In 2015, the United States legalized same-sex marriage across the country—a historic win for the LGBTQ+ community. Since then, thousands in the community get married every year and celebrate their love with family and friends. Marriage is certainly special for the happy couple. It’s important that you feel lucky that they want you to be part of their celebration!
Before attending your first LGBTQ+ wedding, there are a few tips you should know, such as what terms to use and different traditions. Overall, there’s nothing too different about attending a same-sex wedding. Just like all couples, they’re tying the knot on their eternal love.
Use Proper Terminology at an LGBTQ+ Wedding
Whether this is your first LGBTQ+ wedding or your hundredth, never assume what terminology the couple is using. Straight couples are even beginning to shy away from “husband and wife” in favor of “spouses” or “partners,” and gay couples may be even more likely to use different terms.
For instance, don’t assume that a lesbian couple is a bride and bride. Some couples prefer “bride and bridegroom,” “woman and woman,” or something meaningful to them. Whatever phrase they use, you must show respect by using the proper terminology.
Expect Different Traditions at an LGBTQ+ Wedding
Gone are the days of “normal” weddings, and same-sex couples have plenty of reasons to embrace newer traditions. So it’s safe to assume that you’ll experience something new at an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Two grooms might walk down separate aisles simultaneously, or they could walk down the aisle together. And without a divide between groomsmen and bridesmaids, the couple will determine the wedding party by relationship rather than gender. This could mean seeing women in the groom’s party or men in the bridal party. Similarly, you may even see a Best Woman or Man of Honor.
Don’t Ask When The Couple is Having Children
No matter the kind of wedding you’re attending, never ask the newlyweds when they plan to have children. For gay couples, the decision to have children can be tricky to navigate. They may be deciding whether they want to adopt, use surrogacy, or go through in vitro fertilization. Having or adopting a child is a personal decision. For now, just congratulate them on their marriage!
Tell a Newlywed LGBTQ+ Couple You Support Them
In the years since the Supreme Court ruled in favor of gay marriage, LGBTQ+ weddings have become more common. However, there are still those who don’t recognize gay couples and discriminate against them. They may even face rejection from wedding vendors or be victims of discrimination by family members or co-workers.
You don’t have to talk about politics, but let them know you support them and will always be there if they need anything. Whether it’s in-person or on your card, this simple gesture will go a long way.
Keep Negativity to Yourself at an LGBTQ+ Wedding
As cliche as it sounds, if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all. If you feel uncomfortable, remember that you received an invitation to attend, so the spouses may already know your stance on gay marriage. They chose to extend an offer anyway, so the least you can do is be polite.
If you decide that it’s best for everyone that you don’t attend, kindly reject the invitation. You don’t have to provide any reasoning, and doing so may only be hurtful toward the couple.
Plan Your Outdoor Tent Wedding at Windows on the Water
If you’re looking for a romantic and beautiful location for your outdoor tent wedding, look no further than Windows on the Water. Located on 86-acres of forestry, we offer a picture-perfect backdrop to say “I do.” When you partner with one of our expert wedding planners, they’ll make sure the day of your dreams becomes a reality. To learn more about our services and venue, call (609) 208-9475 or complete a contact form today!