The names in this story have been changed to protect the couple’s privacy, but the joy and honesty they brought with them are something I will be holding onto for a long time.
I knew before I even met them that I would love my couple today. Their original appointment was scheduled for earlier, but I had been invited by one of my oldest friends to a sourdough bread class. I asked if they would be willing to shift their time a couple of hours later, and without hesitation, they said yes. Just like that. No fuss. They told me to enjoy the class, and I did. I even made my own starter and named it The Yeastie Boys. That is how you know someone is going to have a good marriage. If they are kind to a stranger’s bread dreams, they will probably be kind to each other too.
What I did not find out until after the ceremony was that they had delayed their dinner party by two hours just to make sure I could still officiate for them. They did not tell me at the time. They did not make it a big deal. They just showed up smiling, calm, and full of joy, like it was no trouble at all. That kind of grace is rare. That kind of thoughtfulness sticks with you.
Casey and Morgan came in for a license signing. Just the legal part. No music, no chairs lined up in rows, no grand walk down the aisle. They are planning a full ceremony later with all the friends, the food, and we made it energy. But that does not mean this day was small. This day was about the moment two people look at each other and say, “Let’s do life together.”
As they walked in, Morgan said, “My name used to be Amanda if you need to know that.”
I looked at them and said, “I don’t care. Who are you now?”
Because I don’t care who someone used to be. All I care about is that they are a good human today.
Morgan smiled, and it was not just polite. It was one of those smiles that said more than words could. That moment stuck with me. Not because it was dramatic, but because it was real. And that is the kind of love story I believe in.
Casey’s parents had come along too, and they were equally wonderful. Supportive, kind, and clearly proud of the life their child was building. It is not every day I get to see a family who brings that much warmth into a room. You could tell that love had been well practiced in their household.
Even when we are not doing a full ceremony, I have a tradition. Before we sign the paperwork, I always say, “I know we are not doing a ceremony today, but you still have to promise me you will be nice to each other.”
Casey and Morgan turned to each other without hesitation and said “Yes” at the exact same time, almost like they had rehearsed it. Then, without missing a beat, they reached out, linked their pinkies, and said, “Pinky promise.”
I have joined more than 300 couples. I have seen couples cry, laugh, dance, exchange vows on rooftops, and even one couple who gave each other books instead of rings (another one of my favorite stories). But no one, not one couple, has ever sealed their promise with a pinky swear.
It was adorable and funny and full of heart. It was spontaneous, sincere, and somehow both childlike and deeply meaningful at the same time. That pinky promise hit me right in the soul. It was the perfect reminder that love does not have to be complicated to be real. Sometimes all it takes is two people, a quiet moment, and a little pinky swear that says we are in this together.
After the paperwork was signed, we stepped into the photo area I have been slowly putting together. It is simple, but it means something to me. There is an arch with some flowers, white Festivus lights, soft garland, and a backdrop of white curtains. Nothing fancy, but made with care for moments exactly like this.
We took a few photos, and Casey and Morgan beamed like two people that had done something important and knew it. They laughed together, playfully posed, and radiated that quiet joy that shows up when people feel seen and safe and absolutely themselves. Their parents beamed with the kind of pride that does not need words. Then hopped in and I took pics of this beautiful family.
So here is to Casey and Morgan. May their big wedding be every bit as magical as this quiet, joyful day. May their home be filled with laughter, support, inside jokes, and the kind of promises you seal with your pinky. And may they always remember that love does not need an audience to be beautiful.
And to anyone thinking about doing a simple license signing with me, just know this. You will still have to promise to be nice to each other. That part is non-negotiable. Pinkies optional.
