Two brides become first same-sex couple to marry in Melbourne
Two brides have made history by tying the knot in Melbourne’s first legally recognised same-sex marriage.
Amy and Elise McDonald said “I do” in the Carlton Gardens after receiving special permission after the new law took effect.
Elise said the new Mrs and Mrs McDonald were “so excited to continue” their journey together.
“And be recognised as wife and wife and carry on forward,” she said.
“And not have to ever question our relationship or have anyone else question it. It’s so beautiful.”
Engaged for a year, the couple spent the day preparing for what was meant to be a commitment ceremony.
But it became a wedding after the pair was granted permission to skip the one-month waiting period for couples.
Celebrant Maria Pilar Aguilera said it was a “ very emotional moment”.
“To be able to say marriage is the union between two people rather than husband and wife is so fabulous," she said.
“(It was) my honour, actually.”
They also got marriage certificates with the word “groom” erased.
The couple will celebrate long into the night before heading off on their honeymoon.
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In the future, they hope to tell their children about how their mothers helped make history.
“You don’t choose who you fall in love with,” Amy said.
“At the end of the day Elise was the perfect person.
“In the end, love wins.”
