More than 200 families and friends gathered in front of the Bexar County Courthouse, just one minute after midnight on Sunday for the traditional free Valentine’s Day wedding ceremonies.

The tradition has occured every Valentine’s Day in Bexar County since 1989. County Clerk Gerard C. “Gerry” Rickhoff performed the ceremonies this year, offering his services to all couples seeking marriage.

In the moments leading up to midnight, the crowds heard a reading from Corinthians 13:4: “Love is patient, love is kind,” and sage advice from Rickhoff’s grandmother to open a savings account. Since 12:01 a.m., nearly 100 couples have been married. The ceremonies will continue throughout Valentine’s Day at 10 a.m., noon, 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Participants must obtain a marriage license 72 hours in advance from Bexar County Clerk’s Office at 101 W. Nueva Street.

Top Image: Jose Magri Flores and Patrick Miller take a photo after their Valentine’s Day marriage. Photo by Kathryn Boyd-Batstone