With gay marriage becoming more and more popular, couples are creating the weddings of their dreams. If you want to include subtle or not-so-subtle pride references in your wedding but you’re not sure how this is the guide for you!
What Is Pride?
The term Gay Pride originated around the mid-1960s when the gay rights movement really took off. It is a term that is used to express one’s happiness to be a part of the gay community and its resilience through homophobia.
To really understand gay pride and where it comes from you must know this story. There was an incident called the Stonewall Riots in 1969, where police stormed the Stonewall Inn bar in Greenwich Village, New York City. This caused a tremendous amount of violence against the gay community. There had already been an uprising in the Gay Liberation Movement but this particular incident incited riots across the state and country. This shined a light on global homophobia and kicked off a conversation about human rights. A year after the incident (the first anniversary) members of the gay community flocked to the streets to march along Christopher Street which is the road that runs past the Stonewall. This was the blueprint for what we now know as Pride Month.
There are many obstacles our community has faced but this was pivotal in opening the conversation about gay rights and human rights. Now all over the world people are being liberated from homophobic restrictions and are becoming freer to express their individuality in all aspects of their lives. There are either very subtle ways to express your pride or you can go all out with rainbow flags everywhere, it’s completely up to you! Below we will list a few suggestions on ways you can incorporate pride into your wedding.
Attire
Socks
Rainbow socks are one of the more popular ways to bring the rainbow flag into your attire.
Cuff Links
Small rainbow print cuff links have become more popular with those who want to keep things subtle.
Rainbow Soled Shoes
This is one of the most popular options as it is the most subtle but makes for great photo opportunities.
Decorations
Bouquet
Including all the colors of the rainbow into a gorgeous bouquet is popular amongst lesbian brides.
Balloons
A more obvious suggestion is using balloons to show your pride. Whichever color under the flag you feel represents you can be used for a more subtle look, or go for a rainbow option!
Mr & Mr/Mrs & Mrs
There are so many decoration options that are catered towards the heterosexual community. But you would be surprised at the gorgeous decorations catered specifically to the gay community such as signage and guest books.
Venue
New Orleans
This famous city has been a haven for the gay community with its vibrant jazz music, soul food, and colorful parades.
Netherlands
The first country to legalize gay marriage is celebrating 20 years of liberation in 2021. What better place to show your pride than this historic country.
Canada
Rated one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world and with an openly gay Prime Minister. This country is a must for gay weddings.
Extra Details
Wedding Cake
Surprise all your guests with what would seem to the unassuming eye a traditional wedding cake. But when you cut into it, it has rainbow layers!
Smoke Bombs
A super unique and stunning way to incorporate the rainbow colors into your photos is by using multi-colored smoke bombs. This will result in pictures that are super Instagram-worthy.
LGBTQ+ Wedding Readings
There are plenty of readings that cater to the LGBTQ+ community, so including them in your ceremony is a great, subtle way to bring in a personal pride touch.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are the loud and proud type or the understated, ingenious type, there are ways to express your pride for the gay community and the part that you play in it. A wedding is a celebration of love and so is gay pride, incorporating the two is a pretty obvious match! For more inspiration on planning your gay wedding, we have editorials on Who To Invite To A Gay Wedding and Top 15 Luxury Gay Wedding Ideas.
Author: Chante Mclaughlin
Creative Executive for GayandLesbianWeddings.com
