A queer couple have shared photos of their beautiful “micro wedding” held virtually with only with queer, Black and plus size vendors in attendance.
Chaya Milchtein and Morgan told PinkNews their stunning ceremony proves it’s possible to have a “unique, passionate, and memorable” ceremony “without people actually being there”.
The couple, who met four and a half years ago at a circus in New York, “struggled to determine what kind of wedding suited” them when they got engaged last summer.
Chaya said: “Neither of our parents were interested in celebrating with us, and Morgan wanted to just go to Vegas and get it done.
“I, on the other hand, wanted a more community affair. Our relationship has really been driven by building community, so when COVID hit and didn’t seem to be going anywhere, we hatched a plan.
“A virtual wedding, where no one would be in person, yet everyone would be invited virtually.”
The queer couple chose an Airbnb in Indianapolis as their venue, because it was a place they could “adventure to safely” during the pandemic, and because weddings in Indiana do not require witnesses.
The only people in attendance were their queer, Black and plus size vendors; and their officiant LS Quinn, a queer, plus size artist who travelled from Ohio to marry them.
Chaya said: “We worked with her to create a ceremony that really spoke to our unique relationship, beliefs about the world and marriage, and leaning on the strength of community.
“I wrote portions of the ceremony, incorporating traditional Jewish customs with a US spin, and driving home the idea that love doesn’t conquer all, and there is much work to be done, both in the world and to sustain a relationship that seems to defy all sense.”
She added: “COVID was the ultimate deciding factor in our micro wedding, but it really felt like it was meant to be.”
The couple decided to share the livestream of their wedding on Facebook, and despite their lack of parental support, they ended up with more than 10,000 virtual wedding guests.
“It was the most incredible experience that we could have ever asked for,” said Chaya.
“It truly is possible to have a unique, passionate, and memorable wedding without people actually being there.”