How Wedding Suppliers Can Be More Inclusive: Creating Safer, Happier Spaces for LGBTQ+ Couples

The wedding industry is slowly waking up to the fact that not every couple looks like the traditional image it’s long relied on. But “waking up” isn’t the same as showing up. Many LGBTQ+ couples still face discomfort, awkward assumptions, or outright exclusion when planning their weddings, as expressed in our last blog.

So, what can wedding suppliers do to help create a more inclusive and welcoming experience?

Whether you’re a venue, photographer, celebrant, florist, or stationer - inclusivity isn’t just a checkbox; it’s an attitude, a practice, and a promise. Here’s how to start:

1. Start With Your Language

Words matter. The easiest way to make a big difference is by revisiting the language you use - online and in person.

• Swap “bride and groom” for “to-be-weds,” “partner,” or “clients.”

• Stop assuming gender roles (e.g., who wears the dress, who proposes, who walks down the aisle).

• Ask for pronouns and use them. If you make a mistake, correct it.

This simple shift in language creates space for everyone to feel seen.

2. Rework Your Forms & Booking Process

If your contact forms say “Bride’s Name” and “Groom’s Name,” it’s definitely time for an update.

• Use neutral wording like “Partner 1 / Partner 2” or just “Your Name / Your Partner’s Name.”

• Provide an option for pronouns.

• Be mindful of inclusive options on drop-down (like gender and title).

Small changes here can have a big impact on how safe someone feels reaching out.

3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

If your marketing only shows cis-het couples, you’re unintentionally sending a message about who your service is for. Representation matters.

• Feature LGBTQ+ couples in your portfolio and social media.

• Share testimonials from a variety of clients.

Show your values in action – it goes a lot further than just saying “we’re inclusive” in your bio.

4. Unlearn Assumptions

Inclusivity isn’t just about knowing the “right” terms - it’s about listening, staying open, and unlearning assumptions.

• Don’t assume the gender of who someone is marrying.

• Don’t assume roles in the relationship.

• Don’t assume that LGBTQ+ = “same-sex couple.” Queer identities are diverse, and that can include trans and non-binary people in relationships that may appear heterosexual to the outside world. That doesn’t make them any less queer or deserving of a welcoming, affirming experience.

• Be open to non-traditional wedding structures: queer weddings don’t always follow the same rules.

Instead of assuming, ask or let people tell you themselves, being curious without being intrusive creates space for authenticity and respect.

5. Do the Work Behind the Scenes

Creating an inclusive business takes ongoing learning.

• Follow LGBTQ+ creators and wedding professionals.

• Attend workshops or training on diversity and inclusion.

• Listen when feedback is given – and act on it.

Inclusivity isn’t a trend – it’s a commitment. Make it part of your business values.

6. Be a Safe Recommendation Source

Many LGBTQ+ couples rely on word of mouth to find safe and affirming suppliers. If you’ve worked with inclusive businesses, shout them out and mention them in the comments below!

At Queer Suits You, we’re always happy to recommend fellow inclusive suppliers – because we know how important it is to find people who just get it.

7. Celebrate Love in All Its Forms

This one’s simple: be passionate about all love stories.

If you truly want to be inclusive, make space for the full spectrum of love, expression, gender, and identity in the way you work. Inclusivity isn’t about tolerating differences – it’s about celebrating them.

Final Thoughts

The LGBTQ+ community doesn’t need you to be perfect - we just need you to care, try, and keep learning. Creating a more inclusive wedding industry means listening, adapting, and being intentional in everything from your forms to your photo captions.

Every supplier has the power to make wedding planning a safer, happier space. The more of us who commit to doing that, the better the industry becomes for everyone.