Here are some pictures from our ceremony in San Francisco’s City Hall last week. We didn’t think to hire a photographer, though in retrospect that would have been a good idea. These are from my own and my aunt’s cameras. I don’t have the pictures from the others yet.
The judge conducted the ceremony in the vestibule beyond the top of the grand staircase where the bust of Harvey Milk is displayed. It was a very emotional experience for me, which I didn’t expect. I thought I’d never be allowed to marry. Fuad later told me, “I never dreamed when I left [insert socially conservative middle-eastern country here] that thirteen years later I’d be able to get married!”
We said our vows and placed the rings on each others fingers, then after the judge said, “I now pronounce you spouse and spouse,” I started to cry. Briefly. Then we kissed. I felt a bit self-conscious, kissing the Hairy Arab in front of my family, boss and co-workers, but at lunch afterward they all said it was perfect.
To top it off, the people in the office had a surprise party for me yesterday. Karen even sent me a nice message:
I’m glad you allowed yourself to be emotional and fully experience the joy of the momentous occasion. It touched my heart to much to hear your talk about how happy you are. I’m glad you got to get married!
I was rather speechless when I read this. Yes, it was joyous, I am left to wonder why some people are hellbent on destroying that joy.
The morning after, I took my aunt to the airport then we set out for San Simeon for the long weekend (I’ll let you know when the pictures of Hearst Castle are up).
Finally, thanks to ALL of you for the flowers, cards, well-wishes (is that a word?) and support.
O-H M-Y G-O-D.
There are no words to express how I feel. The two most handsome faces I know in their happiest expressions ever. Judging by the few pics of Fuad you posted before, I’ve always said he’s got a peaceful and friendly expression on his face. This time he’s more radiant than ever. If I were to describe your faces here in one word, I’d say “love”. In all its shades and colors. Moved, centered, happy, radiant, everything. And the place itself – the most symbolic one. It does add a new dimension to the whole event. No wonder the judge herself looks happy, too. The atmosphere must have been exceptional, indeed.
Actually, the entry about your exchange with Karen about gay marriage was one of the first ones that I read here. Given this context, it’s great to hear she’s so supportive now. I’m absolutely sure that, just by being such good and lovable men, you and Fuad are going to convince countless armies of people that gay marriage is a beautiful thing. Which is what I wish you with all my heart.
what beautiful pictures of you guys. and as benji pointed out, the expressions on your faces say it all: this is love.
your comment about being taken aback by your emotions is interesting, because it’s exactly how i felt when bruce and i were married. i wasn’t expecting to become overwhlemed, or cry, but i did. to be able to actually marry the man i love, in front of our friends and family with all their love and support, was a truly beautiful thing.
again, our best to you both.
You are both so handsome in your suits… Randy and I are doing a casual wedding because it would be a pain to take suits to Palm Springs in our luggage… but you both looked picture perfect! Hmmm… maybe we should rent Tux’s?
awww! That was beautiful. Seems to be my week for tears. I’m so happy for you. *big bear hugs*
Thanks guys!
Benji:
Fuad is always very calm and peaceful. I wish I could be that way. I still have to learn to not let mean people bother me.
Stephen:
I’m glad I wasn’t the only one!
Matthew:
Suits were Fuad’s idea. I was going to do the casual thing too. Unfortunately, I ended up spending way too much money on my outfit, but I’m only getting married once!
I don’t blame you for not bringing suits. It was kind of a pain just putting the thing on then keeping track of the jacket.
Y’all are so cute. My wish for the two of you is health, happiness and lot’s o’ love! Best wishes to you both.
You two are just beaming in these pictures. It actually brought a tear to my eye to see you two being so happy.
I’m a regular reader (lurking mostly). I love your blog. I don’t think I’ve commented before, but after seeing your pics I had to say congratulations. I have to admit, I got a little emotional seeing the pictures. I’m so happy for you both.
Great pictures! The look of love. Once again, Congratulations!
Ooops, forgot to blur the judge’s face! Thanks for mentioning her, Benji, I just took care of that.
Sublime happiness to you both- it made me cry with joy to see you receive what you so justly deserve. You both look absolutely smashing in the suits-right move.
It is so nice to see the happy expressions of you and Fuad in those pictures! Congratulation again!
“salt and pepper” pic is cuter than the cutest cuteness. so touching… *sniff*… many, many, many happy years to you guys.
hi rob
congrats on your historic wedding. your entry is inspiring.
best,
OM
Congrats!!!!!!!
Hi Rob,
I’ve been reading your blog for quite a while now.. It brings tears (tears of joy) to my eyes from reading this. Congratulations!
Thanks everyone, it was a happy day!