From Greenhouse Vows to Churros at Poquitos: A Queer Seattle Wedding
Erin (she/her) and Lauren (she/her) didn’t just plan a wedding, they planned the ultimate date night, complete with vows, hot dogs, and dancing until their feet gave out. Instead of a big production, they kept it personal, starting with a ceremony at the Volunteer Park Conservatory surrounded by tropical greenery. After vows, they made a quick pit stop at WildRose, yes, in full wedding attire, for hot dogs before heading to Poquitos, one of their favorite date spots, for tacos, churros, and cocktails. With Van Gachnang capturing every moment, their day looked as fun as it felt.
How did you two meet?
We met at an in-person speed dating event for queer women and clicked instantly. Instead of sticking to the usual “what do you do” questions, we went straight into a game of “Would You Rather.” It showed off our silly sides right away and sparked an electric connection. Erin’s flirty, extroverted energy made Lauren laugh until her cheeks hurt, and Lauren’s warm, curious spirit drew Erin in completely. That night set the tone for the rest of our relationship.
What inspired your wedding vibe?
We called our theme “Date night with Lauren and Erin.” That guided every choice, from venues to outfits. We wanted our wedding to feel like the best version of a night out together: romantic, personal, and a little spontaneous.
Why did you choose the Volunteer Park Conservatory and Poquitos?
The Volunteer Park Conservatory was one of our early date spots. It has this intimate magic, like you’ve discovered something secret and beautiful. It felt full circle to say our vows in a place already tied to our story. For the reception, Poquitos was a natural choice. It’s where we went for special nights out, and their elevated Mexican food made it perfect for a buffet-style feast. Plus, wedding churros instead of cake? A total win.
Did you take a traditional approach to planning?
Not at all. We literally made a spreadsheet of wedding traditions and voted on what to keep and what to skip. Walking down the aisle? Gone. Parent dances? Nope. We built new traditions from scratch and kept what felt meaningful, like exchanging simple rings while saying, “With this ring I join my life with yours.” Everything we did was intentional.
How did you handle planning without a wedding planner?
Spreadsheets saved us. We defined our guiding values early on, which helped us decide where to invest and where to save. For example, we splurged on an amazing photographer and didn’t worry about having a DJ. We planned the day ourselves, which kept it personal and fun.
What was your wedding day like?
We started the day with hair and makeup by Chy Caroline, who made us both feel amazing. A little nervous energy meant blasting our wedding playlist, affectionately called “cuntry wedding”, on the drive to the Conservatory. The ceremony was intimate, just 20 guests, with perfect soft evening light. Afterward, we made a detour to WildRose, our favorite lesbian bar, and grabbed hot dogs from a street vendor in full wedding attire. It was peak us. Then we partied at Poquitos and ended the night back at WildRose, dancing until we couldn’t feel our feet.
What were some of your favorite moments?
Honestly, that hot dog stop is up there. There’s something so us about standing on the street in wedding outfits, eating hot dogs, and laughing with friends. Another favorite was just soaking up the greenhouse glow at the Volunteer Park Conservatory. It felt surreal and beautiful.
Any standout vendors?
Absolutely. Our photographer Van Gachnang nailed our vision with creative, artistic portraits that still feel real. Chy Caroline, our hair and makeup artist, was amazing from start to finish. And Hillary Lundberg, our officiant, created a heartfelt ceremony that really reflected our relationship. We could not have asked for a better team.
Do you have any advice for other couples?
Figure out what matters most to you and let that guide everything. Whether that’s splurging on one vendor or skipping traditions entirely, make it intentional. The best part of our wedding was that every detail reflected who we are.
Photography by Van Gachnang Photography
Celebrant Hillary Lundberg
Ceremony Venue Volunteer Park Conservatory
Hair & Makeup Chy Caroline
Venue Poquitos
