With same-sex weddings slated to take place on August first, a huge number of businesses are holding contests for this falls newlyweds.

Cupcakes
Cupcake in St. Paul is offering 12 same-sex couples 12 dozen cupcakes for their wedding. It’s a video contest.

Here’s how you enter: “In keeping with the theme of equality, all couples may enter, gay or straight. You and your partner create a 30-90 second video to post on YouTube, telling your Minnesota marriage story. How did you meet? Did you grow up here or relocate? What’s your favorite part about being Minnesotan? Why do you want to marry your partner?

Sent the YouTube link to Jeanne at [email protected] and we’ll post all entries.”

The company also says that every couple that enters will receive a mystery envelope. You can view the full details of the contest at Cupcake’s Facebook page.

Amy Wurdock Photography recently held a sweepstakes and a lucky couple is the winner of a wedding package.

the City of Saint Paul and Saint Paul Department of Parks and Recreation are offering free permits at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory and Irvine Park. They’ve also expanded the hours of operation for August 1st to accompany same-sex couples wishing to marry there. More details are at the city’s website.

Photographer Amy Zellmer has amassed an amazing array of companies willing to donate services to one lucky couple who enters her contest.

Here’s what Amy has to say about the contest:

For those of you who don’t know my story: I have a sister who is a lesbian and been in a committed relationship with her partner, Amy, for 17 years. Two years ago, Amy was brought on trial within the Methodist Church for performing a same-sex commitment ceremony (of which she had a huge victory). Gay marriage is a subject that is near and dear to my heart, as I wish my sister and Amy could be married legally. (they reside in Wisconsin, so this bill doesn’t affect them just yet, but WI isn’t far behind!). Read about the Love ON Trial and my personal story HERE.

Some of the amazing vendors I have lined up with this giveaway are:
Custom Creations Photography ~ photography
Fabulous Functions ~ event planning
Sarah Elizabeth Artistry ~ hair and makeup
Paper Thick Ink ~ invitations
Maveric Music ~ DJ
Muddy Paws Cheesecake ~ a 3 tier rainbow cake
We also have flowers tentatively lined up!

We are still seeking a venue if anyone knows anyone

TO ENTER:
Please send an email to [email protected] with the word LOVE in the subject line so I know it’s a contest entry.
Attach a photo of the two of you
Tell me about you. How long you’ve been together. What you love about each other. How this bill has impacted your relationship. Etc!
I am a sucker for ROMANCE to make me weepy

The contest ends on May 31st so hurry!

Hell’s Kitchen in downtown Minneapolis concluded its contest to host a wedding for 100 people.

Our wedding for up to 100 guests will include champagne, a beautiful dinner buffet, bartenders, servers (who love to gussy up for weddings), candles, linen-covered tables, live music during dinner, and even free parking. Not wanting to miss out on this privilege, the Pastry Chefs at Angel Food Bakery will provide a gorgeous rainbow wedding cake surrounded by a spectacular array of pride cupcakes on sparkling tiered platters. “But wait! There’s more!” Once we’ve cleared the floor for dancing, DJ Shannon Blowtorch has offered to rock the walls of history with an after-party til 2am.

Two of the owners are even ordained ministers willing to officiate for the winners. Entries for that contest ended on May 28th but look forward to news of who the lucky couple will be.

If you hear of other wedding contests or giveaways for same-sex couples, drop me a line at [email protected].