HRC's Wedding Registry is a unique opportunity for couples to encourage loved ones to make a donation in honor of their wedding or commitment ceremony. This is a great way to celebrate their special day, but also a great way to support HRC's work.

Each donation made in honor of a couple's wedding or commitment ceremony will be recognized with a personalized acknowledgment to the couple, as a symbol of their family and friends' love and celebration of their union, as well as a recognition of your commitment to equality.

Set up your HRC Wedding Registry profile and share your story to help advance our work. It takes less than 5 minutes! Each couple gets their own page with their personal story and photo. Loved ones can donate to HRC in their honor and help us move toward the day when all people can marry, no matter who they love.

If you would like to make a contribution on behalf of a couple not on HRC's Wedding Registry or for marriage equality for all couples, please click here. To view couples who have already celebrated their commitment on HRC's Wedding Registry, please visit the archives.

If you know the wedding date of the couple, please use the following shortcuts to navigate the wedding registry:
May 2012; June 2012; July 2012; August 2012; September 2012; October 2012; November 2012; December 2012; 2013; 2014
 

For questions or to add your ceremony to HRC's wedding registry, please send your name and ceremony date to Weddings@hrc.org.

Joanne and Daniel
May 5, 2012

Joanne and Daniel say, "We met being huge nerds! We both participated in National Novel Writing Month, a challenge where the goal is to write 50,000 words in a month. We have meet-ups to write, to talk about writing, and to procrastinate on our writing. We met at one of these meet-ups, but we didn't really get started talking until we played political catchphrase bingo at the vice-presidential debates in 2008, where we looked over each other's bingo cards." Joanne continues, "Neither of us won, but he kept my hands warm that night!"

Joanne and Daniel both love presents, but they both highly value the work that organizations like the Human Rights Campaign does for LGBT community and allies around the country. They say, "It would mean so much to us that our special day could help make the world a better place for LGBT people and allies like us!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Tracy and Andrew
May 5, 2012

Tracy and Andrew say, "We met in Ann Arbor, Michigan, brought together by mutual friends and a love of music. We are so blessed to celebrate our love and commitment surrounded by our family and friends."

"We believe all people should have the right to marry the person they love. A donation to HRC on our behalf is a gift to support and promote the freedom of choice in marriage."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Sallee and Andrea
May 5, 2012

Sallee and Andrea say, "When we met online, we were both just looking for new friends. As soon as we met in person, it was love at first sight! The moment our hands touched, the rest of the world melted away and it was just the two of us. We could have both easily said we loved each other 5 minutes after we met. We can honestly say that for the first time in our lives we are truly in love."

"It didn't take long to know that we wanted to share in a lifetime commitment together. Less than a year later we are ecstatic about the opportunity to express our love among our friends and family at our wedding May 5, 2012."

Sallee and Andrea say, "We are looking forward to Marriage Equality in California. To have our marriage solidified in our home state—legally—is our goal!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Tiffany and David
May 5, 2012

Tiffany and David say, "We are happy to have found each other and so excited to celebrate with our family and friends in Solvang, California. We look forward to the day when the right to marry is granted to everyone. A donation to HRC on our behalf is a gift to support a cause that is near and dear to our hearts."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Mindy and Andrea
May 5, 2012

Mindy and Andrea say, "We met through mutual friends and over the years, we saw each other at music shows, hurricane parties and the grocery store. One thing lead to another and here we are!"

"We are so excited about our commitment, and while it’s not "legal", it is still very much real. A donation to HRC is a step toward marriage equality for us, and millions in our LGBT community."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Matthew and Catherine
May 6, 2012

Matthew and Catherine say, "We met in Los Angeles, May 4th 2008 and we are very much in love."

"We believe it is wrong that same sex couples are denied the rights we are about to enjoy. In lieu of gifts, we ask that our friends and family help us right this wrong by donating to HRC."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Gregory and Kent
May 12, 2012

Gregory and Kent say, "'How Lucky Are We'-in our modern era, we are an on-line dating success story. Meeting first for an ice cream date that lasted 2 hours... we have never looked back since that day, 5 1/2 years ago. We are very fortunate to have loving and supportive families and friends that can share our wedding celebration with us."

"We are very fortunate to live in Washington, DC, a very welcoming and affirming community. Thanks to the efforts of HRC and local leaders, we are able to legally marry where we reside. However, there is so much more work to be done in teaching tolerance, and advancing equal rights for all people, in all communities. A contribution to HRC, supports our "family values" of inclusion and equality."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Elizabeth and Stephen
May 19, 2012

Stephen and Liz met during their first year of graduate school in San Francisco. They quickly became friends, and that developed into a deeper relationship. After many fun and loving years together, Stephen first asked Liz if she would marry him after dinner at their apartment one night, and she said yes. Stephen asked again in a romantic glade on a backpacking trip in Yosemite National Park, complete with poetry. Not scared of Stephen's camping grime or bears, Liz said yes again!

Liz says, "Stephen and I strongly feel that everyone should have the same opportunities to share in the community support that we will receive from being married in the presence of friends and family. We know that no matter our legal status, we and other couples would maintain the same level of commitment to each other, but we feel that there is something special about being married! We feel that having separate but equal legal designations just doesn't cut it."

