Belgium—a land of medieval castles, world-class chocolate, and love without labels. If you’re dreaming of an LGBTQ+ wedding here, congratulations! Not only is this country breathtaking, but it’s also one of the most progressive in the world when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights.
So, how do you plan a fabulous wedding in Belgium? From legal requirements to stunning venues and a sprinkle of Belgian flair, here’s everything you need to know.
Belgium: A Pioneer in LGBTQ+ Marriage
Did you know that Belgium was the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003? That’s right—while some countries are still debating, Belgium has been celebrating love for over two decades!
In fact, LGBTQ+ rights in Belgium go beyond marriage. Adoption, legal protections, and gender identity recognition make it one of the most inclusive countries in Europe. So, not only is your wedding welcome here—it’s celebrated!
The Legal Side: How to Get Married in Belgium
Let’s break down the legal steps (don’t worry, it’s easier than assembling IKEA furniture).
1. Do You Need to Be a Belgian Resident?
At least one of you must have lived in Belgium for three months before the wedding. This doesn’t mean you have to move permanently—just stay long enough to enjoy some waffles and fries while you wait.
2. What Documents Do You Need?
Belgium loves paperwork, so be prepared to submit:
✅ Valid passports
✅ Birth certificates (officially translated if not in Dutch, French, or German)
✅ Proof of residence
✅ Declaration of marriage (submitted at the local municipal office)
✅ If applicable, divorce or death certificates of previous spouses
Submit these documents at your local town hall, and then comes the fun part:
3. The Waiting Period
After submitting your papers, you’ll need to wait at least 14 days before your civil ceremony can take place. Use this time to finalize details like flowers, music, and which Belgian beers to serve at the reception.
4. Civil Ceremony: The Official ‘I Do’
All legal marriages in Belgium take place at the local town hall. If you want a symbolic or religious ceremony, it must be scheduled after the civil one.
For more official details, visit: Belgium’s official marriage site
The Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Venues in Belgium
Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic castle, an urban rooftop, or a bohemian garden, Belgium has the perfect venue for you. Here are some stunning LGBTQ+-friendly options:
🏰 Castles & Historic Mansions
- Château de la Hulpe – A fairytale castle surrounded by lush gardens. Imagine saying your vows under ancient trees. Website
- Château Bayard – A dreamy 17th-century castle in Namur. Old-world charm meets modern luxury. Website
🌿 Nature-Lover’s Dream
- The Orangerie at the Botanical Garden of Meise – A breathtaking glasshouse filled with exotic plants. Perfect for a magical garden wedding. Website
- Lakeside Paradise (Knokke-Heist) – If a lakeside sunset ceremony is your dream, this is the place. Website
🏙️ Modern & Urban Chic
- Skyline Park (Brussels) – Say “I do” with panoramic city views from this rooftop venue. Website
- Autoworld Brussels – A museum filled with vintage cars—unique, stylish, and perfect for couples who love a bit of history with their modern romance. Website
How to Add Some Belgian Flair to Your Wedding
Belgium is a foodie paradise, so why not add some local flavor to your big day?
🍫 Chocolate Wedding Favors – Hand out personalized Belgian pralines as wedding favors. Your guests will love you forever.
🍻 Belgian Beer Bar – Set up a beer-tasting station with local brews like Duvel, Chimay, and Orval. Perfect for a fun cocktail hour!
🧇 Waffle Station – Instead of (or in addition to) a wedding cake, have a DIY waffle bar with toppings like strawberries, Nutella, and whipped cream.
🎶 Live Accordion Music – Want some old-school European romance? Hire an accordion player for your cocktail hour. Trust us, it sets the mood.
Tips & Tricks for a Stress-Free LGBTQ+ Wedding in Belgium
✨ Weather Whims: Belgium’s weather is unpredictable (think: sunshine one minute, rain the next). If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, always have a backup plan!
✨ Language Check: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Make sure your officiant and vendors understand your preferred language.
✨ LGBTQ+ Friendly Vendors: While most Belgian vendors are inclusive, it’s always best to double-check. Websites like Rainbow Weddings list LGBTQ+-friendly professionals.
✨ Photography Matters: Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Capture every emotion, smile, and happy tear with a photographer who understands your vision.
Capture Your Love Story with “Your Happy Moments”
Your wedding day is more than just an event—it’s a collection of emotions, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
I’m Serg, the creative heart behind Your Happy Moments, and I specialize in LGBTQ+ destination weddings. From intimate elopements in hidden courtyards to grand celebrations in historic castles, I focus on capturing the authentic, unfiltered beauty of your love story.
💛 Explore my portfolio: yourhappymoments.net/blog
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💌 Let’s talk about your wedding! yourhappymoments.net/contact
Final Thoughts: Love Wins in Belgium
Getting married in Belgium as an LGBTQ+ couple isn’t just possible—it’s celebrated. Whether you’re planning a grand wedding or an intimate elopement, this country offers the perfect mix of history, romance, and inclusivity.
Now, go grab a waffle, toast with a Belgian beer, and start planning the wedding of your dreams. Because love—your love—deserves to be celebrated in the most magical way possible. 💜🏳️🌈
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