6 Ways to Ensure Your Ceremony is LGBTQI+ Inclusive
6 WAYS TO ENSURE YOUR CEREMONY IS LGBTQI+ INCLUSIVE
BREAK FREE FROM TRADITION AND CREATE YOUR OWN PATH.
Marriage is a deeply meaningful ceremony that celebrates the union of two people, an event that has been a part of human culture for centuries. It’s a time when loved ones come together to witness and honour the commitment of a couple. For too long, however, this profound experience was unavailable to the LGBTQI+ community, with marriage traditionally limited to heterosexual couples. Fortunately, many countries now recognise and celebrate the unions of all couples, regardless of gender.
ENTRANCE CHOICES
In many traditional ceremonies, the bride is escorted down the aisle by her father, symbolising her being “given away” to her future husband. However, this can be adapted in countless ways to better reflect modern values. Both partners, regardless of gender, might choose to have their own grand entrance, or they might prefer to walk down the aisle together. If you’d rather avoid the spotlight, consider taking your place at the altar before the guests arrive. Another option is to have each partner enter from opposite sides of the aisle, symbolising two individuals coming together as equals to form a married couple.
CEREMONY LAYOUT
The traditional placement of the bride on the left and the groom on the right is just that—a tradition, not a requirement. Couples should feel free to stand where they feel most comfortable. Your decision could be based on something as simple as which side of your face you prefer in photos, or which side better highlights your attire or hairstyle. The key is to create a space where you both feel at ease.
INCLUSIVE WEDDING PARTIES
The concept of gender-specific wedding parties is becoming increasingly outdated. More couples are opting for mixed-gender wedding parties, reflecting the important relationships in their lives rather than adhering to traditional gender roles. The term “bridal party” can be limiting, as it suggests that the day is primarily about the bride. Instead, choose a term and approach that acknowledges the significance of the day for both partners. Encourage your wedding party to dress in a way that reflects their identity while still aligning with your overall wedding theme.
GENDER-NEUTRAL ROLES FOR KIDS
Instead of assigning traditional roles like “flower girls” and “page boys,” consider using gender-neutral terms like “flower children.” This approach allows the young people in your life to take on roles that they feel excited and confident about, without the constraints of traditional gender expectations.
INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE
Traditional phrases like “I now pronounce you husband and wife” or “you may kiss the bride” may not resonate with every couple. It’s important to communicate with your celebrant about how you both identify and how you’d like to be addressed during the ceremony. Alternatives might include “It is my great joy to pronounce you married” or “I am thrilled to announce that you are now officially married.” If one partner is taking the other’s last name, you can choose to be introduced by your shared surname as a couple.
CREATE YOUR OWN TRADITIONS
Every couple has a unique story and a set of values that define their relationship. Your ceremony should reflect that individuality. If a particular tradition doesn’t feel right to you, don’t hesitate to replace it with something more meaningful. Work with your celebrant to craft a ceremony that truly represents who you are as individuals and as a couple, making your special day a celebration of your love in the most authentic way possible.
