I have a bride that I'm shooting later this year at her "real wedding" with her family and friends present, but for practical purposes, it made sense for these two to tie the knot before the end of 2012. So they decided to sneak off to the courthouse and get things done on the sly. They didn't want to upset their families or make their "real day" any less important, but sometimes you need to be practical when government laws/benefits are involved. And they asked if I wanted to be one of two witnesses. Hell yeah, I did! I've never shot a wedding at city hall before, and I was extremely curious as to how it would go. And while they didn't officially hire me to take any photos, you know I couldn't resist.
A few things to note about this day: 1) The groom's ring did not arrive in time for the ceremony! Not to be discouraged from the big event, they subbed in a candy ring pop. 2) This judge put on one of the best ceremonies I have ever heard. And I've heard a LOT. I really liked his message, and the thought that was put into such a "quickie" wedding was nice. Should you ever need a judge for your big day, I highly suggest Judge Kevin S. Burke in Hennepin County.