The 101 Gay Weddings event, scheduled for Saturday, February 21, has just expanded with several announcements made by host Art Smith.
The chef and marriage-equality advocate has announced that Food Network's Ted Allen will join the fete as cohost for the fabulous ceremony and reception, to be held at the James Royal Palm Hotel during the South Beach Wine & Food Festival weekend.
See also: Chef Art Smith to Throw 101 Gay Weddings at James Royal Palm Hotel
The chef has also opened up the invite list to more couples who want to get married or renew their vows in the most amazing way possible. In fact, there's no longer a cap on the number of same-sex couples who can tie the knot at Smith's soiree. Though that fact wreaks havoc on the event's name, it's a lovely gesture by Smith, who says, "It's our chance to put some heat on the rest of the nation. Let's marry up, renew as many vows as we can at 101 Gay Weddings, and bring sunshine to our brothers and sisters. Let's show America how we celebrate love in SoBe. I want one big wedding, so we are opening up for more love and more renewal of love."
The wedding, which Smith is throwing to commemorate the momentous January ruling that allows same-sex couples to legally wed in Florida, will take place from 1 to 4 p.m., starting with a group ceremony.
After the couples say their "I do's," they'll feast on food by Miami's top chefs, including Richard Hales (Black Brick), Giorgio Rapicavoli (Eating House), Dena Marino (MC Kitchen), Jamie DeRosa (Tongue & Cheek), Paula DaSilva (3030 Ocean), Rocco Carulli (R House), Cesar Zapata (the Federal), and Todd Erickson (Haven). Ace of Cakes star Duff Goldman will create a special wedding cake for the event.
Couples who want to join the mass wedding can tweet to @ChefArtSmith using hashtag #101GayWeddings. They'll be contacted by Smith's representatives, who will give them instructions on how to participate in the free wedding. All couples can invite two guests.
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