Seattle Encourages LGBT Travelers to Wed in Seattle

Seattle’s Marry Me in Seattle package encourages same-sex couples to wed in the Washington city. On Sept. 3, Zachary Baker and Samuel Busch, of St. Paul, Minn., became the first couple to receive a hosted wedding trip as part of the program. Visit Seattle coordinated a package for the couple that included air transportation from Alaska Airlines, a four-night stay at the Renaissance Seattle Hotel, a wedding ceremony at Canlis restaurant, flowers, wedding photography, deejay, ground transportation from Uber Seattle, Champagne courtesy of Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, beer from Hilliard’s Brewery & Taproom and dessert from Trophy Cupcakes.

Mayor Ed Murray marrying the first couple for Marry Me in Seattle © Visit Seattle

The Marry Me in Seattle program was designed to attract LGBTQ travelers to the progressive, welcoming city. Hundreds of couples entered the sweepstakes since the campaign launched July 1; four weddings are available with ceremonies taking place the first Wednesday of the month, September through December. Any LGBTQ couple residing outside of Washington is eligible to win.

Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, the city’s first openly gay mayor, officiated the first ceremony. Formerly a state senator, he lobbied for Washington’s marriage equality law, passed in 2012.

The website for Marry Me in Seattle also includes essential information on the marriage equality law, information and links for marriage applications and licenses and a list of LGBTQ officiants. Additionally, it’s a one-stop source for romance packages, transportation, wedding music, florists, photographers, venues and catering.