Revolutionizing Event Planning: How Our Day Champions Inclusivity

Planning a wedding or event should be an exciting, joyful experience. Yet, for many people, especially those from diverse backgrounds, it can be a challenging and sometimes exclusionary process. This is where Our Day comes in—a game-changing online platform designed to streamline event planning while ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all.

The Importance of DEI in the Wedding Industry

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are important aspects of today’s business landscape, yet many industries still struggle to embrace these values fully. The wedding industry for example, traditionally steeped in convention, has often lagged behind in providing all couples—regardless of race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation—equal access to vendors who respect and celebrate their union.

A recent 2023 report by The Knot revealed that nearly 45% of couples seek out at least one niche vendor, from small businesses to diverse-owned companies, such as women-owned, black-owned, or LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Plus, about one-third of all couples are now intentionally hiring wedding vendors with values that align with their own, according to Zola's 2022 First Look Report. In fact, Gen Z embraces opportunities to surprise and delight guests by including personalized elements, with about 40% of couples incorporating ethnic, religious, or cultural elements into their wedding (like jumping the broom or lighting a unity candle). 

Unfortunately, for LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized groups, the search for like-minded vendors can still be a challenge. Many continue to encounter businesses refusing service based on personal beliefs, making inclusivity an essential factor in vendor selection.

A Platform Built for Everyone

Founded by Bryn Khoury, a former investment banker turned entrepreneur, the Our Day platform is an online tool that connects people with event vendors. It was born out of Bryn's personal frustration with the inefficiencies of wedding planning. After struggling to find vendors aligned with her values, she built a solution to help others navigate the process with confidence and ease.

How It Works:

1. Simple Setup: Users input event details, budget, and service preferences.

2. Tailored Matches: From a network of over 750 pre-vetted, pro-inclusive vendors, Our Day’s proprietary algorithm matches users with those who meet their parameters, complete with personalized proposals, portfolios, and customer reviews.

3. Seamless Connection: Users can compare quotes, book consultations, and communicate with vendors directly through the platform.

   
   

The Commitment to Inclusivity

One of Our Day's standout features is its unwavering commitment to ensuring that every listed vendor embraces inclusivity. Before being approved, vendors undergo a thorough application and interview process to verify that they meet Our Day’s standards for equality and diversity.

Bryn states, “Our Day’s mission is to celebrate love in all its forms, making wedding planning easier and more inclusive for all.” This commitment is reflected in the platform’s growing user base, with 10% of its 5,000 users identifying as LGBTQ+—a testament to its dedication to providing a safe and welcoming space for all couples.

Breaking Barriers in a Traditional Industry

Although the wedding industry has made progress, many couples still face discrimination when planning their special day. For LGBTQ+ couples, it’s not uncommon to be rejected by vendors unwilling to work with them. Our Day eliminates this concern by pre-screening every vendor as pro-inclusive, removing an often-overlooked source of stress in the planning process.

Moreover, the platform goes beyond LGBTQ+ inclusivity, welcoming couples from all cultural, religious, and racial backgrounds. By fostering an environment in which every love story is celebrated, Our Day is setting a new industry benchmark for what true inclusivity in event planning should look like.

Supporting and Streamlining DIY Planning

Our Day is not just a directory—it’s an empowering tool for couples who want control over their wedding planning without the exorbitant costs of traditional planners. Unlike many wedding platforms that charge hidden fees, Our Day is free for users. This accessibility allows couples of all financial backgrounds to benefit from high-quality vendor recommendations without budget constraints.

Additionally, the streamlined RFP (Request for Proposal) process affords users a flexible and convenient means to gather and compare quotes effortlessly, saving time and reducing the stress associated with vendor negotiations.

Why This Matters for the Future of Weddings

Our Day’s impact extends beyond individual couples. By fostering a more inclusive vendor network, the platform encourages wedding industry professionals to rethink their approach to service and inclusivity. As more vendors recognize the value of working with diverse couples, the industry as a whole moves closer to genuine equality.

In a world where wedding planning should be about joy, not hurdles, Our Day is revolutionizing how couples connect with vendors. It ensures that every couple is treated with respect and celebration regardless of their background.

Learn More

For couples interested in experiencing a more inclusive, stress-free wedding planning process, or for those who want to plan a fabulous event, including private parties or business events, visit Our Day.

For industry professionals looking to join a growing network of pro-inclusive vendors, Our Day welcomes new applicants committed to fostering an open and diverse wedding industry.