Registration is open for courting couples wanting to tie the knot on the most romantic day of the year.
At high noon on Valentine’s Day, Clerk & Comptroller Stacy M. Butterfield is hosting the 9th annual group marriage ceremony on the picturesque steps of the Polk County History Center.
“Planning a wedding can be a stressful thing for couples, and the past few years have hindered many couples’ wedding plans. This Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate love without the stress or expense of planning a wedding,” said Clerk Butterfield. “All the couples have to do is show up and get married. We handle the paperwork and the planning, and they are free to enjoy their special day together.”
The ceremony is limited to 30 couples and registration is first come, first serve. Couples may register when applying for a marriage license at any of the three Clerk’s office locations—the Bartow Courthouse, Lakeland Government Center, or the Northeast Government Center in Winter Haven. To register, they simply need to state they would like to participate in the event.
All couples must apply for a marriage license by Thursday, Feb. 10, in order to participate in the Valentine’s Day wedding.
Couples must submit the first part of the marriage license application online before visiting any of the three Clerk’s offices to complete the application.
Both individuals must be present to finalize their marriage license, and both must have a valid form of photo ID. Couples must also make sure they know their Social Security Number. The Clerk is waiving the $30 ceremony fee; however standard marriage license fees do apply.
For more information or to register for the wedding, call the Official Records Department at 863-534-4516. Like the Polk County Clerk Facebook page for updates and announcements.