Chris's article

There is no relationship model in polyamory, which is one of its outstanding features. While hierarchical poly couples are frequently featured in the media, not all poly people are part of a pair. There are a lot of single polyamorous persons, solo-polys (those who view themselves as their primary partner), and on the other end of the spectrum, triad and quad members. But, being a part of a polyamorous person has its own distinct set of misconceptions and reactions, regardless of whether you consider yourself to be one or are simply perceived that way by outside onlookers.

Most people can rationalize poly singles as "simply dating around" in their minds. Perhaps the message they have heard their entire lives is that sexual exclusivity is required for a relationship. Unfortunately, this isn't always true, which frequently results in people passing negative comments about a polyamorous person they come by. Some such comments are based on destructive myths and norms, while some remarks are just amusingly ignorant. Being part of a civilized society, it is important to respect relationships around us, irrespective of whether you like it or not.

Here are seven negative comments to stop making about polyamorous people. 

“Can I Join You Guys Too?”

When it comes to group sex, poly individuals have different preferences than mono people. While some couples are open to having a guest star in the bedroom, others find it to be completely offensive. Also, it is an arrogant and disrespectful act to pose such a question!

“Are You into Poly Because of Your Partner’s Poor Performance in Bed?”

No, poly doesn't really revolve around sex. Recall that asexual people exist and that a polyamorous person or couple has lives outside the bed too! 

“Aren’t You Concerned That Your Partner Will Leave You for Someone Else?”

A polyamorous person is usually less anxious than a monogamous couple since their partner doesn't have to leave to pursue a new interest. In addition, a lot of non-monogamy couples discover that being open to one another strengthens their bond.

“Don't You Feel Envious?”

Yes! Again, we're not some homogeneous bunch; poly individuals are susceptible to various degrees of envy, just as mono folks. Jealousy is a normal human emotion; thus, we all experience it occasionally. Simply said, poly people prefer to react to it in different ways.

“What About Children?”

Many polyamorous people have children, but many others do not. It’s an absolutely personal decision that no outsider has to interfere with!

"I Wouldn't Allow My Partner to Do It"

Nobody, irrespective of the nature of the relationship, owns their partner. No one has authority over their mind and body. It’s common to see guys congratulating each other on their girlfriends “letting’ them sleep with other women, giving it a sense of material accomplishment! Not just in poly, but also in other relationships, patriarchy can be destructive. 

“Ah, I See You're Free Then”

You shouldn't hit on someone who seems to be in any sort of relationship. Whether it be poly or monogamy, give and take respect. That’s merely common sense when living in an educated society. 

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Many people may find the idea of polyamory strange because monogamy is the standard in today's society. Nonetheless, monogamous people can get important insights from polyamorous relationships. Polyamory is the practice of having multiple intimate relationships with everyone's consent. This way of living necessitates open dialogue, honest conversation, and emotional vulnerability. Here are five lessons a monogamous couple can learn from a polyamorous couple.

The Importance of Open Communication

In any relationship, communication is essential, but for polyamorous couples, it is even more crucial. Couples who are polyamorous must be open and honest about their emotions, needs, and boundaries. Monogamous couples could learn how polyamorous couples regulate their emotions in an open and honest manner. Speaking is only one aspect of communication; other aspects include listening intently, comprehending, and empathizing. Monogamous couples can improve their relationships and handle disagreements more skillfully by adopting these techniques.

Clear-Cut Definition of the Relationship

Polyamorous couples must establish their boundaries and rules from the beginning. To prevent misunderstandings and upset sentiments, this is crucial. This technique can help monogamous couples by giving them a better awareness of their own relationships. It's critical to be aware of the give and take in all relationships. Having a clear-cut definition of the relationship can avoid misunderstandings and unmet expectations. This can eventually save the relationship. 

The Importance of Safe Sexual Practices

Multiple sexual partners are common in polyamorous relationships. It also raises the possibility of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). By engaging in safe sex, polyamorous couples take an active approach to sexual health. According to polygamy dating and matchmaking services, polyamorous partners openly discuss their sexual health with their partners, use condoms, and undergo routine STI testing. This strategy can be advantageous for monogamous couples if they take charge of their own sexual well-being. Safe sex is not just about self-preservation; it also demonstrates respect for one's partner and their wellbeing.

