Same-Sex Marriage Could Be Boon To Illinois Economy
(CBS) – Big bucks -- that's what this week's passage of the Illinois same-sex marriage bill may mean for the city and the state.
CBS 2's Dana Kozlov explains.
Maddie Snyder and one of her moms smile as they look through family photos. But Stacy Snyder is smiling for another reason, too: the opportunity to marry Katie Bermingham, her partner of 14 years.
"She's always wanted a wedding, since she was a little girl. We didn't think that was possible and now it's reality. So, we're into planning mode," Snyder says.
She says the passage of the same-sex marriage bill overwhelmed her.
Now, she, Katie and their two daughters are ready to spend thousands of dollars on a wedding.
They are not alone.
Dan Smith and his partner Steve McDonagh owner Hearty Boys Catering.
"I absolutely expect an uptick in business. I absolutely expect we're going to see a lot more weddings," McDonagh says.
Exactly how many dollars same sex weddings will add to the local economy won't be known until a year or so after June 1, the date gay couples can legally wed.
Professional planners like Ali Phillips say ultimately it could change the industry.
"Obviously, there's new things to think about for vendors and new ways to market their businesses," she says.
Gov. Pat Quinn on Thursday announced plans to sign the same-sex bill into law on Nov. 20.
