Archive for the ‘Featured’ Category

First of all, thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s reader survey. We had even more responses than last year, and you guys helped us answer some major questions that we’ve been wondering about for a while.

Demographics first! Not much has changed since last year – So You’re EnGAYged has a predominantly lesbian readership. What we did change between last year and this year, thanks to a reader suggestion, was using checkboxes instead of radio buttons for indicating your identity and your partners’. Also, all questions were optional in this survey. Basically, that means we’re using bar charts instead of pie charts for this question!

(more…)

I closely go through each application to our vendor list. I had a question for Marie Tyler Wiley about hers, so I gave her a call, and ended up on the phone for close to an hour! She had me rolling on the floor laughing while telling me all about how much she loves what she does. An officiant in Connecticut, Marie specializes in seaside weddings, and was voted the #1 wedding officiant in CT three years running!

How did you get into doing what you do?

I became a Justice of the Peace because of the clod of a JP who married my husband and me a thousand years ago. Seriously…if it took 30 seconds that would be pushing it. To the point: I have never remembered to this day…ever having said…“I do”…that’s how fast the JP was…We then walked around Manhattan for the next 45 minutes w/me questioning my husband…”Are you SURE WE’RE MARRIED????”

He was like…”yeah…I guess so…he said we were”. Duh!

At that moment, way back then… I decided…I would never, ever, let another bride go thru that mini horror show. That’s no way to be married and that’s why I am fanatical about weddings. My mission is to make sure your entire experience, not just my part , the ceremony …is stress free and is full of fun, joy and laughter!!! I’m really good at those three things!!! :) (more…)

As soon as I saw the work of Kelly McCormick, owner of Green Stem Designs, I knew I had to interview her for So You’re EnGAYged! I know how eager our readers are to invest in woman-owned and green-friendly small businesses.

Please tell us a little bit about your business.

Green Stem Designs is an Eco-Friendly floral design studio serving all of New England. With edgy appeal and innovative arrangements, we can set the standard of excellence that reflects your values and creates spectacular memories. Green Stem Designs prides itself in being a Green-Friendly, Woman Owned and Operated, New England-based Small Business.

How did you get into doing what you do?

I was living in Hollywood, working 16-hour days in film and television production. Although it’s a glamorous industry, I didn’t feel completely satisfied with my position behind the scenes because it didn’t afford me any artistic outlet. A unique opportunity arose when my then girlfriend’s sister asked if I could do her wedding flowers. Although I wasn’t a designer she knew I was creative and able to interpret other people’s artistic vision. I was very flattered and gladly accepted the challenge. Designing flowers for her wedding was when I realized I had finally found my medium in flowers. Three months later I was enrolled in a floral design program at City College in San Francisco.

How is your business “pro-gay”, or how have you changed your business to be gay-friendly?

Well for starters I am an openly gay woman, and my partner assists me with all aspects of my work from the conception to finishing the bouquet with a ribbon. We are a team and she is integral to Green Stem Designs.

In regards to my clients, I never put them in a box, gay, straight or otherwise. Green Stem Designs customizes each event because everyone’s celebration of love deserves gorgeous flowers. (more…)