Gay couples register to tie the knot at city hall

Tuesday is the first day that gay couples can register to have their matrimonial ceremonies performed at city hall, beginning Dec. 9. Aaron Pickus with the mayor's office said that more than 55 requests had been made by noon.

Anticipating demand from couples who want to tie the knot, city hall will be open on Dec. 9 from Noon- 5 p.m. Eight local judges are volunteering to perform the ceremonies and two local stage designers are creating chapels.

Couples need to register to ensure they reserve a spot -- more information is available here.

Washington voters passed R-74 in the November general election; state law calls for 30 days after the vote to enact the referendum. Gov. Chris Gregoire had previously singed a bill approving same-sex marriage in February.