Lizzie & Dave - A Truly Home-Crafted DIY Unitarian Universalist Wedding - Derbyshire Wedding Photography

To love is not to possess,
To own or imprison,
Nor to lose one’s self in another.
Love is to join and separate,
To walk alone and together,
To find a laughing freedom
That lonely isolation does not permit.
It is finally to be able
To be who we really are
— James Kavanaugh

In the picturesque hills of Derbyshire, a love story unfolded in the form of Lizzie and Dave's enchanting August wedding. What made their celebration truly special was the personal touch they added to every detail, turning their special day into a handcrafted masterpiece.

The couple poured their hearts and creativity into crafting most of the decor, infusing the celebration with a unique charm. Lizzie, with her artistic flair, not only designed but handcrafted her own wedding dress, showcasing her talent and dedication to making the day uniquely hers. The felted bouquet she carried down the aisle mirrored her creativity and added a touch of whimsy to the ceremony.

One of the most memorable elements was a quilted wall hanging, a labor of love adorned with a unicycle and cowboy boots, capturing the essence of the couple's individuality. Each stitch told a story, weaving together the threads of their lives in a visually stunning display.

The emotional ceremony, held in the Unitarian Universalist tradition, was performed by their dear friend Julie, who traveled all the way from Detroit to officiate the union. The heartfelt service left not a dry eye in the house as the couple exchanged vows in the presence of loved ones who had traveled from both sides of the Atlantic to witness the joyous occasion.

The Nightingale Centre in Derbyshire, overlooking the majestic Peaks, provided a breathtaking backdrop for the reception. Many of the guests, flown in from the States and Canada, reveled in the beauty of the English countryside, creating a truly international celebration. The blending of cultures and traditions made for a unique and memorable experience.

Forgoing the traditional first dance, Lizzie and Dave opted for a lively ceilidh, inviting guests to join in the joyous celebration. Laughter filled the air as friends and family danced the night away, celebrating the union of two souls who had crafted not just a wedding but a work of art that reflected their love, creativity, and the unique journey that brought them together.

Lizzie and Dave's August wedding was a testament to the power of love, creativity, and the coming together of friends and family from around the world to celebrate a union that truly transcended borders. I had the most beautiful time getting to know this wonderfully unique and fun couple and was so touched by the warm and trust they offered me in capturing their amazing celebration. Here’s a bit of what we got up to…