10.05.2004

EQIL Press Release

For Immediate Release Contact:
Rick Garcia
October 5, 2004

GAY WEDDING EXPO THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO
Expert on Gay Weddings to Attend

CHICAGO - Same-sex marriages are not legal in the state of Illinois but that hasn't deterred organizers of a gay and lesbian wedding expo being held in Chicago next weekend.  The event will bring together gay and lesbian couples with wedding industry professionals.  On hand will be David Toussaint, an expert on same-sex weddings and author of the book Gay & Lesbian Weddings.

Over thirty exhibitors ranging from florists, caterers, attorneys, churches, banks and retail outlets are promoting their services and goods to gay couples that are planning a wedding or commitment ceremony.  The event will feature informal fashion shows and product-samples in a convention-like setting. 

The Heartland Gay & Lesbian Wedding Expo is Sunday, October 10, 2004, from 2 pm until 6 pm at the Allegro Hotel (171 West Randolph).  Media are invited.

Organized by Equality Illinois, a statewide gay civil rights organization, the event is sponsored by a wide range of businesses including Bloomingdale's, American Express Financial Advisors, Banc One, Absolut, Perrier-Jouet Champagne, Orbitz and Jewell Events & Catering.

"We are very excited about providing this opportunity to gay couples who are planning weddings or commitment ceremonies," said Rick Garcia, political director of Equality Illinois.  "While same sex marriages are not recognized at this time in Illinois, countless couples are traveling to Canada and Massachusetts to marry and others are having religious and secular ceremonies here. We wanted to provide them with a sample of what is available to them as they plan their events."

>From invitations to tuxes, engagements to honeymoons, rituals to rabbis - the book Gay & Lesbian Weddings has become a best seller in the gay community.  The guide covers everything same sex couples could possibly need to plan the wedding of their dreams. Toussaint addresses the difference between civil unions and domestic partnerships, children and adoption issues, legal name-changes and finding clergy to perform ceremonies for gay people.

For more information on the Gay & Lesbian Wedding Expo contact Rick Garcia 312-560-0405.

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