Planning an exceptional accessible wedding
Here I am again blowing the trumpet of celebrant-led weddings, this time with a nod to my own experience with disability.
Here are just a small handful of things you might assume are wedding must-haves, but can be safely reworked or sacked off to suit you and your guestlist!
Omitting any of these things because they cause you pain, discomfort or stress will allow you to create a special and one-of-a-kind wedding, perfect for you. Talk to your celebrant about the components that are essential and meaningful to you, and they will work with you to plan something AMAZING.
Walking down the aisle
If you would like to honour the tradition of ‘walking down the aisle’, but your disability makes that difficult or impossible for you, you can absolutely descend with your mobility aid of choice. You are also free to explore whether you would like to enter the room before your guests, or enter at the front of the room if the venue logistics allow.
You may choose to have someone support you in walking down the aisle, even if you do not wish to be ‘given away’.
Any gender deserves to arrive in a way that feels right for them - however special or natural you want the day to feel. Choosing an alternative way to enter your ceremony will not take away from how meaningful this day is.
Standing during the ceremony
Standing for all or part of your ceremony is certainly not essential. Perhaps talk to the venue or your celebrant about your options for seating.
You could be seated facing each other, towards your friends and family, or even on a sofa facing away from everyone but the celebrant, comfy and ready to hear your story!
Speaking during your ceremony or giving a speech
You don’t need to recite vows or give a lengthy speech if this is something you are not comfortable with - celebrants are experienced in public speaking and handling people’s nerves, most would be happy to find a balance that works for you.
Sensory Overload
Whether you’ve got 10 guests or 100, weddings can be incredibly overwhelming to the senses - and for those of us who’s health makes us extra sensitive, it may feel special events are not worth the stress. However, when making celebrant and venue enquiries, you can always ask what they might suggest for your ceremony to meet your needs.
There’s nothing to say you couldn’t plan for a shorter ceremony, or a ceremony in two or more parts. You might choose to have music or lighting changes announced, or reserve seats near an exit for guests who might be overstimulated and choose to step outside.
Could you consider a silent disco for your party? Or hosting your event in a familiar favourite place, at the time of day when you feel your best?
Here’s a few other things you certainly don’t HAVE to do…
Greeting all your guests
Eating a three course meal
A first dance
You are free to choose!
