While states have been more accepting of same sex weddings than ever, there are still many gay couples who prefer to tie the knot in a state that has legalized marriage equality. In this article, we’ll lay out some tips for navigating these issues and show you how to plan an unforgettable same-sex wedding, virtual or otherwise.
The accepted definition of marriage varies from country to country, but in the United States it is generally understood as a formal contract between two people (not necessarily of opposite genders). The main purpose of this contract is for those people to enter into an agreement with each other that will allow them live together as husband and wife while also giving them certain legal rights such as property ownership and mutual financial responsibility. In most cases, after being married by a judge or religious official such as a priest or rabbi — all depending on what kind of license they choose — these partners will sign a document called “the certificate,” which makes their union official according to both state law and federal tax policy.
If you and your partner are planning a gay or lesbian wedding, you may already be aware that there are no rules to follow. You can get creative and do whatever feels right for the two of you. This includes everything from the big picture down to the smallest detail.
One specific area where you can have fun experimenting is with your rings. In sharp contrast to traditional heterosexual weddings, there is no default position when it comes to choosing gay wedding bands. Here are some things that you might want to consider:
Flowers symbolize happiness, beauty and new beginnings. They are a common element in wedding décor, especially when it comes to reception centerpieces. Don't be afraid to add flowers—or any other decorations—that reflect your personal style as a gay bride or groom!
Writing your own vows is a great way to make the ceremony more personal and unique to you and your partner. When creating your own vows, we suggest keeping it simple. Don't try to write a whole novel about how you feel about each other. Keep it positive and don't dwell on the negative because you're planning to spend the rest of your life with this person! Try writing down some things that are special or important to you and your partner, then think of what they mean to you and why they're important in the relationship. Finally, be sincere when writing them because this will make them meaningful without trying too hard!
If one of you has trouble expressing yourself in front of a large audience, talk over how comfortable he or she would be at sharing these thoughts with everyone listening or have someone else read the vows for him or her.
Want to include your furry friend in your wedding as a dog ring bearer or do the Macarena as your first dance? Go for it! It's your day, after all!
Cake cutting is a tradition that has been around for ages. The couple makes the first cut together, and then the cake is served to their guests. Since many couples are planning weddings without having their friends and family present, how can they carry on this tradition? Here are some ideas:
The first thing to keep in mind when planning an online same-sex wedding is that it's one day in many, and the memory of it will last a lifetime. There will be days before it and days after it. It's going to be great, but wherever you are in your life right now, there will be more great moments! With that in mind:
Want to spice up your same-sex wedding planning? Then you need to get a little creative. While traditional weddings are lovely, gay weddings are an opportunity for you and your partner to make a celebration that's all about *you.* When you think about it, starting from scratch can be a wonderful thing.
So what's the secret of pulling off an unforgettable same-sex wedding? First, take time to plan the day *you* want, not what you think other people think it should be like. Give some thought to how you and your partner met, who you two are as individuals, and what makes your relationship unique. Once you know the answer to these questions, start looking at ways to incorporate them into the big day! Maybe that means having your tuxes custom made or designing invitations with a photo of the two of us sharing our first dance together. Whatever it is that makes our life special—and shows how much we love each other—is worth highlighting in this momentous occasion!
Finally: Don't be afraid to experiment! Make sure that whatever traditions or ideas we include don't feel forced or contrived; they should reflect who *we* are as people (and as partners). If something feels off about it—or if there's just no way for everyone involved in this celebration could have any fun doing it—then take another look at our plans until everything seems perfect! Move forward only when everything feels just right :)
Here at Courtly, we're honored to marry couples of all backgrounds and believe that love is love—regardless of one's race, sexual orientation, or religion.
Getting married is complicated. Courtly simplifies the process and provides everything necessary to get married online, including providing a licensed officiant who can perform a remote ceremony.
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