Cynthia Viola Photography

GTM Research Reserve Wedding | Rebecca and Lara

Wedding PhotographyCynthia Viola
Love does not claim possession, but gives freedom.
— Rabindranath Tagore
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding

The Florida heat was sweltering as Rebecca and Lara shared their vows on the patio of the GTM Research Reserve surrounded by their loved ones. No one seemed to care, however, because they were too busy crying over the beauty of all that was happening before them. As Rebecca spoke of the laws that once wouldn’t allow them a fundamental right, several couples in the crowd sat a little closer despite the heat. When she rejoiced over the new laws that celebrated their love, tears started to fall from several eyes (including my own). Many couples just looked into each other’s eyes at that moment and you could feel the love radiating out of that little circle of family and friends like an explosion. When they kissed everyone cheered and the celebration continued to the dance floor.

Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding

We were all in love with the fact that Lara’s dress had pockets!

Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding

 More tears erupted when they did the parent dances. There was so much love on the floor at one point both brides linked with both moms in an embrace that moved the whole room and Lara’s following speech reinforced how loved they felt and how grateful they were for a room full of people who supported them. It was such a beautiful moment.

Not every couple fits together as perfectly as these two. When one was stressed over a detail the other came to the rescue in a flash with just the right words or touch to let the other know it was ok and that they’d get through it together. I love so much being a witness week after week to people who were meant for each other in this way.

Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding
Jacksonville LGBTQ Wedding

Thank you guys for letting us be a part of your day! I wouldn’t have missed it for anything! Love you!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographers: Cynthia Viola with Kalypso Burley

Coordinator: Brooke Ellis with Yay Day Events

Venue: GTM Research Reserve

Hair and Make Up: MyDry Blow Out Bar and Mantra Hair Salon

Wedding Attire: David’s Bridal

Wedding Ring: Helzberg Diamonds for the setting, Diamond from Lara's mother :)

Florist: Jacksonville Flower Market

Officiant: Rev. Brendan Boone of FirstCoast MCC

DJ: Complete Weddings and Events - Eddie Castro

Photobooth: Complete Weddings and Events

Catering: Karen Wilson with 4Rivers Smokehouse

Cake Baker: Sweet Shop at 4Rivers Smokehouse

Rental Services: All About Events - Heidi