carol + leslie
as you leave Portland, Oregon, you’ll find the vineyards of Amaterra Winery and in October you would have found a beautiful celebration of love and new family establish.
meeting carol + leslie was so special. i immediately fell in love with the two and adopted them as my lesbian moms (many of my friends have also wished that they could have these two as their moms or grandmoms - i challenge you to not feel the same). hearing how they decided to exchange their vows during their intimate microwedding surrounded by their sweet grandkids, loving children and supportive family.
during weddings, i am usually am to turn off my emotions + focus on capturing the moments of the day, but with these two i quickly learned that i was screwed… during their first look i cried + knew it was gonna be a LONG day. as the exchanged their vows, their eyes were locked and you could see the immense love shared. the guests were full of smiles, tears, and laughter, as their grandkids waved pride flags in excitement.
the couple's love story was an inspiring testament that love comes in many ways and at any age. carol + leslie’s journey was marked not only by the intimacy of their bond but also by the unyielding support of their family and the broader LGBTQ+ community.
throughout the celebration, the winery helped paint a picture of love, acceptance, and inclusivity. as the gathering slowed down, heartfelt speeches were shared and as leslie’s dad stood and spoke, i couldn’t help but be in all the emotions… as he stared to speak, he looked at his daughter and her new wife and said, “never did leslie’s mother and i think that at our age we would be having another daughter… but yet, here we are. welcome to the family, carol.”
golly. it made me stop and think just how beautiful it all was. this father has such beautiful, unconditional love for his daughter. he supports and cares about her + her new wife so genuinely. this little moment was one that has made an impact for forever.
Amaterra Winery became more than just a picturesque venue; it had transformed into a sanctuary where love reigned supreme, and where the radiant spirits of empowered, gay grandmas — who love fiercely and chosen to live authentically — was celebrated with joy and pride.
xx darla maxine
