Registration is now open for courting couples wanting to tie the knot on the most romantic day of the year.
On Valentine's Day at noon, Clerk & Comptroller Stacy M. Butterfield is hosting the 10th annual group marriage ceremony on the lovely steps of the Polk County History Center, 100 E. Main St., Bartow.
“One of the most stressful parts of getting married is planning the wedding. This is a fantastic chance for couples seeking a stress-free, leisurely wedding ceremony. All the preparation has been done for them,” said Clerk Butterfield. “The couples simply need to come with their marriage licenses, and we take care of the paperwork and planning. They have more time to spend together on their big day.”
The free ceremony is limited to 30 couples and registration is first come, first serve. The ceremony is followed by a light reception sponsored by Citizens Bank & Trust.
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. They can also call the Clerk’s Official Records department at 863-534-4516.
All couples must apply for a marriage license by Friday, Feb. 10, 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.
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 or visit the Clerk’s office online at www.polkcountyclerk.net. Like the Polk County Clerk Facebook page for updates and announcements.