Features / Weddings
Collective brings inclusive wedding fair to Bristol
Same sex-marriage was legalised in the UK a decade ago, with the first marriages happening in March 2014. But LGBTQ+ inclusivity and representation amongst wedding vendors still needs improvement.
Seeing the challenges LGBTQ+ couples faced whilst planning their weddings inspired Steff Clements and Ells Bewley to create Rebel Love Collective.
Rebel Love Collective aims to create an inclusive, empowering space in the wedding industry that celebrates and serves the LGBTQ+ community. They connect LGBTQ+ couples with vendors who are passionate about supporting them.
is needed now More than ever
They have several services, Rebel Love Club documents love stories and the Rebel Love Directory connects couples with inclusive vendors. The Rebel Love Wedding Fair aims to create these connections in a welcoming, in-person space.
Steff Clements and Ells Bewley, founders of Rebel Love Collective
Steff said, “We’ve heard countless horror stories from our clients about traditional wedding fairs. From being mistaken for relatives, to facing microaggressions, it was clear something had to change.”
The fully inclusive wedding fair will be held at The Station on Saturday between 10am and 4:30pm. It has been specifically designed to connect couples with safe and inclusive vendors.
As well as being LGBTQ+ friendly, the event will be wheelchair accessible throughout, with gender neutral toilets also available.
There will also be a quiet hour, with no live music and a limited number of tickets, for those who need it.
Rebel Love’s services work to create a supportive network for LGBTQ+ couples and inclusive wedding vendors
Ells Bewley, co-founder of Rebel Love, told Bristol24/7, “This isn’t a traditional wedding fair. We will be celebrating all kinds of love, and connecting couples with vendors who share that openness.”
They continued, “It’s a space where everyone can feel seen and respected. We want couples to find vendors who are not just tolerant, but actively inclusive.”
The Rebel Love Wedding Fair takes place at The Station on Saturday between 10am and 4:30pm. For more information about the event, click here. To buy tickets, click this link.
All photos: Rebel Love Collective
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