Since same sex couples can now legally marry in DC, I think it’s important to address issues that apply directly to this important subgroup of couples.  It’s important for everyone to hire great vendors, but for same sex couples, it’s more important to hire vendors who are supportive of their impending union.   When you are analyzing different vendors, the contracts and forms may tell you more about your potential vendors than the initial  interview.  One thing you should look for are contract and forms that are gender neutral.

What do I mean by gender neutral?

If a vendor gives you a form to fill out, and it says he following…

Bride’s name________________________

Groom’s name_______________________

This type of form is NOT gender neutral.  You should be wary.

It could say something like….

Partner 1__________________________

Partner 2__________________________

Or it could say

XXXX company promises to provide services to _________________ and _______________, etc.

Both of these examples would be gender neutral.

If you run into a vendor whose forms and contracts are not gender neutral, it doesn’t mean that they are not supportive or that they are a bad vendor.  Simply ask them to change their wording (nicely).  If they are sensitive and accommodate your requests, you can feel confident in their intentions.  Weddings are a busy business, and there isn’t a lot of time to change forms – sometimes it’s not something that’s thought about.  However, if you ask, I am sure most (who want to work with you) will adhere to your request in a timely manner.

To find vendors who love working with same sex couples (and all forms are gender neutral) go to soyourenGAYged.com

Happy vendor searching!

Thanks to Larita Massey for the beautiful photograph

What’s more tantalizing than a new level of service?  Serving my clients wants and needs – in every way – is what I strive for.

I have been getting lots of calls lately from same sex couples all over the country – wanting to take advantage of DC’s same sex marriage law.

It’s a beautiful thing.

Some people are looking to plan large events, while others are looking to fly in, stay a week, marry the person that they love, and fly out again.  It’s for those couples that do not necessarily need timelines, decor, design, and full scale planning – are not in the area,  and do not know the ropes around DC – that I created this package.

Our “Simple Ceremony” package includes the following…

• Research and find the perfect ceremony venue
• Secure the officiant
• Aid couples with the DC licensing requirements
• Help with a seamless name change
• Secure a photographer
• Secure a florist (personal flowers)
• Contract negotiation (as necessary)
• Ensure a smooth process
• Confirmations the week of your ceremony
• Planner available on site in support of the new union

The commission for this service will be billed on a flat rate of $350.00.  Ala-carte options are available to complete your personal package.

If you are looking for a more extensive planning option, please refer to our services page for a description of all of our offerings.

We are thrilled to add this package.  We are honored to help you in a small way or big.  Whether you have a lot of support, a little support, or none at all – we are here for you.  We will always stand in support of you, whether it’s in the sun, rain, or under the moonlit sky.

Happy planning!