Same-sex weddings are making a splash in 2022. See how you can reimagine wedding day traditions and create an event that's unique to you and your partner.

Same-sex couples have a lot of creative freedom when planning their wedding day. All love deserves to be celebrated, and weddings allow couples to freely express themselves and profess their love for one another. Same-sex weddings in particular toss conventional wedding roles aside in favor of a celebration customized to the special couple.

Traditional weddings have heteronormative roles that don’t apply to same-sex couples. As a result, these couples have gotten more creative in planning and executing their weddings. Here are some unique ways same-sex couples are reimagining wedding day traditions and making a splash in 2022.

On Bended Knee…Or Maybe Not

In a traditional scenario, the groom would ask the bride’s father if he could propose. Then, he would get down on one knee, pull out a ring, and ask for his bride’s hand in marriage. But in a same-sex relationship, either partner is likely to propose.

The proposal is another heteronormative wedding tradition same-sex couples can change up and make more exciting with out-of-the-box ways to pop the question. For instance, you don’t have to give an engagement ring—some same-sex couples exchange watches or other gifts instead.

It is possible to run the double proposal risk. However, that’s not a bad thing! Couples often see the proposal as a way to express their mutual intentions to move to the next step in the relationship.

Ditch the White for Bolder Colors

You normally associate the colors white and cream with weddings—these traditional wedding colors are no-brainers in heteronormative weddings. However, we’ve noticed more and more couples—same-sex and straight—ditching traditional colors and infusing brighter hues that showcase their personalities.

Same-sex weddings are especially suited for a little more pizzazz; after all, the Pride flag features the six colors of a rainbow. Bold, bright color schemes can give any same-sex wedding a little more oomph.

In addition, couples don’t have to wear traditional suits or gowns. Instead, they can choose whatever they feel most comfortable in and what will help them best express themselves. For instance, some couples go for more casual looks, while others choose flowy, printed outfits that help them feel more comfortable on their big day.

Check out our video on TikTok, Five Ways to Infuse LGBTQ+ Pride for Your Wedding

Your Vows, Your Own

The couple’s wedding vows are perhaps the most heartwarming and meaningful part of any wedding ceremony. They’re the declaration of the couple’s eternal love and undying commitment toward one another. While it’s true that civil and religious wedding ceremonies have standard legal declarations and words couples must say, you can still get creative with your vows.

If you’re planning to customize your vows and add a twist to the traditional wedding script, talk it over with your officiant first. Take note of what you’re allowed to say, and list things you can add in and take out.

Remember that when writing your vows, you should focus on the commitments you want to make to your partner. It’s not a time for rambling stories about how you met or embarrassing anecdotes that will make your partner cringe. Draw inspiration from traditional wedding vows and find a way to mix things up to make them unique to you and your partner.

Walk Down the Aisle Together

In traditional weddings, a loved one walks the bride down the aisle to meet her groom at the altar. But some traditions are made to be broken, and this is another convention both straight and same-sex couples are throwing this convention out the window.

For instance, gone are the days when couples avoided seeing each other before the ceremony because they believed it caused bad luck. A new wedding trend has emerged: the “first look.” Couples meet before the ceremony to reveal their wedding outfits at the same time and in a more private setting. The first look has replaced the big reveal that traditionally came when the bride walked down the aisle. As a result, some couples no longer find it necessary to have one person meet the other at the altar.

First look or not, you and your partner can get creative with your big entrance. You could come into the ceremony from different entrances, meet halfway, and walk to the altar together hand in hand. Or, you can forget the aisle altogether and have your guests stand in a circle around you.

You and your partner could even be waiting at the altar together as your guests arrive. This approach works especially well in an outdoor setting, so you might consider it if you’re having a destination wedding.

Make Afarose Part of Your Celebration of Love

Weddings, both traditional and same-sex, are the perfect celebration of life and love. At their core, they’re a symbol of a couple’s commitment to have, hold, and cherish one another, until death do you part.

That’s why it’s important to choose wedding vendors and suppliers who support love in whatever shape or size it comes in.

Before signing any contract or agreement, discuss the policies vendors have in serving same-sex couples. It’s crucial to choose vendors who support same-sex unions—your values will be aligned, and they’ll be easier to work with. In addition, you’ll feel more at peace planning your wedding in a supportive and judgment-free environment.

Afarose believes in celebrating love in all forms. With a multitude of resources on celebrating same-sex weddings, you’ll find everything you need to plan and execute your perfect day. If you need outfits for your wedding party, check out our catalog and make use of our digital showroom. Make your big day as heartwarming and meaningful as possible with Afarose.

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