Hundreds of Couples In Arkansas Got Married In Eclipse!
A heartwarming event took place in Russellville, Arkansas. On April 8, 2024, more importantly, on the day of the total solar eclipse, over 200 couples decided to embark on their forever journey. The event was charmingly named the “Elope at the Eclipse.” In this one huge wedding, hundreds of people gathered with a common purpose: to say “I do” under what could be a once-in-a-lifetime event. With totality lasting four minutes, the ceremony began at 1:30 p.m. and aimed to wrap up by 1:45 p.m. They wanted to make time for the eclipse as it reached its peak at 1:50 p.m.
Once-in-a-lifetime Event!
This wasn’t your typical wedding ceremony. There were no costs involved at all. This event offered a completely free wedding ceremony that even took care of the $60 marriage license fee for the couples. The first 100 couples to register were treated to a special wedding gift package, adding a cherry on top of an already sweet day.
This grand gesture was part of the weekend-long Total Eclipse of the Heart festival. There were plenty of activities organized to make the day even more fun. From the soothing tunes of jazz bands to the thrill of axe throwing and the magic of hot air balloon rides, it was something very special. Not to forget, a presentation from NASA surely added a sprinkle of stardust to the event.
Couples Who Tied The Knot
Among the crowd, Carlotta Cox and her fiancé, Matthew Holloway, stood out. Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, the couple had dreamt of an eclipse wedding for two years. Initially, they thought of getting married in Maine. But they wanted to be in a place where the eclipse would remain a bit longer. They finally ended up in Russellville. The town is celebrated by NASA as one of the prime spots in the US to witness the eclipse. Well, it did not disappoint the couples with its four minutes of totality.
The diversity in attire was a sight to behold – from traditional wedding gowns and suits to medieval costumes, each couple added a unique flavor to the mix. And as the mass celebrant declared them all legally wed, the field erupted in cheers.
Katie Baucom, another bride, summed up the event as a “once-in-a-lifetime type thing.” For many, this was more than a wedding; it was a monumental event, a shared experience that would forever hold a special place in their hearts.
This story from Russellville goes beyond the spectacle of the eclipse or the festivity of the ceremonies. It’s a reminder of the extraordinary moments that can spring from the ordinary.
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