Dealing with Jealousy

In any relationship, jealousy is a normal emotion to feel. Because they have several relationships, polyamorous couples deal with jealousy in a more complicated way. To keep it from turning destructive, they must learn how to control their envy in a healthy way. This strategy can help monogamous couples by teaching them how to control their own jealousy. It's critical to acknowledge your emotions and express them in a positive way. Jealousy is frequently a sign of deeper problems like insecurity or partner loss anxiety. Monogamous couples can improve their marriages and keep jealousy from becoming a significant problem by addressing these topics.

Maintaining a Sense of Independence

The relationships between the partners in polyamorous partnerships are often discrete. They can continue to feel independent and unique because of this. Monogamous couples can benefit from this by appreciating the value of preserving their individual identities while in a committed partnership. It's crucial to have personal interests, hobbies, and friends. This improves the bonding while also empowering the individual. Monogamous couples might benefit from the example of staying dedicated to their partner while maintaining a sense of independence.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Polygyny, the practice of taking multiple wives, has appeared in diverse cultures and religious contexts throughout history. In certain groups, the idea of a “sister wife”, a wife who shares a sister-like bond with another wife, is a well-established custom. Though this may seem unconventional to some, the presence of a sister wife in a polygyny-based household can bring about many potential advantages.

One key benefit is the added emotional support and camaraderie among the wives. Managing day-to-day life in a polygynous family can be demanding, and having someone else to handle responsibilities often lightens the load. Sister wives may develop close-knit friendships, which fosters a collective feeling of unity within the household.

This sense of support can be particularly meaningful for a first wife. Researchers point out that the initial wife in a polygynous relationship can sometimes feel isolated if her husband’s attention is split among multiple partners. A sister wife may help alleviate those emotions, offering a reliable ally and companion.

Financial considerations also play a role. In many polygynous families, the husband is typically responsible for supporting multiple spouses and children. If a sister wife can bring her own income or employment into the household, it can lessen the husband’s overall financial burden.

Children in polygynous households may also benefit from the presence of multiple wives. More adults in the family means more hands on deck to help with childcare and education. In addition, having multiple maternal figures can offer children extra sources of emotional guidance and reassurance.

Practical advantages can extend to daily tasks, too. If one wife is especially skilled at cooking or housekeeping, for instance, she might take charge of those chores, while another focuses on other duties around the home. This flexibility can ease stress and encourage cooperation.

Still, it is crucial to recognize that polygyny, and having a sister wife, can present significant challenges. Jealousy and competition may arise, particularly if the wives perceive unequal attention from the husband. Clear communication and mutual respect among the spouses become essential to preserving stability and harmony.

One way to address potential issues is to establish guidelines and expectations early in the relationship. These discussions might involve the distribution of the husband’s time, the sharing of household responsibilities, and how children will be raised and cared for.

Legal constraints and societal norms must also be considered. In many areas, polygyny is unlawful, and those who practice it risk facing legal repercussions. Stigma and discrimination may likewise lead to alienation from the broader community, intensifying any existing pressures.

Nevertheless, a growing number of individuals are seeking connections through dating services like Sister Wives, a polygamy-focused website and app. Founded in 2008 and rebranded as sisterwives.com in 2016, Sister Wives creates a forum for those curious about polygyny to meet others with similar interests.

Such platforms can be particularly helpful for individuals who find it difficult to locate people of like mind in their local region, especially if polygyny is stigmatized or outlawed where they live. Additionally, these sites offer a space for members to exchange insights and gain peer support from those who have firsthand knowledge of the lifestyle.

Services like Sister Wives also assist individuals in finding partners who align with their values and convictions, which is vital in forming a solid polygynous relationship. However, relying exclusively on online communities for advice or reassurance is not recommended. Seeking out therapy, counseling, or other support systems, both within and outside the immediate household, can be invaluable.

Ultimately, having a sister wife can bring a sense of friendship, economic stability, and positive maternal guidance for children. Through open communication, clear boundaries, and mutual respect, polygynous families can overcome their unique challenges and cultivate a supportive, satisfying home.

