I met Katy and Dani through a common friend, who suggested I might be a good fit to capture their untraditional wedding day, and I am so thankful Ally reached out. I had no previous LGBTQIA+ photography experience to prove my support, but as a friend she knew my support and empowerment for all love was there. After speaking with the brides explaining how much it would mean to me to be able to showcase their gallery, empowering other LGBTQIA+ couples looking to marry, and hearing about their totally untraditional wedding plans and epic love, we booked almost immediately.
Katy and Dani's wedding celebration took place at the Stone Cliff Winery in Dubuque, Iowa. It was a unique venue full of character with a stunning view over the Mississippi. Though falling on the edge of Iowa, just a skip and hop from both Illinois and Wisconsin.
They asked their good friend Ally to become ordained before their desired wedding date, and she happily obliged. So, Ally was able to join the love birds for lunch before their celebration, during which she joined Katy and Dani into a legal marriage. Katy, Dani, their family, and I arrived to the Winery early for some private portraits. We chose to use the vintage green doors among the brick of the buildings along Stone Cliff, and then walked the path along the Mississippi enjoying the warm sunset.
The newlyweds hid in a backroom as their guests arrived, making a truly grand entrance, and heading into their heartfelt thank you speech. They cut their floral, vanilla, chocolate drizzled cake just before serving a delicious pasta dinner accompanied with cookies, cupcakes and your choice of amazing local wine. The celebration continued into the evening as the brides were surrounded by their closest friends and family, celebrating their love on the dance floor.
I'm beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to document Katy and Dani's true love and their intimate wedding in Dubuque, Iowa!
