Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Wedding Wednesday: Gay Marriage Etiquette

Photo Credit aisledash.com 


Let's hear it for the gays!  Gay Americans are now able to marry in several states through out the nation, most recently New York and Maryland - yay!  With marriage being so grounded in traditional gender roles, planning can get confusing and questions can arise.   Here are some tips from us to help navigate through the process...

The Engagement
He Said Yes! Whoever is ready and brave enough to pop the question - GO FOR IT!   And do it your way - It doesn't have to be down on one knee or with a diamond ring.  You know your spouse-to-be best and what will be the most special for you both.  

Bachelor(ette) Parties
There are no rules here (and this goes for hetero couples, too).  The only ingredient necessary to this night out or weekend trip is FUN.   You can celebrate with friends separately, or celebrate together with all of your friends.  Couples now-a-days are defining their own version of the Bachelor(ette) party - do what works for you!  

Who Pays?
You should pay for the wedding as a couple, but if you both agree, contributions from parents are acceptable too.

Invitations
The couples names should be in alpha order by last name.
Photo credit: equallywed.com

Seating
Whose side to sit on?  Brides side or Brides side?  This tradition doesn't really apply, so let guests sit where they'd like.  Here is a cute way to designate open seating:
Photo credit: equallywed.com


Procession
Here comes the bride.... Here comes the groom... and the groom.  You can both enjoy the spotlight of walking down the aisle, if you like.  If you can't decide who would naturally process in last, stick to the alphabet rule.

Husband, Wife, Partner, Spouse
What are you going to call each other?  Are you wives, or husbands or spouses?  Guests will want to know and will ask you, so go ahead, practice introducing your each other with your new titles.

CONGRATS!

If you have any questions, send them our way!  We will be sure to have answers.  

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