By Lauren Means | Photos provided by Dakerri Rhone and Jose Venegas
It may not have been Valentine’s Day, but on October 11, 2023, love was in the air at Frankie J’s. Nashville Pride and Frankie J’s hosted a Coming Out Day celebration complete with personal testimonials, information on LGBTQIA+ resources, live music, two weddings and cake.
Two couples, Dakerri and Ashley along with Jose and Joseph, embraced the chance to trade nuptials at the event solidifying their relationship in front of a host of friends and family.
We spoke with each couple about their relationships and weddings.
Dakerri & Ashley
How did you meet? We met on Tinder, ironically. I super liked her, but in typical Dakerri fashion, didn’t say anything. After two days, Ashley messaged me and there was an instant connection!
How long have you been together? Four years
Why did you marry on Coming Out Day? With marriage equality possibly being under attack here in Tennessee, we had been discussing the need to get married sooner rather than later. National Coming Out Day seemed like the perfect way to celebrate Queer love!
How was the experience? It was an incredible experience! We got to say “I do” at one of our favorite places in town, Frankie J’s, surrounded by family, friends and our community. Ashley was in tears and I had the biggest grin on my face. My dad was there to walk me down the aisle. Ashley and I had our first dance and I had my father-daughter dance with my dad! We ate cake, danced and just had a truly beautiful night.
Would you do it again? Absolutely! If we could do it all over again, we absolutely would! It was such a special moment. The only downside was that our out-of-town family and friends couldn’t be there with us. We will be having a ceremony next year to celebrate with everyone.
Jose & Joseph
How did you meet? We met in 2021 on Halloween.
How long have you been together? Two years
Why did you marry on Coming Out Day? We wanted to make a statement about being out, proud and in love. Given the current climate of legislation attacking LGBTQIA+ rights in Tennessee and this country, it was important for us to take this step in our relationship to protect and secure our rights as a couple
How was the experience? It was a tearful and emotional memory filled with joy and love.
Would you do it again? We would absolutely live it over again!