"We hope that you can join with us to support a brighter, more equal future by donating to HRC in honor of our wedding, in support of people who do not yet get to share in the same joy that we do."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Sara and Larson
June 2, 2012

Sara and Larson met in Helena, Montana in June of 2009, where they played on the same pub trivia team. Sara is a public health professional from North Carolina and Larson, an economist, hails from New Mexico. They currently live in Denver, Colorado.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jodie and Linda
June 2, 2012

Jodie says, "Linda and I met through some friends and family of ours. We had known each other for quite some time and we were talking through numerous text messages for about four years before we officially united. We officially became a couple in December of 2006. We have been together for five years and I am so grateful to have her in my life. She is definitely a blessing and a true love."

Jodie and Linda say, "We would like our friends and family to donate to the HRC on our behalf because we are active members and supporters of the HRC."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

John and Amanda
June 2, 2012

John and Amanda say, "We met in high school way back in the year 2000. We live in Seattle, WA where we love to spend time outdoors and take in the great art and music scene in our city."

"We've waited a long time to get married ourselves and we'd like it if our marriage could do a little bit to reduce the wait for our friends and family that can't yet legally get married."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Laura and Deanna
June 2, 2012

Laura says, "We first met at Pride in June of 2008. I was instantly smitten with Deanna and her big smile and wanted to have a first date with her. She lost my number, and it was 6 months before we crossed paths again and got to go on that first date. We both knew right away there was going to be a second date, and the rest is history. We're crazy in love and we're really excited about our wedding day."

Together they say, "Our friends and family love and support us, and we couldn't be more thankful for that. We hope that they all will become advocates for our civil rights as well. HRC is essential in that fight, and a donation in our name is admirable and appreciated."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Leah and Lisa
June 8, 2012

Lisa and Leah met in 2007, in a fingerspelling class at a community college as part of an American Sign Language Interpreting Program. They began talking and hanging out after class but it wasn't until after the summer, that they spent apart that they really began their friendship. Lisa and Leah spent so much time on myspace and texting.

In November of that year, Leah had a party for her birthday and Lisa came with a friend. They had a great time hanging out so much so that Leah didn't want Lisa to leave. Sadly, the friend Lisa came with had to go and so Lisa left as well.

A great opportunity arose a week and a half later when it was Lisa's birthday! An attempt was made to have a great get together but in the end, it was just the two of them. That night was their first date. They've been through a great deal of life to get where they are today. But Leah & Lisa are stronger and closer than ever and are ready to take on the world together!

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jimmy and Elizabeth
June 9, 2012

Jimmy and Elizabeth started dating over the summer preceding their junior year at Davidson College. They decided to begin their relationship right before studying abroad in Denmark and Bolivia, respectively. Over the next seven years, they have lived in various cities, flown multiple airlines back and forth, and expressed thankfulness that long-distance charges no longer apply to cell phones. Despite their independence and their appreciation for the time alone for their graduate studies in law/public policy and religion, they are both elated that the long-distance will end next summer when they are married. Jimmy aptly proposed when they were on vacation in Florida, and they will be tying in the travel and long-distance relationship theme for the ceremony and reception in Ohio (the Birthplace of Aviation) on June 9, 2012.

We are honored and humbled by the opportunity to start our own family and we wish to extend only a fraction of the support we have received to other families who face more daunting challenges. As we are blessed to be married next June, we recognize that not all people have that opportunity. We would ask for donations to the Human Rights Campaign's efforts to support marriage and relationship recognition for same-sex couples.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Nathan and William
June 9, 2012

Nathan says, "William is a local librarian and I'm a full-timer at Target. We both love to read, watch movies and blog. There's always something to be blogging about. We met late one night at a dance club. We both didn't expect to find "the one" at such a grungy place but having that in common got us through the gate and into dating."

"Without the efforts of the HRC, we wouldn't be able to formally commit our lives to each other in a legal, meaningful ceremony in front of our loved ones."

Nathan and William say "our wedding site tells more about us!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Stephen and Raul
June 9, 2012

Raul and Stephen met on the marching band practice field 20 years ago! Sharing their lives and their passion for color guard, the couple has truly grown up together. Raised by loving families, Raul and Stephen now count many amazing friends amongst their loved ones. Of course, their world would not be complete without their two cats, Phineas and Thaddeus.

Stephen and Raul say, "Simply put, we want everyone to have the same freedoms and rights. We know, love, and support many people. In supporting HRC, you can do the same."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Susan and Brian
June 9, 2012

Susan and Brian say, "We're grateful for the love we share, and for the ways our family, friends, and associates support our life together. We hope to see the benefits associated with legal marriage made available to all couples, regardless of orientation."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Tara and Michelle
June 12, 2012

They say, "We met on the sidewalk while watching the 2010 DC Capital Pride Parade. A few days later, texts and email threads turned into daylong events. It was quite obvious to both of us pretty much from the beginning that we had stumbled upon something quite special. During many of those initial conversations, we were finishing each other's sentences. And within a month, the word soul mate was dropped to a friend or two. Neither of us could stop beaming from ear to ear in each other's presence."

