Planning a same sex wedding can be very much like planning a “traditional” wedding. The main difference though is that you’ll need to find LGBTQ friendly vendors and venues, which may be more difficult than you think. Many businesses don’t want to work with same sex couples, and some will even refuse service based on their personal beliefs.
There are plenty of great companies that have experience in planning same sex weddings though, and they can help you make all the arrangements you need, including finding a venue and booking entertainers.
Like we’ve already said, planning a same sex wedding can be very much like a traditional wedding, but there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.
You’ll need to decide what kind of ceremony you’d like to have, such as a religious ceremony or a secular ceremony. If you’re having guests come from out of town, it may be helpful to do something that they might be more familiar with so that they don’t feel awkward or out of place.
Next, remember that not all guests will know what it means when same sex couple says “I do.” You may want to explain this before the ceremony begins so they know what they’re getting into!
Planning a same-sex wedding can be very much like a traditional wedding. Why? Because you’ll still need all of the basics:
You’ll need a venue, a celebrant or officiant, rings, flowers, a reception and music and food and vows that wow!
It’s Your Wedding Day, Make it Memorable Despite Roadblocks
Once you find LGBTQ friendly vendors, hopefully you started with a list of people who are familiar with your community. Then narrow it down by price range, style, and other factors important to you and your spouse to be.
You can also search online for same-sex weddings that have already taken place, and see if there are any you like.
While planning a same-sex wedding can be very much like planning a traditional wedding, there are differences.
Some states don’t allow you to marry your same-sex partner and can restrict your ability to adopt children or even get a domestic partnership in the first place.
It’s important to know that some states only offer second-parent adoption as an option for same-sex couples. In other words, one partner will have to adopt their child before they can both be listed as parents on the birth certificate; this isn’t available in all states, so check with your local courthouse before making plans for the future.
If you must leave your state to get married then the obvious answer is to throw a destination wedding. Plan your theme around the destination and locale of your chosen wedding site. Try not to make a giant fuss about the restrictions in your state. This day is about your future and your happiness, not about making political statements. You can save that for another day… after you’re married.
Remember to try to make all of your guests feel comfortable and accepted. For many this may be their first and last same sex wedding, so make an impression that will bring them and you joy.
Share you experiences of planning a same sex wedding. Do you have any helpful suggestions, or pitfalls that can be avoided?