It’s 2024—all wedding vendors should be inclusive and supportive of the LGBTQ+ community, but unfortunately, that is not the case. However, allyship has blossomed in the wedding industry so with a little research and due diligence, couples shouldn’t have any trouble finding LGBTQ+ inclusive vendors for their wedding day.

Hiring wedding vendors is a big task in general, and adding another qualification into the mix does narrow your choices a bit. But not to worry. In this blog, we discuss the importance of inclusivity and key steps to follow to ensure that you hire vendors who align with your values. Let’s dive in!

Why is inclusivity so important?

Inclusivity is important every day, but it’s especially imperative at large events like weddings. Weddings are about love and acceptance; everyone should feel respected during these celebrations. The last thing you want on your wedding day is for you or your guests to feel uncomfortable or judged by the vendors you hire. 

Inclusive wedding vendors aren’t just important to same-sex or queer couples. Straight couples who are allies can hire LGBTQ+-friendly wedding vendors to ensure that everyone is comfortable on their wedding day.  This is part of the reason we only partner with vendors who believe that love is love!

Ask for recommendations

It may seem obvious, but the first step is to ask for recommendations. If you’ve already found a LBGTQ+ friendly wedding venue, but are looking for other vendors like a caterer or florist, the venue staff may have a list of inclusive vendors to give to you (we do!).

You can also look to the internet for recommendations! Blogs, discussion boards like Reddit, social media posts, and Google searches can go a long way. Websites like equallywed.com are a great way to search for a wide variety of LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding vendors and venues.

Browse photo galleries and social media feeds

You can tell a lot about a vendor based on the pictures they use! Take a look at their social media profiles and photo galleries to see if they use same-sex couples in their promotions. Don’t get too concerned if they don’t have any of the images you’re looking for. Perhaps the vendor is just starting out or hasn’t had the opportunity to work with a same-sex couple. It’s essential to have an open mind during this process!

Pay close attention to language

How a vendor describes themselves and the wedding industry can say a lot about their values. As you study their website and social media channels, take note of whether or not they use gender-neutral language. For example, terms like bride, groom, bridal party, bridesmaids, and groomsman are gendered terms. Gender-neutral alternatives include partners, attendants, wedding party or wedding crew, and person of honor.

If they have a contact form for you to fill out, do they provide gender options? The world of weddings leans heteronormative, so keep in mind that if the language is speaking directly to brides or grooms, it doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t an ally. However, if they make an effort to include couples of all orientations, that’s a significant green flag.

Ask the vendor directly

Sometimes, direct and honest communication is the best option (that advice rings true for your upcoming marriage as well…). 

After you’ve done your own research, if you’re still unsure of a vendor’s stance, the best way to get your answer is to ask. It may feel a bit awkward or intimidating, but it is the best way to confirm that they support working with queer couples.

As you have this conversation with a vendor, pay attention to their reaction. Did they seem uncomfortable when you asked? Or were they thrilled to tell you about why they support the LGBTQ+ community? Actions often speak louder than words. Our advice is to always go with your gut. If, for whatever reason, you don’t get the feeling the vendor truly supports the LGBTQ+ community, keep looking. The right vendor will come along!

Our ally pledge at Cornman Farms

All couples are welcome at the farmhouse. We understand that LGBTQ+ and same-sex couples face challenges that we can’t begin to comprehend. Our entire team at Cornman Farms believes in the simple idea that any individual who finds a forever partner should be free to celebrate their love in any way they choose, free from judgment. 

We’re honored to be an LBGTQ+ inclusive wedding venue in Ann Arbor and pride ourselves on partnering with other allies to ensure that our venue remains a safe place for all to gather. Take it from Courtney Szymkiw, owner of Detroit Design Co. and Cornman Farms vendor:

“Building an event takes a community. As an LGBTQ+ owned company, we are always proud to partner with Cornman Farms and other like-minded vendors to create a safe and supportive celebration of love and acceptance for all couples, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, or race.”

Learn more about our pledge to support the LGBTQ+ community here. If you’d like to tour our venue, get in touch with our team.