Same-sex marriage in Spain

Same-sex marriage in Spain

Same-sex marriage in Spain was legalized on the 3rd of July 2005 by the social democratic government led by President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero.
It followed in the footsteps of the Netherlands and Belgium making it the third country in the world to recognize same sex marriages. Although the ratification of this law came up against some criticism, 66% of the population were in favor, along with the King of Spain who gave his Royal Assent.
Under Spanish law, the country’s same-sex marriage law permits a Spanish citizen to marry a non-Spaniard irrespective of whether the partnership is recognized in that persons homeland.
Gay Poster shutterstock_35189605In order to marry, at least one partner must be a Spanish citizen. However, two non-Spanish citizens can legally marry if they both have legal residence in Spain.
Unfortunately, two non-resident foreigners cannot legally marry in Spain.
There is fear however, that Rajoy and his conservative Popular Party could pose a serious threat to the nation’s same-sex marriage legislation.
Rajoy has said “he supports civil unions for same-sex couples, but does not think they should be called marriages”.
The Popular Party has lodged an appeal against the nation’s 2005 law allowing gay marriage in the Constitutional Court.
This has caused a rapid increase of same sex marriages in Spain due to fear of the legislation being changed.
Gay marriage is recognized in Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain and Sweden.
It’s also recognized in some states of the USA, Brazil and Mexico.
Civil unions and registered partnerships are recognized in Andorra, Austria, Brazil, Columbia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greenland, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Slovenia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Uruguay and some states of Australia, Mexico, United States and Venezuela.

Why choose Gran Canaria for your Same Sex Wedding?

OP Homoseksuelt ægteskab same sex marriage homo vielser bryllup tropisk bryllupGran Canaria is perfectly placed as the ideal locat
ion for a same sex union abroad. The island is renowned for its liberal, open-minded attitude towards the gay & lesbian community and the vibrant gay tourism sector on the island has flourished as a direct result of this. The cosmopolitan and wide reaching gay communities and social scene, coupled with the blissful year-round sunny weather, make Gran Canaria the perfect choice for a same sex wedding ceremony.
You will also find apartment complexes, bars, restaurants and beaches in Gran Canaria, which are focused around the gay and lesbian community.
There are two options for a Same Sex Wedding in Gran Canaria:
1) A Legal Civil Partnership/Same Sex Marriage
If you cover all the previously mentioned requirements to legally marry in Spain, a legal civil ceremony conducted at the Civil Registry Office or Town Hall can be arranged.
Requests can also be made for authorized Town Hall personnel to conduct ceremonies in establishments other than the town hall buildings.
2) A Blessing after a Civil Partnership or Marriage Ceremony
A blessing is a short ceremony that takes place after a legal civil partnership or same sex marriage ceremony, which would take place here or your country of origin.
Unlike a ‘gay marriage’ or civil partnership, a blessing is not legally binding; it’s a way of publically symbolizing your commitment to one another.
Many people view a blessing ceremony as their ‘actual wedding’, as this is the moment they express their love and union to one another in front of their family and friends.

Why choose a Blessing Ceremony?

lips-651339_640You would choose a blessing ceremony in Gran Canaria if you or your partner are not Spanish citizens or are non-residents of Spain, but would like to hold your wedding ceremony on the island. A blessing ceremony is the perfect way to introduce a spiritual or religious element to your celebrations after a legal civil ceremony. Blessings in Gran Canaria can also be conducted in a multitude of venues, from onboard luxury yachts, to country hotels, private villas, or even overlooking a white-sand beach, giving you flexibility and endless options.
If you are looking to express your love and commitment to one another in an open-minded and non-judgmental environment, with sunshine, beautiful beaches, stunning local scenery and a rich local culture alongside, Gran Canaria is the perfect choice for your same sex wedding abroad.
If you would like more information regarding same sex ceremonies in Gran Canaria then please contact me on the following email and I would be more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.
Bernadette Garside

Phone:             (0034) 653 642 208

Email:               [email protected]

Website:          www.perfectweddingcompany.com

Wedding Speeches – Survival Guide

wedding speech tips and advice destination wedding gran canariaPublic speaking is one of the number one fears in a person’s life. If you’re one of those people then fear not, you’re not alone.
Even famous public speakers get butterflies in their stomach before speaking in front of a crowd.
Anyone that has previously made a wedding speech, may remember the nerves leading up to the speeches, and the feeling of wanting it all to be over so you can get on and
enjoy the day.
Here are some helpful tips to combat those pre-wedding speech nerves, that will help you enjoy the whole day, and at the same time deliver an outstanding speech.
Before the Wedding
Practice the speech at least 5-7 times before the wedding.
Start by writing it down word for word, and then practice reading it out loud at least 2-3 times in front of a friend or a mirror.
Then make small index cards and write down all the keywords you will need to help you remember the speech.
For example if you want to tell a story of when your daughter was born, you could write the word “birth” on the index card. That word should then help you remember the whole story.
Using this method you will only need to write down around 5 to 8 words in order to remember a speech that is 5 to 8 minutes long.
Then practice the speech with the index cards another 2-3 times in front of your friend or a mirror.
On the wedding day, it should be enough to practice only once in the morning with the index cards and then you should be good to go.
How to overcome the nervousness
Whether you are standing at a table or up on a stage; stand straight with equal weight on both feet.
Look around at all the guests and establish eye contact before you start. This will display confidence.
If you’re prone to shaky knees then lean onto a table or hold onto something, but don’t sit down. By standing you show the newlyweds your respect and you make yourself visible to the guests.
If shaky hands are an issue, then keep them behind your back, leaving the index cards on the table where you can see them. You can also try and hold on to something.
If you are very nervous, then you can also try being forthright and tell the guests. You might say something like “I’m not used to public speaking, so please bear with me”.
As most people are afraid of public speaking they will understand.
Opener
The beginning of your speech is when people are focusing on you and really hearing what you say. A good speech has a good opening and a good closing.
Begin by introducing yourself. Then follow your introduction with something interesting or funny, whatever suits your style.
Middle
In the middle of the speech you could tell a nice or funny story about the couple. Keep it short and straight to the point though, excluding unnecessary explanations; this way you
keep their attention at all times. Try to keep it between 3 to 4 minutes long.
Closing
Most wedding speeches are closed by raising your glass to toast the happy couple and wish them the very best for the future.
You could also try to be a bit different and read them a poem or a famous quote.
If you’re still struggling, here are some tips of what to put in your speech according to your role in the wedding party.
Master of Ceremony
Their job is to call for the guest’s attention and either introduces each speaker in turn or just the first speaker
The Bride’s Father.
They will also finalize the wedding speeches by encouraging the guests to enjoy the rest of the evening.
The Bride’s Father
A bride’s father would say how proud he is of his daughter and welcome his new son-in-law and the groom’s parents to his family. He would then give some advice and well wishes to the couple.
The speech would be finished off by proposing a toast to the happy couple.
The Groom
The groom traditionally speaks next. He would thank the guests for their attendance and also thank the bride’s parents for giving him their daughter in marriage.
He would then go on to compliment the bride and pay tribute to his own parents.
Then acknowledgement would be made to everyone that had helped with the wedding arrangements, along with the best man.
Finally he would propose a toast to the bridesmaids, complimenting them and recognizing their help and support throughout the wedding.
The Bride
Although the bride is not expected to make a speech, she may choose to say a few words now if she wishes to do so.
The Best Man
Officially, his duty is to reply on behalf of the bridesmaids.
He would thank the groom for making him best man at his wedding and also say a nice compliment of appreciation to the bridesmaids.
This would then lead into an informal speech about the bride and groom, adding in some nice or funny stories.
If there are additional speeches or toasts to be made, they are done so at this time.
When delivering a speech at a wedding it’s important to remember most of the guests will be your family or friends, and in some cases know you very well.
They are not there to judge you, so try to relax and enjoy the special occasion.
If you would like any help or advice on any aspect of organizing your wedding, then please do not hesitate to contact me on the email below and I would be more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.
Bernadette Garside

Phone:             (0034) 653 642 208

Website:          www.perfectweddingcompany.com

Email:               [email protected]

Wedding Day Hair Styling Tips

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and a day that you are sure to be centre of attention. Everyone will be looking at you and the photographs will be everlasting memories, so you want to ensure you look your very best.
Your chosen hairstyle will complete your whole look, so investing time into creating the right style is just as important as shopping for the perfect dress.
Start with ensuring your hair is in it’s best possible condition. If you don’t already, start to use a good shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair a few months before the day.
This also gives you a chance to test the hair products in advance; you don’t want anallergic reaction on the day.
If you colour your hair, then have it topped up 2 weeks before your wedding day to ensure all roots are concealed. At the same time you should take the opportunity to have your last final trim. Also, help the hairstylist by washing your hair at
least 24 hours before the time of the wedding; it will enable it to be styled easier.
You should choose your hairstyle before you choose your head dress or veil. Then once your head pieces have been bought, don’t forget to try out the whole look with your stylist.
OP Hair styling tips and advice Wedding Planning Perfect Wedding CompanyIf you’re opting out of wearing a veil, why not consider decorating your hair with accessories such as tiny flowers, jeweled hairpins, tiny flower studs, headbands, or a tiara. Tiaras are a great choice as they suit both long and short hair. However, subtle decoration is the key, a large head piece or too much decoration will take away the emphasis from your face on photos.
Your style should not be too bold or modern unless you really want this. A timeless contemporary style is tried and tested and you won’t have to worry about looking foolish.
If you have short hair, a simple and well polished look worn off the face will suit you best. If you have a fringe, this should be the only hair on your face.
If your dream wedding look requires long hair and you haven’t had time to grow yours, don’t despair, your look can be transformed by adding hair extensions or a hair piece which add volume and length.
OP Hair styling tips and advice Wedding Planning Perfect Wedding Company gran canariaIf you’re considering wearing your hair up, consider very carefully not to choose a style that will age you. If its pull back too tight, it will show in your face and in the photos. A simple pulled back chignon is much more complimentary for your face and head.
The half up, half down look, as worn by Kate Middleton, is very popular at the moment. It can create a softer illusion than wearing it all up.
Be careful not to use too much product in your hair, but none at all can also cause your style to look too loose and messy and may not last the whole day.
Whatever style you choose, ensure it suits your whole look. It needs to compliment your dress, jewelry and veil, not compete or clash with it.
And last but certainly not least, sit back and enjoy your special day knowing that all eyes are on you and you’re looking your finest.
Next week we will be giving you lots of essential make up styling techniques that will finish off the overall look and have you looking spectacular.
For more advice or wedding information, feel free to contact us anytime!
Bernadette Garside

Phone:             (0034) 653 642 208

Website:          www.perfectweddingcompany.com

Email:               [email protected]

Beach Weddings in Gran Canaria!

Want a dream beach wedding in Gran Canaria?

Well now you can!

beach weddings gran canaria destination weddingsThe Government delegate to the Canary Islands has welcomed the idea of weddings on the beaches allowing the islands be sold to tourists as a wedding destination.

Beach weddings have long been a dream on Gran Canaria, that national laws prevented from happening officially.

We have many people enquiring about beach weddings, but until now it simply has not be legally possible, if all goes well we should now be able to offer The Perfect Wedding on the beach in certain areas designated by the local town hall in conjunction with the coastal authorities.

Great news for couples planning to marry here and great news for Gran Canaria 

Permission has been sought for years, both by the tourism sector as well as some municipalities of the Islands.

The new Costas act, according to news reports, could make such events now be possible in certain areas, provided that “they have no negative impact on the public domain”.

“To celebrate a wedding on a beach in the Canary Islands would mean needing to apply to the provincial department for demarcation of Costas and the payment of a deposit and a fee for the occupation and utilisation of public property” Bento explained in an audio file released this week.

The Spanish Government’s delegate in the Canary Islands, Maria del Carmen Hernandez Bento, underlined the need to find a balance between such activities and requirements to ensure that the public can freely enjoy the beaches.

Bryllup Bryllupsplanlægning Gran Canaria bryllupstraditioner OP

Wedding authorizations for a beach wedding would need to have favourable reports from the relevant municipalities and the regional Ministry of Territorial Policy, added Bento.

There are still a lot of items to clarify, and possibly some bureaucratic red tape but in the very near future we hope to be turning many couples dreams into reality on our beautiful beaches.

We can help you with all the paperwork process, holding your hand every step of the way, ensuring your wedding planning and wedding day itself is a stressfree and enjoyable day to remember!

Watch this space and we will keep you abreast of all the latest updates.

Alternatively, we love to talk weddings, so feel free to contact us for more indepth wedding information.

Bernadette Garside

Founder of The Perfect Wedding Company, Gran Canarias Wedding Specialists

Tlf.:                  (0034) 653 642 208

Website:          www.perfectweddingcompany.com

Email:               [email protected]

Fordele ved et bryllup i udlandet

Da vi arbejder med bryllupsplanlægning, kan man forvente af os at vi selvfølgelig vil reklamere for fordelene ved et bryllup i udlandet.

Men jeg har det usædvanlige privilegium at jeg er førstehåndsvidne til den overvældende bekræftelse at et bryllup i udlandet skaber uforglemmelige minder og ekstraordinære oplevelser, ikke kun for bruden og gommen, men også for deres familie og venner.

Tillad os at forklarer jer hvorfor flere og flere personer vælger at holde deres bryllup i udlandet, og hvorfor de lige netop vælger vores smukke ø som vært til deres unikke dag.

Varmt vejr året rundt

De Kanariske ø’er er kendte for at have det mest favorable klima i verden.

Med solskin året rundt sammensat med den blide atlantiske brise som bruser over øen, er du næsten garanteret at blive velsignet med godt vejr når du holder en udendørs ceremoni og en efterfølgende fest.

Fantastiske billeder

Gran Canaria tilbyder en bred række alternativer af fotografiske muligheder til at tilpasse alle slags stile; strande, hav, havne, hyggelige landsbyer, byer, haver og bjerge.

Det fantastiske vejr, den altid blå himmel og den tætte nærhed af alle disse fantastiske lokationer, både i den nordlige og sydlige del af øen, sikrer jer nogle fantastiske udendørs billeder med levende lys og farve.

Fantastisk “bonding experience” med familie og venner

Der er ikke nogen bedre måde at lære hinanden at kende, end at tage på ferie sammen.

Massere af før- og efterbrylluppet sammenkomster, kombineret med det at være en del af bryllupsdagen, skaber et bånd mellem de to familier som varer en livstid.

Fri drinks i banevis

Her på Gran Canaria er der altid inkluderet en flydende strøm af vin, øl og sodavandsdrikke når man holder en event. Både under velkomst cocktailen og under bryllupsmiddagen.

Noget som vi nordeuropæer ikke er vant til

Det vil med sikkerhed imponerer dine gæster og det er en god måde at takke dem for at rejse så langt for at komme og fejre din specielle dag sammen med dig.

Flere ledige datoer

De fleste par vælger at holde deres bryllup i udlandet på en hverdag, da brudeparret og deres gæster er på ferie. Derfor er der så mange flere datoer at vælge mellem!

Mere økonomisk

Bryllupsservices på Gran Canaria har nogle meget konkurrencedygtige priser uden at sænke kvaliteten. Vi sætter stolthed i at være hjemsted til nogle af de højst respekteret professionelle på bryllupsmarkedet.

Disse var bare et par af de mange grunde til at brude og brudgomme vælger at deres holde bryllup i udlandet.

Hvis du eller en du holder af overvejer at blive gift, vil i altid i være velkomne på Gran Canaria. Alle vores samarbejdspartnere vil byde jer velkommen med åbne arme og vil være stolte af at være med til at gøre jeres drøm til virkelighed.

Vi elsker at snakke om bryllupper så kontakt os gerne! Vi vil med glæde besvarer dine spørgsmål!

Bernadette Garside

Tlf.:                  (0034) 653 642 208

Email:              [email protected]

Website:          www.perfectweddingcompany.com

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