Emma's history in the making
Continuing our observance of LGBT+ History Month, we talk to our colleague
Emma Barber-Craig (Catering Driver/FSA) about her history making marriage in Barking and 10 years of marital bliss.
This year marks 10 years since BD Group’s Emma Barber Craig made the ‘spur of the moment’ decision to book her wedding at Barking & Dagenham registry office. Recalling the decision, Emma said: “I was thinking about it one day and decided to head to the registry office and just book a date.”
Unbeknown to Emma and her then soon-to-be wife Angie, not only would they get married, but they’d be the first to do so as a same sex couple in Barking & Dagenham. History was officially made. The marriage was made possible following a change in the law to allow gay couples to wed in March 2014.
Fast forward 10 years and Emma says she’s still very proud and honoured to have been part of the first same sex couple to get married in the borough.
“We had absolutely no idea at the time. It was only when the excited registrar broke the news that we released just what it meant. We were so happy and couldn’t wait to share the news with our families. There was quite a bit of media interest in our story, and we had the most amazing day”.
Asked about perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community today, Emma said: “I feel equal and accepted. I feel attitudes have changed and continue to change for the better. I’m proud to share my story with my colleagues and the community”.
Quizzed about 10 years of marriage, Emma said: “It’s great, we’re very happy”.
Who could ask for more.