Black Creek Pioneer Village
I absolutely loved this LGBTQ wedding at Black Creek Pioneer Village. This venue has an amazing rustic feel. I’ve shot a lot of weddings in the past few years and each one is special to me in its own way. Having said that, I’m not sure I’ve ever experienced so much pure joy all in one place. Nothing contrived or faked. Just legitimate, honest joy.
This summer wedding kicked off with a combined groom prep. While the norm is keeping the couple apart in the morning, these two opted to get ready together. It eliminated the anxiety of not having your significant other around, and the tension behind the wedding day just disappears. I know there’s the old fashion superstition that you can’t see the bride before the wedding, but I suppose that’s one of the benefits of not having a bride. The boys wore custom made groom shirts. Inside it said “I’m going to marry the shit out of you.” That was the general feel of the day. Every serious moment had a laugh included.
Ceremony
Curtis and Parsia’s gay wedding at Black Creek Pioneer Village had me laughing more than once that day. Heck I’m laughing even now as these photos go up remembering all the fun moments. When I create these blog posts they are often detail-rich, because I know brides like to see that stuff. But there is no bride with this wedding, so we’re sticking to the fun. For example, during the ceremony, the officiant recites the famous “Blessing of the Hands.” It reiterates how the hand you’re holding now will be the hands you’ll hold throughout your marriage. Here is an excerpt.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.
These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future.
It is super sweet and probably one of my favorite wedding readings. However, with the weather being so hot and sweaty, Parsia added a new line. “These are the hands that will wipe the sweat off your brow.” As he says it, he wipes his own head with Curtis’s hand. It was such a simple moment, but I couldn’t stop laughing.
Westmount Banquet Hall
After our portrait session around the Black Creek Pioneer Village grounds, we headed to Westmount Banquet Hall for the reception. The rustic decor of this wedding was amazing. There were personal touches everywhere. The couple’s grand entrance opened things up with a choreographed performance. These two bring so much warmth and love wherever they go. And they aren’t showy about how in love they are. They don’t need to be because it’s just plain obvious to anyone who watches them together. I can’t quite put into words just how wonderful this wedding was. It’s one for the books. Curtis and Parsia, you are so special to me. I can’t wait to watch your story unfold. Thank you for letting me be a very small part of it.
Special Update: I’m photographing Parsia’s brother’s wedding next year. So be sure to check it out.
