"At The Emily Post Institute, as we examined our books to be sure we covered the emerging question of same-sex unions. I was pleased to find there weren't too many differences then, and there aren't now, either.
When I'm asked questions about how heterosexual marriage traditions translate to same-sex unions and marriages, I find I almost always give the same answer: You have pretty much all the same options as anyone else. It's a very equal-opportunity process no matter the gender pairing in question; you can look to tradition as a model, but just as many heterosexual couples have reason to adapt or abandon certain traditions, so do same-sex couples.
Would you like to cut the wedding cake and feed each other pieces? Have a first dance? It's all about what makes sense and is meaningful to you and your guests. I attended a same-sex wedding ceremony in December, and the grooms chose to walk down the aisle together, hand-in-hand. This was a beautiful adaptation of the classic bride's tradition, and the guests all clapped when they saw the couple together. The crowd usually cheers when the couple embraces for the first time as a married couple at the end of the ceremony--but this time we saw them together from the very beginning, creating a very different energy for the ceremony. No etiquette was broken; in fact, it was perfect for this couple, and therefore the best choice.
Choice is a key word. Brides marrying brides and grooms marrying grooms are not heterosexual couples, and it should never be assumed that one person will play the "part" of bride or groom. Incorporate gender traditions only when they are meaningful to you. When Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi married, Ellen wore a simple white pant suit (as is her normal style) and Portia a full-on wedding dress. The ladies looked lovely, but they could just as easily have both worn pants or both worn bridal gowns. It all comes down to being true to yourselves and respectful of your guests, whether you're gay or straight. Satisfy that, and the rest is just details."
Good advice, Ms. Post!
This venue is a hidden gem in DC, located on a side street between Adams Morgan and 16th Street. The side garden is perfect for intimate weddings. The back garden is my favorite part of the house. Lined with linden trees, I have had brides line the trees with everything from string lights to paper lanterns, creating a unique magical feel…great for pics. The inside of the house has a historic feel that is great for dinner, dancing and I have even seen some brides use it for their ceremony.
Photo by Kurston Roe
When I think of the Fairmont, I think of the total package. From their garden themed Colonnade room to their outside courtyard to the grand ballroom, The Fairmont has something everyone is looking for. I cannot say enough about the staff who go out of their way to make sure everything runs perfectly. It is located just a few steps away from Georgetown which boasts amazing shopping, restaurants and nightlife that your guests will be sure to enjoy if visiting from out of town.
Located in historic Georgetown, the Halcyon House is great for brides who want something a little different but still want to showcase Washington, DC. The back of house has an amazing view of the Potomac River and Key Bridge. This is a perfect setting for a ceremony or cocktail reception. You can also use the upstairs of the house for cocktail receptions or smaller ceremonies. The downstairs area is what really stands out for me. The dramatic staircase, flanked with the owner’s/artist’s own designs, leads to the white cement studio that is awesome for smaller receptions. The space is a blank canvas so if you want to stick with a minimalist look or create your own masterpiece, this venue allows for either option. Valet parking is recommended since Georgetown parking can be a little difficult especially on a Saturday or Sunday.
Photo by Greg Gibson
Photo by Greg GibsonHope this gives you some inspiration!
Christine
The Hotel Monaco
Photo by Greg Gibson
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