Still, polygyny is not the right choice for everyone. It is a complex commitment that demands a high level of transparency, respect, and dedication from everyone involved. Before embarking on a polygynous relationship, individuals should take time to reflect on their motivations and be forthright about their boundaries and hopes for the future.

In closing, a sister wife can offer considerable advantages, from emotional and financial support to child-rearing assistance. While obstacles undoubtedly exist, fostering an atmosphere of honesty and reciprocity can contribute to a meaningful and enduring polygynous household. Services such as Sister Wives can aid those interested in exploring this lifestyle, yet turning to counseling, a personal network, and thoughtful self-assessment remains equally important.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Polygamy, an age-old lifestyle choice embraced by numerous cultures, involves maintaining more than one spouse or partner simultaneously. While many nations do not formally acknowledge this practice, modern polygamy and the concept of polygamy dating have been gaining greater visibility and acceptance in recent times.

A major appeal of polygamy is the strong sense of community and togetherness it can foster. When multiple partners collaborate to create a harmonious household, it can generate a supportive environment that feels like a close-knit family. This inclusivity can be particularly reassuring for individuals who find it difficult to fit into traditional monogamous structures or who feel estranged from conventional societal norms.

In addition, polygamy offers the option to have multiple partners who may each fulfill distinct emotional and physical needs. In a monogamous setting, one partner is often expected to meet every aspect of the other’s emotional and physical requirements. This can be burdensome and stressful for both parties. Having several partners can introduce variety into one’s relationships, often leading to deeper satisfaction and happiness.

Another potential advantage of polygamy is enhanced financial security. With multiple partners contributing resources, a household may enjoy greater economic stability. This can be especially significant for households with children, as a larger pool of financial support can create a safer and more secure home environment.

Nevertheless, like all relationship models, polygamy comes with its own set of challenges. One critical requirement is transparent and honest communication among partners. Since more than two individuals are involved, there may be additional layers of complexity in maintaining clear dialogue. It is essential for all partners to prioritize open, respectful communication in order to cultivate a healthy and satisfying dynamic.

Polygamy can also heighten the possibility of jealousy and competition within relationships. Although these feelings can arise in any romantic setting, they become especially intricate when multiple partners are involved. Managing emotions constructively and working together to sustain harmony are key elements of a successful polygamous relationship.

Legal hurdles also exist in many countries. In certain regions, the practice of polygamy is prohibited by law and may lead to legal repercussions for those involved. This can drive individuals who practice polygamy into secrecy and isolation, compounding the challenges they already face.

Even so, modern polygamy and polygamy dating provide a distinctive alternative for people keen to explore romantic connections beyond the boundaries of monogamy. Proponents highlight benefits like communal support, financial stability, and increased emotional and physical fulfillment. When partners are committed to honesty, openness, and trust, polygamy can be a meaningful and enriching way of life.

Sister Wives is a dating service specifically designed for those intrigued by modern polygamy and polygamy dating. It offers a safe, welcoming space for people who practice polygamy or wish to explore it, ultimately helping to reduce the stigma that often accompanies this non-traditional relationship model. By facilitating connections between individuals with similar interests, Sister Wives plays a role in promoting broader understanding and acceptance of polygamy.

Modern polygamy, an unconventional lifestyle frequently misunderstood, has been steadily garnering more recognition and approval. This arrangement is defined by a marriage or relationship involving more than two individuals, which can manifest in various forms, such as polygyny (one man, multiple wives), polyandry (one woman, multiple husbands), or group marriages with any combination of genders.

Polygamy dating is a relatively new concept aimed at uniting those who embrace polygamous values and seek love or companionship within this community. It enables people to forge ties with others who share the same beliefs, providing an opportunity to build meaningful bonds with like-minded partners.

One of the more prominent platforms for polygamy dating is Sister Wives, established in 2008 as sisterwives.net and currently managed by Matchmakers Inc., a Florida-based corporation. Now operating under sisterwives.com, this website is devoted to assisting those interested in polygamous arrangements. Its mission is to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for anyone seeking to discover and engage in a polygamous lifestyle.

