Creating an LGBTQ+ destination wedding that stands out and feels truly personal can be a beautiful way to celebrate your love while differentiating your celebration from a traditional heteronormative wedding. Whether you want to break away from societal expectations or simply make the day more uniquely yours, here are 6 ideas for your LGBTQ destination wedding–paired with images from Candy and Josie’s real wedding in Maui:

1. Alternative Wedding Party Roles

Rather than the traditional bridal party with bridesmaids and groomsmen, have “best friends,” “honor attendants,” or “crew members” who get ready with you and stand by your side.

2. LGBTQ+ History

Include references to LGBTQ+ icons or milestones in your vows, showing how your relationship contributes to the ongoing movement for equality.

3. LGBTQ+ Themed Decor and Color Schemes

Use rainbow hues not just in the decor but in smaller details like flowers, cocktail drinks, napkins, and wedding cakes. For example, for their wedding (pictured) Candy and Josie folded 1000 origami cranes to make into rainbow garlands. Cranes symbolize love, dedication, and commitment, and they also acted as a tribute to Candy’s Japanese culture.

4. Host a “Pride Parade” Procession

After the ceremony, lead your guests in a mini “pride parade” down the streets of your destination. Incorporate rainbow flags, music, and colorful attire.

5. Celebrating Chosen Family in a Unique Way

In many LGBTQ+ relationships, chosen family plays a crucial role, and it’s important to honor those individuals who have supported and uplifted you along your journey. Make your celebration about more than just the two of you—it’s about the community you’ve created together. Include your chosen family in the ceremony with specific roles like reading poems, offering blessings, or performing a group activity (e.g., a circle of support with hands joined to create a visual representation of community).

6. Unique Culinary Choices

Food is a big part of most weddings, so why not make yours stand out with LGBTQ+ inspired culinary experiences? Serve rainbow-colored cocktails, desserts, or dishes that celebrate inclusivity and the diversity of your love. Think rainbow cakes, layered fruit drinks, and multi-colored macaroons. You could take inspiration from famous LGBTQ+ figures or cities. For example, serve dishes inspired by the famous “Stonewall Inn” in New York.

These ideas can help you embrace your LGBTQ+ identity in a way that makes your destination wedding deeply meaningful, celebratory, and distinct from a traditional heteronormative wedding. As Chelsey Black (Josie and Candy’s wedding photographer) says, “As a photographer, I want to see your connection, personality, and joy at your wedding. Unapologetically you!” After all, your love is unique, and your wedding should be, too!

Vendors: Photography: Chelsey Black Photography; Venue/Event Design/Planning/Catering/Cocktails: Wailea Beach Resort; Florals: Fernhouse Flowers; Wedding Suit: Indochino; Rings: Alexis Russell & Rustic & Main; Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey; Men’s Attire: Generation Tux; Videographer: Nomadic Wedding Films