Nicole Pries, left, and Lindsey Oliver hold up their marriage license as they celebrate being one of the first same-sex couples in Virginia to be married outside a Richmond court building in Richmond, Va., Monday, Oct. 6, 2014. The Supreme Court's order turning way appeals from five states seeking to prohibit same-sex marriage has triggered a series of moves in affected states to clear the way for gay and lesbian unions. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
October 06, 2014 - 11:34 AM
RICHMOND, Va. - Just hours after the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way by turning away several appeals, gay couples have started marrying in Virginia.
Thirty-year-old Lindsey Oliver and 42-year-old Nicole Pries received the first same-sex marriage license issued from the Richmond Circuit Court Clerk's office shortly after 1 p.m. Monday.
Upon leaving the courthouse, they were married by gay-rights advocate The Rev. Robin Gorsline.
The couple said Monday also was the anniversary of a commitment ceremony they held on a North Carolina beach three years ago.
Earlier Monday, the Supreme Court unexpectedly and tersely turned away appeals from five states, including Virginia, seeking to prohibit gay and lesbian unions.
Oliver said shortly after her wedding that she believes gay marriage will soon be legal throughout the country.
News from © The Associated Press, 2014