We recently connected with Amy Edwards and have shared our conversation below.
Amy, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
As an alternative wedding photographer, I’ve learned to own what makes me different. I’m all about capturing cool, unique love stories—whether that’s a couple eloping with their dogs, rocking non-traditional outfits, or tying the knot in a gothic chapel. I know my style isn’t for everyone, and honestly, that’s okay. I don’t need to be everyone’s cup of tea.
Being the only one in the room who sees things differently has taught me to focus on what I do best. I connect with couples who want their wedding to feel authentic and outside the box, just like them. It’s been so freeing to let go of the idea of fitting in and instead celebrate standing out. That’s where the magic happens!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I feel so lucky to do what I do with The Tattooed Bride Photography and the ‘Til Death Chapel! With The Tattooed Bride Photography, I specialize in capturing non-traditional love stories for couples who want their wedding photos to feel as unique and bold as they are. My clients often have tattoos, unique fashion, or just love breaking the mold when it comes to weddings, and I’m here for all of it. My favorite part is creating images that truly reflect my couples’ personalities—it’s exciting to celebrate their individuality. We might go bowling for an elopement day activity or hiking…it really just depends on the couple!
Then there’s ‘Til Death Chapel, my alternative wedding venue in Winter Park, Florida. It’s a gothic, moody space for couples who want an unforgettable vibe for their wedding or elopement. What’s so special about the chapel is how personal and intimate the ceremonies feel. One thing I’m especially excited about is our new Walk-In Wedding Days, which happen once a month. Couples can show up with their marriage license, and we’ll take care of the rest—officiant, photos, and a space full of character. It’s perfect for couples who want a simple but unforgettable way to tie the knot.
Both businesses are about creating experiences and memories that are different from the traditional wedding world. Whether it’s through photography or the chapel, I love helping couples embrace what makes their story their own.
The best (and sometimes craziest) part? It’s just me running the show! From answering emails to photographing weddings, managing the chapel, and everything in between, I’m a one-woman operation. It’s a lot of work, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Both businesses are about creating experiences and memories that are different from the traditional wedding world. Whether it’s through photography or the chapel, I love helping couples embrace what makes their story their own.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Here’s a draft for your response:
Looking Back:
Looking back, I think the three most impactful qualities on my journey have been clarity, confidence, and creativity.
Clarity – From the very beginning, I knew exactly what I wanted to do: work with alternative wedding couples. When I was starting out, I got plenty of advice to try every kind of photography—Disney photoshoots, babies, families, you name it. But I said no because I knew my passion was helping non-traditional couples have a wedding experience that felt authentically them. That clarity allowed me to build a brand that resonates with the right clients instead of spreading myself thin.
Advice: If you know what you’re passionate about, don’t be afraid to focus on it. You don’t have to appeal to everyone—find your niche, and pour your energy into it.
Confidence – It’s not always easy to go against the grain, especially when there aren’t a ton of non-traditional wedding vendors out there. But I stayed confident in my vision because I believed there were couples out there who needed what I offer. That confidence has helped me stand out and attract clients who value individuality over tradition.
Advice: Trust your instincts. If you feel strongly about your approach, stick with it—even if it feels like you’re the only one doing it. Confidence grows as you find your people, but you have to take that first leap of faith.
Creativity – Working in the alternative wedding space has given me so much room to explore creativity. Whether it’s capturing unique love stories through my photography or designing the gothic vibe of the ‘Til Death Chapel, I love pushing boundaries and finding new ways to celebrate individuality. I’ve even planned styled shoots with Harry Potter props and modeled brides after tarot cards! Thinking like the anti-bride always had lead me down my road to creative alternative photography!
Advice: Lean into your creativity and don’t be afraid to take risks. Some of the most rewarding projects come from saying yes to ideas that feel a little out there. Vibe with the “weird”!
For anyone starting out, my biggest advice is to be intentional. Know what you want, stay true to your vision, and build a brand or style that reflects who you are. You don’t have to fit into anyone else’s box—your uniqueness is your strength!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I’m always looking to collaborate with other creatives, especially those who share a passion for alternative, non-traditional vibes! I think it would be amazing to build an all-female team of wedding vendors who truly support and celebrate individuality.
One dream collaboration would be with a female tattoo artist who has a mobile tattoo bus—how cool would it be for couples and their guests to get tattoos as part of their wedding day? I’d also love to partner with unique venues that feel “off the beaten path,” like record stores, tattoo studios, or other unconventional spaces that match the energy of the couples I work with.
If you’re someone who’s all about pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable wedding experiences, I’d love to connect! Feel free to reach out through my website or Instagram to chat about ideas and collaborations. Let’s make some magic happen!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thetattooedbride.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetattooedbride/
Image Credits
@thetattooedbride
@tildeathchapelofficial
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