They say they would like their friends and family to donate in their honor to the HRC because, "We would like to see further gains made in the fight for LGBT equality. We understand that monetary resources are necessary to effectively make those gains. Thus, we hope that our friends and family will show their support of our love by helping achieve a more equitable future for us and others."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Liam and Chad
June 16, 2012

Liam and Chad met thru mutual friends in Indianapolis, IN. They are hopeful for a day when all people will be able to marry in every state, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Rachel and Leslie
June 16, 2012

Leslie and Rachel met like your traditional same-sex couple: in New Testament class at seminary. Six years, two states, two cats, and 6 collective jobs later, they're still together and excited to make it legally binding.

They say, "We are so grateful to live in the state of New York where we can now get married legally. Thank you HRC for helping that happen! Please help support them in honor of our exciting day."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.


 

Cody and Thomas
June 16, 2012

Thomas was new in town, and was surrounded by a group of people. Cody introduced himself and after a few minutes of conversation, he left Thomas and sat down at the bar. Sitting five seats away, Cody sent Thomas a Facebook message.

"Hey, it was nice to meet you... " began the message. Now, two years later, the couple still continues the thread of that first message when they have something special to tell one another, such as "Happy Anniversary!"

The couple had their first date at Wasabi on Dickson Street, where the couple bonded over the movie "Steel Magnolias" an allusion that will make an appearance in their wedding as the bleeding armadillo groom's cake.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Giuseppe and Chris
June 16, 2012

Giuseppe and Chris say, "we met on St Patrick's Day. Chris had the kindest and the warmest smile a man could ever wish to see. Giuseppe caught Chris's eye and ear. We talked together for most of the evening ignoring the rest of the party. Then, Giuseppe offered to help Chris with his business (such a confusing message) and two months later we had a real date. Our first date was a view of the city lights and conversation until late in the evening. Now, we are taking the journey of life together, a team and a partnership, in love."

"We want all people who choose to love and create a life together to be treated equally, as we all should be. A donation for the sake of equality is a donation that is a great gift to us. All other gifts shall be promptly donated to the Loch Ness Monster."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Lizz and Erik
June 17, 2012

Lizz and Erik met at Carthage College, where they both work. They first spoke at a get-together in the library and afterwards Erik sent Lizz (and her co-worker) a cartoon on pi to test the waters. She responded favorably.

A week later they reconnected at Lizz's Family Fun Night that the Math Club was helping to host. Lizz thought Erik was really good with the kids and they bonded while coloring maps. A few comics sent Lizz's way and a bunch of IMing later, they finally started talking in real life. Lizz and Erik say, "love blossomed over beers and 18th century navigation techniques."

"We believe strongly in justice for all. Marriage equality is a huge part of civil rights for all people. We are blessed with so much already and would like for our friends and family to donate to help others. This is a cause we feel very passionately about; please help support it. Thank you!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Julianne and Matthew
June 23, 2012

Julianne says, "Our first date was on January 23, 2009. Matthew was a techie for Miami University, and I was an undergraduate at the University of Cincinnati. We decided to get married on the 23rd of June because that number seems to keep springing up for us. We even got engaged on the 23rd of April without even realizing.

"As a part of the bisexual community, it's very important to me to use my wedding as an opportunity to help everyone still out there who can't get married. If I had fallen for a girl as deeply as I fell for Matthew, I wouldn't have this choice. I wouldn't be able to express what I feel for him with my family and friends by having a wedding ceremony. I would be forced to remain a second class citizen with my partner somewhere in the shadows because of a legalized intolerance. It is not right that even now, after all that we have accomplished towards an equal standard for our community, society is still holding back countless loving couples from sharing a life together under the guise of some warped religious morality. One day, we will all have the right to marry whomever we love. But until that day, we must continue to recognize intolerance for what it is, and share in each other's struggle for a more unified future."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Samantha and Michael
June 23, 2012

Samantha and Michael say, "We feel like we're already the luckiest people in the world for having found each other. To help us celebrate our new lives together, we're hoping you can take a minute and read about our favorite charities and if possible make a donation. This is a great excuse for us to try to make the world a slightly better place. Thanks for helping to make this event even more amazing for us."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Carolyn and Ryan
June 23, 2012

East coast natives, Ryan and Carolyn met in Colorado and quickly bonded over their love of the outdoors, Ultimate Frisbee and good beer. They look forward to toasting to all those things, love and happiness with friends and family in Boulder this June.

They say, "We believe all loving couples should have the opportunity and right to get married. It's that simple."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Ronald and Timothy
June 23, 2012

Ronald and Timothy say, "We have been a couple for 31 years and live in New York City. We met through Timothy's last girlfriend, and Ron's last boyfriend, who worked together at the same firm. They used to complain to each other about their difficult partners--the two of us. We each became curious about this other person who sounded so much like ourselves. When we finally met, we recognized a soul mate, and the rest is history. We are both life and professional partners in our interior design practice of Wagner Van Dam."

"We are interior designers and avid collectors, and we didn't feel we needed a lot of wedding gifts, as if we were just starting a life together. We thought that because HRC fights for basic human rights and for marriage equality, and we have won that right here in New York State, that it would be appropriate to celebrate our marriage through donations to HRC. We hope that one day our union will be recognized at a federal level."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Liz and Slava
June 24, 2012

Liz says, "Slava and I have many friends in the LGBT community. I am proud and happy that Massachusetts presently supports legal same-sex marriage, but it is still not federally recognized, nor is it legal in all states."

"Legally recognized marriage is an important civil right, and deserves support. Without federal recognition, same sex couples do not have equal access to legal rights, including basic couple things like next-of-kin recognition, health insurance, social security benefits, pensions, etc."

