Can same-sex couples marry in California?

We are sad to say, at this time the answer is No. An amendment to the state constitution overrides a state Supreme Court ruling in May that legalized same-sex marriages. The Los Angeles County Registrar's Office has stopped issuing same-sex marriage licenses after the passage of a ballot measure to eliminate the right of gay couples to marry. The agency said it would act accordingly if it is directed to reverse course or take further action in the future. We will continue to fight to overturn this discrimination. Meanwhile, we encourage you to join with your loved one in our beautiful Commitment ceremony to symbolize your love for each other. Call or email us today to reserve your special day!

What do we have to do to marry in California?

As of November 5, 2008 all same-sex marriages are suspended until further notice. When we overturn this amendment,  here is what needs to be done. First you need to get a marriage license from the office of the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk of any California county. You can get a license application from most counties’ websites and complete it in advance, or complete it in the county clerk’s office. Both of you must go together to the county office and present a government-issued picture ID and proof that you are over 18 years old. (If either or both is younger than 18, different procedures apply.) You’ll need to pay the license fee, which varies by county but generally is less than $100. The license will be valid for 90 days and your marriage can be performed anywhere in California. Neither a blood test nor a health certificate is required. Call ahead or visit the county’s website to learn the hours and locations of the county offices that issue licenses.

Who can marry us?

In California, clergy members, active and retired judges and court commissioners, and the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners of Civil Marriages are authorized to perform legal marriages.
Due to many clergy and others not being accepting of gay marriage, it will be difficult to find the right person to perform your ceremony. Please do not be discouraged. Rev. Ogannes at Gay Marriage Ceremony Services welcomes you with open arms. We are the Exclusive Commitment Ceremony Services for the LGBT community in California and the city of Los Angeles. Contact us today at RevOgannes@aol.com to book your commitment ceremony date. "We are excitied to be a part of your Special Day!"


What do I say, when writing my own Vows?

So you thought it'd be great to write your own vows, but now a healthy dose of writer's block (not to mention fear of embarrassing yourself) has hit you squarely on the head. Don't know how to transform your heavy, life-altering, feelings into a string of coherent words? You're not alone -- but don't worry, your goal is within reach. Just take it one word at a time to make your words just perfect. "Say what's in your heart, and the rest will follow".


The following statements can be used for creating your own personalized commitment vows:  

 I affirm the special bond and unique relationship that exists between us, and promise to keep it always alive.

 I promise to love you, comfort and encourage you, be open and honest with you, and stay with you as long as we both shall live.

 I promise before all these witnesses to be with you, loving and faithful till death do us part.

 I promise to love, respect and honor you, sharing your plans and interests, ideals and emotions, through all the trials and tribulations of life, as well as the joyous times, caring for you in lifelong commitment.

 I promise to be your confidante, always ready to share your hopes, dreams and secrets.


Note: Rev. Ogannes is an non-denominational Ordained Minister and engourages you to use your own beliefs and faiths and incorporate that into what you feel and want to say as your vows. We are all one and love knows no religion.

Following are some of our favorite resources for Gay friendly products, destinations and more:

www.GayRites.net
www.affairnet.com 
www.californiaofficiants.com
www.topweddingsites.com 
www.laokay.com 
www.at-la.com 
www.palmspringsgay.org GAY PALM SPRINGS  
www.gay-destinations.com GAY DESTINATIONS 
www.san-francisco-gay.com  GAY SAN FRANCISCO 
www.keywestgay.com   GAY KEY WEST