''I think for me, I feel like we've been married spiritually a long time. But to have the state recognize the marriage, it just feels really important.... To have an end to the discrimination that I think has been perpetrated is what it really means.''

Christopher Dye who married his partner of 13 years, Daniel Szpak, at the County Administration Center in San Diego, CA. (SignOnSanDiego.com)

“There are about a thousand things left out of domestic partnerships,” Bearman said. “A lot of issues aren't covered.... This is something I have to do to protect myself and my life partner. It's not to upset people or their beliefs. I know it will be hard for people to accept at first, but I hope people will see its not going to hurt them.... If it does get taken away, at least we could say we did it, and in our hearts we'd still be married.''

Terry Bearman who married his partner of 22 years, Michael Crampton, at the Santa Barbara County building in Lompoc. (The Lompoc Record)

''Marriage is a confirmation of the importance of love and commitment in a healthy society.... It is a fundamental right to which all people are entitled and I am proud that I can officiate the eternal unions of these Oakland couples.''

Oakland, CA Mayor Ronald Dellums, officiating over wedding ceremonies along with U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, at City Hall. [NBC 11 video] (The Daily Voice)

''We want that piece of paper.... We want to be be able to say, 'Yes, we legally did it. Yes, we are legally recognized.''

Jenifer Terrazas who married Kristin Maddox at the Sacramento County clerk's office. (KCRA 3 News)

''This is the most meaningful day of my life. I've always wanted to get married.... I just never thought it'd be possible.''

Lia Shigemura who married Helen Zia, both of Oakland, at the San Francisco City Hall. (News Channel 8)

''Today really is a good day for citizens of San Diego who are part of the LGBT community and their friends and family.... We appreciate the support of people who understand what this is really about.... The constitution is about rights for all citizens. We too want to have life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and we promise to take it seriously.''

San Diego Councilwoman Toni Atkins, who is gay. (Fox 6)