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Wedding plans ruined by unexpected homophobia

In 2006, South Africa was the first African country to legalize same-sex marriage. This places us miles ahead of Britain, where it's only just been legalized, but it hasn't completely protected same-sex couples from discrimination.

Kilcairn Farm is a gorgeous Cape Town venue for a wedding, providing you're heterosexual.

According to Mamba Online, Leanne Brown-Waterson and her partner Christelle were devastated and humiliated when Leanne received a short email explaining that they would not be able to have the wedding they'd set their heart on, as the owner of the farm will only rent the venue to heterosexual couples.

Leanne and Christelle had already visited the venue, and up until this point the farm's manager, Cara King, had been welcoming. The date was booked, and the plans had started. Leanne feels that King could have at the very least phoned her, rather than break the news in such an impersonal way.

Legally, the owner of Kilcarin Farm probably can't discriminate against this couple, but even if Leanne and Christelle can force the venue to allow them to have the wedding they had planned, the day that should be a wonderful celebration of their love would still be tainted by the knowledge that the venue owner is unhappy about it.

Perhaps this is why there are sites like Gay Wedding Destinations, a site that lists gay-friendly wedding venues in South Africa. However, only four venues are listed as near Cape Town, making the options for someone who wants to be certain not to face discrimination very limited.

Leanne and Christelle are determined not to allow their wedding to be badly affected by this incident, but it's unfortunate that this prejudice still remains.

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