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
More helpful information!!