Same Sex Wedding Ceremony
From LoveToKnow Weddings
When planning a same sex wedding ceremony, couples need to research their state's laws regarding the legal aspects surrounding the marriage. There has been much controversy over the last few years regarding the legality of same sex marriages, and many couples choose instead to arrange a commitment ceremony if their marriage will not be recognized by the state in which they reside. Whatever type of ceremony you choose, however, you'll have lots to do before the big day arrives!
Domestic Partnership
Just what is a domestic partnership? In some states, while a same sex marriage may not be recognized, a domestic partnership is. Basically, a domestic partnership allows a couple certain rights. These include some if not all of the following:
- Health insurance, disability coverage, and death benefits
- Family and bereavement leave
- Personal income tax deductions for some items
- Tort claims for injuries or wrongful death
- Stepparent adoptions
- Health care decisions
- Unemployment eligibility
- Disability claims
- Hospital visitation rights
- Some coverage under inheritance laws
Civil Unions
While some states may not recognize same sex marriages, they do recognize civil unions. What is the difference? In some instances, the rights are virtually equal to those of a legal marriage. These rights may include those of the domestic partnership plus other rights, such as the following:
- Homestead exemption rights
- State pay for military service
- Probate laws
- Group insurance
- Victim's compensation
- Terminal care rights
- Powers of attorney
- State public assistance
- Privilege and immunity laws
Planning a Same Sex Wedding Ceremony
As you plan your same sex wedding ceremony, domestic partnership, or civil union, there are several points that you should keep in mind.
- Choose a Location- Locations for same sex ceremonies can be tricky. You want your day to be perfect, so be sure you choose a place that is tolerant of your beliefs. If you want your ceremony to be held in a church, be sure you find a church that supports your right to a same sex marriage. This will be one of the first steps you'll want to take in planning your wedding.
- Choosing a Clergyman-Again, you'll want to find the perfect person to perform your ceremony, so be sure you look for someone who supports your lifestyle choice. You'll want to contact your clergyman or preacher as soon as possible to ensure that he is free on the day of your ceremony.
- Plan Your Budget- Before you begin contacting caterers, ordering invitations, and picking out foods for your menu, be sure you have a firm budget in place.
- Reception-How large and elaborate do you want your reception to be? This can take a huge chunk out of your budget if you plan a big celebration. You'll need to begin interviewing bands, searching for a place large enough for the amount of guests you're planning on inviting, and picking out decorations months in advance.
- Choosing a Photographer-Here again, you'll want to choose a photographer that is comfortable photographing same sex marriages. Your photographer needs to be able to capture the very essence of your feelings for one another, so don't hire one who isn't supportive of your lifestyle.
Choosing Wedding Invitations
As you begin searching for wedding invitations, you may be surprised at how limited your choices appear to be at first. Don't give up hope, however. Below are several Websites that cater to same sex unions.
Wedding Vows
Finally, choosing the wedding vows may be the most important part of planning a same sex marriage ceremony. In many instances, couples choose to write their own vows. For some great ideas on wedding vows, check out the following websites:
Related Links
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