A big gay summer camp wedding in Wisconsin

Do you ever think back on summer camp and wish it had been gayer? If so, you’re not the only one… Offbeat couple Katie and Erin made their gay summer camp fantasies a reality with this outdoor queer summer camp wedding. Their day hit that summer camp nostalgia in the best way. But trust us, the photos are WAY less awkward (and actually stunning, thanks to Dutcher Photography). And just wait until you see this couple’s matching suits! Definitely an upgrade from gym shorts and an oversized camp t-shirt. Of course, their family and friends were all with them, and we’re tearing up at the special ways they honored them all throughout the day.

We’re reliving our summer camp days with this gay summer camp wedding

You know we love a theme here at Offbeat Wed, and we’re absolutely obsessed with this one. This #biggaycampwedding (every themed wedding needs a hashtag) had our own summer camp days seem not so far away with its rustic and woodsy venue, decor, and playful entertainment. The reception was held in a building reminiscent of those log cabins we used to sleep in… if only ours had been this refined! And the guests enjoyed dinner at picnic-style tables, just like the old days.

Katie and Erin encouraged everyone to tap into their inner children with lawn games (anyone up for a game of cornhole?). And of course someone had to break out a guitar… no summer camp is complete without a sing-along moment!

This gay summer camp wedding stayed true to the couple's roots

Katie and Erin fell in love outdoors. One of their first dates was a hike together, and their first getaway as a couple was a rain-soaked camping trip – not too far from where they got married (but luckily, they had much better weather on their wedding day!). The great outdoors is its own character in their love story, so they knew they needed to celebrate their love outside.

And what a gorgeous spot they picked! These photos remind us of sneaking off to the water with our camp crush (the counselors definitely won’t notice we’re gone, right?). But this time, it’s more than just summer love! We love how Katie and Erin really took the whole “till death do us part” thing seriously with their spooky, after-dark cemetery photoshoot.

With a wedding hashtag like #biggaycampwedding you know you’re going to have a great time, and I absolutely did. It was a joy-filled day and Katie and Erin worked in so many special touches.

Dutcher Photography

This gay summer camp wedding seriously elevated the summer camp aesthetic

Not sure about you, but our parents never let us take our best clothes to summer camp. That was definitely not the case here – Katie and Erin looked amazing in their matching suits. The deep teal and purple hues are a gorgeous pallet for a fall wedding. And those peacock feather details?! Obsessed!!! Erin’s daughter, Evey, also wore a suit – like badass mother, like badass daughter.

We love how this gay summer camp wedding celebrated the whole family

Of course, the best part of summer camp was always reuniting with camp friends. So naturally, Katie and Erin had all their people with them on their wedding day, both in person and in spirit. One of the special guests was Erin’s daughter, Evey, who walked her mom down the aisle. And if we weren’t tearing up already, we sure are now because Katie and Erin made vows during the ceremony not only to each other, but also to Evey – a precious moment that acknowledged the love and commitment shared among their blended family.

Katie and Erin also included an “in loving memory” table with photos of loved ones who have passed and were joining the celebration in spirit. We love this idea as a way to honor our deceased relatives and beloveds who cared for us and shaped us along the path to our wedding day.

This gay summer camp wedding had our inner child smiling

The nostalgia, the venue, the way the ceremony celebrated family… this wedding reminded us what love is all about – staying true to yourself while sharing life with the people you love. We're wishing Katie and Erin so much joy as they walk (or hike) through life together!

Want more camp wedding inspo? Find your happy trail in our massive camp wedding archive!

Vendors

• Venue: Weborg Point Shelter @ Peninsula State Park
• Officiant: Nik Shier
• Hair Stylist: Revel Salon
• Rings: Blazer Arts and Moonkist Designs
• Bridal Suits: Bindle and Keep
• Bridal Bow Tie: Jack and Miles
• Florist: Bee Enchanted Florist
• Desserts: Morgan the Pie Lady
• Catering: The Wild Tomato
• Table/Chair Rental: Stoughton Lumber Rentals

Big gay summer camp wedding gallery