It's important to acknowledge that wedding stress is a common experience for many couples, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, according to a study conducted by the WeddingWire, 61% of LGBTQ+ couples reported experiencing some sort of wedding-related stress, with 42% saying they experienced more stress than they expected. These stressors can range from navigating family dynamics to finding supportive vendors and can be compounded by the additional challenges and discrimination that same-sex couples may face in the wedding industry. It's essential to recognize that this stress is normal and valid, and it's important to prioritize self-care and support systems throughout the wedding planning process. By acknowledging and addressing these stressors, couples can ensure that their wedding planning experience is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Tips on how LGBTQ+ couples can manage wedding stress

In this article, we'll offer some tips on how to manage wedding stress as a same-sex couple, so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating your love and commitment.

Communicate with your partner

Communication is key in any relationship, but it's especially important when planning a wedding. It's essential for same-sex couples to have open and honest conversations with each other to ensure that they are on the same page about what they want for their big day. This involves discussing everything from the wedding budget and guest list to the type of ceremony and reception you both envision.

To make sure you're both feeling heard and supported, it's important to check in with each other regularly throughout the planning process. This can be as simple as setting aside time once a week to discuss any updates or changes, or even scheduling regular date nights to connect and discuss wedding plans in a relaxed, stress-free environment. You may also choose to have honest and open conversation about your wedding plans during your daily meals or right before going to bed to make sure that both of you have communicated your thoughts, feelings, worries and expectations about the whole wedding planning process.

Set boundaries

Planning a same-sex wedding can come with its own set of challenges, including the possibility of encountering negative attitudes or resistance from family members who may not support your love or your wedding. It's important to prioritize your own mental health and well-being, and to set boundaries with those who may not be supportive. This can involve having honest conversations with family members about what you expect from them on your special day, or even limiting contact with those who are not supportive.

But don't let unsupportive family members get you down! There are many ways to find supportive people to celebrate your love and commitment with. Consider reaching out to local LGBTQ+ organizations, attending LGBTQ+ events, or connecting with other same-sex couples online or through social media.

Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of your love and commitment to each other, and you deserve to surround yourself with people who love and support you. Don't be afraid to reach out and connect with others who share your values and beliefs.

Find LGBTQ+ friendly vendors

One of the biggest stressors for same-sex couples planning a wedding is finding vendors who are supportive of their love and their wedding. It's important to do your research and find vendors who are LGBTQ+ friendly, and who have experience working with same-sex couples. Ask for referrals from friends, your wedding planner, or through wedding threads for same-sex couples, and be upfront with potential vendors about your expectations and what you're looking for in a vendor. You may refer to websites, such as Equally Wed for a list of inclusive wedding venues and vendors.

Prioritize self-care

It's easy to get swept up in the wedding planning process and forget to take care of yourself. Make sure you're prioritizing self-care throughout the planning process, whether that means taking a break from wedding planning to do something you enjoy, like going for a hike or getting a massage, or prioritizing your mental health by seeing a therapist or counselor. Remember, a healthy, happy you is essential to a healthy, happy relationship.

While wedding planning can be stressful, try not to sweat the small stuff, and keep things in perspective. At the end of the day, what really matters is that you're marrying the person you love, surrounded by the people who love and support you.

Skip the stress, and get married with Courtly

At Courtly, we understand that wedding planning can be overwhelming, especially for LGBTQ+ couples who may face additional stressors and challenges. That's why our team is fully committed to the cause of getting you married. Hundreds of same-sex couples have counted on Courtly and we know what it takes to secure your legal US marriage certificate.

When it comes to paperwork and logistics, we'll take care of it all. We'll help you book the perfect officiant for your ceremony, and we'll handle all the necessary paperwork and filing of the marriage license, so you don't have to worry about any of the little details. We'll even provide witnesses if necessary, so all you have to do is show up. The best part? It's 100% online. After the wedding, we'll handle all the steps of acquiring your legal US marriage certificate and shipping it straight to your doorstep, so you can focus on enjoying your honeymoon and newlywed bliss.

By taking care of all the nitty-gritty details, we help ease wedding stress for couples. Our platform is designed to help you navigate the unique challenges and stressors of planning a same-sex wedding, and to ensure that your big day is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. With Courtly, you can rest assured that every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on what really matters: each other.

So, if you're ready to take the next step, start your journey to a lifelong commitment with Courtly today.

Let us handle the paperwork.

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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