From Library Journal
Although same-sex marriages are not yet legal anywhere in the United States, more and more lesbians and gay men are seeking the right to validate their unions. This wittily written, well-organized, and creatively laid-out guide offers historical background and practical suggestions covering all aspects of the event, from what to call it to wording the invitations, buying rings, and booking the honeymoon suite. Acknowledging the inherently political statement of the act as well as personal degrees of coming out, the authors provide sensitive counsel by encouraging the couple to present a positive (not defensive) attitude to the heterocentric world, keeping their own priorities foremost and making sure the entire process remains fun. Based on their own and others' experiences, they offer many imaginative ideas for a wide variety of successful ceremonies. A resource directory, suggested references, and index (not seen) contribute to the usefulness of this timely guide.
James E. Van Buskirk, San Francisco P.L.Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Booklist
Proponents of legalizing gay and lesbian marriages increasingly target municipal, state, and federal lawmakers. John Boswell's
Same Sex Unions in Pre-modern Europe , documenting such marriages in antiquity, has climbed onto local best-seller lists. Ayers and Brown take a why-wait attitude and rework traditional wedding-planning etiquette to fit the reality of the increasing number of gay and lesbian commitment ceremonies taking place almost daily, admittedly without the legal recognition accorded male-female unions. Their book's three sections deal with the decision-making process, wedding logistics, and actual step-by-step planning, for which they provide checklists to carry a couple through the big event. Along with such practical matters as the rules for wedding gifts and what a photographer provides, Ayers and Brown deal with such fine points for gays and lesbians as considering what to call him or her (bride? groom? hmmmÿ20.ÿ20.ÿ20.), gender-bending wedding fashions, alternative invitations, and whether and how to change one's name. Timely, informative, and entertaining.
Marie Kuda
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
