Few family groups will be without at least one member who has accessibility issues; whether that’s a disabled guest, a member of the wedding party, or older relatives who might find romantic sweeping staircases and narrow doors a challenge.
Including everyone they care about is important to most brides and grooms, so giving some thought to how you can make things simpler for guests with disabilities will make your event especially treasured. Be flexible, yet determined, and keep their needs in mind at every stage of your planning.
Venues That Embrace Variety
For many with a disability, a wedding at multiple locations poses a particular challenge, not only in travelling between venues but also in adjusting to the layout and terrain of each venue. If possible, a single-site wedding makes life much easier.
Discuss accessibility concerns when you make your initial visit to a venue and keep them in mind as you choose your ceremony location. Some venues are more aware and welcoming than others, so seeing how prepared and informed they are when you raise this issue can help to whittle down your options so you can avoid any venues that haven’t given accessibility some consideration.
This is about more than being accessible to all; it’s also about how well your venue understands the issues and has prioritised solving these problems. Look for ramps and lifts to raised areas and rooms adapted for those with disabilities. Consider taking any disabled guests with you to check that the venue is appropriate for their needs.
Adapting To Adaptations
To make accessibility equipment like ramps look more appealing, a runner of material down the centre, approximately the width of a wheelchair’s tyres, not only reduces the risk of skidding but also looks great. You can even use fabric that fits your scheme or co-ordinates with your dress.
Wholesale wedding accessories can be used to beautify essential adaptations like safety bars, for example by wrapping them in ribbon. If a bridesmaid or groomsman is a wheelchair user, consider looking for wedding decorations online that can help to dress their chair smartly.
Making The Most Of Your Day
For bridesmaids who have a disability, ask if they have any concerns or restrictions regarding their dress. Some dresses, especially with a full skirt, will look odd in a wheelchair, and long trains are difficult to negotiate if you have vision or walking difficulties. If you want all your bridesmaids to wear the same dress, allow any guests with a disability to take charge of the style choice.
Ensure your wedding photographer is made aware in advance of members of the wedding party with a disability, as this may effect how they prepare for photographs and select camera angles. Careful consideration beforehand will help you to relax on your big day, knowing that all your guests will feel included and cared for.
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