Heather Tate and John Bodycombe had a larger ceremony in Mexico and needed to legalize their marriage in the states. They had their first ceremony on the Ides of March, another notorious date.
“We figured we’d just keep the ball rolling with more unlucky dates,” Tate said. “It felt like a very ‘us’ thing to do.”
The couple urged those who haven’t gotten married yet to slow down and enjoy the process of getting there. Bodycombe says the experience of marriage can feel like a stressful blur, but savoring the special moments make it worth it.
“I don’t think there was any other choice for me besides Heather,” Bodycombe said, happily staring at his new bride.
Raechel Burdette and Leslie Lane also had a ceremony several months ago, but feel a sense of pride and safety now that their marriage has been made official.
“Especially in this climate, it’s so amazing to just say, ‘this is who I love and I’m not
going to back down from that,’” Burdette said.
Lane said her favorite thing about Burdette was how adventurous she is, and how she’s excited to spend the rest of her life adventuring together.
López said he appreciates the marriage marathon because it breaks up the typical election-centric work that his office has to do. He still reminds everyone to register to vote by coming down to the clerk’s office (people can also register online).
“I ask people to make sure they’re registered to vote after they get married,” López said. “What a fitting proclamation of love to get married and then participate in their democracy.”
The city is hosting another marriage marathon in June in honor of Pride Month.