"We thank you for considering a gift that will help others."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Greg and Stephen
June 28, 2012

Greg and Stephen say, "We met 14 years ago at G Lounge in New York during Happy Hour and have built a life together. We are delighted to finally be officially married."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Andy and John
June 30, 2012

"Many states do not recognize same sex marriages. The laws are discriminatory and unfair. How can you discriminate against love? It’s so rare to find, and when it happens we all need to fight for its survival," say Andy and John.

Andy continues, "John is an 8 year veteran of the military. He fought for our country and now he needs you to fight for us. He continues to put himself out there to protect others as a law enforcement officer. I am an educator for a salon chain and now I am trying to educate people I come in contact with about how unjust our country is to the LGBT community. John and I have each other, but that could be taken away from either of us in the blink of an eye."

"Our rights as Americans are in jeopardy. We would have no say if something happened to one of us and we couldn’t respond for ourselves. We would have no right to any benefits if one of us should pass away. Part of marriage is to be able to take care of and protect the ones you love and for that to be recognized in a legal fashion is the greatest gift HRC could give us. Our gift to future generations could be that they do not have to ever know what it was like for people to not accept them for who they are. Please consider donating to a cause we both feel very strongly about. Help HRC help people like us to have the same freedoms as everyone else. Thank you and God Bless!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jennifer and Gregory
June 30, 2012

In Minneapolis during winter 2008, Gregory created a snow castle sculpture for Jennifer shortly after they met and she often surprised him with fresh flowers. Four years later, they continue to be inspired by one another every single day and look forward to a wedding day shared with those nearest and dearest and to all the days which follow.

The issue of marriage equality is of great importance to both Gregory and Jennifer. They say, "certainly we feel it is more important than the stemware or bath towels we have registered for. It is a human rights issue and standing by silently in the face of oppression is not something we would consider."

"If this issue is of importance to you, too, we invite guests to donate to this incredibly important cause in lieu of a gift."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Scharli and Alicia
July 1, 2012

Scharli and Alicia met while working as photographers at a studio. Alicia was four months pregnant at the time and had moved to Boise to be closer to family. Scharli was a nomad of sorts, and had just planned to land in Boise for a short time. They would spend every day together at work and quickly became close friends. They started dating and in the fall of 2011 became engaged. Now they have a healthy growing little boy and a wonderful life together. They are having their commitment ceremony on July 1, 2012. They are excited to show all their friends and family the lifelong commitment that they are making to one another. They are very excited to see where the road will be taking them next, and admire how the road got them to where they are now.

"Marriage equality is something that greatly affects our family. A donation to HRC will help make families like ours, just like yours."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

TJ and Jeff
July 7, 2012

TJ and Jeff want to share the day with their friends and family that "we are in love and want to celebrate like every other straight couple can in America." TJ Says, "the first day I met Jeff, I told my good friend April that Jeff is the one I am going to marry, and really it's about to come true! Any donations would mean so much to us both. Thank you for your time."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Eleanor and Hayden
July 7, 2012

Hayden and Eleanor both deeply believe that the right to marry is a fundamental one that belongs to all people, regardless of sexual orientation.

Together they say, "It causes us great pain to know that as we celebrate and exercise our right to the security and benefits of a legal marriage that that right is denied to so many people across our country and throughout the world. It would give us great pleasure for part of our wedding celebration to benefit an organization that works tirelessly to fight for equal rights and marriage equality."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Misty and Alexis
July 12, 2012

Misty and Alexis met on April 18, 2009, but have known each other since December of 2008. They started off as friends and were actually scared to meet as they knew that their forever would take place. So, Misty and Alexis decided to meet in Laughlin (they drove from 2 separate states because they met on-line). From the moment Misty saw Alexis, she knew she touched her soul.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Danielle and Dana
July 14, 2012

At the time, Dana was finishing his PhD. at UIUCI, which meant there were a lot of long four hour drives that semester, but they managed to fall in love despite the distance. Danielle moved back home to work and before long they were making a life together. Danielle and Dana adopted Jersey, their Springer Spaniel, in the fall of 2008, and moved into a bigger place. They were both able to get great, local jobs, and were happy to be surrounded by lots of friends and family!

Danielle says, "As a member of the LGBT community, I had never really given much thought to being legally married until my medical bills started to rack up. Dana and I started to plan a wedding for next summer, knowing that we didn't need a piece of paper to declare what we already knew, but understanding the realities of this economy and our dreams for a future house and children. Unfortunately, I was recently told I had a lump in my breast that needed to be removed, sooner rather than later. I don't have health insurance and it was going to be a very expensive procedure. After discussing the options with friends and family, Dana and I decided to bump up our marriage in time to be able to have health insurance for the surgery.

This drives home one of the many reasons why the LGBT community should have marriage equality. We are lucky to be able to make the choice to be recognized under the law, so we would like for our loved ones to make a donation to further the efforts for equality in the United States of this most important universal human right. We feel it makes for a great beginning to a marriage of equality, love and justice."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jared and Kathleen
July 14, 2012

Friends for more than ten years before beginning their romantic life together, Jared and Kathleen met in their freshman year of High School. Together they say, "Now, having been in love for nearly 7 years, we're looking forward to the future, and continuing to spend our lives together."

