On the 19th March 2014, same-sex marriage was legalised in England and Wales. But for those in a civil partnership, converting their union to a marriage wasn’t legally possible until today. The wheels of State turn ever so slowly and I think someone forgot to order the right stamp. Liam and I got hitched in 2008. We treated it like our wedding and splashed out on a once in a lifetime full production number with our nearest and dearest. Everyone had a splendid time (naturally, the free bar helped). Here’s a few snaps of that momentous day.
Legally, we were civil partners, something that sounded like a firm of solicitors. But whatever the Law said, we always thought of ourselves as married. Now mind and state have converged. Today, on the first day possible, Liam made an honest man of me and me of him by legally converting our union at Norwich Register Office. We didn’t bang a gong beforehand or make a big song and dance out of it. There were no generous presents, smart suits, free-flowing bubbly or tearful speeches; just the same old shoes and an impromptu meal with a couple of old muckers. We’ve already had the big day. There’s no need to do that all over again. That would be greedy. We weren’t the very first to convert. Two other north folk of Norfolk beat us to the chequered flag. But a bronze medal suits us just fine.
I’ve always been out but now I’m really proud.
Warmest congratulations!! 😄👏💗😄👏💗
Thank you very much.
Oh wow. Didn’t even realise that had happened in the UK today but massive congratulations to you both on becoming married. Like you said, ‘civil partnership,’ is a bit legal sounding. And can’t believe you were only bronze medal winners!! Is that old age slowing you down. 😉 Congrats again. 🙂
Julia and Barry xxx
Thank you both. We were pipped at the post by one couple in King’s Lynn of all places! Gay people in the Fens? Whatever next? 😀
Fabulous news. All the best to you both for your continued future together.
Thank you, Lindsay. Much appreciated.
Imaginary confetti being thrown at the screen – Congratulations.
Thanks, Annie. Ian brought some penis-shaped confetti – I kid you not!
Brought a tear to my eye. Congrats you two, long may it endure.
You sentimental old fool! 😀 See ya Sunday!
Congratulations!!!!
Thank you 😀
Congratulations. Roses are nice, as is wine, but I spied behind them and ooh, you have a lovely kitchen. <3
It looks better than it is! 😉
Looks good from here. 🙂
nice one, guys – be happy!
Ta very much. I’m happy to say that happy is my middle name (and my real middle name confused the hell out of the registrar, but that’s another story!).
Looks like it was an awesome day! Good stuff!!
Thank you! 😀
Delighted to hear the system has caught up with equality and humanity. Lovely jubbly …..and bubbly.
The bubbly was particularly delicious!