for intentional moments. This allowed for authentic emotions and little in-between moments to be captured so they can get a full picture of their celebration when they look back on their gallery.
The vendors that made this day possible:
Lead Photographer: me! (Sunset Ridge Photography)
Second Photographer: Koa and Kai Photography
Planner: Magical Memory Events
Rentals: Wallace Events
Florals: Midcoast Blooms
Catering: Stone Cove Catering
Dessert: Wild Oats Bakery
Meet your queer Maine wedding photographer!
Hi, I’m Marena and I adore creating meaningful connections with people. With a focus on documentary photography, I strive to highlight connection in my work. I’m always looking to capture the small glances exchanged, a brush of hands, and the little moments that paint the big picture.
During your wedding day, you can expect me to be hyping you up, capturing natural, intimate moments, and most importantly, making sure you feel comfortable!
