Makers behind Barbie considering same-sex wedding set inspired by uncles’ gift
An engaged same-sex couple’s gift for their 8-year-old niece has inspired Mattel, the makers of Barbie, to consider expanding their collection.
Matt Jacobi and Nick Caprio are getting married in Scottsdale, Ariz., next year, “Good Morning America” reported Friday.
{mosads}”We have a wonderful, loving and caring Italian family,” Jacobi said. “Everyone is so excited for our big day, especially my two nieces. They have been talking about our wedding all year long and have been raised to understand and only know that love is love.”
The couple wanted to present their niece, Natalie, with a special gift at her recent birthday, so they custom designed their own “Gay Wedding Set.”
“Like any good Uncle — or #Guncle — would do,” Jacobi said. “I went out to look for a meaningful birthday present. She loves Barbies, playing with her dolls, just like any other kid. In honor of our upcoming wedding, I wanted to give her something related to the wedding but also something she would enjoy.”
Jacobi said there are available Barbie sets that include two flower girls and a cake, but pointed out that they only feature heterosexual bride and groom dolls.
He posted a picture of his creation on Instagram and tagged Mattel, which has made Barbie dolls since 1959.
A Mattel spokesperson told the morning show that the company reached out to Jacobi and Caprio to set up a meeting with the head of the Barbie design team.
“Mattel has been wonderful and we are meeting with the head of Barbie design, their design team and marketing — either next Friday or the first week of January,” Jacobi said. “Just sorting out travel details and schedules. We are so grateful.”
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