While brainstorming for the styled session earlier this spring, I knew I wanted to involve local talent that I had the pleasure of working with at real weddings. I also knew that I wanted to include diversity in the shoot. Bringing the focus of the story around a transgender couple was something that was near to my heart, and I wasn’t alone. This was something that was important to everyone participating. 

Seth began his journey from female to male in December of 2015. I was following his updates and progress on social media and I remember feeling so deeply excited for him and his acceptance of his true self. I was nervous reaching out to him, we had never met in person, but I knew that this was important and I wanted to share images showing his accomplishments. Thankfully, he was super excited to be a part of the session. 

Everyone that was a part of this far exceeded my expectations. Obviously the goal of the session is to be published and bring more attention to the vendors and there creative abilities, but regardless I am just thankful that everyone can have these images to eventually promote themselves, and that we can shine even more beautiful light on the LGBT community. 

Do yourself a favor and check out all of these incredibly talented vendors. Links at the end of gallery. 

• Hair/Makeup: Baily Dehenau, https://www.facebook.com/BsMakeupArtistry/?pnref=lhc Insta: @makeupbaily

• Wedding Planner: Ashley Cox, The Bride's Maid https://www.facebook.com/TBMweddings/?fref=ts Insta: @thebridesmaidweddings

• Florist: Angie Ebert, Blue Hill Flower Farm http://www.bluehillflowerfarm.com/ Insta: @bluehillflowerfarm

• Cake Designer: Brittany Swineford, Sugar Rush https://www.facebook.com/sugarrushgpp/?pnref=lhc

• Invitation Designer: Annie Moore, Peonies and Polkadots https://www.etsy.com/shop/PeoniesPolkaDots

• Rings: SCOUT, http://www.scoutroyaloak.com/ Insta: @scoutroyaloak

• Jewelry Accessories: Kelly Cordova, Chloe + Isabelle https://www.facebook.com/chloeandisabel/?fref=ts

• Signage: Sara Bethune, Sweet Annie Rustics https://www.facebook.com/sweetannierustics/?pnref=lhc

• MODELS: Karla Bossenbery, Kayla Bossenbery (TWINS!), Vlad Kima

I met Jesse + Basia at a wedding I photographed last year, so when she called me on a Tuesday, to shoot her civil ceremony that coming Sunday, I didn’t hesitate to say yes. They will leave next week for their full celebration in Poland, but I was so glad that they included me in their intimate ceremony on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. 

We were a bit limited on time due to traffic and schedules, but that didn’t stop us from creating some beautiful moments together. Near the end of our time, I asked Jesse to tell me who this woman was in his arms and he replied, “It’s Basia.” I said, "I know her name is Basia, but who IS she.” He paused for a moment staring at her face. His eyes lit up and finally he said “My WIFE.”

Circumstances like this are a reminder to me that even if the light isn’t perfect, and there are time constraints, or its 95 degrees out, love is present and magic will happen. These guys were beautiful and I am so very grateful that they invited me to share this day with them. Congratulations to you both, and have the most amazing time in Poland. 

Jonathon + Samantha met and currently live in San Francisco, California. Being that the majority of their guests would be traveling from the bay area, they wanted to select a venue that would really wow their guests and represent all that Detroit stands for. The Detroit institute of Arts was the perfect location, especially since their April wedding day called for rain. I am not sure one person even noticed the weather, because we were all so enthralled with the interior space. 

Every last detail of this wedding day was a perfect reflection of this couple and their values. Jonathon wore the same tie that his Grandfather wore on his wedding day, and Samantha walked down the isle spritzed in her mother's perfume. The tables were assigned by the bride and groom's favorite movie quotes, and excerpts from Star Wars and The Princess Bride were read during the reception. Even their Art Deco Cake fit in amongst the galleries, each layer specially designed. 

One of my favorite parts about Jonathon + Samantha's wedding day was how hard he would make her laugh. Even while crying, they would be laughing. This day was full of beautiful architecture, art work, a gorgeous couple, humor, and so much love. Congratulations to you both and thank you for letting me join in on such an awesome day.