Polygamy dating can be especially beneficial for individuals who feel marginalized because of their non-traditional relationship preferences. By joining a polygamy-focused platform such as Sister Wives, members can find people who understand their perspective and offer emotional support and camaraderie.

Another benefit of polygamy dating lies in the possibility of forming multiple deep emotional bonds. This approach can deliver both emotional and physical satisfaction in ways that a single-partner relationship might not. Often, polygamous families share a sense of support and solidarity among all partners, making for strong communal ties.

Of course, polygamy dating does not come without hurdles. The social disapproval of polygamy remains considerable, with many still viewing it as taboo. As a result, individuals in polygamous relationships may face criticism or discrimination.

Additionally, successful polygamy demands open lines of communication and mutual respect among all partners. Without the ability to communicate needs and boundaries effectively, misunderstandings can arise, undermining the foundation of these relationships.

In summary, modern polygamy and polygamy dating represent increasingly visible lifestyle choices that challenge conventional ideas of romance and commitment. Services like Sister Wives offer a secure and supportive community for those pursuing polygamous relationships, opening doors to meaningful connections that go beyond traditional norms. While obstacles remain, such as legal restrictions, stigma, and interpersonal complexities, many find polygamy deeply rewarding, both emotionally and communally.

Anyone considering modern polygamy should thoughtfully reflect on their personal values and the potential demands of managing multiple relationships. Open communication, mutual respect, and trust are non-negotiable prerequisites for success in these arrangements.

As perspectives continue to evolve, it is vital to acknowledge that lifestyle choices like modern polygamy are indeed valid for those who elect to follow them. Growing acceptance and knowledge of polygamous and other alternative relationship styles underscore the importance of fostering diversity and inclusivity in today’s world.

In this regard, polygamy dating networks like Sister Wives play a key role in connecting individuals who embrace polygamy and offering them a community that is both receptive and encouraging. Through such platforms, people can delve into polygamous relationships while forging close bonds with individuals who share their ideals and lifestyles.

Ultimately, modern polygamy and polygamy dating provide a meaningful path to developing close emotional ties with several partners, enriching one’s life through unity and shared purpose. As society continues to broaden its outlook on what constitutes family and love, maintaining an open mind, promoting inclusivity, and respecting personal choices is more important than ever.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Two different kinds of marriage practices, bigamy and polygamy both involve multiple spouses and marriage. The following is an examination of a hot topic: Bigamy vs. polygamy.

Two or more spouses are involved in a polygamous marriage – both/all being aware of the other’s union with the spouse. Two or more spouses are involved in a bigamous relationship as well but are usually unaware of each other.

What's more, while bigamy is not typically practiced for religious or cultural reasons, polygamy is. Can one be participated in without participating in the other, however? Technically, you must partake in bigamy to partake in polygamy because bigamy is defined as the following: “While legally married to one person, partaking in a marriage ceremony to another."

That doesn't make them the same, however.

Bigamy

Bigamy can be consensual and intentional. An individual knowingly marries a second spouse, being completely aware that their initial marriage is binding, legally. Everyone involved consents. On the other hand, it can be non-consensual, but still intentional, where the spouses of an individual are completely unaware of each other.

But wait, there's more. As the result of an attempted divorce that was never finalized legally, it can also be unintentional. Regardless, all parts of the United States outlaw bigamy.

Polygamy

When three or more people participate in a general union/marriage, this is referred to as polygamy. In the minds of many people, polygamy is reserved for a situation that involves multiple wives and one man. This is not, however, always the case. Technically speaking, a general description of polygamy involves any gender, with marriage being carried out with multiple partners.

There are several kinds of polygamy including the following:

• Group marriage

• Polyandry

• Polygyny

Let's look at those individually.

Group Marriage

A type of polygamy, group marriage is an arrangement in which a marriage-like agreement is made and participated in by all parties involved. The ratio of male to female is not specified but, rather, determined by the individuals involved.

Polyandry

Here, more than one man can be married to one woman. To break things down even further, there are two types of polyandry:

• Non-Fraternal Spouses: A woman marries husbands that are completely unrelated to each other.

• Fraternal Spouses: A pair of sibling brothers is married to one woman.

