Disney Opens Fairy Tale Weddings To Same-Sex Couples

The Walt Disney Company has changed its policy to allow same-sex couples to participate in the popular Fairy Tale Wedding program it runs mainly at its two U.S. resorts and cruise line, a Disney spokesman reported on Thursday.

Previously, Disney barred gay couples from purchasing its Fairy Tale Wedding package and holding the event at locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, set aside specifically for weddings. Instead, those couples were allowed only to organize this own weddings or commitment ceremonies within rented meeting rooms at their resorts.

"We are updating our Fairy Tale Wedding guidelines to include commitment ceremonies," Disney Parks and Resorts spokesman Donn Walker said. "This is consistent with our policy of creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment for all of our guests."

Walker said the change was prompted by "an inquiry from a guest that asked about this service."
Although Disney had allowed gay couples to take part in its vow renewals program, it excluded them from buying wedding packages, by requiring a valid marriage license from California or Florida, which do not permit or recognize gay marriages.