Planning an LGBTQ Wedding? 10 Tips to Get it Right
Forget Queer Eye for the Straight Guy…it’s time to celebrate diversity and get your rainbow flags out.
At the heart of any ceremony are two people standing side by side no matter what gender or sex. Declaring their love for one another as they head on to their next chapter. In fact opposite-sex marriages closely mirror those of regular nuptials.
Of course, the first aspect is the stress and there’s no hiding away and throwing the key under the bed. Any wedding involves a tremendous amount of planning. In this way, this is no different as far as how to plan an LGBTQ wedding is concerned.
First things first, there are fabulous flowers. Where it gets different is that you can go blooming crazy when it comes to this aspect. Be ostentatious or as daring as Evil Knievel. Go all out on some multicolored tulips, stylish orchids, or luscious lilies. There are lots of tips about choosing the perfect same-sex wedding flowers.
But there is so much more to your big bash that you can tailor accordingly. There is of course the ceremony, the seating plan, the food (think rainbow trout!) and even choosing a videographer and photographer. Yet, there are areas you can throw traditional wedding rice out the window and make a personal statement
If you’re in the middle of planning those nuptials, hold on to those wedding hats as we run down our top 10 tips.
Toss Tradition Aside
It’s time to say Adieu to regular tradition and Ola to a different kind of ceremony. One that will make you certainly loud and proud to shout your pride at coming out from the rooftops.
Yes we all know the standards at a same-sex wedding. The walk down the white mile, the minister or rabbi, and don’t forget something borrowed something blue, yadda yadda yadda.
Come on folks, this is 2020. Want to create new wedding vows or compose your own? Go for it. Would you like to walk up the aisle with no parents? You got it. How about replacing a garter with a silk tie? No worries.
Whatever your wish, have it fulfilled as at the end of the day it really is all about you. Claim it, and take control. There are many ways regarding how to enhance your LGBTQ wedding offering insight about making your event even more special.
He Ain’t Heavy…He’s My Brother
Well not quite. However, there are some peeps you really need to give props to on your momentous occasion. And that’s of course your best buddies.
Perhaps they shared the moment you came out for the first time. Or maybe they have just supported you along the way. Isn’t it right you should spread the love on your big day? Then show your appreciation with a personalized groomsmen gift.
Bring the man hugs in with an array of carefully chosen presents that will brighten up their day. Ensure your chums take away a treasured souvenir that they will be able to use again and again. After all, practicality and durability are the name of the game.
Looking for inspiration? There are numerous resources to search for that one of a kind gift such as Amazon or Etsy. Alternatively, find out more about Groomsmen Gift Source offering a diverse selection of custom gifts fit for any LGBTQ wedding.
Dressed to Kill
If you want to get it right in the fashion stakes, then you’ll need to pay extra attention to your style. Whether you intend to wear two tuxes or two three piece suits (or whatever else), this is one aspect you should consider. A same-sex marriage is different in this regard and the rulebook can be thrown aside…especially for one day.
The sky’s really the limit. Be brave, be bold, rock out your outfits, add a touch of sparkle or be as grungy as Dave Grohl. If you’re trans, bi or whatever other persuasion, there are lots of handy hints on how to dress for the big day.
V is for Venue
Do you want your LGBTQ guests to be as comfortable as staying at a top notch luxury Maldivian hotel? If you are hosting a destination wedding on the beach or at a hall nearby, make sure you do your research. The venue is key to the day’s proceedings and you’ll have to liaise with them if they are LGBTQ friendly.
This can range from a completely tolerant and inclusive experience to the full range of services and facilities. Arrange an in-depth discussion or Zoom call with staff or the hotel manager to see the lay of the wedding land.
Ask if they have hosted same-sex weddings previously and are used to handling such requests. As a result, this will help you turn your dream day into an unforgettable occasion.
Take a Seat
You don’t necessarily need to in this particular instance.
Why not mix it up a little? Traditional church ceremonies usually state that the bride’s family take their positions on the left. Meanwhile, the groom is on the right but if there are two grooms, this need not apply.
Don’t confuse matters any more and come up with some innovative solutions to get round this. In the first instance, separate your family’s names as a modern alternative or put signs up for guests to select their own seat.
There are no sides in same-sex weddings so let your invitees have the choice. And this is precisely the same for dinner. Seating plan can work just as effectively.
There are tons of guides providing an insight into how to manage etiquette for gay weddings. Looks like musical chairs are definitely out!
Legalities
Before you say I do, there are possibly a few things to ponder over. While being trans, bi or gay has come on leaps and bounds concerning marriage equality, there may be some locations where this may come into question.
As a result, find out about same-sex marriage licences and civil law before you trot down the aisle.
Budgeting
Whatever your gender or persuasion, how to plan a same-sex wedding budget is also crucial.
Therefore, your fiscal expectations might be slightly different. You might not have the funds of Bill Gates. Nevertheless, the traditional costs may alter depending on what you wear or even have as a cake. Perhaps you may not even opt for a wedding cake.
And who is going to pick up the tab for the open bar? Are you going to have traditional rice or opt for something spectacular such as fireworks or rainbow streamers? What type of wedding favors are you looking for to send your guests away with?
Above all, it’s getting some perspective while outlining your specific vision. Sit down together and collate vital tools, vendors and items you will need to make the ultimate wedding day.
We Specialize in All-Inclusive
At first, we thought all-inclusive meant just having all the infrastructure ready to go for the couple, so what looks like such a simply beautiful, largely outdoor wedding could be as clean and simple as the lines of the tent. There should be no hassles about getting in all the infrastructure and having it ready for your wedding. We did not want to witness a rental truck showing up at the last minute and a mom or bridesmaid, or the couple themselves, setting up chairs and tables–even mowing the yard–on the morning of the wedding. These were all things Jeanne witnessed repeatedly over the years. No wonder people were exhausted before their wedding even began…