Polygyny

Two types of polygyny also exist including the following:

• Nonsororal: Wives that have no relation to each other are chosen by one man.

• Sororal: As his wives, sisters of a family are taken by one man.

Polygamy Versus Bigamy

In both of these, there is a running theme involving multiple partners involved in a union. The following should be noted to distinguish polygamy and bigamy from each other:

• Religious influence (customs)

• Living style (number of households)

• Law classifications (multiple partners are legal in some countries where polygamy is concerned)

• One spouse being aware of another or others

Important Note!

As of February 2020, a bill passed the Utah legislature that states – for the first time in 85 years – that polygamy is not a felony crime. But, some 18 months later, the bigamy law was reinstated by a federal appeals court and a law re-criminalizing bigamy was passed by the Utah State Legislature. The difference now is that Utah views polygamy, more or less, as an "infraction" – similar to a speeding ticket.

Interested in Polygamy as a Lifestyle? Want to Meet Others Who Are as Well?

To whom can you turn if you want to meet other polygamists and/or are in search of a love connection? Answer: Sister Wives. We want to help women become sister wives and/or introduce them to people who also live a polygamist lifestyle. Connections are made online, every day. Check our "Blogs" to see what others have to say.

By attending some of our activities and events, you can become even more familiar with Sister Wives and the polygamist lifestyle. Contact us today to find out more.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

There are numerous alternate lifestyles in existence compared to that of legal marriage in the United States and monogamy. Here, the following will be examined: Polyamory vs. polygamy vs. polyandry. After reading this, you may decide that an alternative lifestyle is something you'd like to dedicate yourself to, or at least try. Later, a service that can introduce you to others involved in polygamy – and how to get in touch with them – will be detailed.

First things first, however, let's learn the difference between polyamory, polygamy, and polyandry.

Polyamory

A person engaging in multiple sexual/romantic relationships is said to be practicing polyamory. If you believe you can love multiple people simultaneously, you may wish to be involved in this “practice/ethical” philosophy that includes responsible, honest, and non-possessive traits. Polyamory, rather than accepting established social norms (monogamy), emphasizes a conscious decision to have more than one partner at one time.

Any sexual orientation goes in relationships such as these, is dictated by the individuals involved in the relationship itself. These are romantic, intimate relationships with numerous consenting members at one time. People of mixed sexual orientations – versus everyone being gay or everyone being straight – can be involved in a polyamorous relationship, too.

Polygamy

When one spouse has more than one mate/spouse, it is referred to as polygamy. Thanks to TV, in part, many people view a polygamous relationship as having one husband and multiple sister wives. This is only partially correct. Anthropologically speaking, it can be a marriage that exists simultaneously between one person and at least two others in general.

One man being married to two women or more is, today, referred to as polygamy. When one woman is married to two or more men, it is referred to as polyandry.

Polyandry

This refers to multiple husbands with one woman. Polyandry does, however, exist in two forms:

• Non-Fraternal Spouses: A woman marries husbands that are completely unrelated to each other.

• Fraternal Spouses: A pair (or more) of sibling brothers is married to one woman.

In parts of China and Nepal, one wife can be married to two or more brothers, legally, with "sexual access" being available to her where each male party is concerned.

By the Numbers

Due to the fact that many polygamists like to stay just under the radar, numbers are hard to come by. It is thought, however, that today, in the United States, polygamy is practiced by roughly 60,000 people. In addition to your average Americans, these individuals include members of the Pan-African Ausar Auset society, Muslims, Hmong Americans, and other various ethnicities.

It is estimated that roughly 4 to 5% of the United States population practices polyamory.

In America, polyandry is not legal, nor is it widely practiced. This is not to say, however, that it doesn't exist in the United States.

Polygamy, Polyamory, or Polyandry? Which Is Right for You?

If you have questions about polygamy, polyandry, polyamory, and other alternate lifestyles, you are not alone. Questions are not uncommon. You should have access to the answers you need. For questions regarding polygamy and possibly even other lifestyle choices, why not talk directly to the people involved?