"We do not take for granted the rights we have to legally marry, and we long to live in a world where all of our friends, family, and fellow humans may marry whomever they choose."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Michele and Beth
July 14, 2012

In the fall of 2011, Beth and Michele met when they joined Voices of Kentuckiana, a GALA chorus. Having common frames of references and experiences of serving in the US Navy, they became friends. During the Holiday concerts in December, they saw a different side to each other and began dating shortly after the beginning of the year.

Since then they've been inseparable, both knowing they had finally found their soul mate. July 14th will be a ceremony to commit themselves to each other in the presence of family and friends. They are making a trip to Washington DC to be legally married on June 11th.

Both Beth and Michele believe that every person has a right to freely love the person they have chosen. They also believe that no person should not be allowed to marry and receive the same protections afforded those who are allowed to marry now.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Dan and Harold
July 21, 2012

Dan says, "Harold and I met on Match.com in February 2011. I was living in Connecticut and working near Wall St. Harold is a High School Music teacher on Long Island. We spent every weekend together and ironically I ended up getting a new job on Long Island. So we moved in and are now living happily together with our 2 cats. Our families have never seen either of us happier and they say 'when you know it's right, you know it's right'. Well, it's right!"

Dan volunteered with HRC during the New York State vote. He says, "HRC was the one organization that laid the grassroots groundwork to get the law passed. It was HRC that enabled us the freedom to marry."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Suzanne and Steven
July 21, 2012

Suzanne and Steven met in DC in 2010 and are excited to be getting married in July.

They say, "we're thrilled to get married, and we want everyone to have the chance to marry the person they love. Massachusetts has decided to stand for equality, but the nationwide fight isn't won yet."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Keith and Erin
July 28, 2012

Keith and Erin say, "We met while working for an emergency home repair organization in Kentucky. It took a little while, but we eventually began dating, moved to the Washington, D.C. area, and got engaged last July."

"We are incredibly excited to have our commitment to each other recognized by our friends, family, and government, but too many people are denied this right. We encourage our guests to donate to HRC with the hope that someday all couples will be able to similarly have their love and commitment fully recognized."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Alexa and Karin
August 4, 2012

Karin and Alexa met nearly six years ago in San Diego. After dating on and off for 5+ years, Alexa proposed to Karin while on vacation in Key West, Fl. (Karin was completely surprised).

Alexa is an attorney at a corporate law firm and Karin works in the medical research field. Despite their serious jobs, they can both be goofy and silly (one of the things Alexa loves the most about Karin is that she laughs at her jokes and they have so much fun together).

They are each other's best friends and are looking forward to spending the rest of their lives together.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Kurt and Shaun
August 4, 2012

Kurt and Shaun say, "We are excited to marry in our home city of San Francisco on August 4, 2012. Even though we will be legal "domestic partners”, at this point the California government will not recognize our marriage. Please consider helping us change that by making a donation for marriage equality."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Anna and Nick
August 4, 2012

Anna and Nick say, "We met at Country Kitchen. Seriously. Which is where we plan on having the reception. (Not seriously.)"

Anna continues, "I was a freshman at Mizzou, and Nick was a junior. I was new to my group of friends, most of whom had gone to high school together. I had already attended several awesome Country Kitchen study sessions, so I felt like I was becoming part of the group. Nick showed up one night, and I thought, "Hmm, who is this attractive man, most likely between the ages of 19-21, whom I have not yet seen?"

Their first date was at Anna’s dorm dining hall. She says she choked on her food and milk came out of her nose, but other than that, it was a pretty good first date.

Together they say, "Marriage equality is so important to us. Love is love." Anna says, "I have never understood how someone can argue love. Or be against love. It is completely contradictory to say that you love all people, but yet you have a problem with someone loving another person. The bottom line is: It is love. No questions to be asked. No answers needed. It's love. Period. It really is that simple."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jessica and Casey
August 11, 2012

Jessica and Casey, "We met and fell in love over Match.com. The rest is....HISTORY!!!! Being a straight couple we are both incredible supporters of marriage equality. We feel that all loving, committed couples should be able to enjoy the rights and privileges that most couples maintain. Our love and devotion to one another is NO different than any other couple!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.









 

Santana and Ashley
August 12, 2012

Santana and Ashley say, "We met online in a lesbian chat room on June 30th, 2010 and we hit it off great! We learned a lot about each other and it was almost as if it was love at first text."

Ashley says, "Santana was so sweet and cute. I just knew she was my whole world. Now, she is my entire life and I can't wait to marry her and have a family."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

David and Tim
September 8, 2012

David and Tim say, "Both being veterinarians in New York City, we met as co-workers in the summer of 2006 while being given a tour of our future work place. After opening day, we quickly developed a close friendship and soon realized that we were meant to spend our lives together. We are bound together by our shared faith, and love of family, friends, pets and work. Although we knew we could go to a nearby state and be married, it was important for us to be married in the state we call home. So we hoped, waited, and prayed (and donated!) for New York to pass a marriage equality law. After watching our legislature vote live on television, we began planning our wedding. We are so proud that New York State will give us the same legal protections, rights and responsibilities it gives different-sex spouses."

