Erie man legally weds in Canada

Because of concerns about US Immigration, we are respecting the couple's request to withhold the surnames of Canadians.

Bernie Bright and his life partner Rick exchanged vows on October 18 at Toronto City Hall in Toronto, Ontario. The vows they exchanged were similar to those used in heterosexual weddings, with the term "lawfully wedded spouse" replacing words like "husband" and "wife." The Justice of the Peace ended the ceremony by stating "I now present to you Bernie and Rick, their love shared before all of you and now recognized legally."

Legal weddings require two witnesses. Bernie and Rick's wedding was witnessed by Rick's mother, Laurine; Bernie's sister-in-law, Laura, and Rick's best friend, Richard. Both of their families attended the ceremony with full support.

The couple exchanged plain simple black and silver wedding bands. White rose boutonnieres and corsages were worn by the couple and witnesses. Attendees were asked to dress as they wished. Most wore suits, jackets and ties.

A reception party was held at Zelda's Restaurant on Church Street. Following the reception, family photos were taken in the Peace Garden at Toronto City Hall.

Bernie is a U.S. citizen from the Erie area, and Rick is a Canadian citizen living in Toronto. Bernie plans to reside in Toronto when his immigration process is completed. The couple's immigration lawyer has explained that that process will take about a year.