Sensory-Friendly Celebrations: Reimagining Wedding Planning for All Minds

Weddings should be joyful celebrations for everyone present, but for neurodivergent individuals—those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities—the typical wedding environment can quickly become overwhelming. Bright lights flash, music thumps, schedules run tight, and social expectations mount. How can wedding planners create truly inclusive experiences?

Master Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator,  Brianne Ackerland, joins CWP Society Vice President, Krisy Thomas, as she brings both professional expertise and personal insight to this vital conversation. With approximately 15-20% of the global population processing information atypically and diagnoses rising among younger generations, wedding professionals must adapt their approaches to serve all clients and guests effectively.

Through practical examples and thoughtful solutions, Brianne  reveals how small adjustments make profound differences. From creating sensory kits with headphones and fidget tools to establishing quiet spaces at venues, coordinating with photographers about physical touch preferences, and providing step-by-step instructions rather than general directions—these modifications require minimal extra effort but transform the wedding experience for neurodivergent participants.

The most powerful tool? Communication. Starting with onboarding questions about neurodivergent family members, understanding specific triggers, and coordinating with vendors ahead of time prevents day-of surprises. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach (what triggers one person might not affect another), preparation creates space for everyone to participate comfortably.

Whether you're a wedding planner working with neurodivergent clients, a couple with neurodivergent loved ones, or simply committed to creating more accessible celebrations, this episode offers valuable insights into making weddings genuinely welcoming for all minds. After all, inclusion doesn't detract from a wedding's beauty—it enhances it.

Ready to create more inclusive wedding experiences? Visit cwpsociety.com to explore membership and certification opportunities to elevate your wedding planning expertise.

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