Orange County Puts Out The Red Carpet Treatment For Couples Wanting To Marry On Valentine's Day
SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — Officials in Orange County put out the proverbial red carpet on Sunday for couples looking to tie the knot on the year's most romantic day.
CBS2's Greg Mills was there when the Old Courthouse in Santa Ana turned into a place for lots of "I Dos."
Alizeyah and Joseph Hallam were ring bearers as their mom and dad tied the knot.
"It's amazing," said daughter Alizeyah.
Amazing might be the right word. Her parents dated for 14 years before marrying on the 14th.
"I feel complete. I feel wonderful," said Jessica Hallam.
She's romantic, he's pragmatic.
"It seals the deal," he said, laughing.
It was quite a deal if your heart was so inclined to marry on Valentine's Day.
The marriage, license and ceremony all for $89. That's less than most Valentine's dinners.
"We're going to celebrate at our favorite bar," said Courtney Perez.
Special guest County Supervisor Todd Spitzer enjoyed playing cupid in a few of the civil ceremonies.
"I feel like a married man," Shahram Ashtiani said."It feels great."
But it's County Recorder Hugh Nguyen who's behind this effort ensuring Valentine's day in the OC is a day of heartfelt vows.
Two years ago, on this same day, 266 couples tied the knot. There were 187 last year.
Because Valentine's fell on a Sunday this year, not as many couples showed up. But the day was clearly significant for anyone who did, Nancy and Maggie included.
"The best day of my life," said Maggie Flores.
"And also my birthday," said Nancy Flores.
Mills said that would have to be an easy day to remember an anniversary.
"Nah, its going to be expensive for me," Maggie said.
