Planning your wedding is an exciting and emotional journey, especially when that celebration is rooted in a love story that has defied norms and embraced authenticity. A same sex wedding is a celebration of individuality, identity, and unity. And the best part? There are no rules. You are free to plan a wedding that reflects exactly who you are, as a couple and as individuals.
Whether you’re just beginning to dream up your day or putting the finishing touches on your plans, these creative and inclusive ideas will help you make your wedding as unique and unforgettable as your love.
Create Your Own Ceremony Structure
One of the best things about planning a same sex wedding is that you don’t have to follow any traditions that don’t align with you as a couple. Instead, you get to decide what your ceremony looks like, from start to finish. Want to walk down the aisle together, hand in hand? Go for it. Prefer to enter from different sides and meet in the middle? That’s just as meaningful.
There’s also room to think outside the box for readings, music, and rituals. Some couples incorporate unity ceremonies like lighting candles to represent their life together. Others write original vows that reflect the journey they’ve shared and the one they’re about to begin. The goal is to build a ceremony that reflects your unique love story.
Dress to Feel Your Best
There’s no need to match unless that’s what you both want. Your attire should reflect your style and personality, while making you feel your best. Some couples coordinate with complementary colors or similar silhouettes, while others choose completely different outfits that express their individual flair.
From tailored suits with bold accents to flowing gowns in untraditional colors, or even something entirely unconventional, the options are limitless. Accessories like custom pins, embroidered initials, or matching shoes can subtly tie your looks together without sacrificing individuality. What matters most is that you feel confident and like yourselves when you step into the spotlight.
Redefine the Wedding Party
Forget the traditional wedding party lineup. Surround yourselves with the people who’ve supported you, regardless of gender or title. Some couples create a mixed wedding party, while others ditch the formalities and simply invite their closest friends to stand beside them.
Let your crew wear something that suits their personality while still coordinating with your color scheme or overall aesthetic. Whether they’re in matching suits or custom-chosen outfits, their presence should reflect the love and support that helped bring you to this day.
Personalize Your Vow and Ring Exchange
Writing your vows is a powerful way to share the journey that brought you together and the promises you’re making for the future. It’s okay to get emotional or humorous—whatever feels real. Some couples write separate vows, while others write them together to exchange the same words as a symbol of unity.
When it comes to the ring exchange, you might add a twist that’s meaningful to you. You could include a brief reading, invite loved ones to bless the rings beforehand, or even incorporate a cultural or spiritual tradition that honors your heritage.
Make Your Reception a Unique Celebration
The reception should reflect your personalities and who you are as a couple. Let your creativity shine through everything from the music to the menu. Think signature cocktails named after your pets or favorite vacations, a playlist filled with songs that mean something to you, and entertainment that goes beyond a dance floor—maybe a live acoustic set or a trivia game about the happy couple. How well do your friends and family know the two of you?
You can skip or reinvent the first dance if it doesn’t feel authentic. Invite all the couples to join the two of you on the dance floor. You could create a moment that’s uniquely yours and perform a duet or dance from your favorite movie.
It’s All About the Details
Whether whimsical, modern, or nature-inspired, every detail can tell a story when thoughtfully chosen. There are countless ways to weave your relationship into the fabric of your wedding day. Display a photo timeline from your first date to your engagement, include handwritten notes for each guest, or create a custom guestbook where friends and family can leave messages and memories.
You could also share snippets of your journey on your wedding website on custom signage throughout the venue. These small touches make your celebration feel deeply personal and help your guests feel even more connected to your love story.
Celebrate at Clarks Landing Yacht Club
When planning a same sex wedding, the venue you choose should feel as welcoming and beautiful as your partnership. Clarks Landing Yacht Club is proud to be an LGBTQ+ friendly venue where love is love—always.
With sweeping waterfront views and an all-inclusive package, Clarks Landing offers a stunning venue that transforms a wedding into a once-in-a-lifetime event. Our experienced coordinators understand that every couple is different and are passionate about helping you create the wedding day of your dreams.
From expertly planned timelines to trusted vendor recommendations, every detail is carefully handled, so you can focus on celebrating with the people who matter most. Schedule a tour today and discover how Clarks Landing Yacht Club can bring your perfect celebration to life—your way.
FAQs – Same Sex Wedding Planning
How do we structure a same sex wedding ceremony?
There’s no required format—walk down the aisle together, enter from opposite sides, or create a structure that feels uniquely you. Our on-site wedding coordinators can help guide you on what will work best for you as a couple and logistically!
Should we match our outfits?
Only if you want to! Many couples coordinate with colors or accessories, while others opt for completely different looks that reflect their personalities.
What are alternatives to traditional wedding parties?
You can have a mixed-gender wedding party, skip titles altogether, or simply surround yourselves with your closest loved ones—whatever feels right.
How can we personalize our reception?
Think themed cocktails, curated playlists, meaningful décor, and a guest memory station.
Is Clarks Landing Yacht Club LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes! Clarks Landing Yacht Club is a welcoming, inclusive venue that embraces and celebrates all couples equally.
Can we book a tour to see the venue?
Yes—you can schedule a private tour and meet with the team to discuss how Clarks Landing can bring your wedding vision to life.