01/06/2024
An Open Message to Wedding Vendors and LGBTQIA+ Couples:
To the incredible community of wedding vendors and the amazing couples embarking on their journey of love, this heartfelt note is prompted by the unfortunate incident of yet another LGBTQIA+ friend being turned away from a wedding venue based on their sexual orientation.
To Wedding Vendors:
In an industry centered around love, vendors play a crucial role in crafting and nurturing the most cherished moments of people's lives. For those who knowingly enter this domain with the intent of turning away couples that do not fit a traditional marriage mold, it prompts a crucial reflection on their alignment with the essence of the industry. Love, by its nature, is diverse and boundless, transcending conventional norms. Vendors who find themselves hesitant or unwilling to celebrate love stories that deviate from the traditional mold should reconsider their presence in an industry that is intended to thrive on inclusivity, acceptance, and the celebration of all forms of love. Choosing to participate in an industry centered around love should inherently mean you embrace the multitude of unique and beautiful narratives in which love unfolds, ensuring that every couple feels valued, seen, and celebrated for their authentic journey.
For individuals with reservations rooted in religious beliefs, I invite introspection as a pathway to a future marked by greater acceptance. May the recognition that embracing love in all its forms enrich lives and inspire a commitment to fostering a more compassionate and inclusive world. By extending kindness, understanding, and empathy, let us collectively embark on a journey toward love, respect, and unity, transcending the confines of prejudice and discrimination. Ultimately, let our focus shift to what truly matters - love.
Again, we all play a pivotal role in creating an environment where all couples feel safe, respected, and valued. True love knows no boundaries, and it's our responsibility to extend that love to all, regardless of sexual orientation. Let's unite in creating a welcoming space where EVERY couple feels seen, heard, and celebrated. Our talents and services should make dreams come true, irrespective of gender or sexual orientation. Let's be architects of love stories, where diversity is not just acknowledged but accepted and embraced.
To LGBTQIA+ Couples:
Love knows no boundaries, and your love stories contribute to the rich tapestry that makes up human experiences. Your journey, a testament to the strength of love, breaks free from societal norms and embraces the authenticity that makes it uniquely yours. In a world that sometimes struggles to understand the beauty of diversity, your love shines as a beacon of authenticity, proving that love is, and always will be, LOVE. Your stories are not only valid but crucial in teaching us the importance of acceptance, understanding, and the celebration of love in all its forms.
Planning your special day is already challenging, especially when vendors are turning you away because of who you love. Please don't be discouraged! The perfect vendors are not just out there somewhere; we are HERE, ready to love, support, and cheer on your beautiful union. The wedding industry is evolving, and many vendors are ready to celebrate love in all its forms.
To Both Parties:
In the world of weddings, couples deserve more than just vendors providing services – they deserve allies who embrace and amplify the beauty of their unique love stories.
LGBTQIA+ couples, you envision a wedding experience where vendors actively listen, respect your identities, and commit to crafting an inclusive celebration that mirrors your authentic selves. Do not settle for anything less.
Wedding vendors, the key to cultivating inclusivity lies in continuous education on diverse love stories, and ensuring your language and portfolio are welcoming to all. Create a transparent space by openly communicating your commitment to inclusivity on your website, setting clear expectations for couples before they even have to reach out to you. Let's help weave a tapestry of authentic and inclusive celebrations that reflect the beautiful spectrum of love.
To Those Who May Disagree:
In a society where some argue that "business owners have the right to turn customers away for any reason," I acknowledge varying opinions. However, it's crucial to recognize that in the wedding industry, inclusivity is not just a business choice but a fundamental contribution to building a fair and equitable world.
Embracing diversity and inclusivity transcends the notion of simply "catering" to specific groups; it involves actively contributing to the creation of a world where every individual feels seen, heard, and appreciated and is a vital step towards making love, joy, and celebration accessible to all.
Let's collectively strive for a world where every couple, regardless of their orientation, can effortlessly find vendors who not only understand and respect their unique love stories but genuinely celebrate them. By integrating inclusivity into both our businesses and personal lives, we contribute to a more compassionate, understanding, and equal society.
The End.
If you’ve read this far, thank you. As someone who is a member of both the wedding and LGBTQIA+ communities, I felt this was an important message to share here.
If you're a couple looking for a wedding photographer, I am committed to creating a safe and comfortable space where your love can shine. Whether your journey is a classic romance, an unconventional adventure, or anything in between, I'm here to document the moments that make your story uniquely yours. Let's create memories that celebrate the beauty of your love, free from judgment or limitations. Your journey, your way!
While you're still here, please tag any wedding vendor(s) you know who embodies the spirit of inclusivity in weddings!
Join me in spreading the message that love is universal, and every love story deserves to be celebrated!
Wishing you all an amazing 2024. 💕
