Gwyneth Paltrow and ex-husband and Cold Play singer raised quite a few eyebrows when they announced their decision to consciously uncouple. Paltrow announced their intentions to opt out of traditional terminology, such as child custody lawyers and uncontested divorce, in favor of markedly civil proceedings. Now sources suggest that the star couple are inspiring divorcees all over the U.S.
What is Consciously Uncoupling? What Happened At Paltrow and Martin’s Uncoupling Ceremony?
Paltrow and Martin took advantage of uncoupling facilitators instead of child custody attorneys. The couple, however, did not stop at using different phrasing. The famous couple went all-out, even inviting friends and families to a ceremony marking the end of their marriage. “[Paltrow] will wear a custom uncoupled pantsuit by Stella McCartney… It’ll be white. There will be an acoustic number by Chris, with the kids singing backup,” The Huffington Post reported shortly before the ceremony. Throughout their split, Paltrow and Martin were very open about prioritizing their children and proceeding in ways that made the split and changes easiest on them.
Are Americans Following Suit?
When Paltrow and Martin first announced their decision, Americans were skeptical at best. NPR heralded the decision as unique and creative. Others, however, questioned the impact on the couple’s children — and some even suggested that the duo was looking down on traditional divorce. Now, however, couples are embracing the idea — and even going so far as to host their own divorce parties, complete with divorce cakes. “”Event planners, bakers, lawyers and academics note the rise of ‘divorce parties’ over the last several years, many with cakes featuring weapon-wielding brides or gloomy black frosting on inverted tiers,” ABC News said.
As it turns out, slight alternatives to traditional divorces — such as consciously uncoupling — may actually catch on. More Americans are referring to child custody lawyers with more neutral terms and enlisting bakers for divorce cakes.