Posts Tagged ‘Same-Sex Weddings’
Opportunities – that’s what it’s all about!
LaWanda and Page are two women from the heart of Tennessee. They had a dream – for LaWanda 30 years in the making – and they made it happen.
They first contacted us in March – and never returned my call. Then one day in late May – I got a text saying that they could not do it. 
Who knew I was going to be taken on the adventure of my life? I’m so lucky. With very little money – LaWanda and Page decided to travel to DC to make their dream a reality. They hired us to take care of all the logistical details. We answered questions, responded to their needs, found and booked a venue, hired a photographer, helped with scheduling and travel. You know what? It’s hard getting around DC if you are unfamiliar with the layout.
From the first time I met them, I knew they were special. LaWanda had been married 3 times – and remained unhappy for decades. Her last husband loved her so much, that he put her feelings into words – brought her out of the closet – and the rest is history.
LaWanda spent the whole day readying herself for her special moment. The colors were yellow blue and red – for Page who was a lover of Donald Duck. She sewed beads on her dress and placed colored rings in her bouquet.
The ceremony took place at the WWI Memorial – the significance to Page was astounding. After the ceremony, they took pictures on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to cheers or joy and congratulations from onlookers.
It was so cool.
Just looking at the video warms my heart.
LaWanda and Page said that they would like me to share their video and pictures with the world. They felt it was important to share their love with all of you because they felt that DC was making incredible strides towards equality.
So here world (or the small part of the world that reads this blog) is Denise (everyone calls her by her last name – Page) and LaWanda’s magical day (edited).
This is what Washington DC is about. These two women!
Congratulations LaWanda and Page!
We love same sex weddings around here.
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
Guess what? We are advertising in two great resources! Here are two places you can find great vendors and get great ideas when planning your same sex wedding!
SoyourenGAYged.com is the leading online resource for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allied couples. Check it out. It has a vast number of “gay friendly” vendors in all states. Make sure to check out our featured advertisement, located under the “advertisement” section of every page (on the top right).
The leading news resource for Gay couples in DC, pick up a blade anywhere. We are so proud to be advertising both in print and online! Check us out!
Happy planning!
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!
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.
Shining Light Jewelry – Offers certified “green” gold and platinum, conflict free diamonds, and free-trade gemstones
George Sawyer – Extremely unique and beautiful creations
Peaceful shopping!
We had a fabulous same sex wedding yesterday. I took some very UNPROFESSIONAL pictures as we were setting up. Take a look at the transition.
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!
I have had the pleasure of working with this couple for 8 months! It’s been quite a ride! They are wonderful!
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
I am doing a little reflecting (soul searching) today and thinking deeply about the very positive happenings this week (sometimes I get in these moods). I guess I cannot take all the credit for this reflection – it was actually spurred by a conversation I had with one of my assistants over the telephone.
As the owner of the firm, one thing I must do is listen intently to everyone without judgment – even if I disagree with what they are saying. Then, I reflect, come to terms, and make decisions – because I operate my company with integrity, responsibility, fairness and professionalism – and I expect that those four characteristics are within everyone who works with me. I want the best of the best from the people I work with – and I am satisfied with nothing less. I am kind of hard that way.
Gay marriage is a hot button issue for me. It’s one of the very few issues that will make or break a candidate in an election year. It goes beyond professionalism and being a Smithie (which I am very proud of). Actually, I’m not sure why it’s even an issue that I have to vote on. For me, it’s about the very foundation of what this country is – Family, Love, Life, the Pursuit of happiness – for everyone. Everyone has the right.
I could probably say this about a lot of things.
Anyhoo, I think it’s Murphy’s law that you have to fight to obtain the rights that are already afforded to you. It’s happened time, and time again. After you get them, you will have to fight many years to keep, enforce, and live a solemn life.
Because children should grow up in loving and happy families – I must say that I am extremely proud of DC for stepping up – and taking positive steps. We are the model for what others should – and hopefully, will be. Who knew it could and would happen in DC? Call me a pessimist (lots of people do).
Happy reflecting!
Thanks to Kelly Prizel for this remarkable photograph.
Today is the first day that same sex couples can pick-up their license and legally marry in the District of Columbia!
Hooray!
Congratulations to everybody getting married today – and everyday after!
Lisa
