Anti-Discrimination Statements for LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Vendors
Why is it important to have a non-discrimination statement on your website?
If a couple can’t quickly tell that you are LGBTQ+ friendly, then they are put in an awkward and potentially stressful situation. They’ll have to decide if it’s worth messaging you to confirm you’re willing to work with them…or, and this is the much more likely scenario, they won’t want to deal with it and they’ll hire someone who clearly says their policies on their website instead.
In order to make your couples feel respected, excited about your business, and cared for, you need to let them know that you are not only willing to work with them but that you are excited to work with them. A good anti-discrimination statement can do just that.
But what do I say? The anti-discrimination statements I’ve found sound like boring HR new-hire jargon.
To start, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a boring anti-discrimination statement! The people who don’t care about it simply won’t read it, but the people who do care about it will feel relieved. Don’t overthink it— it’s always better to have something that sounds a little boring than alienate your potential clients.
With that said, this is a perfect opportunity to really bring your brand’s voice and values to the forefront of the conversation. Rather than only saying who you won’t discriminate against, you can also say who you are committed to serving and how. Sharing your values can be a great way to connect with your clients— whether you’re passionate about sustainability, body positivity, social justice work, or all of the above.
A word of caution: If you are getting creative with your statement, steer clear from vague statements like “we love everyone here” or “all are welcome.” Keep in mind “everyone” isn’t having difficulty finding wedding vendors who will be kind.
Photo by Frames + Letters Photography
Can you share some examples of good anti-discrimination statements?
Of course! The Fairness Campaign has a vision statement, core values, and a mission statement all listed on their website. On the Inclusive Kentucky Weddings page, we use our Vendor Pledge for this purpose. Louisville’s Parks Alliance has a short & direct non-discrimination policy. Other websites that would be great to review are the Human Rights Campaign, Catalyst Wedding Co, & Equally Wed.
A lot of our vendors already have great statements as well! Crystal Ludwick Photo, Sarah Katherine Davis Photography, Jennifer Dai, Lauren Alexandra, Mothwing Photo, Kendra Farris all have great information on their websites that discuss their values.
Please keep in mind these should be used for inspiration and not plagiarism!
I have a statement written that I’m happy with. Where should it go?
You have several options! You can’t go wrong working it into your website’s footer— this way no matter what page someone is on they will see it. If you discussed your values, then it could be great on an about page. If you decide to put it into your FAQ just know that it could have less visibility and couples might miss it if they aren’t willing to dig a bit, but listing it in the FAQ in addition to the about page or another location is a great option. If you can find a spot where it fits and it’s easy to find then go for it!
Regardless of placement, with just a couple of sentences you’ve made the wedding planning experience exponentially easier and more welcoming for so many couples!