Meet the Wedding Venues Championing LGBTQ+ Inclusivity
As we once more celebrate Pride Month this June, it’s crucial to recognise the progress made by those wedding venues which continue to go the extra mile to create inclusive and welcoming spaces for couples of every sexual orientation and gender. To honour those who champion diversity and inclusion, we’ve compiled a list of our top LGBTQ+ wedding experts: venues which are proud to support and cater to every couple’s style and vision.
Glewstone Court Country House
Championing inclusivity
At Glewstone Court Country House, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all couples is a priority. Joel, a member of the LGBTQ+ community himself, attests to the genuine commitment of the venue: “We take immense pride in fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all couples, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Personal commitment
Reflecting on his experience, Joel highlights the venue’s genuine commitment to inclusivity. “They have always made me feel welcome and valued, and they have shown a willingness to learn and listen from me, allowing us to adapt our language and practices to be more inclusive and affirming to all couples.”
Celebrating diversity
From hosting numerous weddings for LGBTQ+ couples to participating in Pride events, Glewstone Court celebrates diversity to the very fullest. “From the moment couples walk through our doors, they are embraced for who they are, and their love story becomes our mission to celebrate.”
Inclusive facilities and language
Inclusivity is reflected in every aspect of this venue’s service. “We have ensured that all toilets in the building are unisex and can be used by all and ensure privacy when needed. We also ensure that all staff are aware to not assume gender of couples or wedding guests and they are inclusive and sensitive with their language. We make sure that all marketing materials, including websites, brochures and social media posts, feature diverse representation of LGBTQ+ couples. We also do not use old-fashioned language like ‘Bridal Suite’, and have adapted this to be called the ‘Honeymoon Suite’, which suits all adaptions.”
Celebrating pride
Pride Month is celebrated each year at Glewstone Court Country House with enthusiasm. “We celebrate Pride Month and ensure we have a dedicated post on our social media channels to celebrate.”
Staff training
Regular staff training ensures sensitivity and inclusivity. “We conduct role-playing exercises monthly, to help staff members practice interacting with LGBTQ+ couples in a sensitive and respectful manner. This is super helpful when conducting show rounds with potential couples to ensure we do not follow a script, and we adapt to each and every couple who comes through our doors.”
Acknowledging the ongoing journey
Joel acknowledges the ongoing journey towards complete inclusivity. “I do feel that we still have a long way to go, and we still see enquiries from same-sex couples who still ask if it would be okay to host a same-sex wedding at our venue. This makes us very sad, that some same-sex couples feel a need to ask this question. Of course, we make them feel comfortable and ensure they are looked after and reassure them that they do not have to ask this question. We have, however, seen more and more of an increase in same-sex/LGBTQ+ representation when conducting competitor analysis, which is also nice for me to see.”
Promoting universal LGBTQ+ inclusivity
Joel emphasises the importance of collective effort in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity. “I think the more everyone works together and promotes LGBTQ+ community on social media and on supplier/venue websites the better!”
Elms Barn
Championing inclusivity
Ruth from Elms Barn highlights the venue’s commitment to inclusivity, pointing out touches like, “couples entering at the same time from two sides of the ceremony space”, “sensitive language for persons of honour and best persons”, and “team members who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.” She sums it up beautifully: “Overall, we treat everyone the same, and if there are ever any special requests to help everyone feel included and special, we will deliver.”
Fostering representation
Ruth emphasises their efforts to reflect and include all types of couples, including featuring blog posts about same-sex couples and ensuring photos of the venue and couples cover all types of couples, “so everyone is reflected and included.”
Practising sensitivity
In their staff training, Ruth explains that discussions are regularly held on sensitive language, and that she herself makes notes on all running orders where there are people with specific pronoun preferences, “to make sure everyone is actively aware of the language they should be using.”
Celebrating all love equally
Ruth believes that there should be no difference between an LGBTQ+ wedding and any other wedding: “In the past, I have found staff and management could be on edge and try too hard to include couples, which actually makes things awkward and forced. Now, anyone can love anyone, and we don’t need to think of any wedding as anything other than a magical day which the couple has designed in a way that is best for them and their guests.”