They say, "We are conscious of how blessed we are in many ways, but especially in material terms. It would mean so much to us for you make a gift to further the cause of marriage equality across the USA. All families deserve equal protection under the law. Besides, we live in a New York City apartment and do not have room for anything else!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Janine and Zaak
September 8, 2012

Janine and Zaak say, "We met at college orientation in the Fall of 2003, and have been best friends and madly in love ever since." Zaak is the Paul Simon to Janine's Art Garfunkel; the Goose to her Maverick; the Dionne Davenport to her Cher Horowitz; the Clyde to her Bonnie, without the messy crime stuff. Together they say, "We can't imagine life without each other, and we feel that now is as good a time as any to make it official in the eyes of the law."

"We could go into a long story about how we know so many same-sex couples whose relationships are just as beautiful and worthy of celebration as ours, or how hurt we are by the injustices plaguing LGBT communities at home and around the world. But really, it's quite simple: While we understand that marriage isn't for every couple and means different things to different people, it is an opportunity that should be provided to every couple regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, or gender identity. To deny people this fundamental right just doesn't make any sense."

"We have already built our ideal life together over the past decade, and are lucky to have everything we could ever want or need. LGBT issues hit very close to home for both of us, and we have always been fervent supports of marriage equality and equal rights. We feel that a donation to HRC is the perfect symbol of what has always bound us and will continue to bind us for life: Love."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jill and Dima
September 15, 2012

Jill and Dima say, "A home is a place of love, peace, and security, where we can be ourselves and find support from the people around us.
 
As we celebrate our marriage and establish our home together, we wish that all people may feel at home in this country; experiencing and celebrating their love without fear of harassment or oppression.
 
We wish to live in a place where we can all define our partnerships, marriages, and families in our own way; where people can embrace their personal beliefs and views, even as they stand to defend the ability of others to be different."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Andrea and Luz
September 15, 2012

Andrea and Luz met on match.com and they are very excited to have their friends and family honor their wedding through the HRC Wedding Registry.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Sarah and Allison
September 15, 2012

Sarah says, "Allie and I met in the land of opportunity, better known as okcupid.com. After a magical first date, a year apart, and an equally magical second first date, we've become the macaroni to each other's freakin' gouda cheese. We currently live on the second story of an old farmhouse just outside of Chicago, where we sing songs, bake cupcakes, play 'You've Got Mail' on loop, and live happily ever after."

"We would like our friends and family to donate to the HRC in our honor because we have enough stuff already! We're also excited at the prospect of turning the love and excitement of our big day into a big day for another LGBT couple somewhere out there."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

George and Michael
September 19, 2012

Together, George and Michael say, "After 15 years together we were married in Central Park with close friends and family. Thank you for your support through the years!"

George and Michael ask their friends and family to donate to the HRC, "To help others and the next generations of gay and lesbian couples be treated fairly and equitably with the same respect as all other individuals."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Amanda and Gregory
September 29, 2012

Amanda and Greg met in the fall of 2004 at NYU, from where they both graduated, and have been engaged since 2008. Amanda, who grew up mainly outside Louisville, Kentucky, is a writer in the communications department of an animal-rights non-profit. Greg, who grew up on Long Island, is a PhD candidate in mathematics. They live in Jersey City with their two cats, Dracula and Dorian Gray, and enjoy science fiction novels, spicy vegan cuisine, winning 50% of the time when playing video games, and fantastical movies.

Their commitment ceremony will take place the day before their 8th anniversary: September 29, 2012, in Riverton, New Jersey. They can't wait!

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Jimmy and Travis
September 29, 2012

Trav is a critical care nurse in the ICU at the largest hospital in our region, and Jimmy is a consultant to non-profit organizations and an RYT-200 yoga instructor. They say, "we met in a yoga class, began dating, and fell in love doing the things we like most in the outdoor playground that is our home state of Vermont." Jimmy proposed to Trav in March of this year while out back country skiing.

"We are interested in supporting marriage equality efforts nationwide because we are lucky to live in Vermont where equality is already recognized. We recognize how fortunate we are and in the spirit of gratitude we want to continue to advocate for equality elsewhere. We are supporting the HRC as well as critical equality efforts regionally in New Hampshire and Maine."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.





 

Ginger and Julie
October 6, 2012

Ginger says, "Julie and I met in 2006 in a very awkward and unfairytale-like way. It just wasn't in the cards for us to be together then. A few months went by and we ran into each other again. Something that started as hanging out and watching movies turned into something beautiful. I am so thankful and blessed to have met the person that I know was meant for only me (it sure took long enough). We plan to have a small ceremony next year. Guess that's when we will find out who truly supports us. I look forward to starting this chapter in my life and enjoying the journey. This is the chance for our Happy Ever After."

"We hope people will make donations to HRC because there has to be an end to all the hate in this world. Love is love. It doesn't have a color, an age limit, a sex. It's just love because it is. Not everyone, we included, has the luxury of being able to have a "normal" wedding. We are going to have a small ceremony in a state where it is not legal, and then go to another state to get the paperwork taken care of. I know it will be worth it when I say "I Do" to my best friend. I look forward to a day when marriage between any two people who love each other is accepted. Help us in this fight. Thank you!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Brandon and Graetel
October 12, 2012

Brandon tells the two different versions of meeting Graetel. Here they are:

The LONG version-

"I was working at the Minnesota Zoo and part-time at Recreational Equipment Inc. when I first met Graetel. With a name like that, how could I not make fun of her? After bothering her for quite a bit, we ended up going our separate ways for work. She just, however, could not resist my rugged good looks and charm and we soon started building a great life in Madison, Wisconsin."

