When you’re planning your wedding, the first thing you need to do is find the right venue. But if you’re an LGBTQ+ couple, that can be harder than it sounds. Thankfully, we’ve compiled some tips for planning your wedding including finding a venue that will make your wedding day special. Above all, your wedding should be celebrated just like any other – with love, laughter, and plenty of champagne! So let’s get started on how to plan a LGBTQ wedding by starting with the venue.
How to Plan A LGBTQ+ Wedding in 7 Steps
Step 1: Find a Venue That is Welcoming & Inclusive
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing a venue that reflects you and your partner’s personalities. However, with a positive mindset and the right approach, you can make a fantastic selection! When getting started on how to plan an LGBTQ+ wedding, the most important thing to keep in mind is finding a venue that is fully welcoming and inclusive. If you choose the right venue, one that embraces your love story and vision, you’ll be on the fast track to planning the rest of your big day. Here are some other considerations when it comes to finding a venue:- Size: How many guests do you plan to invite?
- Style: Do you want a more traditional setting or a more modern setting?
- Location: Are you looking for a venue in the city or in a rural area?
- Cost: What is your budget for the venue?
Step 2: Research Different Vendors
It is important to find photographers, videographers, or DJs that support you and your partner. If you choose the right venue, they will provide you with a list of recommended vendors who are ready to rock your LGBTQ+ wedding. Doing due diligence in your vendor selection can save you from potentially uncomfortable situations that could detract from your amazing wedding day. With that said, don’t stress out about how to plan the perfect LGBTQ+ wedding – just make sure you do your research so you can have the best nuptials possible!Step 3: Choose Your Officiant
Choosing an officiant is an exciting and meaningful part of the process. Think about how you want your ceremony to feel. Do you prefer a traditional approach, or something more unique to you as a couple? Research different professionals in your area, read reviews from past couples, and contact them for an initial consultation before making a decision. Not interested in going with a professional officiant? Ask a family member or friend to officiate your ceremony! Either way, make the best decision for you as a couple that fits your wedding day vision.Step 4: Plan Your Attire
Another important aspect of planning an LGBTQ+ wedding is choosing the perfect outfit. Both partners should feel comfortable and confident in their wedding day look. It’s important to choose clothing that fits your individual styles and personality. Consider the following when selecting your wedding day fit:- Color: What colors do you both want to wear? Do you want to stick with the traditional white or add some colorful flare?
- Style: Do you want traditional formalwear or a more relaxed and casual look? Will you be wearing a gorgeous dress, dapper tuxedo, or something in between?
- Comfort: Make sure the attire is comfortable and allows for ease of movement throughout the day. Whatever you choose, be ready to hit the dance floor!
Photographer: Nicole Cordisco Photography
Step 5: Invite Supportive & Accepting Guests
It is important to remember that an LGBTQ+ wedding is a celebration of love, definitely not an occasion for judgment. Make sure that whoever is on your guest list supports and accepts your relationship. We get it, family can be tricky. However, no couple should feel an obligation to invite every member of their family, especially if they don’t support you and your partner.Step 6: Decide on Decorations & More
Planning an LGBTQ+ wedding should be an exciting adventure that celebrates your relationship and commitment to one another! As you plan the special day, don’t forget to add your personal touches throughout; consider how your story as a couple can be uniquely reflected in the day’s décor, music selection, and food served. Your big day is all about you and your partner, so take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come together in your journey of love! Honor your personality and love story with a wedding that is uniquely yours. Consider the following when making the rest of your wedding day decisions:- Theme: Do you want a specific theme for your wedding such as a garden or rustic theme?
- Flowers: Which types of flowers do you want to use in your decor? Do you want classic roses or colorful wildflowers?
- Music: What type of music do you want to play during the ceremony and reception? Do you want to sway to slow jams or jump to hip-hop hits?
- Food: What kind of food do you want to serve at your reception? Are you interested in crave-worthy stations or sweet to-go desserts?
- Drinks: Are there any specific drinks you want to serve at your reception? Do you want a specialty cocktail based on you and your spouse or even your pets?
- Activities: What activities do you want to include at your reception? Are you interested in a sand ceremony? How would you like to be announced as a couple?
Photographer: Nicole Cordisco Photography