Bespoke celebrations
Elms Barn is proud to create every wedding completely bespoke for each couple. Ruth explains that they “have had everything from rainbow wedding cakes to very understated LGBTQ+ weddings, and that when planning each celebration, they will “listen to that couple to see where on that spectrum they fit best.”
Year-round visibility
Ruth ensures that the exposure is there for all LGBTQ+ weddings throughout the year, not just “as a Pride gimmick”, a point we agree is super important to highlight. She also refers to “a few photographers I always recommend to LGBTQ+ couples, as I know they make everyone feel so comfortable regardless.”
The Old Mill (Aldermaston)
Championing inclusivity
Another steadfast advocate for inclusivity is Chris from The Old Mill (Aldermaston). Reflecting on their journey, Chris shares, “We are proud to have celebrated and hosted a variety of LGBTQ+ weddings, and have built a team that is LGBTQ+ inclusive, all of whom are key members of our business. We have always welcomed diversity and will continue to do so.”
Embracing uniqueness
Chris emphasises the importance of understanding and realising each couple’s unique vision: “We find it crucial to know the couple and help bring their vision to life. Whether it’s adding lots of colour to the decor, incorporating multicoloured confetti, or ensuring both partners have their moment walking down the aisle, we strive to create a timeless wedding day.”
Community support beyond weddings
The Old Mill’s support for the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond weddings alone. “Although weddings are our main engagement with the LGBTQ+ community, we actively support them both in and out of the workplace. We embrace the changes they want to bring into the workplace that make them feel more valued. We encourage and celebrate their activities outside of work as we recognise and honour their passion for celebrating their individuality.”
Celebrating progress
Chris expresses immense pride in the growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ weddings. “It’s hugely rewarding to see how LGBTQ+ weddings have become accepted by society over the years. Witnessing this evolution into the new normal is emotionally touching. We are thrilled to be hosting more LGBTQ+ weddings than ever before this year, including our director’s wedding!”
Diversity within the workplace
Having a diverse and inclusive team is central to The Old Mill’s approach: “Having a diverse and inclusive team reassures our couples that all of their guests and they themselves will have the wedding experience they deserve.”
Supporting individuality
For both Chris and the team, supporting individuality and embracing each person’s natural personality is paramount: “It’s always important to us to support individuality and encourage our couples and colleagues to bring their natural personality to everything they do, both personally and professionally.”
Andaz London Liverpool Street Hotel
Championing inclusivity
At Andaz London Liverpool Street Hotel, a concept by Hyatt, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone is more than just a concept; it’s a whole ethos. Jad, the Marketing Community Manager, explains, “We understand the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, and strive to foster a safe and comfortable environment where everyone feels welcome to be themselves.”
A decade of inclusivity
Jad shares the venue’s commitment to making every wedding special, including those of LGBTQ+ couples specifically. “For a decade, our 1901 ballroom, and other stunning venues, have been a popular location for LGBTQ+ weddings. They are the perfect place to celebrate your special day with loved ones.”
Pre-wedding inclusivity
Andaz London takes great pride in offering inclusive pre-wedding celebrations. From engagement party themes which celebrate unique love stories to non-traditional vows and modern procession alternatives, they provide resources and support to craft personalised ceremonies which “reflect each couple’s journey”.
Personalised planning
Their personalised wedding planners ensure that every detail is tailored to the couple’s preferences. Jad gives the following initiatives as examples: “We offer inclusive language, music which reflects your taste, and partner with LGBTQ+ vendors who understand and celebrate LGBTQ+ weddings.”
Year-round allyship
As an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, Andaz London’s efforts go beyond wedding celebrations. Jad explains, “Our staff undergo regular diversity and inclusion training to provide a welcoming and inclusive service to all guests. We also partner with LGBTQ+ organisations, participate in Pride Month festivities, and donate to charities which support the LGBTQ+ community.” He also mentions a recent ad campaign celebrating LGBTQ+ weddings at the venue, and highlights their collaboration with LGBTQ+ vendors like The House of Toby.
Celebrating milestones
Jad adds, “This year marks a decade of marriage equality, and we’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone alongside our LGBTQ+ colleagues! We’ve been honoured to be a part of countless couples’ journeys, and we recognise there’s always room to grow. At Andaz London, we believe love knows no bounds. We’re committed to being a part of positive change and fostering an inclusive space for everyone.”
