Celebrating Love and Allyship A Magical Queer Styled Shoot Day in Skagit County
- Mathea Johnson
- Jun 2
- 4 min read
Imagine a day filled with laughter, creativity, and a powerful expression of love. Recently, I had the chance to take part in a vibrant queer styled shoot day that captured all of these elements and more. Six fabulous models and a dedicated team of local vendors, all allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, came together to create an unforgettable experience that radiated love and acceptance.
The timing of the shoot was serendipitous. It took place during a week of rain, yet a bright sun appeared, creating a transformative atmosphere. For me, this day was not just a celebration; it affirmed the commitment of the vendors and models, just as it did for myself. To honor Pride Month, I want to share the beauty of this day and highlight the incredible people I worked with.

The Vision Behind the Shoot
This styled shoot began with a clear goal: to create a vibrant visual narrative that showcases the diverse stories within the queer community in Skagit County. We wanted to honor the love stories that thrive within the LGBTQIA+ community while highlighting the commitment of queer vendors in our beautiful region.
We featured a variety of wedding aesthetics, from bohemian charm to modern minimalist styles, ensuring we captured unique expressions of love. Our six models each brought their individuality to life, stretching traditional boundaries of beauty and romance. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and camaraderie, reinforcing a vital message: love is love and deserves celebration in all forms.

The Role of Local Vendors
The participation of local vendors made this shoot truly special. Each vendor not only identifies as an ally but actively supports the LGBTQIA+ community. Their talent added layers of creativity and authenticity to our visual storytelling.
From floral designers creating stunning arrangements bursting with color to photographers capturing every moment with artistry, these local vendors infused love into every element. Hair by Mathea provided not only incredible hair and makeup services but also a steadfast commitment to supporting queer individuals and causes. It’s this level of dedication that made the shoot truly magical.

A Joyous Atmosphere
As the day unfolded, the atmosphere was filled with joy and connection. Laughter echoed among the models, playful banter flowed between vendors, and the celebration of our unique identities created a harmony that was uplifting and transformative.
Every moment felt like a step toward affirming not just our identities, but also the significance of inclusion within our community. The sun filtering through the trees brought a warmth that perfectly matched the spirit of hope and connection we shared.
Each couple was not only a visual delight, but a representation of celebration of the powerful bonds that unite us all, serving as a reminder of our collective humanity.

The Models: Voices of Expression
Our six models were the heart and soul of this styled shoot. They brought the spirit of pride to life with authenticity and grace. Despite their diverse styles, they shared a common passion for self-expression, allowing their personalities to shine through in their wardrobe choices and poses.
Witnessing them embrace their identities while showcasing beautifully crafted outfits was truly inspiring. Their interactions, both on and off camera, cultivated a deep sense of belonging. This tapestry of love and identity reminded me of the profound stories each person carries within.

Gratitude and Reflection
As we wrapped up at the end of the day, gratitude filled my heart for everyone who contributed their time, talent, and passion to bring this shoot to life. It was a celebration of love and a reaffirmation of our commitment to support the queer community.
In the midst of organizing and creating, I took a moment to reflect on the essence of allyship. Every vendor, every model, and every creative individual showcased what it means to stand together in love and support.
I urge readers to think about how they can amplify their support for the queer community. Whether you are part of the community or an ally, countless ways exist to show support—attend local events or seek out queer-owned businesses.
Celebrating Pride Month
As we continue through Pride Month, let’s spread love, acceptance, and understanding. Let’s focus on the incredible work being done within local communities across Skagit County and beyond.
Every act of allyship matters. Every time you uplift a voice or create space for someone to be genuine, you contribute to a more inclusive world.
A Reflection on Togetherness
This queer styled shoot day was more than just a photoshoot; it was a celebration of identity, love, and community. It reminded me of the power of creativity to unite individuals and the importance of allyship.
In all the beauty and chaos of the day, I am grateful to be part of a community that continuously supports and uplifts one another. To fellow queer individuals and allies, let’s persist in celebrating love in all its forms—not just during Pride Month, but every day of the year.
Happy Pride Month! May your celebrations be as colorful and vibrant as the love they honor!
VENDOR TEAM
Photographer: A+K Photography
Venue: A and K Alder Farm
Hair + Makeup: Hair by Mathea
Day of Planning: MOMAD Productions
Florals: Freerange Flowers
Rentals: The Prop House Rentals
Formalwear (suits): Mens Warehouse
Formalwear (dresses): Astraea Bridal
Luxury Balloon + Picnic Display: Sugar and Bubbles Co.
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