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

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.

TheKnot.com (a huge online wedding planning, advice and merchandise resource for straight couples) has devoted a few pages of their website to same sex marriages. While the Knot is certainly not making any effort to make gays and lesbians an equal part of their target audience, I did find that their articles were well written and thought out. Take a look at these articles… in particular, a lovely profile of Jenn and Michelle and their beautiful Seattle lesbian wedding.

Same-Sex Weddings: 10 Things to Consider
Same-Sex Weddings: Etiquette Q&A
Same-Sex Weddings: Expert Q&A on Unsupportive Parents
Same-Sex Weddings: Expert Q&A on Unsupportive Parents
Same-Sex Weddings: One Couple’s Story
Same-Sex Weddings: Q&A with an Officiant
Same-Sex Weddings: Real People, Real Stories
Same-Sex Weddings: The Basics
Gay Honeymoons: The Big Island of Hawaii