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Day: June 25, 2011

Unexpected Benefits to New York Recognizing Gay Marriage

Posted in Uncategorized

Like many people across the nation today, I’m thrilled as can be that last night, New York became the sixth state in the nation to allow folk who are homosexual to get married. I mean, there is that horrible, cynical side of me that is irked that only six states have done this so far, that goes, “Oh gee, you’re going to let them get married, just like real people? That’s mighty big of you,” but even I can set that crotchety old-manness aside to be genuinely grateful for the brotherhood of man today.

(That wasn’t an intentional reference to How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying. Musical references just kind of come out of me. I’m like the Seth McFarlane of not doing anything of value. So basically just Seth McFarlane.)
So, this decision has gotten me thinking of the unexpected effects this is going to have on the economy in New York state. This is what I’ve come up with, so far:
There’s a 50% increase in job openings for wedding planners.
I’m not great at math or statistics or presenting factual information in a helpful way, so I figure that about half the people in New York are gay, and half are straight. Let’s say half of those gay people and half of those straight people are engaged. We’re going to need someone to plan these weddings, and I bet wedding planners in Manhattan alone are already swamped. Plus, we have to factor in all those “sensitive” guys who told their long term girlfriends that they would get married “When love is equal” or some other political shit they were hiding behind because they’re really afraid of commitment. I’m looking at you, Brad Pitt, even though you do not live in New York that I am aware of. So, now we’ve got gay engaged people and commitment-phobic engaged people looking to get married. We’re gonna need some more wedding planners.
So many more opportunities for cake.
This one saddens me a little bit, because most of the people I know who are my friends and also gay aren’t dating anyone. Also, we live in Michigan, a state that does not recognize gay marriage. So, while the thought of this makes me super happy, it’s bittersweet. See, there are going to be more weddings, and therefore more cake. And I’m not going to get any of it. But still, if you live in New York state, there is a fair chance the number of weddings you’re required to attend will go up. I know, I know, that’s a total bummer and you don’t even want to spend every weekend at Crate and Barrel trying to find the cheapest thing on somebody’s registry before dashing to the church, but I assure you: there will be cake. So, don’t think of this legislation as another way your friends can suck the money right out of your bank account in a socially acceptable manner. Think of it as an increase in cake.
Divorce lawyers, expect to buy a boat in eight years.
Everyone is super happy right now, and I don’t want to cast a pall on that, but the fact is, in the United States, it’s estimated that most divorces occur around the eight year mark. This is fantastic news for divorce lawyers in New York, who just had their client base expanded for them by the state legislature. Doubled, if you use my faulty math.
Expect at least three gay-wedding themed reality shows on basic cable.
You know it’s coming. Turn on any basic cable channel, they probably have a show about weddings. Planning weddings, buying dresses, family drama, people can’t get enough of that shit. Now just imagine “Say Yes To The Dress” but with two brides arguing over what they should be wearing. I think it’s safe to say that those creative liberal television types in New York City are going into development meetings as we speak: “It’s called My Big Fat Gay Wedding. Write that down.”
Okay, so it’s fun to joke. And maybe some of these predictions will actually come true. But the bottom line is, I’m so, so happy for all our brothers and sisters in New York state who happen to love someone of the same gender and who are now, far, far too late, being recognized as our fellow Americans.
Now other forty-four states? Get your asses in gear, and stop your fucking whinging.
God bless New York, and God Bless America.