The LGBTQ community has had a lot to celebrate the past weeks. When SCOTUS decided in favor of liberty and love, same-sex couples were finally allowed to not only get married, but also have their marriages recognized in all 50 states. Texas is a very conservative state and went out of its way a decade ago, to add an amendment to its state constitution to define  marriage as between one man and one woman. With that amendment now void in the wake of the Supreme Court decision, couples are now free to have weddings without the expense and inconvenience of traveling to another state!

To celebrate this historic moment, Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church in Houston held a mass wedding ceremony they dubbed Texas’ Big Legal Wedding. The event was was held on July 5th and was open to any couple, whether LGBTQ or straight, wishing to get married or renew their vows. When I walked into the church my jaw dropped! It was gorgeous! Tech AVE had decorated the church with billowing white drapery, rainbow lighting behind the choir and even a crystal chandelier. Vases with richly colored gladiolas were donated by a parishioner and added an organic touch. It was a beautiful set up for the more than three dozen couples that participated in the ceremony.

The pews were packed with family, friends and supporters, while the aisles overflowed with news crews from all around Houston. Everyone was welcomed with open arms. Some couples came as they were, some were dressed to the nines, with one bride in a beautiful satin wedding gown. There was even a couple in matching hawaiian shirts! The ceremony began with Reverand Troy Treash announcing each couple’s names as they made their way down the aisle. A few of the couples were even accompanied down the aisle by their children! Once everyone was announced and had found their spot at the front, the congregation, led by the choir, sang Chapel of Love. It was a very joyous rendition full of smiles!

After a few readings and songs, it was time for the vows. The Reverand asked the couples to repeat after him, and the echo of these couples (some who had been waiting for decades to say vows to each other in front of their family and friends) filled the church. Vows were followed by an exchange of rings and FINALLY Reverand Treash said… “By the power vested in me by the state of Texas, I now pronounce you legally married!” There was an outburst of cheers and clapping from the congregation as all the couples shared a kiss and held each other tight.

Couples lined up to have their marriage licenses signed and to greet their families and supporters. Reporters made their way around the church interviewing couples for the evening news, and families took advantage of the gorgeous decor, posing for photos to remember the day by. There was even a wedding cake and drinks being served!

There is still a frustrating road ahead for the LGBTQ community. Many states still allow discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, leaving this group vulnerable to mistreatment, but at least for now they are a step closer to being treated equally in the eyes of the state.

Ceremony Venue – Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church

Decor – TechAVE

Cake Designer – BabyCakes