With same-sex marriage currently allowed in twelve US states, and public acceptance and local/federal government support continuing to grow, more gays and lesbians are tying the knot with their committed life partners.

Some choose a ceremony at a courthouse or City Hall. Others plan to go all the way with an elaborate ceremony, lots of guests and wedding party attendants, and a big reception. Either way, a wedding is a celebration of love between two people who want to spend the rest of their lives together.

Here are a few tips to help your wedding planning and ceremony go a little smoother:

Marriage License: There can be a waiting period of 2-3 days before you receive your license. Once the license is issued, there’s usually a 6-month expiration date (but not always).  Your officiant can also, in most cases, obtain and file the marriage license for you. Ask if you aren’t sure.

Wedding Services: Need a cake, bridesmaid and/or groomsmen outfits, flowers, catering, photographer, venue, planner, band/DJ, or other service for your wedding? Unfortunately, as has sometimes been reported in the news,  not all businesses are gay/lesbian friendly. Ask friends, family, co-workers or even your officiant for referrals to companies that will provide your services with a smile.

No to Man and Wife: The traditional wedding ceremony includes the officiant saying, “I now pronounce you man and wife.” For obvious reasons, this isn’t going to work for a gay/lesbian wedding. What to substitute? You can write your own vows, of course—a popular option—or try going with, “I now pronounce you partners for life.”

Name Change: Some men and women want to change their names after the wedding to signal their new married status and/or add their partner’s name to their own. For the least amount of hassle, first request a certified copy of your marriage license from the courthouse after it’s been registered, then follow these simple directions.

Greeting Card Universe is proud to offer unique Gay/Lesbian Wedding Invitations and if you’re a friend of the brides or grooms, Gay/Lesbian Wedding Congratulations cards because love is about what’s in your hearts, not what’s in your pants.

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