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When it comes to same-sex weddings and LGBT wedding etiquette, remember to do what makes you happy. While there might be some traditions you want to embrace, there might be others you want to ignore completely. So let’s take a look at the dos and don’ts of same-sex wedding planning.
LGBT weddings can throw up a whole array of weird and wonderful questions such as who should wear the engagement ring? The answer to this is – it doesn’t matter. One of you can wear the engagement ring depending on how the proposal is carried out. Or you can both wear an engagement ring as a symbol of your love. It might be nice to get each of the rings engraved too with your names or the date of the wedding.
It’s your big day. So you should feel as comfortable as possible. You might be a bride, but if you’ve never worn a dress in your life, why would you do so now? Opting for a tux is a perfectly acceptable alternative with many designers and wedding shops now specialising in gender-neutral styles or bridal suits. Similarly, don’t be afraid to let your character shine. If you want to wear rainbow socks or a rainbow tie with your wedding outfit – do it.
One of the most important things to think about is your wedding venue. Make sure it’s LGBTQ+ friendly as you certainly shouldn’t have to face awkwardness or prejudice on your big day. Whether you’re getting married, converting your civil partnership to same-sex marriage or holding a civil partnership ceremony, there are many gay-friendly venues that’ll welcome you with open arms. And remember, while getting married in a religious venue isn’t possible, there’s likely to be clergy that’ll still marry you elsewhere, so you don’t have to push aside your religious beliefs due to your sexuality.
For many same-sex couples, the rainbow colours symbolise freedom, peace and acceptance. So this might be something you choose to weave into your wedding. Why not provide everyone with a box of rainbow confetti to throw once you’ve tied the knot? Or invest in a rainbow-themed cake. You could also provide rainbow-themed sweet jars for your guests or create a rainbow balloon arch. You might also want to send out rainbow or glittery save the date cards or invitations.
On the other hand, swapping out the Pride colours for a sophisticated and elegant colour palette of your choice might be more to your taste. This is completely fine too.
You’re marrying the love of your life. So avoid situations that’ll make you awkward or tense. If a family member has never supported your relationship, think carefully about whether or not you want them at your ceremony. This applies to friends and colleagues too. And don’t worry about what other people think. If you want that horse and carriage ride to your venue, you get it. If you want to write your own vows packed with sentimental memories, do that too. Similarly, if you want a themed wedding, be it The Rocky Horror Show or Halloween, don’t be afraid to let your creativity fly. There really aren’t many rules.
If you’re looking for an LGBTQ+-friendly wedding venue, don’t miss the stunning Hythe Imperial nestled on the south-east coast. Specialising in Kent weddings, this stunning hotel oozes Victorian charm and has a host of wedding packages to choose from.
20th October 2021
