Are you planning on getting married in 2018? Gay Engagement, Gay Wedding, Wedding Invitation Etiquette, Who to invite : Which Etiquette Rules Apply?

In 2018 there will a record number of marriages due to the laws passing for same sex marriage! So which etiquette rules apply?

Etiquette is about making people feel confident and comfortable so we advocate education and knowledge in all areas of etiquette and a hot topic is the proposed equal marriage laws in Australia.  We are happy to advise or seek out information to assist with questions related to announcing wedding proposals and wedding invitation etiquette. 

One of the wonderful things about same-sex relationships is that our wedding norms and traditions are developing and unfolding with each new engagement," says Kathryn Hamm, president of GayWeddings.com. "We find that each couple embarks on an engagement or designs a wedding ceremony in ways which best represent them as a couple, rather than according to rules as to how it should go."

Like most heterosexual spouses, gay and lesbian couples often choose to wear engagement and wedding rings. But since many same-sex partners held commitment ceremonies long before gay marriage is legal in Australia, they often already wear symbolic "wedding" bands.

Unlike with heterosexual couples, where thanks to the demand and influence of the diamond industry, a diamond ring is almost always expected to accompany a marriage proposal, there aren't many norms dictating the "right kind" of engagement ring in same-sex relationships. Most couples, at least those with whom we work, really seem to focus on creating meaningful rings and true symbols of their relationships.

Our recommendation is www.equallywed.com.au it offers a comprehensive listing of businesses that support Marriage Equality; everything from local service providers, venues, entertainers and married life services. Equally Wed offers minimal cost listings on our website to all equality minded wedding professionals & venues wishing to show their support for same-sex marriage.

Wedding Invitation Etiquette:

Traditionally, invitations go out six to eight weeks before the wedding—that gives guests plenty of time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements if they don't live in town. If it's a destination wedding, give guests more time and send them out three months ahead of time.

Which name goes first on a wedding invitation?

Traditionally the name of the bride always precedes the groom's name. Formal invitations issued by the bride's parents refer to her by her first and middle names, the groom by his full name and title; if the couple is hosting by themselves, their titles are optional.

How do you address wedding invitations with only one envelope?

Use First Names. It is proper to address a wedding invitation to a person's full name. If you are using an inner envelope, then the outer envelope can omit them, while the inner envelope has the full names of everyone invited. But if you only have one envelope, it should be addressed to everyone in full.

How do you address a wedding invitation with a guest?

Address the outer envelope to “Mr. James Smith” and the inner envelope to “Mr. James Smith and Guest.” If you're only using one envelope, include a short note with your invitation: “Dear James, You're welcome to bring a guest to the wedding.

When should RSVPS be due for a wedding?

When should we make the deadline for RSVPs? Make your RSVP date two to three weeks before your wedding date to allow enough time for you to get a final head count to the caterer (one week before) and to finalise your seating chart.

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