BEAUMONT, Texas — “Marriage takes trust, perspective, commitment, understanding, friendship and faith in your relationship to make it last.” This is what Judge Benjamin Collins Sr. said as he performed a Valentine's Day wedding ceremony.
Caroline and Andrew Wills took their first steps into forever at the Jefferson County Court House Tuesday. The Beaumont couple has been together for 20 years.
"We decided we might as well go ahead and get married," Caroline Wells said. "We ventured out. The grass isn't always greener on the other side. We've learned one another. We've loved one another. We've been through trials and tribulations."
Judge Collins performed the ceremony for free in honor of the season of love. The Southeast Texas judge gave the couple a vase full of roses afterward to commemorate the special occasion.
“From me and my spouse to you two" Judge Collins said. "Happy Valentine’s Day for your home as first time as husband and wife."
Judge Collins is performing free wedding ceremonies until February 15, 2023. Anyone looking to get married can call (409) 835-8457 to set up an appointment.
All the happy couples have to bring is a “marriage license and a smile.”
This is not the first time the judge has performed free ceremonies in honor of a holiday. He performed free weddings throughout February 2022, totaling about 40 weddings that month.
Judge Collins also performed free wedding ceremonies from December 14, 2022, until December 22, 2022, for the Christmas holidays. During that time, he gave couples the option for him to perform the ceremonies in his traditional black robe or a Santa suit.
His goal was to make each wedding as memorable as possible for all the couples. Judge Collins said it's about helping those that come into his office and giving back to the community.
The judge performs free ceremonies year-round for military, first responders and emergency personnel.
Also on 12NewsNow.com ...