KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Same-sex couples planning to marry in Key West or the Florida Keys can find information about everything from historic locations to caterers at the Gay Key West Same-Sex Wedding Expo scheduled Wednesday, March 11.

Believed to be the first event of its kind since marriage equality became official in Florida Jan. 6, 2015, the evening expo is to feature approximately 40 displays showcasing wedding services in the Keys.

The gathering is to begin at 5:30 p.m. in the grand ballroom at the Marriott Beachside Hotel, 3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd. It is presented by the Key West Business Guild, whose mission is to promote LGBT businesses and LGBT travel to Key West, and is paired with a guild mixer.

According to organizers, marriage-minded attendees can expect to find information on unique venues for ceremonies, wedding planners able to coordinate events ranging from intimate to lavish, and resorts and other properties with comprehensive options for couples planning to say “I Do.”

The spotlight also is to shine on options for wedding flowers, music, rings, catering and cakes, photographers and videographers, decorations, attire, officiants and more.

One of the United States’ top-rated destinations for gay and lesbian travelers, Key West was the site of scores of commitment ceremonies before Florida’s legalization of same-sex marriage. It also was the first city in Florida to officially recognize same-sex domestic partnerships and to encourage and embrace marriage equality.

The Florida Keys’ first same-sex wedding took place just minutes after 12:01 a.m. Jan. 6, uniting Key West residents Aaron Huntsman and William Lee Jones — whose lawsuit helped pave the way for marriage equality in the state.

Admission to the Gay Key West Same-Sex Wedding Expo and mixer is $10 per person.

The Key West Business Guild is one of the oldest gay and lesbian Chambers of Commerce in the United State and was formed in 1978. It is proud to promote this next important chapter in same sex relationships.

Event information: www.gaykeywestfl.com or 305-296-4603