Catalyst Wedding Co. Blog
A Vibrant Multi-Couple LGBTQ+ Styled Shoot in Austin, TX: Radical Wed Retreat
Radical Wed Retreat is an annual retreat and workshop for inclusive wedding vendors hosted by wedding coordinator and stylist Justine Broughal of Together Events and photographer Jamie Carle. In addition to talks and workshops around intersectional topics, the retreat included a styled shoot for a colorful double ceremony for two LGBTQ+ couples.
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!
The Radical Wed Retreat 2018 Round Up
Radical Wed Retreat is a photo conference hosted by Justine Broughal and Jamie Carle that we at Catalyst had the privilege of sponsoring. They created a gorgeous, two-part editorial shoot using real life couple Karla, one of the officiants from Once Upon a Vow, and her girlfriend Mary, on the Oregon coast.
A Queer Surprise Home Wedding in Milwaukie, Oregon: Andi + Jess
As we were talking about doing an engagement party in the meantime, the idea came up that if we were already bringing our people together to celebrate our commitment at an engagement party, why not just do a small ceremony instead?
8 Reasons to Have a Philly Wedding
My first time to Philadelphia was this past summer, and while I spent a mere few hours with some favorite wedding photographers, I got a glimpse into why people love the City of Brotherly Love. There is so much to explore, it’s no wonder couples love being united in Philly.
7 Reasons to Have a Portland Wedding
Portland was just recently named one of the best cities to be single in. While Portlanders are split on whether to agree or disagree — the truth is that it’s one of the best cities to get married in, too! The average wedding spend here is lower, at just $26,473. Living here, I might be biased. But what other city has its own wedding llamas?!
9 Reasons to Have an Atlanta Wedding
Atlanta, Georgia is known for its “City in the Forest” vibe, amazing music, and, don’t forget, peaches! It also landed at number THREE on the best places to get married in the U.S. It’s not surprising — there’s a place for any kind of wedding. It’s also easily accessible via train, air, or major highways, which is a big factor for those with out of town guests!
9 Reasons to Have a San Francisco Wedding
San Francisco is one of those cities that’s both magic and really authentic. It doesn’t apologize for being itself, and neither do its couples. The average wedding spend for 100–200 guests is $63,00–105,00. San Francisco is also home to the nation’s biggest Pride events. You can only imagine the magic that comes from a city priding itself on authenticity and artistic expression, not to mention the beautiful views and venues at your disposal!
8 Reasons to Have a Seattle Wedding
If you've ever considered a destination wedding in Seattle, we'll convince you to go for it. And if you're lucky enough to already live around the Emerald City, then you already know how special Seattle weddings can be! We've compiled our favorite reasons we love Seattle weddings, too! Here are eight undeniable reasons to consider having your big day in Seattle.
Real Bodies // Em's Boudoir Shoot for Radical Self Love (NSFW)
I decided to do a boudoir session for one reason: radical self love.
A few events sparked my motivation to begin this journey, however. I'd just come out of an emotionally abusive relationship that left me feeling unlovable, ugly, and with the lowest self esteem I've ever had. I was frustrated that I wasn't feeling the way I knew I deserved to feel about myself.
Why Do We Keep Having Traditional Weddings? The Answer Might Shock You
Weddings have not fundamentally changed for hundreds of years. Truth is, you can do whatever you want! Here are some ideas to remove that monotone sexism from your own wedding and still keep with an upbeat tone celebrating your relationship and partner.
12 Photographers You Need to Follow on Instagram for Nontraditional & Diverse Wedding Inspiration
While wedding websites and blogs are a great destination for inspiration, wedding photographers are the original sources for beautiful wedding images, most of which are never published on blogs, in magazines, or on websites. If you are looking for original, nontraditional, and diverse wedding inspiration — or just a daily dose of love — then do yourself a favor and follow these talented artists:
Real Couples // Summer Evening Engagement: Aisha + Rachel
We met at a bar. Rachel's friend bailed but she decided to go out anyways so she was standing by the wall. I walked past her at first but stopped and turned around to talk to her for some reason. Neither of us were expecting to meet anyone that night; neither of us were looking for a relationship at that point actually, but we started hanging out constantly after that night and we've basically been together ever since.
Find Inclusive Wedding Vendors - Photo by Leise Jones Photography