Why 'Same-Sex' Isn't as Inclusive as You Think

We see it all the time—wedding suppliers using the term 'same-sex' when trying to be inclusive. While the intention might be good, this term is actually quite exclusionary. It primarily caters to cisgender gay and lesbian couples and fails to acknowledge the full diversity of the LGBTQ+ community.

Two joyful people exit a building amid a shower of colourful confetti, surrounded by cheering guests in celebratory outfits. — IMAGE CREDIT: Rebel Love Club

Who Does 'Same-Sex' Leave Out?

The term 'same-sex' only includes couples where both partners identify as the same gender, but LGBTQ+ relationships are so much more diverse. Here’s who it leaves out:

Non-Binary and Gender-Fluid People – Many people don't identify strictly as 'male' or 'female', and their relationships don’t fit neatly into the 'same-sex' label.
Trans People in Relationships – A trans person in a relationship may not identify as the 'same sex' as their partner, making the term feel invalidating.
Bi+ Relationships – A bi person in a relationship—regardless of their partner’s gender—is still in an LGBTQ+ relationship. The 'same-sex' label erases the experiences of bi, pan, and queer people who may have partners of different genders.

Why Language Matters

Words shape experiences. For too long, the wedding industry has focused on heteronormative traditions, and even when inclusivity is attempted, outdated language still excludes many in the LGBTQ+ community. If suppliers truly want to be inclusive, they need to start saying:

✅ 'LGBTQ+ weddings'

✅ 'Queer* weddings' *please go careful who you use the word Queer around, read all about why here

✅ 'LGBTQ+ couples' or 'LGBTQ+ lovers'

✅ 'Inclusive weddings'

How to Check If Your Language Is Inclusive

Look at your website and socials – Are you only using the term 'same-sex', or do you mention LGBTQ+ love?
Think beyond gendered assumptions – Avoid language like 'brides and grooms' and instead use 'to-be-weds' or 'partners'.
Educate yourself continuously – The LGBTQ+ community is vast and diverse, and language evolves. Staying open to learning is key.

It's Time to Do Better

If you truly want to support LGBTQ+ couples, your language needs to reflect that. Ditch the limiting 'same-sex' terminology and embrace language that welcomes everyone in the LGBTQ+ community. Because love isn’t just 'same-sex'—it’s beautifully diverse, and it’s time the wedding industry fully recognised that.

Are you a wedding supplier looking to make your business more inclusive? Join the conversation and learn more about how you can support LGBTQ+ to-be-weds the right way!

✨ Want to take your inclusivity to the next level? Our LGBTQ+ Inclusivity Education Course is designed to help wedding suppliers create truly inclusive experiences for all. Sign up today: LGBTQ+ Education 🌈

Why 'Same-Sex' Isn't as Inclusive as You Think