Vancouver's first LGBT wedding show champions inclusivity

When event plannerCristieRoslingandphotographer Belle Ancellfirst decided to put on awedding show with same-sex couples in mind, they didn't realize just how unique their event would be.

The show, which promises to "showcase LGBT-positive wedding professionals in an inclusive and fabulous environment," is the first of its kind in western Canada.

"I can't believe no one thought of it before," Ancell said.

The two friends met at a wedding show in the springand said they were surprised by thelack of the diversity.

They had also heard from clients that not all wedding vendors are welcoming to LGBT couples.

"We just listened to stories from people in our industries and from couples who had been planning their wedding, and we heard about them feeling uncomfortable in some situations where wedding vendors weren't entirely accepting, or just didn't get it," Rosling said.

'Anyone can come'

Six months later andthe two friends are putting on western Canada's firstLGBTwedding show.

The UnionLGBT+ wedding showat Vancouver Beamont Studioswill showcase LGBT-friendlyvendorsand local designers, includingNorth Vancouver clothing company Peau du Loup, which specializes in designing traditionally masculine silhouettes tailoredfor women's bodies.

Peaudu Loup will also debut their first wedding line at the event.

Rosling and Ancellsaid they hope the event will attract a diverse crowd, and that everyone should feel welcome.

"Anyone can come to the show who wants to plan a wedding or even if they're just curious about it, one of our vision statements was to create a really comfortable, inclusive environment," Rosling said.

The friendsturned business partners said they hopethe event will become an annual Vancouver tradition.