LET’S DO IT!
GBTIQ Australians have much to celebrate – the 40th anniversary of the Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras and, of course, the recent changes to the Marriage Act that finally allow us to marry the one we love.
It feels like there’s a wonderful 2018 ahead, full of same-sex marriages and love, and Equally Wed is thrilled to be partnering with DNA for this annual Weddings Issue.
Yes, in 2018 we are able to stand tall with pride alongside our friends and family and publicly say, “I do” – or any variation on the wedding vows that suit you and your partner.
The passing of the legislation effected much more than just our legal right for us to marry; marriage provides security to our families, to our financial plans, and our general well-being.
With that in mind, let’s focus on the great things ahead. Let’s see engagements, celebrations and weddings! Whether you and your partner choose an intimate occasion or prefer a larger event, it’s time to celebrate, reconnect with each other, and rejoice in the moment.
Weddings come with plenty of traditions – let’s keep the ones that work for us and break with the traditions that don’t. Let’s challenge the norm and make your wedding the way it ought to be – about you. If you want a giant disco ball over the dance floor or drag queens as entertainment – let’s do it! Let’s incorporate those elements of LGBTIQ culture that are meaningful into our traditions and make those special moments forever memorable.
You may choose matching wedding rings or rings that reflect you and your partner’s individuality. You may choose matching suits, or not. You may keep your names or choose to join them with a hyphen. Perhaps you’d like mum or dad to walk you down the aisle or have your favourite dyke on a bike deliver you to the ceremony – make it work for you.
Wedding suppliers are keen to work with you to help plan your perfect event. At EquallyWed.com. au you’ll find dozens of florists and cake makers, caterers, celebrants, jewellers, venues, entertainers, event managers, hairdressers and make-up artists – even food trucks! – all happy to provide services to LGBTIQ couples. You can even check out postwedding services like holiday and honeymoon options, adoption and fertility advice, financial planners and counsellors.
We hope you enjoy the stories in this special issue of DNA, and that you find inspiration in these pages.