09/09/2026
I’ve shared this a couple times over the years. And even though I’m “semi-retired” from performing weddings, this decision still makes me happy!
The only thing that has changed is the number of years:
“Fourteen years ago today I performed my first same-sex marriage.
When I got the call, I was hesitant - not because of any personal phobia, but because I still wasn’t sure that marriage, originally defined by the church, could be “changed”. I was very supportive of civil unions, mandatory benefits, etc., but I was still a little hung up on “marriage”.
But, at the end of the day, it was the law, so I agreed to perform the wedding at my office. Honestly, I’m not sure who was more nervous, the couple or me. I struggled with the wording, asking them before I began to “please forgive me if I say something wrong”, admitting that they were my first.
The couple, and their moms who were with them, said that it was “perfect”, and they were very grateful, but I still wasn’t sure.
I performed a few more, with my confidence growing each time, but, it was not until almost a year later, when I was asked to perform a wedding for an “older” couple, that everything changed.
When I arrived at the park they were both crying. My first thought was “this isn’t good”, but when I asked if they were okay, their response was “we’ve been together for 30 years and we never thought this day would happen”.
That, my friends, was my moment...
I knew at that very moment that this was a good thing. All doubts were gone.
I’ve performed many same-sex weddings since, and look forward to performing many more. Love is love. People have the inherent need - and right - to be happy. If I can help, I will.”
Happy Anniversary Jon & Christopher!