Delamere Manor
Championing inclusivity
Delamere Manor is all about championing year-round inclusivity, with their Marketing Manager, Jess, commenting, “Delamere Manor proudly supports the LGBTQ+ community. We believe in love without boundaries and welcome all couples to celebrate their marriage at Delamere Manor.”
Creating a welcoming space
She highlights the efforts to ensure every wedding reflects love, acceptance and inclusion. “Our team is dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for all couples to create cherished memories that last a lifetime.”
Prioritising tailored wedding packages
Delamere Manor offers inclusive wedding packages tailored to the diverse needs and preferences of LGBTQ+ couples: “We provide options for same-sex ceremonies, gender-neutral language in wedding materials, and flexibility in venue setup to accommodate various wedding traditions.”
Fostering sensitivity and inclusivity
Jess emphasises, “Our supportive staff receive comprehensive training to ensure they are knowledgeable and sensitive to the needs of LGBTQ+ couples. This includes training on pronoun usage, understanding diverse family structures, and creating a welcoming environment for all guests.”
Collaboration with LGBTQ+ businesses
They are also firm believers in collaborating with LGBTQ+ owned businesses and vendors to offer diverse services for wedding couples, which includes photographers, florists, entertainers and wedding planners.
Year-round representation
Beyond weddings, Delamere Manor hosts inclusive events throughout the year, including annual Christmas Fairs, dedicated parties and fabulous Tribute Nights. They’re also committed to showcasing LGBTQ+ representation in their marketing materials, social media campaigns and other promotional efforts.
Societal attitudes and progress
Regarding societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ weddings, Jess reflects, “Society’s attitudes towards LGBTQ+ weddings have evolved significantly, reflecting broader shifts in cultural norms, legal recognition and social acceptance.”
Acknowledging the journey ahead
While acknowledging the progress made, Jess admits that there is nonetheless “still a long way to go,” emphasising the importance of creating more safe and inclusive spaces where LGBTQ+ couples feel welcome, respected and valued. “This involves actively seeking feedback, being open to learning, and continually striving to improve and evolve in supporting the LGBTQ+ community.”
The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa
Championing inclusivity
Katie, Wedding Department Manager at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa, shares their approach to LGBTQ+ weddings, having herself trained as an Independent Professional Celebrant “to ensure couples can have a ceremony that reflects and celebrates their same-sex relationship.”
Personalised ceremonies
She highlights the venue’s inclusive touches, which comprise “offering in-house celebrancy so we can personalise ceremonies and include rituals such as handfasting or a unity sand ceremony, where coloured sands are blended reflecting the couple and/or their family, friends and supporters.”
Visibility and year-round support
In terms of visibility and support, Katie explains that they will fly the Pride Flag on their flagpole at the front of the hotel during June. Yet beyond Pride Month, their brochures feature same-sex couples, their banners show their diverse customer base, and they intend to attend or exhibit at LGBTQ+ and Pride festivals and celebrations throughout the year. “We are a safe place,” Jess insists, “and a large number of our staff have attended workshops on inclusivity.”
Evolving attitudes/change for the better
Reflecting on societal attitudes, Katie acknowledges, “I think attitudes have changed, are still changing, and will continue to change for the better.”
Prioritising tailored wedding packages
When asked about adapting weddings for LGBTQ+ couples, Katie emphasises that all their weddings are tailored to the individual couples where desired: “We adapt them wherever possible. For example, one couple has asked if they can provide alternative door signage for the toilets.”
Advocating for kindness and mutual respect
In conclusion, Katie advocates for kindness and respect generally: “All couples deserve to be treated with kindness and respect, irrespective of their sexual orientation. Celebrate the love and provide a bespoke wedding for each couple!” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves here at Bridebook.
Championing inclusivity in weddings
As we’ve highlighted these venues and their incredible efforts, it’s clear that they’ve gone above and beyond to create inclusive and welcoming spaces for couples of every sexual orientation and gender. These venues reveal an unwavering commitment to creating joyful and personalised wedding experiences for all couples – not just for Pride Month specifically, but for all time.
With vibrant celebrations of love and inclusivity, venues like these pave the way for a more diverse and welcoming wedding industry. As we reflect on the journey and efforts so far, we’re one step closer to creating a world where every couple feels celebrated, respected and valued on their special day.
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Happy Planning!
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