Editors' Picks: Wedding Staples from Queer-Owned Brands

Collage of Geometric Earrings, Sparkly Silver Heels, and Glow Balm — Courtesy of Jacquemus; Sebastian Milano; Patrick Ta

If you’re a bride or groom getting ready to tie the knot, besides finalizing the day-of logistics and décor, you probably have a list of products to purchase for the festivities, whether it’s a stylish accessory for a pre-wedding event, gifts for your wedding party, or a wardrobe staple for your honeymoon. And for those who are attending an upcoming wedding, there is likely a collection of items pending in your cart, from elevated makeup tools to fashionable handbags, needed to complete your wedding guest look.

While you can easily source these desired products from a big-box store or an online retailer, in honor of Pride Month, consider browsing queer-owned businesses for all of your wedding essentials. Investing in pieces from minority-led brands will support the LGBTQ+ community and champion equality. Not to mention, by shopping small, you’ll likely find unique, high-quality products from local artisans, rather than mass-produced ones that a portion of the public already owns.

If you aren’t sure where to start, we asked the editorial team at Brides to share their big-day must-haves from LGBTQ+ business owners. Below, you’ll find everything, from acne spot treatments for unforeseen pre-wedding breakouts to birthstone charms for your bridal party as a thank-you gift.

Ahead, 11 wedding essentials from queer-owned businesses, according to our editors.

Apollo Candles Roseto/Rose Garden

PHOTO: Courtesy of Apollo Candles

View on Apollocandlesnyc.com

“If there's one wedding trend I can't get enough of as of late, it's scentscaping. Burn beautifully scented candles during your reception and then send guests home with them as a favor; since memory and scent are tied so closely together, your loved ones will think of your big day every time they use it at home. I love a rose scent for summer, but anything from this LGBTQ+-founded company is a great choice.” — Gabriella Rello Duffy, Senior Editorial Director

Brandon Blackwood Nia Bag

PHOTO: Courtesy of Brandon Blackwood

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“Brandon Blackwood, a queer-owned handbag brand from Jamaican-Chinese designer Brandon Blackwood, makes bags that everyone wants—their quick sell-out rate is testament to that. Act fast to scoop up this chic white purse, which is the ultimate day-of (or bachelorette party!) accessory.” — Sarah Schreiber, Associate Editorial Director

Sebastian Milano Cher 55mm Satin Mules

PHOTO: Courtesy of Farfetch

View on Farfetch.com

“I believe that all brides-to-be should wear a pair of statement-making shoes at least once during their wedding journey. Here's a beautiful option from Sebastian Milano to consider—bonus points if you decide to wear these gorgeous kitten heels on the actual big day.” — Corinne Pierre-Louis, Senior Fashion Editor

Patrick Ta Beauty Major Glow Balm

PHOTO: Courtesy of Patrick Ta Beauty

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“If you want to flaunt professional-level glam that rivals a celebrity’s at any of your pre-wedding events, look to LGBTQ+ celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta’s innovative, results-driven beauty products. For dewy skin that glimmers, dousing yourself in the Major Glow Balm will give you an all-over glow in seconds—the perfect look for a summer wedding.” — Lilly Blomquist, Associate Editor

Peace Out Skincare Spring Acne Dots Mega

PHOTO: Courtesy of Peace Out Skincare

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“Worried about a last-minute breakout before your big day (or your bestie's big day?) Enter: Acne Dots from Peace Out Skincare. I always have an acne spot treatment on hand before big events, and this product is one of my favorites.” — Jessica Chassin Blaser, Senior Social Media Editor

Jacquemus Les Boucles Rond Carré

Jacquemus Les boucles rond carre Earrings

PHOTO: Courtesy of Jacquemus

View on Jacquemus.com

“Jacquemus' wedding collection, entitled Le Mariage, is filled with contemporary pieces for the modern couple. While subtle, these white-and-gold hoop earrings still make a statement with their asymmetrical design. It's the perfect addition to any casual bridal look that you can continue to wear as an everyday piece as well.” — Araziel Jackson, Social Media Editor

Wildfang The Essential Coverall

Courtesy of Wildfang.

View on Wildfang.com

“If you're tired of the same-old getting-ready robes or matching pajamas—or know these pieces aren't necessarily inclusive in the context of your wedding party—put Wildfang's unisex coveralls on your radar. We love that they button up the front, which is what you want if you and your attendants are getting your hair and makeup done. The queer-led and female-founded label, which is also size- and gender-inclusive, was started by Emma Mcilroy, Taralyn Thuot, and Julia Parsley in 2012. Today, they make clothes for everyone and every body.” — Sarah Schreiber, Associate Editorial Director

Lockwood Shop Make It Your Own Bundle With Gift Box

PHOTO: Courtesy of Lockwood Shop

View on Lockwoodshop.com

“On a quest to find a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift for the couple that caters to their interests and personalities? Whether it’s for their engagement, a pre-wedding celebration, or the main event, consider giving them a gift basket from Lockwood Shop, a queer-owned boutique retail store. This company takes all of the guesswork and grunt work out of the gift-selection process by curating items that cater to the recipients’ likes—all you have to do is take an online quiz. The process is painless for you, and the box of goodies will be a guaranteed hit with the duo.” — Lilly Blomquist, Associate Editor

Andie The String Bikini Top and Bottom

PHOTO: Courtesy of Andie

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“Whether it's for your minimoon, honeymoon, or bachelorette party, every bride needs a white bikini in her wedding wardrobe! Size inclusivity and sustainability are at the forefront of Andie’s mission, so you can't go wrong with getting your white suit from this queer-owned brand.” — Jessica Chassin Blaser, Senior Social Media Editor

Automic Gold Birthstone Charm

PHOTO: Courtesy of Automic Gold

View on Automicgold.com

“Looking for the perfect present for your bridal party? Gift them each a birthstone charm from Automic Gold that they can attach to their favorite bracelet, necklace, or even hoop earrings.” — Araziel Jackson, Social Media Editor

Alder New York Radiant Skin Set

PHOTO: Courtesy of Alder New York

View on Aldernewyork.com

“Queer- and woman-owned skincare brand Alder New York offers so many vegan beauty products that are free from harmful chemicals and actually deliver results. Whether you’re hoping to refine your pre-wedding skincare regimen or you’re looking for a gift for your bridesmaids, the Radiant Skin Set is stocked with four must-have products that lock in moisture and boost collagen production, guaranteeing a radiant, youthful glow.” — Lilly Blomquist, Associate Editor

Editors' Picks: 15 Wedding Essentials from Queer-Owned Businesses