The First Legal Gay Wedding in England: Phil & James

Infinity Photographic

May 17, 2014

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29th March 2014 was a good day in England, because same sex marriage finally became completely legal! While gay couples have been able to become civil partners for a few years now, it’s crazy to think that until two months ago they didn’t have the exact same rights as heterosexual couples.

So, with an amazing development in human rights taking place, hundreds of same sex couples rushed to say “I do” as soon as they could. One of the first was Phil and James, who were married at 8am in Brighton & Hove Town Hall.

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“Our wedding was unique in the sense that it was the first LEGAL same-sex wedding at Brighton & Hove Town Hall and was attended by Madam Mayor Cllr Denise Cobb who presented us with the Brighton & Hove Crest in the form of cufflinks and a pin-badge”, they explained. “From the ceremony we went on drive around Brighton making as much noise and celebration as we could before pulling up at the front of Brighton Pier where we were greeted by a FLASHMOB doing their rendition of Kool & The Gang’s Celebration! And of course, we had to join in as did our guests and members of the public.”

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“Our ceremony was broadcast live on BBC Radio 5 Live, we have appeared all over the press and media and have gone global about the wedding. Yes its a big moment for all LGBT couples in Britain but everyone (media) have just gone wild for us!”

After their landmark ceremony, they headed to the Basement Club, at the Legends Hotel for one hell of a party! “There wasn’t any particular thing that stood out on the day”, they continued. “We LOVED EVERYTHING ! Honestly, we couldn’t have asked for a better day it was perfect. The theme was originally ‘Spring by the Sea’ which was reflected in the wedding cake but as for clothing, décor etc it ended up being more pink and rainbow with a hint of Spring!”

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“There is nothing we would have done differently for the day. It really was PERFECT! The only advice we would give brides and grooms-to-be would be… be yourselves, make it your day and above all else ENJOY your day as it’s all about you!”

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