Provincetown Gay Wedding
A Provincetown Gay Wedding: Chris & Des's October Celebration
One of the things we love most about what we do is meeting and befriending wonderful people, like Des and Chris. We met these beautiful humans on the New Year’s Eve prior at Kate and Eric’s wedding. Des was the friend officiant, who by the way, absolutely slayed his job as official wedding ceremony emcee. When they reached out a few months later to ask us about our availability for their wedding, not only did we say yes, we cried tears of joy for them and their union. Des and Chris chose Provincetown for their October wedding celebration, but little did they know, they couldn't have picked a more perfect location—or weekend. They just happened to plan their special day to coincide with Spooky Bear Halloween Weekend which meant their wedding photos captured not just their love story, but the infectious joy and vibrant energy that comes with downtown Provincetown filled with costumed partiers celebrating Halloween. It was incredible.
Pilgrim Monument: A Historic Wedding Venue with Breathtaking Views
Rising 252 feet above Provincetown, the Pilgrim Monument provided the perfect ceremony location for Chris and Des's wedding. Located atop High Pole Hill and surrounded by picturesque views of Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Pilgrim Monument is a sought after Provincetown wedding venue. Built between 1907 and 1910, this monument commemorates the first landfall of the Pilgrims in 1620, and the signing of the Mayflower Compact in Provincetown Harbor. But for modern couples, it offers something even more meaningful—a symbol of new beginnings overlooking the town that has championed love in all its forms.
The Unique History of Provincetown: America's LGBTQ Haven
For almost a century, gay and lesbian travelers have made Provincetown a destination, finding a welcoming town that celebrated diversity and authenticity. This remarkable acceptance didn't happen overnight—it grew from Provincetown's unique origins as a place outside conventional society's rules. Unlike other colonial towns, Ptown didn't get a charter and didn't have to support a minister. The residents lived outside of the Puritans' strict social order, creating a foundation of independence that would welcome free spirits for centuries to come. The 1920s and '30s were when the presence of gays and lesbians increased, attracted by the incredible natural beauty, particular light, and feeling of acceptance in this booming art colony. Artists, writers, and creative souls found refuge here, establishing Provincetown as more than just a fishing village—it became America's first true LGBTQ sanctuary. The 2010 US Census revealed Provincetown to have the highest rate of same-sex couples in the country, at 163.1 per 1000 households. Today, this vibrant tip of Cape Cod continues to draw energy from the LGBTQ+ community, making it the perfect place for couples like Chris and Des to celebrate their love story.
The Downtown Scene and Artistic Inspiration
Provincetown is one of the oldest art colonies with a reputation for attracting and inspiring artists, creators, performers, and writers for centuries. Walking down Commercial Street with feels like moving through a living gallery—colorful buildings, rainbow flags, and artistic murals provide endless creative backdrops, especially on Spooky Bear Weekend! The town's creative energy is infectious. Art galleries line the streets, street performers entertain crowds, and the general atmosphere buzzes with acceptance and celebration. For wedding photographers, this environment offered spontaneous moments and authentic reactions that couldn't be staged.
Stunning Coastal and Natural Beauty
The beaches surrounding Provincetown offer some of New England's most spectacular wedding photo opportunities. Race Point Beach provides stunning views with dramatic cliffs and wide-open spaces, perfect for romantic sunset sessions. Herring Cove Beach is the only "gay beach" in Ptown, facing west and ideal for catching beautiful sunsets. Beyond the beaches, the wetlands and marshy areas provide unique Cape Cod landscapes. The Cape Cod National Seashore offers miles of protected dunes and trails, creating intimate settings for couple portraits away from crowds. We arrived early to scout and used these areas for their sunset romantic photos.
Where to Stay and What to Do in Provincetown - LGBTQ-Friendly Accommodations
Provincetown offers an impressive range of LGBTQ-owned and operated accommodations. The Brass Key Guesthouse, called "The Most Luxurious accommodations in Provincetown" by The New York Times, features nine historically restored buildings with a terraced courtyard, infinity edge pool, and oversized spa. Surfside Hotel & Suites really rolls out the rainbow carpet as a beachfront boutique hotel that welcomes the LGBTQ+ community with open arms. For couples planning wedding weekends, these venues offer not just accommodation but gathering spaces for wedding parties and families. Other notable options include:
Provincetown Inn: Harbor views and LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere
Pilgrim House: Historic charm in the heart of town
Boatslip Resort: Home to the famous Tea Dance
Activities and Attractions
The Arts Scene: The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM) showcases the town's commitment to the art community with permanent collections and contemporary local artists. Gallery walks along Commercial Street provide endless inspiration.
Beach and Water Activities: From whale watching to sunset cruises, Provincetown's position at the tip of Cape Cod offers unique marine experiences. Jet skiing, dune tours, and beach exploration provide active options for wedding parties.
Dining: The town's restaurant scene reflects its diverse, creative community. From casual beach fare to upscale dining, Provincetown offers options for rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, and post-wedding brunches. Our favorite place was Ciro & Sal’s - amazing Italian restaurant, and very popular. We also loved Liz’s Cafe Anybody Bar - you must stop in at least once when visiting Provincetown.
Nightlife: With nearly a dozen gay bars and clubs, each with different vibes but all welcoming to the LGBTQ community, Provincetown's nightlife scene keeps celebrations going long after the ceremony.
Proximity to Boston
The drive from Boston to Provincetown is 116 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes, though the fastest way is by ferry, taking just 1 hour and 30 minutes. This accessibility makes Provincetown perfect for destination weddings where guests can easily travel from major metropolitan areas. The convenience factor can't be overstated—couples can have their dream beach wedding without the expense and complexity of international travel, while still offering guests a truly special destination experience.
Why Choose Callaway Gable Photography for Your Provincetown Wedding
As photographers who understand both the technical demands of wedding photography and the emotional significance of LGBTQ celebrations, we bring a unique perspective to Provincetown weddings. We know the best light at Race Point Beach, the most romantic corners of Commercial Street, and how to capture both intimate moments and the vibrant energy that makes P-town special. Our approach combines documentary storytelling with fine art composition, ensuring your wedding photos capture not just how your day looked, but how it felt. From the morning preparations to the final dance, we're committed to telling your complete love story against the backdrop of America's most inclusive destination. Provincetown offers endless inspiration for wedding photography—from golden hour beach sessions to urban scenes bursting with color and life. But more importantly, it offers something every couple deserves: a place where love is celebrated without reservation, where authenticity is valued above all else, and where your wedding day becomes part of a larger story of acceptance and joy.
Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, Provincetown provides the perfect setting for LGBTQ couples ready to say "I do" in a place that truly understands the power and beauty of love in all its forms.
Ready to plan your Provincetown wedding? Contact Callaway Gable Photography to discuss how we can capture your love story in America's most welcoming destination.
Specializing in LGBTQ wedding photography in Provincetown, Cape Cod, Boston, and destination locations worldwide. Contact us to tell your love story with the artistry and authenticity it deserves.
