The tradition of uniting families through a wedding ceremony has existed for thousands of years, with the earliest records of marriage dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. Whether a strategic merger or a true love match, both heterosexual and homosexual unions have existed throughout history. Accounts of transgender officials and a publicly recognized third gender are also evident across cultures. The fluidity of gender and sexuality is as natural an element of humanity as companionship.
When preparing for your wedding day, you and your partner should only ever concern yourselves with the excitement of which vendors will make your ceremony and reception all the more remarkable, not the dread of being subjected to unjust discrimination and bigotry. The National Gay Wedding Association recently conducted a survey of LGBTQIA+ couples in which they found that “95% Want to know BEFORE THEY SPEAK WITH YOU that you are inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community.” We understand that finding LGBTQIA+ friendly wedding vendors can, unfortunately, be an uneasy task for newly engaged couples; because of this, we at Historic Mankin Mansion are constantly learning and updating how we operate and advertise our venue to accommodate every couple seeking to make their dream day come true.
During Pride Month, we ask our social media followers to join us in donating to an LGBTQIA+ charity to demonstrate actionable support. Portraits of our lovely same-sex couples are displayed in our brochures, website gallery, social media posts, bridal show banners, and on-site meeting room year-round. All of our email templates use gender-neutral language throughout the inquiry process, and the word “fiancé(e)” is only used verbally so as not to assume gender. We offer multiple styles of getting-ready areas to match our clients’ tastes, including the airy Summer Parlor, entertaining Game Room, cozy Suites and Cottages, and even the stately Rockefeller Room on occasion. Lastly, we provide lists of both recommended vendors and, in the case of caterers and DJs, required vendors, ranging from officiants to transportation, all of whom are required to be LGBTQIA+ friendly professionals.
We strongly believe in the importance of publicly celebrating and respecting the LGBTQIA+ community to ensure all couples feel not only seen but confident in the vendors they choose to include on their special day. Every single person involved in making your wedding possible should be dedicated to your happiness above all else. As wedding professionals who have devoted their lives to the business of love, we carry the same adoration and regard for our couples between each and every union. It is our duty to honor love in all forms by creating a haven for you and your beloved to celebrate your newfound marriage together.
