CHARLESTON — Kanawha Circuit Judge Maryclaire Akers is continuing the late Judge Charlie King's Valentine's Day weddings tradition for another year in honor of the King of Hearts himself.
"Charlie King started this tradition, I believe, in 2006 and the headline was something about 'the King of Hearts' and we had always called him that, but I didn't realize that was where it came from," Akers said in an interview with The West Virginia Record.
Akers said everyone in the office wants to continue to honor him and remember him by continuing his tradition.
Akers
King died in late 2020.
"Last year turned out great," Akers said. "We already have a lot of appointments scheduled for this year, too."
Akers said they are doing adoptions that day, as well.
"Obviously, those are a process and not a spur-of-the-moment thing," Akers said. "But, for those that are in the process and ready to be filed, we can do them on Valentine's Day as well."
Akers said couples are free to bring friends and family with them to the weddings.
"All you need is a valid marriage license, which they can get in the old courthouse building," Akers said.
Balloons by Byrdi is also providing wedding decorations for the courtroom.
"We're thankful for Balloons by Byrdi for adding the sparkle to the courtroom to make it special," Akers said.
Those interested in the Valentine's Day weddings can make an appointment with Akers' office or are free to come in without an appointment until 4:30. She will be performing the weddings all day.
To contact Akers' office about a wedding, call Kim Gregory at 304-357-0367.