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June is LGBTQ Pride Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by sharing these touching same-sex wedding photos.

At the end of the 20th century, gay weddings without legal recognition became more and more popular. The first nation, however, to provide a law for the marriage of same-sex people was the Netherlands (2001). 

This marked a turning point in public approval for marriage equality, and now, there’s at least one country for every continent to allow gay and lesbian weddings.

From lavish country weddings to quick visits to the city hall, these photographers have captured some of the most emotional gay marriage moments. Scroll down to enjoy images that prove love knows no boundaries, and vote for your favorite ones!

#1

Two grandmas in wheelchairs in a church

Corbis images Report

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Wezbie
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't understand who the F can feel the need to say something horrible about any of these. It doesn't directly affect you in any way. Anyone that has even been in love should understand that their love is exactly the same. I'm straight and married and I cannot imagine having to live with people telling me our love is wrong. Our love is no different than theirs. it is something so beautiful and no one should be made to fight for it in the first place.

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#2

Man crying while looking at other man

A Guy + A Girl Photography Report

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Simon Kwan
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a similar expression as I held back tears when I saw my wife walking towards me in her wedding dress. Love knows no bounds!

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Which Country First Legalized Same-Sex Marriage and When?

The honor of being the first country to legalize same-sex marriage goes to the Netherlands. In a landmark move, on April 1, 2001, the Netherlands made history by becoming the first nation in the world to grant same-sex couples the right to marry (via Pew Research Center).

This groundbreaking decision didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of years of advocacy, activism, and a shift in societal attitudes toward seeing LGBT weddings as something not only acceptable but also legitimate. The Dutch approach to marriage equality set a precedent for the rest of the world, inspiring a wave of change across various continents.

Since then, numerous countries have followed suit, recognizing the importance of equality and the right for all individuals to celebrate their love through marriage, regardless of gender.

RELATEDTired Of People Claiming That Gays Never Existed Until Now, Person Collects 31 Pics As Proof That They Did

#4

Two man dressed posing for a picture

Marisa Guzman-Aloia Report

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Smiley Rie
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hate to think how much these guys have gone through to get here. Glad they have though & hope it's all happiness & understanding from now

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Which Country Has More Recently Legalized Same-Sex Marriage?

The global movement for marriage equality continues as more countries are embracing the rights of same-sex couples. The most recent addition to this growing list is Nepal, where same-sex marriage was recognized on November 29, 2023, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia (via Pink News).

According to Time MagazineEstonia is set to join the ranks of countries legalizing same-sex marriage with the law scheduled to come into effect on January 1, 2024.

#7

Two man holding hands and jumping

Tiffany Arment Report

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Sparkwater
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They're having fun, and that looks cool. I'm glad that they're happy.

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In How Many Countries Same-Sex Marriage Is Legal?

With the addition of Estonia in 2024, a total of 36 countries legalized same-sex marriage across the world (via EqualDex). Europe leads the way with 20 countries—the Netherlands, Spain, and Belgium among the early adopters—setting a precedent for others to follow. Across the Atlantic, the Americas have seen 11 countries legalize same-sex marriage.

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In Asia and Oceania, things are moving forward too. Now, there are four countries where same-sex marriage is a yes! Australia and New Zealand in Oceania have been joined by Taiwan, an Asian leader for LGBTQ+ rights, and most recently by Nepal, marking a significant step for the region.

Africa, more conservative on this front, still has South Africa as the sole nation on the continent to legalize same-sex marriage. South Africa was also the first country in the world to safeguard sexual orientation as a human right in its Constitution—it happened in 1996, following the end of the apartheid.

RELATED: Bride’s Dad Refuses To Walk Her Down The Aisle At Her Same-Sex Wedding, So Her Boss Walks Her Instead

#14

Two happy woman hugging and smiling

Amanda Summerlin Report

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Kerri Russ
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These are the ones that hit me most... the ones you KNOW have waited their entire lives to be able to formalize their union like everyone else. How many unaccepting family member and friends did they lose along the way only to finally have this satisfaction? LOVE this picture!

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#20

Two men holding decorations while looking at each other

Clane Gessel Report

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Mae_Day_All_Day
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To the groom (to the groom), to the bride (to the bride) from you sister Angelicaaa who is always by your side... (sorry I had to)

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#22

Two older woman holding hands and looking each other in the eyes

Leah Moyers Photography Report

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Kerri Russ
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So sweet... with their kids looking on... that little guy looks like he's just waiting for the one on the left to smile or cry.

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#24

Two happy woman posing for a picture

Tony Gambino Photography Report

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scorpesh
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your bonded hands are more visible than the blurred certificate

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#37

Two men kissing

Sarah Olivier Report

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Merty Robinson
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is Brighton-I used to live near here, great place to live, and great choice for a wedding photo.

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#38

Multiple happy people on a lawn in the middle of the wedding

Zofia Photo Report

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Cheryl Troutt
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yippee, I am married to the man of my dreams. I couldn't get any happier today!

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#51

Two happy men holding hands

Chrisman Studios Report

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Sergio Bicerra Descalzi
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Getting married and sharing a beer in the middle of the ceremony, how cool is that!

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#53

Three men in underwear looking at two happy woman hugging

Del Sol Photography Report

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Kerri Russ
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This picture is so freaking fantastic. It makes me wonder if they knew these guys and planned it or if it just happened. Is that a bra on the stick? Great photo!

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#64

Two happy woman standing near a pastor

Same Sex Wedding Photographers Report

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#69

Two women kissing

Erica Camille Report

#80

Two women kissing in bed

The Melideos Report

#86

Two men holding hands

Magic Art Wedding Studio Report

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Cheryl Troutt
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm in Hawaii, getting married to a wonderful man. My life now starts a wonderful new journey through the years of love with you.

#88

Two women looking at each other

Erica Camille Report

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Ry
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The girl on the right looks like a younger version of Missy from Doctor Who!

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#104

Two women hugging

Erica Camille Productions Report

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Crystal Pruitt
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The raw emotion displayed on her face is one of the reasons I still have hope for humanity. It's truly beautiful.

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#114

Two men hugging and smiling

Amanda Summerlin Report

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Nicole
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It must be love, love, love Nothing more, nothing less Love is the best

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#124

One woman kissing other woman's hand

Chrisman Studios Report

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Clarissa Funk
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

her face... so touching. can't imagine what most of these ppl must have gone through to live their lives how they want

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#130

Two woman holding hands in a beach near a pastor

Love and Water Photography Report

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Adriana Rosales
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is such an awesome shot. It's a hs friend of mine playing her ukelele at her moms' wedding 🤗😍

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#149

Two women holding hands and laughing

Steph Grant Photography Report

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#151

Two men looking at each other

George Street Photo and Video Report

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Fi-Dunc Wood
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Can't imagine what you had to go through to get there. Congratulations ❤️

#153

Two men holding hands and looking at each other near a ship

Makayla Jade Photography Report

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#167

Two women looking at each other and holding hands

Del Sol Photography Report

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#172

Two men holding hands on stage

Clane Gessel Report

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Janet Crompton
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So much joy and happiness wishing you all the best in your new married life x

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We hope these beautiful same-sex marriage pictures have touched your heart as much as they did ours. Now, it’s your turn to spread the love! Share your thoughts and upvote the gay and lesbian wedding photos that made you smile the most. We invite you to keep the conversation kind and full of positivity, celebrating love in all its forms!