My thought process is not at all complicated.  It’s pretty darn right simple in fact.  I don’t think it’s difficult to follow what I’m saying.  I try to pretty much come out and say things.  I wear my heart on my sleeve.

I love weddings.  There is not secret about that.

What are weddings about?

To me, they are about celebrating the love that two people share.  Two people who want to spend their entire life together – forsaking all others – and why shouldn’t that be celebrated?  Does it matter whether it’s between two women, two men, or a man and a women?  Hell no – because the feelings are the same.  I’ve seen it first hand – and it’s beautiful.

Love is love.

Happy planning!

When I read these articles, I’m never sure of them.  They never said how many times they did the poll, how many people were polled, who was polled (demographics), etc.  However, I do think the generalizations are good.  Generally, more people than last year are supporting same sex marriage.  I think this is important for the LGBT community.

Actually, I’m not sure why anybody really cares.  I have worked with many same sex couples and they are just as loving and wonderful to work with as my heterosexual couples.  That’s a good thing, no?  Starting a family with the ones you love is what it’s all about.

Of course, for every positive article on the subject, I am sure that there are 5 articles supporting the other view.  There always is – but that’s okay too.

For whatever it’s worth, take a look at what I found on CNN.com

Onward and upward!

Soyourengayged.com blogged about one of our fabulous same sex weddings!

Read the entire blog on Soyourengayged

Happy planning!

A very special thanks to Eunice Kim of EYK Photography, for creating such wonderful and  touching photographs.

Happy planning!

This gorgeous Tiffany blue and white wedding took place at PG Ballroom, located in Landover MD

Congratulations Sadiqa and Sakeenah!

Happy planning!

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

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!

Nobody would think that going into a jewelry store to buy an engagement ring for your partner would be stressful.  It’s supposed to be one of the most exciting days of your life, right?  You are going to ask someone to marry you.

For same sex couples, it’s not always easy.  You want to have a great experience.  The unknowns of how you will be treated – possibly being met by homophobic staff.  The thought is uncomfortable – even when you are welcomed with open arms.   Sometimes, it’s the unnecessary pre-worry that can “get you”.

There are other options.  Many people shop online.  Also, there is a wealth of online shops that have Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender owners.

Here are some resources.  They cost as little as $100.00 to as much as you want to spend.  They carry wedding rings, engagement rings, wedding sets and commitment bands specifically designed for same sex couples.

Love and Pride

Shining Light Jewelry – Offers certified “green” gold and platinum, conflict free diamonds, and free-trade gemstones

Two Brides

George Sawyer – Extremely unique and beautiful creations

Peaceful shopping!

Venue:  PG Ballroom

Colors: Tiffany Blue, Platinum and White

The background palette was white, and used small bits of the blue and platinum to make it spectacular.

Happy planning!

It’s really difficult to see clients go.  Good, bad or indifferent, I become attached.

To celebrate this couple, and wish them 1 last week of “Engagement Bliss” here are some gorgeous pictures!  Enjoy!

*sniffle

Ho hum.  Breaking up is so hard to do.  They all become my “kids”

Happy planning!

Photography by Larita Massey