Alyssa and PJ’s Grounded and Gay Garden Party Wedding
Gay (adj)
1) Attracted to people of one’s own sex
2) Lighthearted and carefree
It may seem diminutive to reduce Alyssa and PJ’s wedding down to a single word such as this, but in all aspects of their wedding less really was more. From their simple and sustainable faux flower budvase centerpieces to their relaxed, multi-activity reception, everything was very easy going and fun. This made for a perfect day for two beautiful brides.
It was a morning ceremony, so Alyssa, PJ, and their “do crew” arrived at the Colorado Governor’s Mansion bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready to get the show on the road. With their guests dressed in beautiful pastels, PJ wore a thrifted lace dress and Alyssa looked very stylish in a custom tailored cream colored suit. During their short but sweet ceremony, they completed the Hispanic wedding lasso ritual, as well as Celtic handfasting. After repeating beautiful, traditional Celtic wedding vows, it was time to party!
Rather than opting for a traditional cocktail hour leading into a reception, the rest of the day flowed very casually. The tea party buffet provided by Modern Catering was open in the main house, where guests could choose to sit at a table to eat and mingle, or they could participate in one of the many activities these two thoughtful brides had arranged for them. Activities such as tours of the historic Governor’s Mansion, tabletop games, an interactive painting guest book, puzzles, dancing, or they could even sneak away to the “Toke and Smoke Garden” for some additional adult entertainment.
When we first met back in 2024, Alyssa and PJ shared it was important to them that they have a legal wedding, since they didn’t know the challenges that may come up for LGBTQ+ couples in the future. It was my pleasure to not only ensure that their love be official in the eyes of the law, but to also create a day full of jovial, whimsical, and genial memories.
Vendors
Venue: Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion
Photos: Kate Merrill Photography
Florals: JayBird Events
Catering: Modern Catering
Bakery: The Enchanted Oven
Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals
