GUIDELINES FOR ANNOUNCING YOUR WEDDING IN THE LOCAL PAPERS Photographs may be submitted to accompany the announcement; however, instant photos or color copies are not acceptable. In some instances, photographs may be returned if a self-addressed stam

GUIDELINES FOR OBTAINING A MARRIAGE LICENSE In the Greater Kansas City area, the legal age for marriage is 18 years old. Couples ages 15–17 must have parental consent. (Note: In Illinois, no one under 16 can be married.) In general, there are no bloo

The year The Netherlands became the first country to legalize same-sex marriage The year Massachusetts became the first state to support marriage equality The number of cohabitating American LGBTQ+ couples who married post ruling in 2015 The number o

Mix up your processional—ask guests to walk to you. Define any LGBTQ+ terms in your ceremony programs. Recognize your community with queer-affirmative vows. Choose a reading or music by a LGBTQ+ activist. ■

Like training for a marathon, start with an easy run. Don’t go into meditation with too many expectations—there’s a reason it’s called a “practice.” Carve out 5 to 10 minutes (put it in your calendar if need be). View it as a break or treat—this is a

Renee Clements owns Magnolias Bridal Boutique, a salon in Cape Girardeau, MO. It carries a variety of designers such as Kenneth Winston and Blush by Hayley Paige. Your dress style can help guide your veil choice but it shouldn’t be the only factor. F

A rare, natural white metal known for its strength and purity, platinum is usually 95 percent pure. Platinum’s density makes it extremely durable, meaning it will keep your center stone protected and secure. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, so it

1 Is the ring still covered if you lose it accidentally or it’s badly damaged—or only if it is stolen? 2 Is the ring insured for the full cost you paid for it or just a fraction of the cost? 3 Will you have to purchase a replacement through a specifi

Hey there! I’m LOUIS BARAGONA, community editor at The Knot and the host of our weekly Wedding Wednesdays on Instagram—yep, you knew you recognized this shiny bald head from somewhere. I’m answering your TOP 10 most common wedding planning questions.

With emails from vendors, calls from your wedding party and constant Instagram inspiration, escaping the digital stress of wedding planning can seem impossible. Chill out and reconnect with your spouse-to-be by observing at least one tech-free date n