South Africa is the first African country to approve such unions

Uwe Koetter Jewellers in Cape Town says it will present the "handcrafted and designed wedding bands" at the couples' wedding ceremony in person.

New legislation takes effect from Friday, allowing same-sex couples to get married. The law was changed following a court ruling last year.

South Africa becomes the first African country where gay people can wed.

Cashing in

"In order to qualify... we need documents that prove where the venue is and who is officiating. We will present the bands in person at the wedding ceremony itself," said head jewellery designer Johan Louw, South African Press Association reports.

You will see two miniature brides or two little grooms on the wedding cake Willie Williams Sheraton media spokesperson To wed or not? Gay marriage around the globe

Other businesses are hoping to make money in the rush for so-called "pink weddings".

The Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria says it is going to offer tailor-made wedding services to same-sex couples and has employed its own on-site gay wedding co-ordinator to liaise with same-sex fiances.

"Obviously there will be a few things that will be different from your so-called traditional weddings," the Sheraton's media spokesperson Willie Williams told The Star newspaper.

"You will see two miniature brides or two little grooms on the wedding cake, and that kind of thing," he said.

The law was approved by MPs two weeks ago despite objections from religious groups and traditional leaders.

The Constitutional Court ruled last year that the existing laws discriminated against homosexuals.

The ruling was based on the constitution, which was the first in the world specifically to outlaw discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation.

This is unusual in Africa where homosexuality is largely taboo - notably in its neighbour Zimbabwe.

Are you planning to marry under the new Civil Union Act when into comes into law on Friday? Use the form below to let us know if you want to share your experiences.

The BBC may edit your comments and not all emails will be published. Your comments may be published on any BBC media worldwide.