Listen, I totally understand how daunting it is trying to find LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding vendors!

I’m a queer elopement and wedding photographer who lives in the south so I know how transphobic and homophobic this industry can be – I even faced it when I was planning my own wedding. There are so many instances of wedding venues and other vendors turning LGBTQ+ couples away and frankly, it pisses me off every single time I hear about it! So, I wanted to share a few tips for finding vendors that not just “tolerate” you but truly CELEBRATE you!

1. Observe their language

What do their contact forms look like on their website? Are they only using language like “bride” or “groom”? Or are they using words like “partner” or “marrier”? If it’s a venue, how do they label their areas for couples to get ready in? Avoid places who specifically label their rooms by gender or by “bride” and “groom”

2. Do they feature LGBTQ+ couples on their website/social media?

I want to note here that perhaps there are some vendors who are very much 100% inclusive but may not have representation of it yet. Some vendors could be just starting out and they might not have had the opportunity to work with LGBTQ couples. So, make sure you pay attention to tip number 1!

3. Just ask!!

If you feel like a vendor is being hesitant after being asked, or just attempting to tell you what you want to hear, feel free to move on! Take your business to vendors who are TRULY in your corner!

I hope these tips help! As always, any vendor I ever recommend to my couples will be 100% LGBTQIA+ inclusive. I only work with other vendors that will completely celebrate you!

PS – I wrote a guide for how to elope in North Carolina. But, if you want a place to elope on the East Coast that is queer heaven, come to Asheville! We have it all! Mountains, amazing restaurants, music, art, everything! Check out my Ultimate Asheville Elopement Guide to learn more!