Gay Marriage Begins In New York (PHOTOS)

Gay couples have started marrying in New York City today, the first day same-sex marriage is legal in New York state.

Family, friends and gay marriage supporters gathered at the Manhattan office of the city clerk this morning as an anticipated 823 couples planned to tie the knot across the city.

Judges waived a mandatory 24-hour waiting period that allowed couples to exchange vows moments after receiving their licenses, the Associated Press reports .

A few same-sex couples across the state performed their nuptials at the stroke of midnight.