Gay couple makes a statement by exchanging vows in China

China does not recognise same-sex marriage, but that didn’t stop a gay couple in Beijing from exchanging vows a day after the US Supreme Court ruled in favour of marriage equality.

A touching photo gallery from Global Times, an English-language Chinese newspaper, told the story of Gino, 27, and Ling Jueding, 34, who had a symbolic wedding in Beijing on June 27.

Gino and Ling had to change wedding locations nearly 10 times due to police intervention. Five hours before the ceremony, they still did not have a venue.

Fortunately, a private club agreed to host their wedding. Gino walked down the aisle – given away by his sister, as the venue changes complicated travel arrangements for his parents – and exchanged vows with his boyfriend of two years.

“We’re used to getting strange looks,” Gino told the paper. “We had this wedding not only for ourselves, but also to help change people’s prejudices.”

Nearly 200 guests were present at the wedding, most of whom were members of the LGBT community.

“A lot of gays attended our wedding, and I hope our happiness encourages them to find love,” Gino said.

The couple plans to get legally married in the US this year.

Last week, a lesbian couple also said “I do” in an informal ceremony at a Beijing restaurant.