Spread the love

Make everyone feel welcome this 14th February

Language of love

Using inclusive language speaks volumes about how considerate and welcoming your venue is. Try to use gender-neutral terms in your Valentine’s promotional material as well as in person. Support your staff with training around pronoun use and what words to avoid so they feel confident.

Symbol of hope

Having a pride symbol outside your venue instantly signals to potential customers that you’re committed to creating a safe space. A rainbow window sticker will draw them in while pins on the bar or waiting staffs’ uniforms are a low-cost way to make sure LGBTQIA+ patrons feel welcome and seen.

It’s not all romance

Remember, love can be platonic too. So why not highlight Palentine’s or Galentine’s in your marketing? You could even host a special event like brunch or lunch to celebrate non-romantic love. That might also mean avoiding tropes like roses or making seating appropriate for groups instead of just couples.

Diverse diets

Valentine’s Day menus run the risk of feeling samey – classic steak, for example. But this can also lead to excluding certain dietary groups. Try to consider a set menu that suits a range of tastes and offer inventive swaps like gluten or dairy-free alternatives.

Keep your commitment

Making everyone comfortable shouldn’t stop after 14th February. If you’re an inclusive venue year-round, customers will continue to visit. You could get involved with Pride celebrations, create inclusive policies or offer gender-neutral bathrooms.