A Chic City Soiree at 501 Union in Brooklyn

Latoya and Jackie's sophisticated style and modern details brought their swanky Brooklyn wedding at 501 Union to life.

App DMs led to coffee for Latoya and Jackie, both entering that Manhattan coffee shop seeking merely a new friendship, a mindset due to previously failed dating encounters. But the age-old anecdote of “You'll find love when you stop looking for it,” wielded itself, and they quickly discovered a mutual connection that was irresistible.

After getting engaged, they found themselves planning a wedding amidst a pandemic, and the additional challenge of being LGBTQ+. “Despite being in New York City, it took us some time to find LGBTQ-friendly vendors,” says Jackie. “We wanted to make sure they were comfortable with all aspects of hosting a non-traditional wedding celebration.”

The couple landed on Brooklyn's 501 Union as the backdrop to their celebration, largely thanks to its aesthetic and the easy-flow layout. “From the greenery found within the ceremony space, to the industrial-chic feeling of the cocktail and reception space,” says Latoya. “The entire venue fit our vision.”

CEREMONY

Opting to walk down the aisle together, Jackie looked stunning in a Vagabond Bridal dress, featuring a sequined bodice and crisp satin A-line skirt (with pockets!). Latoya contrasted in a custom avant-garde caped jumpsuit, designed by Tony Hamawy.

Forgoing bouquets, the pair wore wrist corsages which allowed them to hold each other's hand for their modern ceremony entrance. With cascading arrangements of seasonal blooms, votives, lanterns, and textured greens propped behind them, they exchanged heartfelt vows and performed a flower unity ceremony. “We both placed flowers—calla lily and peony—that represented each of us in a vase, followed by our parents and those closest to us,” says Jackie.

RECEPTION

Guests were seated at tables named after LGBTQ+ pioneers, and a blend of cultural cuisine was served family style. As a nod to their gardening hobby, homegrown herbs served centerpieces which doubled as favors, in addition to the surprise ice cream truck everyone enjoyed later that evening.

“The most important thing we wanted was to be surrounded by the love and support of our family and friends, to enjoy amazing food in a family style fashion, and to have the most epic dance party to celebrate our union,” says Latoya.

This feature originally appeared in Love Inc. Volume #8. Buy a copy of the issue here.