Every kind of love is filled with joy and beauty; LGBTQIA love, and weddings reflect that. For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, weddings have stopped being about societal obligations and are now centered around deep, authentic relationships that go beyond the typical definitions. A wedding is far more than just a celebration of two people coming together. It is the joy of love that has been fought for, nurtured, and fulfilled with all possible features which shaped the couple in unique ways.
The LGBTQIA+ community's journey to a Wedding Day may differ from the norm, traversing personal journeys from coming out to societal rejection and acceptance. However, today, as society evolves, there come celebrations that were existentially overdue. Their love doesn’t need to be disguised any further. It can be walked around in all its splendor, showcased to friends and family, and expressed openly as a feeling that is so heartfelt.
According to some, creating a wedding venue is as important as the actual wedding ceremony. Many couples within the LGBTQIA+ community are likely to forgo the standard elements of a wedding for the chance to construct a ceremony and celebration that is meaningful to both parties. The options within these types of weddings include, but are not limited to, the use of uncommon clothing, personally significant music, and unusual wedding locations.
Authenticity is the most important principles of any LGBTQIA+ wedding. Most couples prefer to plan a wedding that speaks directly about them as a couple and as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. There are some who may want to use the symbols of the rainbow flag representing the LGBTQIA+ pride movement and might even use readings or couples vows that recount the many challenges and triumphs of their love story. The need for representation cannot be overlooked which is why LGBTQIA+ couples have the liberty to authentically celebrate their love in a world that often marginalizes them.
Wider acceptance in society is visible, with more LGBTQIA+ couples choosing to integrate a wedding not only focused on them, but for all members of their community. Weddings become forms of protest where every person irrespective of sexual preference or gender expression can be part of and appreciate love devoid of discrimination. It’s a chance to extend the invite to allies, supportive family and friends who have been there, thus making the celebration of love one which everyone can appreciate.
A wedding day can be a wonderful representation of the couple’s varying preferences on style and fashion. Some might go all out and choose the full package, including a scenic venue, beautifully set tables with various forms of decorations, and delicious meals. Some might want a more cozy and casual setting which speaks to the couple and their journey in life and their relationship. The most important thing is that it is true to their love story while celebrating their past and what’s ahead.
The wedding vows of an LGBTQIA+ couple have to be one of the most emotional parts of the wedding. When we see an LGBTQIA+ couple standing together pledging to love and cherish one another until they die, we can feel the gravity in those words. The vows tell a story of their journey up until that moment and also show their pledge to fight for their hopes of the future which is filled with acceptance, love, and lots of growth.
Celebrating an LGBTQIA+ wedding is a unique experience as it combines celebration, resurreciton, and self-acceptance. It is an affirmation for each person to understand that love, in all its forms, should be celebrated in as many ways possible and all out of restriction. No matter how hard the journey has been, it will always be a moment of cherishing love and that love never fades.