The SHORT version: "I met Graetel. She fell madly in love with me. I win."

Together, Brandon and Graetel say, "we feel that everyone should have an equal opportunity to have what we have. We have many friends who aren't able to have this and we think that is unfair to them. Love is love no matter the sex of the people involved."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Ashley and Lichelle
October 13, 2012

Ashley and Lichelle met in 2007 through a mutual friend. They always knew there was something more than just a friendship between them, but they did not start dating until November 2009. Ashley and Lichelle immediately fell in love with each other and at a Halloween party on October 30, 2010, Ashley proposed to Lichelle in front of all of their closest friends. "We have never been more happy than we are right now and can't wait to spend the rest of our lives together."

"We would like people to donate to HRC because we believe that marriage is an equal right. Everyone, regardless of gender, has the right to marry the person that they love. Happiness is something that everyone deserves, no matter what race, gender or sexual orientation. Hopefully, by donations and support, marriage will be an equal right for everyone."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Krysta and Sean
October 13, 2012

Sean and Krysta have been friends since they were 11 years old. Their friendship through childhood developed into an amazing love as adults.

A wedding is an exciting time for any couple and it saddens Sean and Krysta that so many people are denied this same joy. Love and commitment should be respected by all and legal rights shouldn’t be determined by what gender one loves.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Alisha and Amy
October 13, 2012

Alisha and Amy say, "We met on a dating site called OkCupid in September 2009. After a few weeks of talking online, we realized it was time to finally meet in person. We met at a theme park in Southern Indiana and hit it off immediately. A week later, we were officially a couple."

"In 2011, we moved into a house together and got engaged. Our families and friends have been very supportive and welcoming of us. Many have already offered to help with our wedding ceremony. We created a page dedicated to our wedding planning and updates: http://www.squidoo.com/holdin-outdoor-wedding."

"We have both worked very hard locally to support our LGBT community. Donating to HRC in our name would be a great way for family and friends to show their support for us and our efforts."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Katrina and Kenneth
October 13, 2012

Katrina and Kenneth, "We met where we work, at New Seasons Market. One of the values that drew us to this company was its acceptance and support of a diverse workforce. The friendships we have cultivated in this vibrant community and throughout our lives have given us immense joy, strength, and love."

"We are super excited to be getting married, and we recognize that many of our good friends cannot share this basic human right. In lieu of a wedding gift, we would love a donation of any amount to be made to this compassionate organization. Thank you!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Matt and Tisa
October 21, 2012

Tisa says, "Matt and I met on OKCupid. Yes really! Apparently he had already seen my page at a friend’s house when I came upon his. I wasn't looking for romance, just networking. When I sort of stumbled upon his page I was humored by his response to one of the questions. He answered "thinking of things to write in these about me essays", when coincidentally I has written "Dodging about me essays" under a similar question. So I wrote him (even though we are 39% enemy) and we hit it off from there. We have so many awesome things in common and love just hanging out. He's my best friend. A marriage is only the beginning and we are so excited!"

They say, "We believe in the right to legally share in wedded bliss with whomever you love, regardless of sexual orientation or identification. We support equal human rights."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Pete and Eric
November, 11, 2012

Pete says, "Eric and I met over 4 years ago at an HRC meeting. I had some major health issues that bonded us as a couple. What started out as a friendship quickly developed into a romantic relationship. We are a true HRC couple that love and adore life and the pursuit of equality and happiness."

He continues, "Eric and I believe in the mission and focus of the organization. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. The Human Rights Campaign is the largest on the ground LGBT civil rights organization in the country. Working to educate, uplift, lobby and empower others.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Andrea and Stas
November, 11, 2012

Andrea says, "When I walked into a bar and saw that tall drink of vodka sipping on a beer, I knew I was in trouble. One look from Stas and I knew I would be canceling the other dates I had that week. We've been inseparable since that first date. OkCupid.com brought us together, and love will keep us together forever."

"We love cuddling with books and our kitties, indulging in yummy food and laughing at trash TV. I can't picture my life without Stas or the goofy songs he sings to me. I am blessed to not only find, but to marry the man of my dreams."

"Had we met only decades ago, laws against interracial marriage would have kept us from marrying. That battle has been won, but the war for marriage equality continues. Stas and I share many core values and equality is our top passion (besides each other). While we are thrilled to be marrying each other, we are conscious of the reality that the rights and benefits of marriage are not given equally. It is our desire that our marriage help others in their fight for equality."

"While we love presents, we would love even more for there to be marriage equality. Please donate to the HRC."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Donald and Michael
November, 17, 2012

Donald and Michael say, "We met in May 2007 using an Internet dating site, as everyone does these days. By the time of our ceremony we will have been together over 5 wonderful years, and officially married just over one year. We obtained our official Marriage License from the state of New York in August of 2011. The irony of our union is that our commitment is recognized, in some form, by all the surrounding states, except our home state of Pennsylvania. It is for this reason we ask for your help and support in bring marriage equality to the state of Pennsylvania."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Edwin and Eric
December 6, 2012

Edwin and Eric met during a night on the town--they want to ensure all couples can celebrate their love and commitment so they have set-up a wedding registry to support HRC's work for LGBT equality.

