Love knows no boundaries, and neither should marriage. I previously wrote a blog on different locations LGBTQ+ couples can get married at in other countries, you can check it out HERE! In this blog, I’ll tell you about some of my favorite LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the United States, where you can embrace your love and tie the knot. As a queer photographer, I understand the importance of looking for locations that you can legally get married in, but also feel safe and comfortable.
A lot of my couples express feeling nervous during their ceremonies, because they are worried about public opinion. Some states and cities sometimes have my couples a little more concerned than other cities and states. So, I wanted to put together a list of cities a lot of my past clients have felt safe. And places I have personally felt safe being out and proud.
I’ll also be throwing in some cool facts about these cities and their history on supporting LGBTQ+ rights. Let’s get into it!
New York City, New York:
Elopement Location: Central Park's Ladies Pavilion
Best Time to Elope: Spring (April-June) or Fall (September-November)
Highlights: Iconic LGBTQ+ landmarks like Stonewall National Monument, thriving LGBTQ+ community, and annual NYC Pride March.
The pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history in New York City occurred in June 1969 during the Stonewall Riots. The Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in Greenwich Village, became the site of a spontaneous rebellion against police harassment and discrimination. This event marked a turning point, galvanizing the LGBTQ+ community to fight for their rights and inspiring the formation of numerous LGBTQ+ organizations and advocacy groups.
New York City is renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and iconic events. The annual NYC Pride March, first held in 1970 to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, has become one of the largest Pride events in the world, attracting millions of participants and spectators. The march is a celebration of LGBTQ+ identities, achievements, and ongoing struggles for equality.
Santa Barbara, California:
Elopement Location: Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens
Best Time to Elope: Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November)
Highlights: Gorgeous coastal setting, welcoming LGBTQ+ community, and Santa Barbara LGBTQ+ Pride Festival.
In the 1970s, LGBTQ+ individuals in Santa Barbara began to organize and establish community spaces. One notable organization was the Pacific Pride Foundation, founded in 1976, which provided support, education, and resources for the LGBTQ+ community. The foundation continues to play a vital role in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and supporting individuals in Santa Barbara and the surrounding area.
Denver, Colorado:
Elopement Location: Denver Botanic Gardens
Best Time to Elope: Summer (June-August)
Highlights: Celebratory Denver PrideFest, supportive LGBTQ+ organizations, and a growing LGBTQ+ arts and culture scene.
In the 1970s, LGBTQ+ individuals in Denver began organizing and forming advocacy groups. One notable organization was the Gay Coalition of Denver, which provided support, resources, and educational programs for the LGBTQ+ community. These grassroots efforts laid the foundation for future activism and paved the way for progress.
Denver has several LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods, including Capitol Hill and Five Points, which feature LGBTQ+-owned businesses, bars, and community centers.
Denver's LGBTQ+ film festival, known as CinemaQ, showcases a curated selection of LGBTQ+ films, documentaries, and shorts. It provides a platform for LGBTQ+ filmmakers and storytellers to share their perspectives and narratives.
TIP: I’ve written a blog on getting married in Colorado, check it out HERE.
Kauai, Hawaii:
Elopement Location: Hanalei Bay Beach
Best Time to Elope: Year-round (avoiding hurricane season from June to November)
Highlights: Aloha LGBTQ+ Pride Festival, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
The LGBTQ+ history in Hawaii gained significant momentum in the 1970s. LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies in Hawaii began organizing and forming advocacy groups, such as the Hawaii Gay Rights Movement (HGRM). These organizations played a pivotal role in raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues, advocating for legal protections, and fostering a sense of community and support.
One notable milestone in Hawaii's LGBTQ+ history was the legal battle for marriage equality. In 1993, Hawaii's Supreme Court ruled that denying same-sex couples the right to marry was discriminatory. Although this decision was later overturned, it set in motion a series of legal victories and led to Hawaii becoming the first state to pass a same-sex civil unions bill in 2011, and eventually legalizing same-sex marriage in 2013.
Hawaii has a rich tradition of embracing diverse gender and sexual identities through its native culture. The concept of "māhū" in Hawaiian culture recognizes individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities and has been an important part of Hawaiian society for centuries.
TIP: I’ve written a blog on getting married in Kauai, check it out HERE.
Portland, Oregon:
Elopement Location: Hoyt Arboretum
Best Time to Elope: Summer (June-August) or early Fall (September-October)
Highlights: Portland Pride Festival, progressive LGBTQ+ policies, and a thriving queer art and music scene.
