How to Have a More Inclusive Wedding

On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down all state bans on same-sex marriage, legalized it in all fifty states, and required states to honor out-of-state same-sex marriage licenses in the case Obergefell v. Hodges.
– Wikipedia

Here at The Budget Savvy Bride, we believe in celebrating LOVE in all its beautiful and colorful forms. We are working to ensure that all couples feel welcome here in our space to plan their special day joyfully and comfortably. Further, we want to encourage couples to consider planning a wedding day that is inclusive to all, including your guests!

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Inclusive Wedding Planning Tips

Below, we share some tips for planning a more inclusive wedding so that everyone in attendance on your special day feels safe, joyful, and included in your celebration.

Use Inclusive Wedding Terms.

Weddings are filled with gendered terms and outdated traditions. Try swapping the more traditional terms like “Bridal Party” “Bridesmaids” and “Groomsmen” for a modern, inclusive alternative option like “Wedding Party.”

Assemble an inclusive wedding vendor team.

Search for vendors who express commitment to inclusivity with their business, partnerships, and more. Check company websites for a DE&I pledge, or you can also keep an eye out for visual cues such as the “Unity Through Community” or “Equally Wed” badge on vendor websites.

Share Your Preferred Pronouns.

Use your “about” section of your wedding website to share your preferred pronouns with your guests. This allows your guests to know how to correctly address you and your partner, and helps to avoid potentially hurtful or embarrassing mixups. It also shows solidarity and support for any of your guests who may prefer using a pronoun that is different than that of their assigned gender at birth.

Request Your Guests’ Preferred Pronouns.

You can also show support for your guests by asking them to share their preferred pronouns in the RSVP form on your wedding website (or on their RSVP card, if you prefer!) This makes it easier to address them in wedding communication as well as in-person on the wedding day!

Shop consciously.

Seek out companies and products that support LGBTQ+ charities and foundations. Whether looking for gifts for your wedding party, wedding attire or decorations, supporting LGBTQ+ owned businesses is a great way to have a direct impact on the community.

More inclusive wedding planning resources

Looking for more insight into planning an inclusive wedding? Check out these fabulous resources!

Inclusive Wedding Planning Tools

While many wedding planning platforms still have the wedding party section separated into “bridesmaids” and “groomsmen,” so seek out options that offer custom arrangements.

Equally Wed: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your LGBTQ+ Wedding

by Kirsten Palladino

Most wedding planning books are still focused on heterosexual cisgender couples and don’t address the unique challenges of planning a LGBTQ+ wedding. Don’t miss this book for dedicated help and suggestions for couples of all genders and orientations.

Get the Book

Inclusive Planning Tools from WithJoy.com

Joy provides a customizable section for everyone in your wedding party, so you can address members of your wedding party as you see fit. You can also ask additional RSVP questions for preferred pronouns or any other relevant details you’d like to collect!