First same-sex marriage on Herm is also first outdoors

It was also the island’s first outdoor marriage since the law changed earlier this year, so the couple enjoyed their ceremony on Shell Beach.

‘What’s really important is that wherever you are getting married, you are surrounded by people who are inclusive and compassionate to your wants and needs,’ Aletia said.

‘There have been parts where I have been worried about other people’s judgement, but I was really able to be very comfortable.’

The whole experience showed the island’s inclusivity, she added.

‘This is a place where we can be ourselves.

‘With the work Liberate have done, the future is looking pretty bright for the LGBTQ community, which really fills my heart with joy.’

Rebecca was shocked to find out they were having the first same-sex wedding on the island.

‘It was surprising – I can’t believe it was the first one,’ she said.

The couple chose Herm as it was one of the first places they visited in the Bailiwick, Rebecca added, and was glad that

passing strangers had applauded the couple.

‘Herm holds a special place in our hearts and it has sentimental value.’

Some traditional aspects were retained at the wedding, but they chose to both walk down the aisle with two family members each.

‘We were coming up against the heteronormative, traditional approach – we got to make our own rules,’ Aletia said.

‘We were really involved in crafting the whole ceremony.’

Despite a couple of minor setbacks, and Aletia’s new surname only appearing on the envelope, not the actual marriage certificate, they said the overall the experience had been one of positivity.

If the weather had been poor, they were told they were able to use the church.

‘It was really perfect and everyone was really happy,’ Aletia added.

Liberate chief executive officer Ellie Jones said it was great the Leongs had so much freedom on their wedding day.

‘Now you can let your imagination run wild.

‘The outpouring of love and support on the day was so overwhelming.’

She said this was a positive move for the Bailiwick.

‘I’m hoping we are starting to see changes.’

Instead of wedding gifts, the Leongs asked guests to donate to their chosen charities – Guernsey Mind, Youth Commission, Crisis, and Protecting Animals Without Shelter.