One thing that I LOVE about being an LGBTQ wedding photographer in California is a when the couple adds their specific style to the planning. Jaalah and Nastacia planned a Steampunk themed beach wedding ceremony in April. Due to shutdowns from to the pandemic, they had to reschedule their wedding date. Luckily, they were able to choose their favorite holiday Halloween, as the new date.  

Beach Wedding Ceremony

As part of the beach wedding ceremony, they celebrated Nastacia’s Jewish heritage. A beautiful ketubah was created for their special day and signed by the couple. A ketubah is a written Jewish marriage contract.

The couple wore a dashing black tux and Victorian themed wedding gown. Guests wore great Steampunk elements. For example, guests wore top hats, steampunk themed shoes, ties and socks. Additionally, face masks, and the bouquet contained small gears.

SLO Brew Rock Reception

This reception included beautiful detailed elements. For example, each DIY table centerpiece displayed vintage steampunk sunglasses, and books with gear parts. The reception venue, SLO Brew Rock had a large steampunk themed whiskey machine which added to the look. It was a joy to be their California wedding photographer!

California LGBTQ Wedding Photographer

DIY wedding  | Renoda Campbell Photography

I asked the couple a few questions about their wedding.

Memorable Moments

“I can’t speak for Nastacia, but besides the whole marrying the love of my life thing, I was so stoked for the first look photos. I hadn’t gotten to talk to Nastacia since the night before. She’s the person I most want to talk to when other people act up. Things outside of my control aren’t upsetting when I get to laugh about it with my best friend.”

Advice for Future Couples Planning their wedding:

“Wedding planning can be the worst, and it’s not everyone’s forte. I wish we had asked for help earlier. When embarking on a stressful endeavor be on the same page as your partner. Nastacia and I (after a wedding related argument) decided to take on the mentality of “us vs them” when it came to anything wedding related. Whenever an issue came up, instead of taking out our frustrations on each other, we’d remind each other “same team.” It’s amazing how much easier it is to roll with the punches when we’re mutually supporting each other.

It’s not enough to just communicate with your partner. Not everyone communicates efficiently the same way, so learning your partner’s communication style is key to effective communication.

Laugh often with your partner. It’s the best thing ever.”

Vendors:

Photographer: Renoda Campbell Photography @renodacampbellphoto

Event planner: Jenae Haynes (sister of the couple)

Reception Venue: SLO Brew Rock @slobrewrock

Catering: SLO Brew Rock @slobrewrock

Desserts: SLO Brew Rock   @slobrewrock

Ceremony Venue: Avila Beach @avilabeachca

Florals: Starkey and Co @starskeyandco

Rings: Zales @ zalesjewelers

Hair & Makeup Blue Bird Salon @bluebirdsalon, Leah Heidler @leah.heidler and Dendra Haynes (sister)

Beach Rentals: Butler Event & Beach Rentals @butlerzrents