Ah, Belgium—the land of medieval charm, mouthwatering waffles, and some of the most inclusive wedding laws in the world! If you and your partner are dreaming of a stunning LGBTQ+ wedding in Belgium, you’re in for a treat. From fairytale castles to ultra-modern city venues, this country offers something magical for every couple.
So, grab your favorite Belgian beer (or a box of pralines), and let’s dive into the ultimate guide to planning your LGBTQ+ wedding in Belgium.
Why Belgium is a Dream LGBTQ+ Wedding Destination
Let’s start with the basics—why Belgium?
✔️ One of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage (way back in 2003!)
✔️ Incredibly LGBTQ+ friendly society—Pride events, inclusive venues, and no raised eyebrows
✔️ Breathtaking venues—whether you want a castle, a city rooftop, or a scenic countryside setting
✔️ Easy legal process for both locals and international couples
Belgium isn’t just a wedding destination—it’s a statement of love and inclusivity.
Best LGBTQ+ Wedding Locations in Belgium
🏰 Fairytale Castles for a Regal Celebration
If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” in a castle (because let’s be honest, who hasn’t?), Belgium is full of stunning options:
- Château de la Hulpe – A breathtaking castle just outside Brussels, surrounded by 227 hectares of parkland. Perfect for a grand yet intimate ceremony.
- Alden Biesen Castle – A dreamy, historic location in Limburg, ideal for a majestic wedding with elegant Renaissance vibes.
- Château de Modave – A hidden gem with panoramic views over the Hoyoux Valley. Bonus: It looks straight out of a Disney movie.
🌆 Urban & Modern Wedding Venues
If you prefer city vibes, Belgium’s urban wedding scene is chef’s kiss:
- Train World Brussels – Yes, you can get married in a stylish railway museum! Think industrial-chic vibes, perfect for a trendy couple.
- Bozar Brussels – A cultural hotspot offering a unique, art-filled wedding setting.
- Havenhuis Antwerp – This futuristic glass-and-steel masterpiece is for couples who want a sleek, modern wedding venue with a view.
🌿 Rustic & Outdoor Wedding Venues
For nature lovers, Belgium has some truly magical outdoor venues:
🌈 Legal Guide: How to Get Married in Belgium
Belgium makes it relatively easy for LGBTQ+ couples to get married. Here’s what you need to know:
Step 1: Check the Residency Requirement
- At least one of you needs to be a resident of Belgium, OR
- One of you must have lived in Belgium for at least 3 months before the wedding.
Step 2: Register at the Local Commune
- Submit a “Declaration of Marriage” at the town hall (commune).
- You’ll need documents like birth certificates, proof of residence, and a passport.
Step 3: Civil Ceremony First!
- All legal weddings in Belgium must start with a civil ceremony at the town hall.
- After that, you’re free to have any additional religious or symbolic ceremony you want!
Step 4: Party Like There’s No Tomorrow
- After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate—Belgian-style! That means epic food, world-class beer, and a lot of dancing.
For the full legal guide, check out the Belgian government website: https://www.belgium.be/en/family/marriage
🌟 LGBTQ+ Wedding Traditions & Fun Ideas
Belgian weddings are unique, and you can totally add your own LGBTQ+ twist! Here are some fun ideas:
💍 Beer Unity Ceremony – Instead of wine, why not mix two iconic Belgian beers to symbolize your union? Try a fruity Kriek with a dark Trappist ale for a sweet and strong blend!
🌈 Rainbow Dress Code – Forget tradition! Let your guests wear vibrant Pride colors for a wedding filled with joy and personality.
🎶 Live Music with a Twist – Consider a live accordion player for a vintage Belgian feel or a drag queen performance for a fabulous touch.
🍫 Chocolate Wedding Favors – Your guests need to go home with handcrafted Belgian chocolates. It’s basically a law of physics.
📸 Capture Your Love Story with a Wedding Photographer Who Gets You
Your love story is one-of-a-kind, and your wedding photos should reflect that. That’s where I come in! I specialize in capturing authentic, joyful, and deeply personal moments that celebrate you.
✨ See my LGBTQ+ wedding photography portfolio here: Your Happy Moments Blog
📸 Check out my customizable photography packages: Photography Packages
💌 Let’s chat and plan your dream wedding shoot: Contact Me
No awkward posing. No cookie-cutter wedding photos. Just your happy moments, exactly as they are. Let’s make magic together! 🌈📷
