AC-T: Change in same-sex marriage could benefit Asheville

The hot-button issue of same-sex marriage may draw fiery debate from both sides, but there’s no arguing that gay weddings have the potential to mean big business — especially in Asheville.

As North Carolina awaits the next steps in judicial rulings that could make same-sex marriage legal in the state, local event planners and business owners who provide services for wedding ceremonies and celebrations are watching with interest.

The fact that Asheville already is a major destination for weddings, combined with its reputation as a gay-friendly city, suggests that legalization of marriage for an entire new population of North Carolina couples could lead to a boom in nuptials here.

Local vendors are already seeing an uptick in celebrations by same-sex couples who’ve gotten legally married in Washington, D.C., or other states but want a ceremony and reception in the presence of family and friends in their home state.

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