Finding love is one of the most amazing things that can happen to a person – and the scariest.
Especially if you are an LGBTI person. Even more so if you’re planning your wedding. This was the problem hanging over Dan and Tom as they organized their special day.
Will planners turn them away? Are they setting themselves up for day-after-day of homophobia and rejection?
Even after finding each other, they risked being isolated and alone just for being two gay men trying to express their love.
Rather than worry, though, Dan and Tom gathered their nearest and dearest and faced their problems head on: with a practice wedding photo shoot.
Digital Pride is the only global Pride dedicated to enabling everyone to be part of a Pride, whoever they are and wherever they live in the world. This year, we are focusing on tackling loneliness and isolation. It takes place on Gay Star News from 29 April to 5 May 2019. Find out more.
The love story
The pair met through mutual friends in Portsmouth, a city on the south coast of England. Portsmouth isn’t exactly known for its bustling LGBTI scene. Also, their first encounter didn’t exactly go according to plan.
‘Originally I thought Tom wanted to have a fight with me,’ Dan says in the video.
‘Because I kept looking at him,’ Tom explains.
Eventually, the pair got together – and a year later, Tom popped the question.
He said: ‘We were round my mum’s house for a BBQ. You weren’t expecting it because it was our year anniversary.
‘I had the ring and I thought, “I’ve gotta do it now.” I had the ring in my pocket for two hours.’
Dan said: ‘I was shocked but I said yes straight away because I knew it was the right thing for Tom and me. I was just really nervous.’
The photo shoot
The day was beautiful. Tom and Dan dressed as if it was the real day. And they walked each other down the aisle. Watch the video above to see the whole story.
What is Digital Pride?
Digital Pride is the online movement, by Gay Star News, so you can take part in Pride whoever and wherever you are. Even if you are from a country where being LGBTI is criminalized or leaves you in danger – it’s a Pride festival you can be a part of.
In 2019, Digital Pride is tackling loneliness and isolation with articles and videos connecting LGBTI people. Join us by reaching out to someone who needs it. The festival takes place on Gay Star News from 29 April to 5 May 2019. Find out more.
See more from #DigitalPride:
This video of a same-sex couple dancing to fight loneliness is so important
How this cuddle club for gay and bi men fights loneliness with intimacy