FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. – When the news that Monroe County Judge Luis M. Garcia declared Florida's ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, Aaron Huntsman shared a music video on Facebook. Kool & The Gang was performing "Celebration."
After 11 years of being in a relationship with William Lee Jones, Huntsman was looking forward to getting married.
The judge's ruling in their favor sparked emotions. On social media, it prompted messages of gratitude from supporters.
"Because of brave individuals like you, we are one very huge step closer to making this dream a reality for gay couples state-wide," Johnny Konapelsky said.
Huntsman, 43, and Jones, 42, work as bartenders at 801 Bourbon Bar in Key West. They met at a gay pride parade and had commitment ceremonies every June 10th. The last one was in Las Vegas.
Equality Florida announced Thursday afternoon: "We will be having a gathering from 6 to 8 p.m. to celebrate with Aaron and Lee." The gathering was at Aqua Nightclub, 711 Duval St.
The topic of conversation on Instagram posts from the nightclub was the gay couple's move to file the historic lawsuit against Monroe County Clerk.
Attorney General Pam Bondi's appeal means the Key West judge's ruling is on hold until the court of appeals lifts it. The couple will have to wait.
Equality Florida tweeted: "No wedding bells just yet."