Black Gay Weddings
Episode 11 Black Gay Weddings
On this episode of Weddings-ish, we dive into the vibrant world of Black Gay Weddings with founders Lawrence and Michael. This dynamic duo not only share their personal journey of love and marriage but also their mission to represent and celebrate Black queer couples, and give their community a better experience than they had in sharing their love with the world. Lawrence and Michael’s Instagram account, a favorite of Jove’s, showcases stunning images of Black queer couples, something the world definitely needs more of. Their first post in 2018 featured two beautiful brides, but the journey began a year earlier in 2017 when the couple themselves got married.
After being together for 11 years—Lawrence’s lucky number—Lawrence popped the question. It was a hilarious proposal story: Michael returned home exhausted from Japan, only to find Lawrence had packed his bags and whisked him off to Vegas. They arrived at a beautiful hotel, and Michael, annoyed with Lawrence’s packing, had to go shopping. After shopping, they couple went to dinner where Lawrence was upset that friends had been invited. Champagne was brought out but Michael’s was nowhere to be found, frustrated, he requested a glass. Michael failed to notice Lawrence kneeling beside him, mistaking the ring box for a dirty champagne glass, Michael was clueless until everyone around began to cry. Their engagement was a joyous surprise, sealed with matching custom rings.
“We were scouring all sources…we really didn’t see a whole lot of black gay couples getting married… Were we the first ones?
Lawrence + Michael on looking for inspiration for their own wedding in 2017
Their wedding planning adventure was just as memorable. Michael, enchanted by a Vegas wedding chapel he’d heard about from a friend and he’d seen online, booked it without realizing it was a “wedding factory. Facing” numerous add-on fees for personal touches, they decided to pivot. They chose the SLS Las Vegas, transforming their intimate ceremony into an extravagant celebration with 120 guests. Their fur babies even had a special role, being pulled down the aisle in a wagon. They faced the challenge of finding vendors willing to work with same-sex couples, an often traumatic process. Their wedding was featured on a platform, and when they were met with hateful comments, the platform did nothing to intervene. Frustrated by the lack of representation and the lack of safe spaces, Lawrence and Michael began to create their own.
Michael began to accumulate followers and Lawrence, tech-savvy and determined, built their website, and with Michael’s marketing efforts, they hit 10,000 followers. This milestone felt like turning lemons into lemonade, sparking a movement that inspired many. Jove, Lawrence, and Michael reflect on the importance of seeing themselves represented as gay men. Jove shares his love for their Instagram, one of the first to showcase such representation. Lawrence and Michael’s journey culminated in launching a magazine featuring diverse couples, including Hope Giselle, a trans woman of color and NASA ambassador.
Jove, Michael, and Lawrence discuss how women's rights and queer rights are intertwined, emphasizing the power of seeing love and joy instead of trauma and death. Their magazine was the first to feature a Black trans woman, and their presence at Essence Fest, where they were the first gay booth, created a safe space for many. Different women came up and were emotionally moved to share their own stories.
Lawrence and Michael have faced challenges, from hateful comments to vendors refusing to work with them. Yet, they’ve built a supportive community, offering a vetted vendor list and ensuring others don’t face the same struggles. They’ve been together for 19 years, sharing their secrets to a lasting marriage: gratitude, communication, and allowing each other space to grow. They stress the importance of intentionality and the work it takes to maintain a relationship. Looking forward, they’re considering starting a family, continuing to build a legacy of love and representation. For anyone seeking inspiration, support, or simply beautiful love stories, visit Black Gay Weddings. Lawrence and Michael’s journey is a testament to love, resilience, and the power of representation. Be sure to check out their instagram as well!
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