How to Make Your Wedding Inclusive for Every Guest

When planning your wedding, we know that you want everyone you love there. You want them to be a part of your special day and share in the love that weddings bring. But sometimes, there are some key people missing, and it’s because they can't physically get there due to a disability. It’s a tough position to be in; they want to be there for you, but because the venue makes attending difficult for them, they have to leave early or miss the day completely. Well, we’re here to help you with that; we have some things in this blog to consider when looking at venues.

So Where Do You Start?

This one is pretty easy if you have a guest that you know has a disability; simply ask them directly how you can make sure that they enjoy the day. If it’s Grandma in her wheelchair, ask her what she needs. Does she need someone to push her chair for her? Ask some cousins to take turns keeping her company or “driving” her around. If it’s a friend with an anxiety disorder, assure them that you want them to feel as comfortable as possible, and you want them there. The main takeaway here is, do not let anyone feel like their disability is an afterthought. 

What to Look For in a Venue

A great way to make sure that your guests will be able to attend is to pay attention while you're touring venues. Keeping an eagle eye out for ADA-compliant hospitality will help you narrow down your choices, especially if a treasured guest has specific needs. So here’s a quick rundown of things to look for on your venue tours. This is a non-exhaustive list, and we may have missed something. Remember to ask the guest; they might handle their disability differently than you expect them to. 

First up is the parking situation: are there enough accessible parking spaces available, and is the parking lot surface paved or easy enough to traverse with wheelchairs or mobility aids? Speaking of surfaces: how many different types of surfaces are there? Will the ceremony be on grass, or on a concrete patio? Will people be able to trek across to and from without trouble? 

Next, evaluate the entrances: is there at least one stair-free entrance? Not a service entrance through the kitchen, but an entrance for guests. If there are only stairs, do they have a ramp or accessibility lift to assist? For the ceremony: We already talked about surfaces like grass being an issue, but keep in mind how you can accommodate wheelchair users during the ceremony.

During the reception, can guests with mobility aids move easily between tables, or get to the bar or restrooms without bumping into things? The restrooms: does the venue have at least one ADA-compliant restroom, one with grab bars, plenty of space, and ADA-compliant amenities? 

Don’t Forget Non-Physical Disabilities

Not all disabilities are visually apparent; there are people who have disabilities like allergies who still need to be careful, or those with hearing impairments. Some people are easily overwhelmed by continuous loud noises or too many people. There are a lot of nonapparent disabilities, but communicating with your guests and loved ones is a good way to address any concerns. 

Don’t Worry, There Are Easy Solutions

Okay, so the issues we’ve highlighted might seem overwhelming, but don’t worry, there are very simple solutions to these. And the best news? Your venue probably already has plans in place to meet or exceed ADA compliance laws. 

So what could those solutions look like? Well, maybe it’s a rented or temporary ramp for the stairs into the venue. It’s ensuring that the venue has created a clear path through the spaces that avoids tight turns. Have a handful of large-print, easy-to-read programs ready to go for guests with impaired vision, a clear sound system for those with hearing challenges, and even an ASL interpreter if needed. Reserve a few seats near the front of the ceremony or reception, so those with hearing, seeing, and mobility disabilities can hear, see, and be a part of the moment.

Ask the DJ or band to lower the volume; it allows for easier conversation; it’s a wedding, not a concert (or do a volume change after cake, with a warning). Also, strobe and rapid-fire lights can trigger seizures or other issues like migraines. Talk with your DJ about a lighting plan that ensures no lighting is directly pointed at guests and addresses your concerns. Consider designating a quiet space for guests to step away from the loud noises and crowds; guests with sensory differences can easily become overwhelmed, and even those who are just introverts and need a little break will appreciate it.

On your RSVPs, include a “dietary needs” field so that those with allergies or restrictions can easily bring them to your attention. Speak with your caterer about accommodating those needs with quality options; label the buffet with common allergens that are in the food; have at least one quality vegan option- yes, even if no one requested it.

The Spring Lake Winery Difference

So why choose Spring Lake Winery? Well, not only do we offer plenty of options, including three different ceremony sites and all-inclusive packages. We are proudly ADA-compliant, and we have a well-paved parking lot and flat terrain from the parking lot to the reception area, clearly marked signage, and attentive staff that can cater to dietary needs.  We also bring the professionalism of being a team; we all understand the plan, the timeline, and our individual responsibilities for the day. Our job is to reduce your stress and give you an unforgettable wedding day so you can concentrate on your loved ones. We work with many WNY vendors and wedding planning professionals to help create your perfect, customized experience here at Spring Lake.

For all of our all-inclusive wedding packages, we take pride in providing:

• Award-Winning Spring Lake Wines & Signature Estate Cuisine

• Full-Service Bar Featuring Spring Lake Wines

• White Linens, Glassware & Table Settings Included

• On-Site Rehearsal & Dedicated Coordination

• Capacity of 250 guests - larger parties can be accommodated.​

• Guest Lodging Available on Property

If you’re looking to create a day full of memories, look no further than Spring Lake Winery. Contact us today to schedule a tour and see why we’re listed as one of the “Best places to get married in Upstate NY” (newyorkupstate.com)!