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Anthony and Dominick
December 28, 2012

Anthony and Dominick say, "We were two lonely, disenchanted men looking for love in all the wrong places. We were sitting in a gay bar (imagine that!) and it was love at first sight! And, it hasn't stopped since."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Elnora and Jackie
February 14, 2013

Elnora says, "Jackie and I met 8 years go online. I was attending college and she was working a lot. We had no time for parties and outings, so occasionally we would meet up online to chat and get back to what we were doing."

Together they say, "We would like people to donate because there's a lot more to giving than receiving."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Caroline and Josh
March 23, 2013

Josh and Caroline first met at Unity Center of Columbia when they were each about to go their separate ways: Josh to the United Arab Emirates on a two year teaching contract and Caroline to South Africa to study law for the summer. Spirit brought them together again when Caroline returned from her semester abroad and Josh decided to stay in Missouri to teach.

They share a love of the woods, community service, and travel. They are blessed with the love and support of friends and families.

Together, Josh and Caroline say, "We believe that everyone has the right to celebrate and affirm their love in marriage, enjoying guaranteed civil rights and protection."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Louis and Christopher
March 24, 2013

Louis and Christopher say, "We met through a cell phone chat site called HOOKT and have been together for close to 5 years now. We have settled now in a small community near Albany, NY and are thrilled that we can we can finally legally exchange vows without having to travel out of state."

"The Human Rights Campaign has been the leader in the fight for marriage equality and other human rights throughout New York. Giving them a charitable donation can help countless couples, gay, straight and questioning, whose human rights are being trampled on daily by government and big business."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Juana and Sonia
June 22, 2013

Juana says, "I've been in love with Sonia since I was very young and our families have known each other forever. Fate brought us together again last year and it has been a blessing ever since."

They say they want friends and family to donate in their honor, "for so many reasons but mainly because we have fought long and hard for this day and your donation will help so many others."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Thomas and Frank
July 20, 2013

Thomas says, "Frank and I have been together for 10 years and have been waiting for the law to change in NY for our marriage. We are very happy to celebrate our commitment on Long Island. We met in a gay campground in Pennsylvania and dated for 6 months during which time we fell in love. Frank was 6 months out of a 13 year gay relationship and I was 6 months out of a 21 year straight relationship with 2 grown kids. My son had been living with us for 7 years as part of our family. He is loved by both of us.

My daughter lives in Illinois with her boyfriend. Both children as well as Frank's and my family support us in our relationship."

They say, "HRC is a very focused organization and provides an invaluable service to the LGBT community across the US."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Alison and Ashton
February 14, 2014

"Words can't describe the love that we have for each other," says Alison. "How it grows more each and every day--I'm so lucky to have found my soul mate. She is the partner I can't survive without. We met at a nightclub on the beach two years ago, and have been together since. I wish I could tell a romantic story of that evening, but let's just say- it's not the beginning of the story, but it’s about the ending."

"We fell in love as we got to know each other and it only keeps taking off. We have a great home together now and a family of two bulldogs! Ashton proposed to me that first year after we watched a Christmas parade. We both felt at that moment that we wanted to be together forever and it hasn't changed. Even though we already live together as a married couple in our hearts, we would like to somehow establish it formally. Being residents of Florida, we understand that even if we travel somewhere else to do it, that it won't be recognized when we come home. So, at that, we are being patient and waiting in hopes that marriage rights will come closer to us. Until then, we will still be together and remain just as happy."

They say, "We already have the truest gift of all by finding each other. Celebrate us and our love by helping give to the cause that works for rights that we are patiently waiting to receive. We have faith that we will have that chance. We know that by waiting, we will have the perfect ceremony. In the mean time, support the leading organization that can help make it happen for us."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Shelby and Crystel
May 17, 2014

Shelby says, "Crystel and I met through a mutual friend. I had just come out of a relationship and was not taking it well. Then, Crystel came into my life. We started seeing each other and neither one of us wanted anything serious nor did we want to be in a relationship. Obviously, when you continue spending time with someone, the feelings start to grow and it blossomed into three years of dating. We moved in together after knowing each other for a month or so. She is the most wonderful, understanding person I have ever met in my life. We have both been through a lot in our lives so we know how it feels to have been used and heartbroken. We also made a statement when we decided to make it official; that neither one of us need each other, we want each other. She is the best and I wouldn't ask for anyone else. We just recently got engaged and we are planning to have our Commitment Ceremony on May 17, 2014. I'm so grateful for meeting her and having her in my life. Every day I continue to fall in love with her more and more, over and over!"

"I think the cause is way more important to get across than a wedding gift. I hope to spread the word, and have family and friends donate to HRC. Every couple benefits from these donations, not just gay couples. Equal rights for everyone!"

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.

Susan and Victoria
November 1, 2014

Susan says, "Vicky and I will celebrate our 25th anniversary together and we hope by this date we can legally be married. Even though Vicky and I feel we truly are married in every sense of the word, until it is truly legal in the entire USA we will not be married."

They say, "We have spent incredible years, and have gone through all the trials and tribulations that all couples who marry go through. Our greatest happiness would be the fact that we could be openly and legally married. We thank our families and friends who have supported us all these years."

Susan continues, "I plan on spending my entire life with Vicky and we both look forward to a wedding celebration some day with all or friends and families."

To read more or make a donation on their behalf, please click here.