LGBTQ QUEER & GAY
WEDDING
GUIDE
Planning a wedding can be a thrilling adventure, especially for LGBTQ+ couples who want their special day to be a true reflection of their unique love story. In Melbourne, with its vibrant, inclusive culture, there are endless possibilities to celebrate your commitment in a way that feels right for you. This guide will cover everything from choosing a venue to the little details that make your wedding uniquely yours, and include insights from my approach as a photographer who loves capturing wild, unscripted moments.
WELCOME
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I am very excited to be working with you and we can’t wait to get to know you better! I know this time in your life can be a nerve wracking and making it a surprise means you wouldn’t be able to discuss this with a lot of people, so I am here to guide you and help you make it happen!
I have put this little guide together to help you get an idea on how to plan your wedding day wether you are a Melbournian or you are visiting Melbourne to get hitched. I hope you will find this helpful!
My Approach to
LGBTQ+ Weddings
I believe that this world needs more humanity and inclusivity. As an inclusive wedding photographer, I am passionate about capturing the true essence of your love story. My goal is to create a welcoming space where all cultures and forms of relationships are celebrated. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or an intimate ceremony, I am here to document every moment in a way that feels authentic to you.
I focus on listening and learning from my couples, ensuring that their unique personalities and stories shine through in every photograph. From asking about pronouns to discussing how you envision your day, I strive to create an environment where you feel comfortable and celebrated. Let’s work together to create beautiful memories that you will cherish forever.
PLANNING AND LOGISTICS
When planning your wedding, consider the following logistics
Venue Selection
Melbourne offers a plethora of venues that cater to all types of weddings. From chic urban settings to serene garden locations, there’s something for everyone. Consider venues that are not only beautiful but also supportive of LGBTQ+ weddings. Places like The Substation, Gardens House in the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the quirky Abbotsford Convent are great options that embrace diversity and inclusivity.
Ceremony and Reception Planning
Decide whether you want a traditional ceremony layout or something more unique. Many LGBTQ+ couples opt for two aisles, allowing both partners to walk down simultaneously. Alternatively, you can walk down together, symbolizing your journey as equals. Reception planning can also be tailored to fit your style, from intimate dinners to grand parties.
Invitations
Crafting the perfect wedding invitation can be challenging, especially when navigating traditional gendered language. Here are some tips for creating inclusive invitations:
Use both partners’ names without adhering to traditional order.
Incorporate gender-neutral titles like Mx., Ind., Pr., or Misc.
Highlight the celebration of love rather than traditional roles.
Attire
Your wedding attire should reflect your personal style and comfort. Whether you choose suits, dresses, or something entirely different, the key is to feel fabulous and authentic. Coordinate with your partner to ensure a cohesive look, or surprise each other with your choices on the big day.
Legal and Administrative Details
For same-sex couples looking to get married in Melbourne, the legal process is straightforward. Both partners must be over 18, not currently married, and lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) at least one month before the wedding date with an authorized celebrant. Required documents include original birth certificates, passports, and any relevant divorce or death certificates from previous marriages.
For legal assistance, consider reaching out to Nicholes Family Lawyers or KHQ Lawyers, both of which have a strong track record of supporting LGBTQ+ couples.
Local Insights &
Recommendations
Cultural Nuances
Melbourne is very open and accepting of all cultures, religions, and genders. Displays of affection between same-sex couples are viewed as normal and not judged. The city hosts several events throughout the year that support the LGBTQ+ community, including the Queer Film Festival, Pride Month, and Midsumma Festival.
LGBTQ+ Events and Landmarks
While there are no specific LGBTQ+ landmarks in Melbourne, areas like St. Kilda, Fitzroy, South Yarra, and Prahran are vibrant and inclusive. Notable venues include:
Sircuit in Fitzroy, known for its nightly drag shows.
The Laird, a men-only leather bar and Australia's longest-running gay-owned bar and accommodation.
The Catani Gardens in St. Kilda, the end point of the annual Pride March.
Inclusive Wedding Planners and Coordinators
Some highly recommended inclusive wedding planners and coordinators include:
LGBTQ+ Organizations and Support Groups
The Victorian Pride Centre is a hub for LGBTQ+ groups and provides flexible spaces for hire, including meeting rooms and a rooftop terrace. Another initiative is the Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program (CLIP), offering individualized support and social connection activities for the adult rainbow community in rural areas.
Online Communities
For online support, The Knot (an American site) offers valuable resources for couples planning their weddings, including forums and advice.
Destination Wedding Planning for International Couples
Travel and Accommodation
For those traveling to Melbourne, Airbnb is a great option for regional destinations, while main hotels within Melbourne CBD offer fantastic facilities that can be used for wedding photos. Recommended hotels include:
The Langham Melbourne
Crown Metropol
The Olsen
For LGBTQ+ friendly travel agencies, consider:
Legal and Administrative Details for International Couples
International couples can marry in Australia even if they are not citizens or permanent residents. Both partners must be at least 18 years old, not be married to other people, and not be closely related by blood. Contact a local celebrant and a migration agent like Visa Crew (website) for detailed guidance.
Advice for International Couples
Melbourne is a safe and inclusive city, making it an ideal destination for your wedding. Arrive a few days early to settle in and ensure a relaxed wedding day. Consider adding personal touches to your day and using multiple locations for photos to capture the essence of the city.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the biggest challenges for international couples is the distance from family and friends. Consider live-streaming your ceremony or recording messages from loved ones to play on the day of your wedding.
Events and Activities for Guests
Plan your wedding to coincide with major LGBTQ+ events like the Sydney Mardi Gras, which occurs over the first weekend of March, for an extended celebration.
Legal and Administrative Details for International Couples
International couples can marry in Australia even if they are not citizens or permanent residents. Both partners must be at least 18 years old, not be married to other people, and not be closely related by blood. Contact a local celebrant and a migration agent like Visa Crew (website) for detailed guidance.
Advice for International Couples
Melbourne is a safe and inclusive city, making it an ideal destination for your wedding. Arrive a few days early to settle in and ensure a relaxed wedding day. Consider adding personal touches to your day and using multiple locations for photos to capture the essence of the city.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the biggest challenges for international couples is the distance from family and friends. Consider live-streaming your ceremony or recording messages from loved ones to play on the day of your wedding.
Events and Activities for Guests
Plan your wedding to coincide with major LGBTQ+ events like the Sydney Mardi Gras, which occurs over the first weekend of March, for an extended celebration.
WEDDING DAY
PERSONAL INSIGHTS AND STORIES
Memorable Stories
I recently photographed Anna and Ivy, a couple from Hong Kong who traveled to Melbourne to celebrate their union without fear of persecution. They started their day at the National Gallery of Victoria and gradually became more comfortable displaying affection publicly, feeling liberated in the open-minded atmosphere of Melbourne.
Capturing Unique Moments
Building a relationship with my clients is crucial. By asking about their stories and challenges, I create a comfortable environment. I use a silent shutter and shoot from the hip to keep the conversation going, helping couples feel relaxed and natural in front of the camera.
Planning a wedding as an LGBTQ+ couple in Melbourne opens up a world of possibilities to create a day that is uniquely yours. Remember, your wedding should be a reflection of your love and commitment, free from the constraints of traditional norms. Embrace the opportunity to tell your story in a way that feels authentic and joyful.
THANK YOU
As a photographer, I am here to support you every step of the way, capturing the raw, unscripted moments that make your day unforgettable. Together, we can create a wedding experience that celebrates your love in all its beautiful forms. If you have any questions or would just like to chat, I am here for you. We hope this guide helps to make the process of planning your proposal details much easier and less stressful.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read through our guide!