The Complete Guide to Gay and Lesbian Weddings

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY MAY 30, 2005

Planning a same-sex wedding isn't all that different than planning a straight wedding. While some couples may choose a stereotypical biker bash or drag fest, David's emphasis is on traditional ceremonies and receptions, where same-sex cake toppers and greater emphasis on coordinated wedding attire may be the only hints that the marriage might not be recognized in all 50 states. The guide provides the usual checklists and common-sense wedding advice ("never hire a caterer-no matter what-without tasting the food first"). But its most unique-and therefore most useful-aspects deal with the challenges specific to same sex couples, such as hiring an attorney to navigate state laws that deal with partnerships; announcing the engagement to family and friends; finding gay-friendly vendors; and dealing with hesitant guests. David relies heavily on his own experience running a romantic inn in Bucks County, Penn., and marrying his partner, Doc, both for advice and for anecdotes. David has never met a romantic conceit that he didn't like, so readers should be prepared to revel in starry-eyed schmaltz and the kind of flamboyant wisdom that has made entities such as "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" so successful (e.g., in a chapter titled, "Creating Your Wedding Style," David writes, "It's important that you keep in mind that you will be basically creating a set design, almost like those in Broadway productions"). The book also includes sample menus (and the recipes to go with them) and listings for gay-friendly vendors and partnership advocacy organizations.