Symbols of the Gay Community

There are signals a gay friendly business can send out that are discreet and specific. These signals can be presented in a way that does not offend more traditional clients or draw attention to a business located in a more conservative area. An effective way to reach gay and lesbian customers is to learn the symbolism of the community. The use of a small rainbow flag or pink triangle in the form of a sticker on your window or as an icon on your web site will send a message to the gay and lesbian population of your town or city. There are a wide variety of market specific themes and images available to businesses that choose to call themselves gay friendly. If there is a gay or lesbian group in the area ask for any promotional materials they may offer, to gain a better understanding of the lingo, symbolism, and specific needs of the GLBT community.

Any Business Can Be Making More Money

Acceptance, reliability, personal attention, and excellence are qualities all consumers want in a buying experience. Gay and lesbian customers are no different than straight ones. They want all of the same services, from caterers to photographers, from flowers to cars, from cruise packages to tailors and dressmakers. Any business has the ability to reach out to this market and embrace thousands of new clients.

Including the gay and lesbian community in your marketing and PR strategy can help generate profits never before imagined. Use the positive outlook of respecting all clients and providing great service to all as a way to boost the company?s reputation and income.

The gay population is a lucrative market. Learn how to speak the gay community?s language, familiarize yourself with gay community organizations, and create a gay-friendly workspace. With these steps you will be well on your way to selling your products and services to this profitable market sector.

Marianne Puechlis co-owner of www.RainbowWeddingNetwork.com, the first exclusive gay and lesbian wedding registry on-line. The site includes a directory of over 4,000 screened, gay-friendly businesses nationwide and in Canada. RWN was launched in 2000, and the first GLBT Wedding Expo will occur in Boston, Massachusetts on May 2, 2004.

rwnmar@bellsouth.net