NICE DAY FOR A LAVENDER WEDDING: GAY NUPTIAL TIPS

NICE DAY FOR A LAVENDER WEDDING: GAY NUPTIAL TIPS

NEW YORK (Wireless Flash) -- There's plenty of advice for heterosexual couples who want to get married -- but where can a gay or lesbian couple turn for nuptial advice? Since a marriage between a same-sex couple isn't legal in the United States, many gays are holding "commitment ceremonies" instead -- but planning one isn't a picnic. According to Eric Marcus, author of the new book "The Male Couple's Guide" (Harper Perennial), gay couples run into all sorts of problems. First, there's the problem of the bridal registry. Most stores ask for the name of a bride and a groom, although more registries are adopting the less gender-specific term, "partners." Second, it's difficult to find a bakery that can provide two miniature grooms or two miniature brides to top the wedding cake. Finally, there's the issue of the "Big Kiss" at the conclusion of the ceremony. Marcus says it's best to tell the more close-minded straight guests in advance to avoid any shock from witnessing a same-sex kiss.

CONTACT: Eric Marcus, ***1/2; Arrange with Jennifer Lichtman; Boston, MA; (617) 254-4500, ext. 131