Sister Wives can introduce you to polygamists, sister wives, and more. Attend our activities and events or utilize our website for matchmaking services, video chats, search options, detailed profiles, or other fun ways to chat and interact. On our "Blogs", you can find out what people have to say about our service before even trying it yourself. Get started today!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Maybe you’ve seen TV shows on the polygamist lifestyle. If so, you may be wondering about a number of things. Is polygamy legal in the U.S.? Wherever it is outlawed, why? Might the legal restrictions be changing in the near future?

To answer the first question, right now, polygamy is legally outlawed in every one of the 50 states. In fact, being married to more than one individual is criminalized by the federal government. Of course, it's difficult to enforce these kinds of laws due to many polygamists keeping low and staying under the radar, for the most part. The thing is, with the increase in mixed gender, multiple roommates, laws such as these become very problematic.

Frequently, in the courts, laws built on nothing more than "moral ground" are being challenged more and more. Similar arguments have already been used to decriminalize same-sex marriages and homosexuality. In a sense, many of the "witch hunts" of the past are coming to an end, at least in a legal sense. Will polygamy and polygamists be next?

Anti-Bigamy Laws in Utah

Not long ago, a ruling by a federal judge determined that Utah's anti-bigamy law language was not enforceable because it was so vague. Today, laws such as these are considered, by many, an invasion of privacy and anachronistic. That, in turn, is unconstitutional, violating the 14th and first amendment rights of individuals.

Some misguided people fear that relaxing laws on bigamy, same-sex marriage, polygamy, etc., will somehow go further to affect children. This is not only unrealistic but unreasonable. The citing of such a concern is little more than a tactic used to generate fear and suspicion.

It is important to take note that, as of February 2020, a bill passed the Utah legislature that states – for the first time in 85 years – that polygamy is not a felony crime. But, some 18 months later, the bigamy law was reinstated by a federal appeals court and a law re-criminalizing bigamy was passed by the Utah State Legislature. However, Utah now views polygamy as an "infraction" – similar to a speeding ticket. The future status of polygamy in Utah and other states remains to be seen.

So, the bottom line is that, currently, polygamy is not technically legal in any of the 50 states. Are the laws against polygamy frequently enforced? No, they are not. Does that mean, as a polygamist, you’re safe from prosecution? No, you're not. The good news for polygamists is that these laws may be changing relatively soon; or, at the very least, relaxed even more in some manner.

Legal or Not – Is Polygamy for You?

Contrary to many disillusioned individuals, do you still believe in true love? Do you believe that true love can be shared by more than two people? If so, polygamy may be a lifestyle you would be well served by. You can seek out a sister wife as well as other polygamists through the Sister Wives community.

We can be of assistance to numerous polygamists by helping them make a love connection and/or introducing them to others for socialization. Are you a single seeking a sister wife? Are you a couple looking for another sister wife? Are you unsure about the entire topic? See what other people have to say by clicking on our "Blogs".

By helping people connect online, Sister Wives can enrich the lives of those curious about polygamy and/or those already involved in polygamy. Familiarize yourself with our lifestyle and community by attending some of our activities and events. Our website offers detailed profiles, fun ways to interact and chat, search options, video chat, “matchmaking” services, and more. If you're intrigued, contact us today to find out more. 

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

In the United States, polygamy is illegal. There are no two ways about it. But the severity of the punishment for "breaking" this law differs. In fact, frequently, those involved in polygamy may not even be prosecuted. Is that something that you, as a polygamist, should count on? No. If it is discovered that you are participating in a polygamous relationship, you are – under the law – prosecutable. A good lawyer, however, may be able to get the charges diminished or dismissed – but that's not something you should count on 100%.

Recently, the topic of polygamy in Utah was in the news. What's more, in certain areas of Massachusetts, "polyamorous domestic relationships" are being recognized. This does not mean it's legal to marry more than one person in Massachusetts, however. A "domestic relationship" differs from a legal marriage.

Let's look at both of these states and what's going on.

Utah

In Utah, it was determined that the state’s polygamy ban was unconstitutional in "Brown versus Buhman" toward the end of 2013. In 2020, while it was not entirely legalized, polygamy was decriminalized – at least in part. Currently, the offense of polygamy is looked upon, more or less, as an "infraction" – similar to a parking ticket. If you are convicted of being married to more than one person at a time, it may be punishable with community service and fines not to exceed $750.

