Love is Love: A Free LGBTQ+ Wedding Event at The Matchbox Drive-Thru

Filed in Local Favorites, Wedding Days — March 25, 2025

On January 18th, 2025—just two days before the second Trump inauguration—a group of wedding vendors come together to offer free LGBT weddings at The Matchbox Drive-Thru in Lafayette, GA. The LGBTQ+ wedding event sparks a wave of support on Facebook, advocating for marriage equality at a time of great concern about ongoing attacks on LGBTQIA+ rights. What unfolds is nothing short of extraordinary: a celebration of love, resilience, and community.

The Matchbox Drive-Thru: A Hidden Gem for Intimate LGBT Weddings

Nestled in the small town of Lafayette, GA The Matchbox Drive-Thru is a true one-of-a-kind venue. True to its name, it’s a compact brick building with ample natural light, cozy enough to seat about 15 guests—if they don’t mind getting a little close! Ideal for elopements and intimate weddings, the space provides couples with a charming and personal setting to exchange vows.

The exterior is adorned with murals, including a bold red heart and soaring doves, making it an endearing backdrop for photos and a beacon of inclusivity. The Matchbox is owned and operated by Margaret, a fierce PFLAG mom with a pink faux-hawk, who has cultivated a space where love in all its forms is celebrated. For all couples looking for an unconventional yet heartfelt place to say “I do,” The Matchbox Drive-Thru is a dream come true.

Lee & Jimmy’s LGBT Wedding: A Celebration of Love and Serendipity

Lee and Jimmy took advantage of this unique LGBTQ+ wedding event opportunity provided on January 18th. Originally planning a larger wedding for later in the year, their plans shifted when Lee’s sister fell terminally ill. They wanted to ensure she could be a part of their wedding day, even if it meant she could only experience it through the photos. Being able to share those moments with her was incredibly meaningful to both of them.

A Familiar Face Officiates Their Wedding

A surprising twist made the day even more special: while scanning the list of officiants volunteering for the event, Lee and Jimmy noticed a familiar name—their local PFLAG president. Having a trusted friend officiate their LGBT wedding was an unexpected but welcome moment of serendipity, bringing a deep sense of connection to their vows.

A Casual and Personal Wedding Day

The couple embraced the casual, intimate nature of the day, arriving in coordinating plaid outfits—a reflection of their easygoing personalities. They wanted their wedding to be authentic to who they are, and surrounded by friends and family, their day unfolded beautifully. As Lee later shared:

“Thank you to everyone involved in our wonderful day!!! The whole experience was amazing from start to finish! We can’t thank you all enough! We will always be supporters and friends of The Matchbox Drive-Thru!”

Unexpected Moments and Challenges

Every wedding has its surprises, and Lee and Jimmy’s was no exception. They admitted that the biggest surprise of the day was the venue itself—they hadn’t anticipated just how intimate the space would be. If they could change one thing? Jimmy joked that he would have brushed his hair, while Lee mentioned that they started the ceremony a few minutes early, only to realize afterward that two guests had not yet arrived.

Facing Protestors on Their Wedding Day

One of the more stressful moments came in the form of protestors. The LGBTQ+ wedding event had gained traction online, drawing both support and criticism in the small, conservative town of Lafayette. Margaret and Jimmy’s dad had reached out beforehand to warn them about the pushback as it was unfolding, which cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful experience. No couple should have to feel apprehension on their wedding day. Fortunately, the protestors left before the ceremony began, sparing Lee and Jimmy from any direct confrontation.

Unexpected Joy: Fire Breathers and Rainbow Cupcakes

On the flip side, the day also brought unexpected delights—fire breathers among them! Lee and Jimmy never imagined they’d have wedding photos featuring fire performers, but that element of surprise became the icing on the cake. Speaking of cake, Margaret had rainbow cupcakes on hand, and the couple shared a sweet moment feeding each other cupcakes piled high with frosting—a nod to a traditional cake-cutting.

Capturing the Moments

As their photographer, I had the privilege of documenting Lee and Jimmy’s love story in a setting that perfectly encapsulated their journey—unconventional, full of heart, and deeply personal. Reflecting on their experience, they shared: “Lara did our wedding photography. She was so easy to work with, and the pictures are beautiful.” In a conversation we had later, they noted how much fun they had! One of the prompts I gave them even turned into an inside joke, one that resurfaces regularly in their day to day life.

My Advocacy for Marriage Equality

As a queer wedding photographer, I believe that love is love—full stop. No one’s love should be questioned, debated, or discriminated against. Marriage is a fundamental right, and every couple deserves the opportunity to celebrate their commitment freely, without fear or obstacles. The fight for marriage equality is far from over, and I am committed to advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, both through my work and in my community.

The Matchbox Drive-Thru’s free LGBT wedding event was a powerful reminder that love will always find a way. And as long as couples continue to face discrimination and uncertainty, I will stand alongside them, ready to document their joy, resilience, and unwavering love.