Adventurous couple Christy and CaSandra got engaged in Maui and then eloped on a private beach in Moorea, French Polynesia. (See more from their wedding feature on equallywed.com.)

In an idyllic way start to the wedding day, the couple was picked up by a boat from their beachside villa and driven to the private island. The only guest was CaSandra’s 25-year-old-daughter. Later, they enjoyed a reception with family and friends in Atlanta, Georgia.

Their marriers shared some advice for vendors working with LGBTQ+ couples: “Don’t be weird.

“We spoke to a couple of vendors in the Atlanta area when planning our reception and they just seemed awkward or maybe they were hesitant to accommodate us. Gay and lesbian couples are no different than your straight couples and there is no need to be weird or awkward if you truly want our business. The only thing that perhaps makes us a tad bit different is whether or not we are out to our families and wedding planning could be a very sensitive, emotional time. However, treat us like any other couple planning their wedding. After all, love is love. And so is money.”

When meeting with LGBTQ+ couples, remember that they might already be nervous that vendors will treat them differently or won’t be accepting. Your job is to make them comfortable. The best thing you can do is be as welcoming, respectful, and, as Christy and CaSandra would say, not weird, as you are to non-LGBTQ+ couples. Remember that they are just a couple in love like anybody else, and all they are looking for is someone to help them make their day magical.

—Molly Sprayregen

Photographer and Videographer: Olivera Photography | U.S. Reception Venue: 595 North Event Center | Planner: Nelly Grange, Wed Otahiti | Attire for Partner 1: LuLus | Attire for Partner 2: Poshmark | Caterer for U.S. Reception: 595 North Event Center | Officiant: Nelly Grange, Wed Otahiti | Florist: Florever