The LGBTQ+ community in Portland actively campaigned for legal protections and civil rights. In 1977, Oregon became one of the first states to pass a law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation, thanks to the efforts of LGBTQ+ activists. However, this protection was later repealed through a ballot initiative, leading to heightened activism and the formation of new organizations, such as Basic Rights Oregon, dedicated to restoring and advancing LGBTQ+ rights.
The Portland Lesbian Choir, established in 1990, is one of the oldest lesbian choirs in the United States. The choir celebrates the power of music and provides a space for LGBTQ+ women to come together and create harmonious voices.
The iconic Voodoo Doughnut, a popular doughnut shop in Portland, is known for its LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere and its promotion of LGBTQ+ causes. They have created special doughnut designs to support LGBTQ+ rights and organizations.
TIP: I’ve written a blog on getting married in Oregon, check it out HERE.
Provincetown, Massachusetts:
Elopement Location: Race Point Beach
Best Time to Elope: Summer (June-September)
Highlights: Provincetown Pride, LGBTQ+ history and culture, and a vibrant arts community with LGBTQ+ events throughout the year.
Provincetown, nestled at the tip of Cape Cod, has a rich and storied LGBTQ+ history. Often hailed as the oldest continuous art colony in the United States, Provincetown has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking acceptance, creative expression, and a sense of community.
Provincetown played a significant role in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s. The town became a sanctuary for those affected by the epidemic, offering support networks, healthcare resources, and a compassionate community. Organizations like the Provincetown AIDS Support Group (now known as AIDS Support Group Cape Cod) were established to provide care and assistance to those affected by HIV/AIDS.
In recent decades, Provincetown has continued to champion LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity. It has been a vocal advocate for marriage equality, and in 2004, Massachusetts became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage, providing LGBTQ+ couples the right to marry and enjoy the same legal protections as heterosexual couples.
Provincetown is renowned for its annual Provincetown Carnival, a week-long LGBTQ+ celebration that draws thousands of visitors each year. The event features a vibrant parade, parties, drag shows, and themed events that embrace the spirit of diversity and pride.
The Pilgrim Monument, a towering structure that stands as a symbol of Provincetown, is often adorned with rainbow lights during Pride Month, showcasing the town's commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion and celebration.
Washington, D.C.:
Elopement Location: Dumbarton House
Best Time to Elope: Spring (April-June) or Fall (September-October)
Highlights: Capital Pride Festival, welcoming LGBTQ+ neighborhoods like Dupont Circle, and LGBTQ+ landmarks including the Equality House.
The LGBTQ+ history of Washington, D.C., dates back to the early 20th century when LGBTQ+ individuals began forming social and support networks. In the 1960s and 1970s, the LGBTQ+ community faced widespread discrimination, leading to the emergence of activist organizations such as the Mattachine Society and the Gay Liberation Front, which fought for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
Washington, D.C., is home to the iconic LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood of Dupont Circle, which has historically been a gathering place for the LGBTQ+ community. The area boasts LGBTQ+-owned businesses, bars, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
The Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., houses the LGBTQ+ Collection, featuring artifacts, documents, and stories that highlight the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals to American history and culture.
The annual High Heel Race, held in Dupont Circle, is a beloved tradition in Washington, D.C. Participants don elaborate costumes and race down the street in high heels, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
Las Vegas, Nevada:
Elopement Location: Neon Museum
Best Time to Elope: Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November)
Highlights: Las Vegas Pride Festival, fabulous LGBTQ+ nightlife, and diverse entertainment options.
One landmark event in LGBTQ+ history in Las Vegas was the opening of one of the country's first LGBTQ+ inclusive bars, the "Gypsy," in the 1950s. This establishment served as a safe haven for the community and played a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity.
Love is a beautiful thing—it has this incredible power to transform lives and communities. And let me tell you, these LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the US? They are like magical canvases ready to paint your love story upon. Picture this: the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, the cosmopolitan vibes of NYC, the serene beauty of Provincetown, or any other remarkable destination that speaks to your hearts. These places are all about embracing love in its most authentic form.
Now, here's the exciting part—I'm here to help you plan your dream LGBTQ+ wedding. I understand the importance of creating an unforgettable celebration that perfectly captures your unique love story. And also creating a space where you feel comfortable and safe being yourselves. I always aim to make it feel like you’re just hanging out with another one of your best friends on your wedding day.
So, let's make this happen! Together, we'll embrace the joy of celebrating your love in these incredible cities, and we'll make your wedding day epic. Get in touch with me now, and let's start planning your dream wedding! Can't wait to be a part of your special day!
