The recent U.S. Constitutional ruling on same-sex marriage means that wedding rules and etiquette are still taking shape. So while there are many wedding traditions to honor when planning your wedding, you also have the flexibility to let your personality and unique style shine.
How to Plan a Same-Sex Wedding
You will go through a wedding planning guide that appears very similar to ones that traditional couple enjoys. And, of course, many of the same tools and apps will come in handy! However, there are a few additional opportunities to personalize your big day if you sway from some traditional wedding customs. And this is something to get excited about, because non-traditional wedding ideas can also save you big money!
Choose Your Wedding Guest List
LGBT weddings are typically smaller, more intimate affairs—though blow out weddings are certainly smiled upon. Either way, it can be tricky to decide whether to invite family members and friends who have not shown much support for your relationship or wedding. Even still, try forgiving them by offering the opportunity to be a positive part of your special day. If they feel uncomfortable, they can decline your wedding invitation. But you will feel good knowing that you extended the invitation.
Plan Your Wedding Budget
Despite the long history of the bride’s family covering the cost of a wedding, now it often lies in the hands of who can afford to offer financial support. Especially with traditions playing a smaller role in same-sex weddings, you might want to be prepared to bear the whole cost of your wedding. First, become informed on how to manage your budget. And then take your time finding a catering company that maximizes it!
Wear Comfortable and Unique Wedding Attire
Let your personality shine! Many grooms choose to wear matching attire or play off tradition with one in black and the other in white. But you can get as creative as you like. Brides have the options of two dresses or wedding suits with a feminine flow. Whatever you choose to wear on your special day should make you feel comfortable and proud. Pops of color are fully appreciated.
Select a Welcoming Wedding Venue
Just like any couple, we encourage you to use our online tool to choose from over 50 of the top wedding venues in Milwaukee. Look for a venue that suits your guest count and wedding theme. But most importantly, check out the venue to make sure you feel comfortable and welcomed. Even if your wedding is not in a place of worship, feel free to incorporate religious traditions like breaking the glass.
There are plenty of great indoor and outdoor options , so keep seacrhing until you find a venue that perfectly matches to your style.
Scout Out Friendly Vendors
All the event planners and staff at your wedding should be a positive and supportive influence, free of judgment. Look for vendors who come highly recommended. Even spend some time interviewing them. Since your Milwaukee catering team will have a big impact on the guest experience, use a LGBTQ-friendly wedding vendor tool to find one that is in your corner all the way.
Find a Supportive Officiate
A friend or family member serving as your officiate is a great option for a very personal and intimate ceremony. In many states it is possible for someone to be “ordained” online. However, if a religious ceremony is important to you, talk to a minister or rabbi from your congregation. The Unitarian Universalist, Universal Life or Metropolitan Community Church are also good resources.
Plan a Touching Ceremony
Use these same-sex wedding ceremony ideas to ensure you and your guests enjoy all the traditional wedding moments:
- Walk down the aisle: Walk down two aisles or enter together holding hands. You may prefer to skip this formality, but many couples told us how nice it was to share that special moment together.
- Ceremony script: The Knot has some suggestions for ceremony scripts that you can personalize. For the pronouncement, consider language like “equally wed.”
- Ring exchange: Whether adding bands or exchanging rings, enjoy this special time! Place the ring on the left hand for a traditional look or choose your right hand instead. Both are totally acceptable.
- First dance: If you think this will be awkward for some guests, another option is to wait until the dancing has started and then be introduced.
When working with any couple, we pride ourselves on bringing our expertise, meticulous attention to detail and creative flair to the Milwaukee wedding. We loved helping Anilisa McDonald and Michelle O’Toole bring their wedding dreams to life, and we are ready to do the same for you. With our planners and their stress-free wedding planning tips, you can simply enjoy celebrating your love!
To gain the support of our friendly wedding planners and catering team, contact us online or give us a call at 262-547-9447.
