50 Moments of Pure Queer Joy

/
50 Moments of Pure Queer Joy

This pride month is especially meaningful, as we mark the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising which brought visibility to LGBTQ+ issues and the community’s struggle for equal rights. We still face a great deal of discrimination in this world, but no one can dampen the light of love shone from these couples. To honor the sacrifice of every one who has helped the community reach this point, we are highlighting 50 moments of pure queer love and joy from past Catalyst couples. Thank you for sharing your love and light with us and the world!

Read More

Vintage Retro Engagement Inspiration in Palm Springs: Janet + Gabriel

/
Vintage Retro Engagement Inspiration in Palm Springs: Janet + Gabriel

For this engagement inspiration shoot at Feminist Photo Vaycay in Palm Springs the models were Janet and Gabe. When they sent us images of themselves, their smiles were absolutely infectious and the team knew they’d capture that “in love and on vacation“ attitude. 

Read More

Magical Desert Wedding Elopement Inspiration in Joshua Tree: Mia + Sasja

/
Magical Desert Wedding Elopement Inspiration in Joshua Tree: Mia + Sasja

Catalyst co-founder Carly Romeo started the Feminist Photo VayCay a few years ago, a retreat where photographers can participate in styled shoots using local vendors and gorgeous couples who are PoC, and/or queer/non-binary. This the first of two styled shoots from the retreat: an elopement inspiration in the high desert at the Tumbleweed Sanctuary. Mia and Sasja are our real-life couple and models, and they were incredibly brave in what was shockingly cold weather.

Read More

Yes, You Need to Feed Your Wedding Vendors

/
Yes, You Need to Feed Your Wedding Vendors

Providing meals for your vendors is a commonly overlooked piece of the wedding day puzzle. You might be so deep in the weeds of making sure all your guests’ dietary restrictions are taken care of that you’ve forgotten that even your photographer, wedding planner, DJ, and other day-of vendors are going to need to eat, too!

Read More

Why You Shouldn't Require Your Wedding Party to Have Professional Hair & Makeup

/
Why You Shouldn't Require Your Wedding Party to Have Professional Hair & Makeup

Sometimes, we assume that the only want to make “beautiful” happen is with the help of hair and makeup services, but it’s important to note that not all members of your wedding party may feel comfortable getting their hair and makeup professionally done for your big day.

Read More

5 Tips for Hiring Inclusive Wedding Vendors

/
5 Tips for Hiring Inclusive Wedding Vendors

We know our Catalyst readers are some of the most progressive couples out there, and the struggle to “stay woke” while navigating this super traditional wedding industry is REAL. Thankfully, one of the easiest ways to have a woke wedding is to book inclusive vendors. But how do you get started? We’ve outlined some steps that can help.

Read More

Looking for a Photographer that Makes You Feel at Home? We've Found the One // Cassandra Zetta Photography

/
Looking for a Photographer that Makes You Feel at Home? We've Found the One // Cassandra Zetta Photography

Cassandra Zetta is a photographer whose work we have admired for a long time, and once we had her speak at {un}convention in Richmond last November, we knew her dedication to LGBTQ+ couples meant she was the absolute right fit for our vendor community.Get to know Cassandra Zetta and how she's making the world of wedding photography a better and more inclusive place. 

Read More

6 Times Having Fur Babies at Your Wedding was Awesome

/
6 Times Having Fur Babies at Your Wedding was Awesome

What could make a wedding even more special than sharing it with loved ones? Sharing it with your fur babies, of course! Most couples consider their fur babies members of the family, so why should they stay home on this special day? Here are some of our favorite wedding fur babies.

Read More

5 Self Care Tips for Feeling Your Best on Your Wedding Day

/
5 Self Care Tips for Feeling Your Best on Your Wedding Day

Planning and preparing for a wedding can be stressful. Start the process of alleviating your stress by identifying the sources.  There are two types of stress: eustress, which is positive and can be motivating, and distress, a negative source of anxiety. What is unnecessary and can be left behind, eradicated, or revamped? Create a to-do list, and delegate tasks to people that you trust, like your wedding party or coordinator who will help to disperse the load. Surround yourself with a positive support team that can help you to stay clear of unnecessary tension. Then begin implementing a daily routine like meditation and breathing techniques with a cup of herbal tea to start your day. This can create a moment for yourself and set the tone that will help you to feel grounded and ready to tackle what’s left on your to-do list.

Read More

Real Couples // A Stylish, Woodsy LGBTQ+ Wedding: Mack + Jeanne

/
Real Couples // A Stylish, Woodsy LGBTQ+ Wedding: Mack + Jeanne

After meeting and falling in love in D.C. while on deployment, Mack brought Jeanne back to Cincinnati to continue their love story. And so, on a warm, spring day, adoring family and friends near and far traveled to witness Mack and Jeanne wed in an intimate ceremony nestled in the woods. Light poured in through the trees, shined onto the couple, and illuminated their faces during this mystical moment. Jeanne’s mother performed a chant ritual bringing goodness, gratitude, and love into the space. The ceremony concluded with handwritten vows and a joyful exit. Back at the barn, Jeanne’s sister presented a slideshow of the story of Mack and Jeanne, filling the reception with laughter and the happiest tears. The evening ended with a gorgeous golden sunset, and a dancing celebration.

Read More