How to Invite Family to a Gay Wedding

Inviting family to a gay wedding is a tricky matter. Many members of a family are likely to have their own ideas on gay marriage, some of which may not accord with your own beliefs on the subject. It's important to be sensitive and forgiving when you invite family to a gay wedding. Here are some tips on how to maintain a good balance throughout the process.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Be understanding. While a gay wedding might be a sensitive and difficult thing for you, it's crucial that you keep in mind that it's the same way for members of your family who happen to be on different sides of the political "aisle" regarding this issue. Be understanding and open minded about people's responses so that rejection doesn't turn into rancor.

2. Speak with family members before you formally invite them. A family member who is not expecting to be invited to a gay wedding, or disagrees with the very idea, does not want to be surprised by a wedding invitation that has two male or female names on it. Sit down and speak with family members, starting with the most sympathetic, so you don't trouble anyone with a surprise announcement.

3. Send a letter along with certain invitations. If there are family members you want to invite but who are likely to receive the invitation in a bad way, send a personal letter to the person to tell them about your decision and to explain that you respect them and their beliefs (if that's true). This will help soften the blow and even if the family member does not attend the wedding, he or she will not feel left out.

4. Take the responses as they come. It's important for you to maintain a good frame of mind through the process, since this is your wedding and the day should not be marred by family infighting. Keep good perspective about people's responses and understand that people feel strongly about the issue. In short, try not to take it personally if you get a cold or angry response from a family member or two.