How does that differ from when polygamy was looked upon as a federal offense? When polygamy was a third-degree felony, you could be sentenced to up to five years of jail time.

Any law that is passed can be struck down. Any legal decision that is made can be reversed. If there's one thing about politics and law that is consistent, it is their propensity for inconsistency. Many polygamists see the recent changes in Utah as a step in the right direction, however.

Massachusetts

Apparently, 2020 was a big year for nontraditional relationships. In addition to the changes that took place in Utah, the nation’s first multiple-partner domestic partnership ordinance was passed in Somerville, Massachusetts in 2020.

A domestic partnership is defined by the ordinance as an entity formed by people. Six criteria must be fulfilled, including that those involved:

• Are in a relationship of caring, support, and commitment… 

• … and have every intention of staying in that relationship

• Consider themselves family

• Reside together, etc.

Today, the same privileges and rights afforded to those who are legally married are afforded to those in domestic partnerships. It interprets "family", "marriage", and "spouse" to encompass domestic partnerships in various ordinances of the city.

The following year, a multiple-partner domestic partnership ordinance was passed in Cambridge.

In Utah or Anywhere Else You Decide to Pursue Polygamy – Sister Wives

If you are a polygamist, how do you meet other polygamists? How do you find prospective sister wives? If you are a polygamous couple, how do you find additional sister wives? The answers to these questions lie with the Sister Wives website. We have activities and events at which you can meet other polygamists. Our website offers the opportunity for video chats, search options, matchmaking services, the viewing of profiles, and other fun ways to interact and chat. If you aren’t part of the Sister Wives community, you're missing out! Don't wait another minute to see what you're missing.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Even in America, ethical polyamory/polygamy and non-monogamy are gaining more acceptability and visibility. Along with this developing trend, more and more people are curious about polygamy weddings and how to go about putting one together.

As far as legality is concerned, there is some important information you should know regarding polyamorous or polygamous weddings. Unfortunately, for inspiration and guidance, there are very few resources. Here, we will briefly touch on a number of topics regarding polygamy weddings.

The Legality of a Polygamist Wedding

In America, in all 50 states, polygamy is illegal. These days, it isn't taken quite as seriously in Utah – but it is illegal throughout America, nonetheless. Even if you travel to a location in the world where polygamous marriages are legal, and somehow manage to marry all of your wives there, a legal marriage to each and every wife will not be recognized in America.

In many cases, in America, polygamists legally marry one wife. They then consider their other wives – or refer to them as – spiritual unions/mates. While "domestic relationships" with more than one person may be recognized in certain Massachusetts areas, legal marriage to more than one person still is not.

The Workings of a Polygamist Wedding

Most polygamists’ weddings, due to polygamy being illegal, have no legal backing but are, instead, "commitment ceremonies". No special privileges or rights are provided by these ceremonies, unlike legal civil unions or marriage. To "take the next step" in a relationship and formalize it, ceremonies such as these are, more or less, for the individuals involved in the relationship and their friends/relatives. It's a way to express their commitment.

Wedding Ideas for Polygamists

The wedding ideas for polygamists are, more or less, a mirror image of traditional, monogamous marriage ceremonies with minimal differences. Naturally, the person who will officiate the ceremony will have to be in agreement with the polygamist’s lifestyle. Additionally, anyone who is invited to the ceremony should be supportive.

Just like members of the LGBTQ+ community can have problems finding halls, officiants, cake makers, entertainment, etc. – once they've made it clear what type of relationship is going on – polygamists can run into the same problems.

It's up to the members of the relationship to decide whether or not they want to "come out" to the public and/or to the people/companies they need to work with in order to plan/go through with a polygamous wedding/ceremony.

Vows and Other Traditions

As with a traditional wedding, some polygamists choose to write their own vows. Each participant in the ceremony can recite a vow. There is also the option of a unity ceremony, in which all participants, more or less, recite the same vow together.

Any tradition that would ordinarily be observed at a standard, monogamous wedding can, for the most part, be incorporated into a polygamous ceremony. It all depends on the participants/guests, your venue, and more.

