The Lobsters for Life Wedding Fair in The Netherlands pulled in makers, creatives and couples from across Europe last month and gave us a look at how alt weddings are evolving outside the UK. We were so excited to be invited along and spent the day meeting vendors who are pushing ideas forward with real intention. If you missed it and you are planning something unconventional on European soil, this shoot brings that same vibe straight to you! Every look, prop and detail was created by vendors from the show and most of them work with couples all over the continent.

The shoot, titled Woodland Witch, came from planner Jolanda of JoJo’s Weddings and Events, who also produced the fair. She wanted something with an authentic story rather than just reproducing trends. “Woodland Witch was inspired by the idea of a dark, romantic elopement hidden deep in the woods”, she told us, “a place where love feels wild and a little bit magical. The concept blended autumnal tones, natural textures and witchy symbolism to create an atmosphere that was both moody and intimate. After their forest ceremony, the couple shared a cosy picnic surrounded by alpacas.”

The couple at the centre of it were a non-binary pair who recently married in real life. They stepped back into wedding outfits, made by Engels Bruidsmode, for this shoot. “This shoot celebrates freedom, authenticity and love that doesn’t follow a script,” Jolanda continued. “It’s a reminder to readers that your wedding can be whatever feels true to you.”

“Every supplier involved is part of the Lobster Squad; a collective of bold, alternative wedding professionals who love breaking the mould and celebrating love in all its forms,” Jolanda said. “Apart from the venue, the entire team behind this shoot consisted of women and queer creatives, united by a passion for storytelling that’s authentic, inclusive, and just a little bit dark.”

If you are planning your own elopement or celebration anywhere in Europe, the vendors behind this shoot are ready to help shape it. Keep an eye on them. They are charting a new path and taking their couples with them.