GLAAD.org, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance against Defamation, has been collecting and constantly updating a list of newspapers that have indicated that they have run same-sex union announcements — or that they would be willing to do so if asked by a local resident. Sorted by state, the list can also be downloaded in PDF format that includes circulation fugures.
I have to admit, I wish I had known about this when we got married. I had no idea that the Times-Picayune in New Orleans would have accepted our announcement. I was also happily surprised to learn that there were some small town Louisiana newspapers with progressive and accepting policies.
Tip #1
Providing your guests with disposable cameras is a wonderful way to add candid shots to your album. Make them available at your reception (never at the ceremony since a flurry of shutters snapping will distract from what is really important… your vows) by placing them at the entry table, at dinner placesettings or in baskets around the room. Make sure you get them back before guests leave by having a wedding party member collect them, or designating a camera return location by the door.
Tip #2
Most photographers retain ownership of the negatives. Ask your photographer if or when you might be able to purchase the negatives and what the cost will be.
Tip #1
Start an ideas folder. As you begin to explore options, you will find hundreds of ideas that you’ll want to discuss together. Rather than rely on memory to coordinate those tidbits of inspiration (trust me, memory just can’t do the job), invest in a binder that can keep them close at hand for you. Include: note paper for jotting down spur of the moment thoughts
folders for holding clipped magazine pages
sheet protectors for slipping in pricing sheets and menus
a zipable pocket for safeguarding vital receipts and documents.
Tip #2
Talk with other couples who have been there and lived to tell about it. Not only will they be uniquely able to understand how excited you are about your celebration, they will be able to provide valuable insight into the whole process. Don’t know any same sex couples who have had a ceremony? Mine your straight married friends for information. Despite the differences between straight and gay wedding ceremonies, planning any event takes a little finesse and these folks have pulled it off! Take advantage of that experience.