Before You Can Have a Wedding, You Need to Meet New People

Want to meet other polygamists and socialize more? Are you a sister wife looking for love, a man looking for sister wives, or an established couple looking for other sister wives? Regardless, the Sister Wives website is one you should visit soon.

We feature activities and events, chat and video chat opportunities, and search engines. We provide profiles, offer matchmaking services, and much more for today's polygamists. Interested? Contact us today to find out more. We have a convenient online form you can fill out and send in. We'll be in touch.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Currently, polygamy in the USA is illegal. One of the 50 states – Utah – has toyed with the idea of removing polygamy from the list of federal offenses. For whatever reason, after that idea was successfully pursued, it was reversed, somewhat. Polygamy is now considered an "infraction" in Utah – something like a speeding ticket. But if the federal polygamy law can be struck down, even temporarily, what does that say for the future of polygamy in America?

Times are changing. The rights of individuals who wish to pursue a polygamous relationship may one day be supported by the striking down of laws prohibiting this alternate lifestyle.

Polygamists in America

It is estimated that there are between 50,000 and 60,000 polygamists currently living in the United States. The fact that polygamy is against the law doesn't seem to discourage everyone. Are polygamists routinely prosecuted? No, not frequently. Does that mean you don't have to worry about being prosecuted as a polygamist? It does not. Caution and discretion both go a long way toward keeping you and your family safe and free from prosecution or persecution.

Remember that, not too long ago, gay marriage was also outlawed. That has changed where many states/cities are concerned. It is not without its challengers, of course. In many ways, the rights of heterosexual, monogamous United States citizens are seemingly more of a concern to politicians than are the rights of other citizens of America.

Politics aside, if you're going to be a polygamist in America, there are some things you should know.

Legal Versus Illegal – Technically

Because being married to more than one person is still illegal in America, some polygamous relationships describe their relationship in a manner that is more legally acceptable. While a polygamist may consider himself married to all four of his wives (we are just using the number four as an example), he would likely technically be legally married to just one and consider the other's spiritual mates/unions – or something along those lines.

Mixing Sexual Preferences

Group relationships can exist as well, but once again, legal marriage to more than one person in the relationship would not be possible in America. For example, certain couples might be legally married: wife/wife, husband/husband, husband/wife. They may make the decision to cohabit with another couple. In their minds, though not legally, they are all married to each other.

Surprisingly, the 2003 Supreme Court ruling "Lawrence Versus Texas," protects such arrangements (though marriage of all participants to each other is still not legally recognized). This ruling stated: "Liberty presumes an autonomy of self which incorporates the freedom of expression, belief, thought, and certain intimate conduct." Proponents of polygamy insist that this would be a perfect argument for the legalization of bigamy/polygamy.

Rules and Practices

Today, a polygamous relationship is defined as one husband and two or more women. There are also relationships that specify one woman/wife and numerous husbands. This is referred to as polyandry. As stated above, there are also group relationships that can consist of all women, all men, all heterosexuals, all homosexuals, bisexuals, transsexuals – you name it – or a mixture of any and all.

The rules and practices of a specific relationship – polygamy included – should be derived through discussion and consideration of all parties involved. What works for one group/family of polygamists may or may not work for a different group/family.

Coming Out

Although laws and some opinions have changed drastically in recent decades, some individuals with sexual preferences other than the accepted and/or traditional (in America) are still afraid to "come out". They keep their sexual preferences under wraps because they are fearful of persecution, prejudice, abuse, etc.

The same can be said for polygamists. In addition to being technically illegal, a polygamous lifestyle could, potentially, open the door to prejudice, abuse, and other types of persecution. It is 100% up to the people involved in the relationship whether or not they will "come out" as being involved in a polygamous relationship.

Are You a Polygamist Who Would like to Meet Other Polygamists?

At Sister Wives, any number of opportunities await you. You can find love – either as a sister wife or husband – and enjoy all the website has to offer. Utilize our search options, participate in chats and interactions with others, view profiles, put our dating service to good use, and more. Consider attending our activities and events to socialize with other polygamists. Contact us today to find out more.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc