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NKyTribune Editor

Just think of Boone County Clerk Kenny Brown as a hopeless romantic. He’s all set for a big wedding. Big. Involving 20 couples, at least, on Valentine’s Day.

Awwwww . . .how sweet!

“Valentine’s Day is a busy day for issuing marriage licenses,” Brown says. “I’ve been wanting to organize this event for several years, so when I saw that Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year — it was perfect!”

Kentucky marriage licenses are issued by county clerks.

This year, 20 couples who purchase marriage license ($35.50 fee still applies) can go straight from the clerk’s office to a group wedding ceremony — and a reception with all the trimmings — to tie the knot. No charge for the rest.

Brown is opening the clerk’s office that day. He won’t be alone — his staff is “very excited” to be helping.

“We have a lot of couples come in and apply for a marriage license then ask for advice or direction in finding someone to officiate their ceremony (sometimes immediately) in the courthouse.”

On this Valentine’s Day, they’ll get more than advice. They’ll get a group ceremony conducted by two newly elected Justices of the Peace, Phyllis Sparks and David Martin, who are waiving standard fees. They’ll get a beautiful poem read by Sparks, a musical solo performed by Dr. John Stephenson — as well as cupcakes donated by Gigi’s Cupcakes of Florence.

The big wedding will take place at 3 p.m. in the Boone County Fiscal Courtroom in Florence. It can hold up to 100 people — but Brown wants guests of the couples to be able to attend.

Couples are encouraged to obtain their marriage licenses before Valentine’s Day — and should register for the group wedding by Feb. 13 by calling 859.334.2275. First come, first served.

“I believe this will become a Boone County tradition, and it’s an honor to provide a nice wedding service on one of the busiest and most popular days of the year to get married,” said Brown.

For more information, visit the free group wedding event page.