You deserve the perfect wedding day, and that means working with inclusive, respectful vendors who will honor your LGBTQ+ identity and your vision for the celebration.
Planning a wedding is stressful enough without having to deal with judgment or ignorance from vendors. While it feels like it may not always be easy to determine if a vendor is LGBTQ+ inclusive right off the bat, here are a few surefire ways to tell:
Their website and social media includes LGBTQ+ representation
A good first move is to check a vendor’s website, social media and other marketing materials. Is there LGBTQ+ representation in these materials? Does it seem like the vendor has experience working with LGBTQ+ couples? Does the vendor follow or interact with LGBTQ+ wedding publications like Equally Wed on Facebook and Instagram? If the answer is yes to most of these questions, that is a great sign.
Vendors may also choose to include statements of inclusivity on their websites. If you can’t find one, you can always ask if one exists or if the vendor has a specific policy or approach to inclusivity.
They do not use gendered language in their paperwork
Vendors who are truly inclusive will avoid using gendered language on their intake forms. In place of “Bride” and “Groom,” they may ask for the names of “Partner 1” and “Partner 2.” Instead of bridesmaids and groomsmen, they may say “wedding party” or “attendants.” Inclusive vendors will ask about your future spouse instead of husband or wife.
As you probably know, these small shifts in language go a long way in making LGBTQ+ couples feel welcome and comfortable. Gender-neutral intake forms are likely a good sign that your vendor works hard to honor all couples.
They ask respectful questions
Whether on their forms or in conversation, inclusive vendors will know to ask for your pronouns as well as the title you will be called for your wedding (bride, groom, broom, marrier, celebrant, etc…). They won’t ask invasive or judgmental questions, and they will also be genuinely excited and happy to work with you.
They advertise in LGBTQ+ publications
Vendors who advertise in LGBTQ+ publications are actively looking to work with LGBTQ+ couples. Of course, you want to make sure that their excitement to work with you is genuine and not simply to check a box to show that they are inclusive. But if they advertise in Equally Wed and other LGBTQ+ wedding magazines, and also do some of the other things on this list, it goes a long way to establishing trust.
They are Equally Wed Pro trained
When perusing a vendor’s website, look for the Equally Wed Pro badge. This means they have taken our Equally Wed Pro inclusive weddings course on how to be the most inclusive, knowledgeable and affirming vendor they can be. Vendors who have taken this course are not only serious about inclusivity, but are also armed with all the tools they need to successfully work with LGBTQ+ couples.
They are recommended by other LGBTQ+ couples
One of the best ways to know if a vendor works well with LGBTQ+ people is to speak with LGBTQ+ people they have worked with in the past. See if any of their online reviews are written by LGBTQ+ couples, and if you can’t find any, ask them to connect you with any past LGBTQ+ clients.
Also, if you know any LGBTQ+ couples who have gotten married in your area, ask them which of their vendors they loved most!
