SEATTLE (AP) — Same-sex couples in Washington state began reciting wedding vows at events across the state Sunday, on the first day they could marry after the state's gay marriage law took effect.

About 140 couples had registered to marry at Seattle City Hall, which had set up five separate chapels to accommodate the revelers. Starting at 10 a.m., cheers and applause regularly broke out as another couple's marriage became official. Weddings at city hall were to continue through 5 p.m.

"We're totally thrilled," said Keith Bacon, who celebrated his six-year anniversary with Corianton Hale the night before. The couple had done a commitment ceremony in August but said this day was special.