Register of Deeds seeking applicants for free wedding event

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — In the spirit of love, the New Hanover County Register of Deeds is set to host its sixth annual free wedding event for couples on Valentine’s Day. The initiative, themed “All You Need is Love,” aims to provide couples with a memorable wedding experience without the financial burden.

Morghan Getty Collins, the Register of Deeds, emphasizes the sentiment behind the initiative.

“The idea is all you need is love, and we will do everything else,” Collins said. “So you bring the love, and we’ll take care of all the details.”

The event was conceived in 2016, initiated by the office staff led by former registrar Tammy Beasley. It was seen as an opportunity to give back to the community, especially considering the limited leeway dictated by statutes in their daily operations. After a hiatus due to COVID, the event is making a return this year.

Couples interested in participating can start the process by visiting the New Hanover County Register of Deeds website. The online application for marriage licenses is easily accessible, and couples can choose between two locations, the government center or downtown. When applicants come in to complete the marriage license process, they are asked to inquire about the free wedding event.

The registration is on a first-come-first-served basis, with seven openings still available as of Friday morning. There is a $60 fee for the marriage license, but once obtained, registering for the Valentine’s Day event is free.

Collins says the community’s support has been crucial in providing these weddings free of charge.

“We’ve had restaurants donate gift cards, we have tickets to the symphony to allow a little something extra for these couples,” she said.” So it’s really that community as a whole that’s allowed us to do this and to be a part of their special day.”

The weddings take place at the Register of Deeds Office, which is located next to Thalian Hall.

“If you’ve ever been to our office on Chestnut Street, you know we have a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River, so it’s really a unique spot to get married,” Collins said. “It’s not super fancy, but if you’re looking for something for a little more bells and whistles than the courthouse, then hopefully we can provide that for you.

You can learn more about the event here. You can fill out a marriage license application here.