Your love story is unique, and your wedding should reflect that! While traditional wedding planning advice can be helpful, queer weddings hold the exciting opportunity to break free from expectations and create a celebration that’s truly you. Here are five tips to get you started on planning a wedding that’s both meaningful and unforgettable:

1. Embrace Your Authentic Selves:

This is your day to celebrate your love on your terms. Don’t feel pressured to conform to outdated traditions or stay in the gender binary. Ditch the parts that don’t bring you joy and lean into the things that make you feel energized. Don’t hold back when putting your heart into those sentimental details! Don’t be afraid to wear gender affirming clothing on your day. I’ve seen so many glorious queer outfits. Some bought from affirming wedding shops and some custom designed pieces. One of my clients was a maximalist fashion designer

2. Find Vendors Who Celebrate You:

From photographers and caterers to DJs and florists, surround yourselves with vendors who are inclusive and welcoming. Research their practices and look for reviews from other LGBTQ+ couples. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and ensure they understand your vision for the day. If you’re unsure of where to find someone who is queer owned or trans inclusive, I’m someone who specializes in these events. I can connect you to other safe vendors who see you as more than just a payday or worse; a token. Be sure to inspect someones website for representation of all queer folks in love. This includes cis passing relationships between all sorts of people in our community.

3. Reimagine Traditions (or Ditch Them!):

Traditions can be a fun way to add structure and meaning to your wedding, but they shouldn’t limit your creativity. Feel free to modify them to fit your story or create new ones entirely. You can have both marriers walk each other down the aisle, have your chosen siblings give toasts instead of a best man and maid of honor, or ditch the bouquet toss altogether. I’ve even seen some folks bring animals up for adoption to their weddings, so guests can pet the kittens and take one home if they liked.

4. Celebrate Your Community:

Your wedding is a chance to celebrate your love with the people who matter most. Invite friends and family who support your relationship, and consider incorporating elements that represent your community. This could involve featuring music by LGBTQ+ artists, hiring a queer officiant, or having a table to honor lost friends and family. You can use your wedding to fundraise for a certain organization you’re passionate about supporting. People love working towards a bigger cause together.

5. Focus on the Love:

Above all, remember that your wedding is about celebrating your love for each other. Don’t get bogged down in the stress of planning, and prioritize the moments that truly matter. There will be times when you’ll feel overwhelmed, just know it is a normal emotional response to planning such an event. Take a step back when you need the break, believe in your vision, appreciate the journey, and allow yourselves to be present in the joy of your special day.

With a little creativity and these tips in mind, you can plan a queer wedding that’s as unique and beautiful as your love story. Remember, it’s your day to celebrate your love, so make it magical!