Queer vow renewal in the woods - devils dyke, brighton

homemade dresses, ten friends and secret woodland ceremony

What if you presented differently than you did when you got married? Elle (she/her) and Myra (she/her) got married in 2015 before Myra had transitioned, so when their ten year anniversary came around they decided to renew their vows and take pictures of what their beautiful life looks like now. We decided to do it full guerrilla style because who actually says you need to pay for a venue when nature is all around us?! Janie from Orange Tree Weddings did the most fabulous job of dressing our chosen tree up in Devils Dyke, Brighton with flower installations from Maison Fleurette and a handmade banner from Haus of Holker decorating the space. After entering to Lord of the Rings violin pieces recorded for them by Shane Considine guests gathered on a picnic bench - Elle’s parents set up on a Facetime call all the way from the states - to watch the beautiful and deeply emotional ceremony led by Holdon So aka Giddy & Gay.

Weddings don’t have to break the bank

This was such a wonderful example of sustainability at it’s best. Elle handmade both their dresses and their bouquets used flowers from their garden. There was no waste at all - the drapes and decorative pieces were all able to be used again and again. The love from their friends, their Huskies and their gorgeous kid was what the space so magical. We all balled our eyes out at the readings and personal vows. We cackled our heads off at running around the south downs taking pictures afterwards. No council came to move us along, and every member of the public who stumbled upon our spot politely kept moving. I adore the people of Brighton and the respect they have for each other and it’s what makes these kinds of spiritual moments possible.

Weddings don’t have to look like weddings

This is my favourite kind of wedding to capture. Ones that don’t look like weddings. That have all the performativity taken away and celebrate what’s left at the core. Love, vulnerability, being seen. Hiring amazing vendors whose values you share and letting them hold you in a space that allows you to be wholeheartedly yourselves. I feel so lucky to have worked alongside such a beautiful team on this unforgettable August day in Brighton.