At the beginning of September, Jemima and Jess tied the knot in the beautiful Cornish village of St Mawes. And what a wedding it was! Full of love, laughter, and more than a few unforgettable surprises. Their day perfectly captured who they are as a couple. If you’re looking for inspiration for a St Mawes wedding or searching for an LGBTQ wedding photographer in Cornwall, this celebration is one for the books.

A Relaxed Morning Together – Cornwall LGBTQ+ Wedding

The day began at the Rising Sun pub, one of St Mawes’ cosiest venues. Both brides got ready side by side in their pyjamas, having their hair and makeup done while soaking in the calm of the morning. Just before it was time to get into their wedding dresses, they separated into neighbouring rooms. Keeping their outfits a surprise until that unforgettable first look at the aisle.

The Ceremony in Lamorran Gardens

The ceremony took place in the magical Lamorran Gardens, one of Cornwall’s most unique outdoor wedding venues. Set against a backdrop of lush, tropical greenery, the atmosphere felt like stepping into another world.

Jemima’s younger brother led their dog, Apples, down the aisle to kick things off. A personal touch that had everyone smiling. One by one, the brides made their entrance. Jemima’s face lit up as she saw Jess walk down the aisle, and soon they stood together beneath the canopy of trees. Their celebrant, a close family friend, led a heartfelt service full of memories from their journey together. From lockdown love stories to bridging their roots in the UK and Australia.

Confetti flew, vows were exchanged, and the joy on their faces said it all. As a Cornwall LGBTQ wedding photographer, these are the kinds of moments I live to capture.

The Wholesome Village Walk

One of the highlights of their day was the incredible walk back down the hill into St Mawes village. Surrounded by family and friends, Jemima and Jess strolled hand in hand past fisherman’s cottages and narrow cobbled lanes. Every passing car honked, met by cheers and laughter from the wedding party. It felt like the whole of St Mawes was celebrating their love, and it was one of the most joyful wedding moments I’ve ever witnessed.

Cocktails, Canapés & A Gig Rowing Surprise

Back at the Rising Sun pub, guests gathered for cocktails and canapés. But the brides had one more surprise — a true Cornish experience. As a proud member of a local gig rowing club, Jemima organised for her and Jess to be rowed out into the harbour. Flags waving (Cornish and Australia, of course), the brides stood at the bow recreating their own Titanic moment. Despite the choppy waters, they returned to the cheers of their guests waiting onshore.

For couples looking for a St Mawes wedding photographer, this moment captured everything that makes Cornish weddings so unique: community, adventure, and a deep connection to the sea.

Evening Celebrations

The evening continued back at the Rising Sun with heartfelt speeches, delicious food, and a homemade cake crafted by a friend. Later, the couple wandered through the village with their closest friends, setting off smoke bombs and creating unforgettable portraits filled with laughter.

As night fell, the Budgie Smugglers band got the dance floor moving, and the brides celebrated late into the night with their guests.

A Day to Remember – Cornwall LGBTQ+ Wedding

From the peaceful morning at the Rising Sun, to the magical Lamorran Gardens wedding ceremony, to the epic gig rowing surprise and the laughter-filled evening. Jemima and Jess’s day was nothing short of extraordinary.

Their St Mawes wedding was not only a celebration of their love but also a beautiful reminder of how meaningful and joyful a Cornwall LGBTQ+ wedding is.

Your Cornwall LGBTQ+ Wedding

If you’re planning your own celebration and searching for a Cornwall LGBTQ wedding photographer to capture your story, I’d love to hear from you. St Mawes is a truly special place to get married. Jemima and Jess’s wedding is proof of just how magical it can be.

Here are a couple more real weddings for you to check out:

Wadhurst Castle Wedding – Antonia & Anna | LGBTQ+ Wedding

LGBTQ Wedding Photographer – A Seaside Celebration

LGBTQ+ Wedding Photographer | Dreamy Cornish Celebration

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Suppliers:

Ceremony Venue: Lamorran Gardens

Reception Venue: Rising Sun

Hair & Make Up Artist: Georgina Markham Makeup

Balloon Sleeve Dress & Shoes: Elaine Rawlings & ASOS

Halter Neck Dress & Shoes: Suffolk Wedding Dress Exchange & Lace and Favour

Band: The Budgie Smugglers

Gig Rowing Club: Roseland Gig Club