How to Have an Inclusive Wedding

The people who get invited to your wedding are an important part of your special day – if not even one of the most important parts of it. Wanting them to feel welcome and comfortable is a given, especially if you have family and friends who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.

That’s why it’s important that you consider creating an inclusive wedding. Having a wedding that is inclusive of these loved ones is a great way to let them know that you are thinking about them and that you respect them.

But there are a few important things you should consider when it comes to planning an inclusive wedding in Switzerland – and also all over the world. If you hope to have a wedding where everyone feels comfortable and affirmed, these tips are for you.

Use Inclusive Language

Using language that doesn’t exclude or misgender people is a great way to make sure that your wedding is inclusive of everyone. When possible, try using gender-neutral terms.

We shouldn’t assume someone’s gender identity. By using language that is inclusive of all genders, we can make sure that no one feels left out.

A few examples of how you can be more inclusive with your language:

• Rather than saying “Mr” or “Mrs” on your wedding invitations, use your guests’ full names.
• Instead of saying “maid of honor” or “best man”, refer to them as your “person of honor”.
• Talk to everyone ahead of time that will properly talk at your wedding (such as your people of honor and your DJ) and ask them to use gender-inclusive language.

Hire Inclusive Wedding Vendors

When planning your wedding, it’s important to consider all aspects of inclusion. Hiring inclusive wedding vendors, like an LGBTQ+ affirming wedding planner, can help reflect the diversity of your guests – and yourselves as well.

Here are a few tips on how to find some inclusive wedding vendors in Switzerland and all over the world.

1. Start by researching local vendors that offer services specifically for weddings.

Many cities and towns have directories of wedding vendors, or you can search for them online. When looking for vendors, be sure to read their websites and reviews to get a sense of their values and approach to weddings.

The wedding industry still has a long way to go, so it’s not always easy to tell if a vendor is LGBTQ+ inclusive.

2. Ask your friends and family if they know of any inclusive wedding vendors.

Chances are that someone you know has had a wedding with diverse vendors or knows someone who can recommend someone great.

3. Reach out to local LGBTQ+ organizations or disability advocacy groups for recommendations.

These organizations are usually aware of inclusive businesses in your area and can help point you in the right direction. Inclusive and affirming wedding vendors will always encourage you to have a more inclusive wedding and they can often provide many different tips to make the wedding planning process easier.

The Swiss Queer Wedding Association is a great resource to use if you need help finding any LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding vendors in Switzerland. No matter who you choose though, be sure to communicate your expectations and needs upfront.

Let them know if there are specific services you’d like them to provide, like gender-neutral bathrooms or wheelchair access. These things will help ensure that your wedding is truly reflective of your community and loved ones.

Encourage Inclusive Wedding Attire

When it comes to clothing, it can be difficult for some guests to know what to wear, especially if they don’t fit into the traditional roles of male and female. Enforcing rules like “dresses for women” and “suits for men” can discourage people from attending your wedding or dressing in a way that makes them feel 100% like themselves.

A better option is to give your guests a dress code rather than telling them what to wear. This will allow guests of all genders to feel comfortable dressing in a way that represents them and honors their diversity and style.

Ditch and Mix Gender Traditions

There are many traditional wedding rituals that are based on gender stereotypes. Why not do away with them altogether? 

One way to do this is by having mixed genders in your wedding party. A mixed-gender wedding party will allow you to include your nearest and dearest, regardless of their gender, and will help your guests to feel more accepted at your wedding.

Another option is to make the flower bouquet toss for all singles. Traditionally, the flower bouquet toss is a game where single women compete for the chance to catch the bride’s bouquet. However, this game can be exclusionary for guests who are not interested in getting married or are not interested in men. If you want to go with the flower bouquet toss, a better option is to open the game to all singles, regardless of their gender. This way, everyone has an equal chance of catching the bouquet.

Not only will you be mixing up traditional gender roles, but you will also be creating a wedding that reflects more of your guests’ diversity.

Go the extra mile!

If you also want your guests to be considerate and inclusive, take them on the wedding planning journey with you. You don’t have to educate them, tell them how to behave, or what to do.

You just need to explain that it’s important for you to make this wedding inclusive, because there are important people in your life who identify differently, and you care about making them feel welcome.

A wedding is a time to come together with your loved ones and celebrate new beginnings. It should be a joyous, stress-free event for you and all of your guests.

By planning an inclusive wedding, you can make sure that everyone feels welcome and accepted. If you want help creating a more inclusive wedding, consider reaching out to me.

I’m an LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding photographer who will help you honor inclusivity and diversity on your wedding day. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort you put into making them feel welcome and accepted, and they will remember your wedding fondly for years to come.

To learn more about my inclusive wedding packages, fill out my contact form, and let’s chat about your magical day!

LET’S GET THE PARTY STARTED!