Tiny Details for Your Big Day: Ensuring Accessibility at Your Wedding

The most successful and memorable events are ones that everyone can enjoy. The U.S. is home to 61 million people with disabilities — and you’ll likely have a diverse group at your wedding. Therefore, you need to think about how you’re going to accommodate your guests.

Here’s what to consider when ensuring accessibility during your big day.

An assessment of your wedding venue will give you insight into whether it’s appropriate for your guests. Be sure to keep a checklist handy that covers both general and accessibility-specific questions. The building is probably “handicap accessible,” but you need to ask yourself what that actually looks like.

Try to determine whether your chosen space offers:

• Elevators and ramps
• Parking and drop-off areas
• Various seating possibilities
• Accessible restrooms
• Responsive staff
• Drop-down screens for videos
• Inclusive audio capabilities

It’s best to cover all your bases beforehand so that you don’t run into day-of issues.

It’s a great idea to offer free transportation to help people get to your reception. This way, you don’t have to worry about anyone not having the means to celebrate further. Be sure the drivers you hire have cars with accessibility features to accommodate everyone.

You can also check in to ensure your guests have proper transportation from the airport and their hotels. Taking the initiative to ensure their comfort is a helpful effort on your part.

If you’re unsure what your guests require, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask. That’s the best way to meet their needs as closely as possible. Whether you’re making DIY wedding invitations or enlisting a graphic designer, you should include a section asking whether the recipient has any special accommodations.

It’s also smart to have information readily available to your guests. You might have people who need to make preparations in advance due to their disability. Providing updated, accurate details about your big day will make a difference.

A wedding is all about celebrating love with your closest friends and family. You want to do all you can to ensure each guest has the chance to celebrate with you.

Use these tips to make your wedding as accessible as possible.