Empire State Building Hosts First Same-Sex Weddings

The Empire State Building played host to its first same-sex weddings this Valentine’s Day, offering breathtaking views to two gay couples.

Weddings are a perfectly usual event at the towering landmark, yet the marriage of Stephanie Figarelle, 29, and Lela McArthur, 24, will go down in history as the first same-sex union there. The couple’s wedding was scheduled before those of three other couples, including another same-sex ceremony.

All four couples were winners of a contest on Facebook. For weeks, fans voted on planning details, and the lucky victors had their dream day laid out by celebrity event planner Colin Cowie. Facebook users decided on the tiniest of details, including floral arrangements, the reception menu, and the color scheme.

All couples received wedding rings from DeBeers, hair and makeup by Estee Lauder, a two-night stay at some of New York’s poshest digs, and gowns from Kleinfeld. They were also treated to a celebrity photographer, and one of the couples will win $100,000 in a follow-up vote.

Although the ceremonies themselves were conducted on the 61st floor, photos were snapped on the famous 86th floor observation deck.

According to Huff Post Weddings, Figarelle wore a black tuxedo, while McArthur dazzled in a strapless white gown. They were followed by New Yorkers Phil Fung and Shawn Klein, who wore matching suits and ties for their ceremony.

Same-sex marriage became legal in the Empire State last year. Figarelle and McArthur both travelled to New York from Alaska to get hitched – the pair told press they hope their home state will one day legalize gay marriage.