Everyone's Invited: Tips for Crafting a Wedding That's Inclusive of All Abilities

How to craft a celebration to ensure accessibility for wedding guests with disabilities, visible and non-visible.

An important part of planning your wedding is considering how to make the event inclusive and accessible for guests of all abilities. Nearly 27% of U.S. adults have some form of disability, with mobility issues, cognition disabilities, and hearing loss being common challenges faced. Statistically that is one in four of the people you will be inviting to your wedding. As more couples consider the needs of their loved ones with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests has become a top priority—and a potential stressor—for soonlyweds. Co-founder and CEO Elysia Everett of Friendly Like Me, the leading app and web platform for accessible socializing, event planning and travel, shares her expertise on planning a size-inclusive and disability-friendly wedding.

Not All Disabilities Are Visible

Inclusive communication is key. Create channels for guests to disclose any accommodations they may need, whether related to mobility, allergies, or sensory issues. Providing options for digital RSVPs, anonymous communication streams, or accessibility surveys ensures that guests feel comfortable sharing their needs.

Language Matters

Promote a culture of inclusivity by using respectful and friendly language. Avoid ableist terminology and employ phrasing that invites guests to share their access needs. Terms like “handicapped” and “suffering from a disability” are outdated. Center people first with phrases like “people with disabilities” or “our loved ones with access needs.”

Choose an Accessible Venue

When touring venues, look for spaces that offer ramps, wide doorways, and elevators, as well as paved and level outdoor areas.

Disabilities Are Not One-Size-Fits-All

Individualized accommodations are crucial to ensuring the comfort of all attendees. Consider preferences, such as seating arrangements away from loudspeakers for guests with sensory issues or providing a heads-up about loud noises for veterans attending your celebration.

Hire Experienced Vendors

Collaborate with vendors and venues experienced in accessibility, empathy, and inclusivity. Asking vendors about their approach to accommodating specific needs can help you find the right partners for your accessible wedding.

Secure Seating for All Sizes

With 40% of US adults living in larger bodies, offering sturdy and comfortable seating is vital. Having chairs without arms and avoiding plastic lawn chairs can be a thoughtful gesture that ensures all guests feel supported and valued.

Effective Communication

Consider the diverse needs of your guests and find suitable communication methods. Text messages can be helpful for guests who are deaf or hearing-impaired, while braille correspondence or auditory communication can accommodate blind guests, keeping this in mind from wedding invitations to day-of signage and menus.

Budget for Inclusivity

Allocate additional funds for disability accommodations if needed, such as sign language interpreters, audio equipment, specialty transportation, and other equipment that can enhance the experience for all guests.

Consider the Guest Experience

Prioritize the needs of guests with disabilities throughout the planning process. Take into account the seating arrangements, sensory triggers, and other factors that can affect their enjoyment of the celebration.

Be Tactful

Strive for subtlety and inclusivity rather than unintentionally segregating guests with disabilities. Avoid clustering them together and create an environment where everyone feels welcomed.

Feel Free to Skip Tradition

Make your celebration truly your own by embracing alternative approaches that align with your priorities, interests, and needs. There is no one-size-fits-all formula for weddings, so don't hesitate to explore creative and inclusive ideas.