Now on the Hallmark aisle: Gay marriage cards

Associated Press - August 21, 2008 9:23 AM ET

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - Most states don't recognize gay marriage -- but now, Hallmark does.

The nation's largest greeting card company is rolling out same-sex wedding cards that include images of 2 tuxedos, overlapping hearts or intertwined flowers.

One card says, "Two hearts. One promise."

The language inside the cards make no mention of wedding or marriage, so they're also suitable for a commitment ceremony.

Hallmark, which starting offering "coming out" cards last year, says it's responding to consumer demand. Its largest competitor, American Greetings, has no plans to enter the market, saying its current offerings are general enough to cover many different relationships.

Hallmark added the cards after California joined Massachusetts as the only U.S. states with legal gay marriage. Other states have started recognizing same-sex civil unions.