OPINION: Love at the courthouse: Metro Court recognizes 25 years of Valentine's Day weddings

This Valentine’s Day marked a special milestone at the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court — 25 years of officiating weddings for couples celebrating their love on this meaningful day. What began as a heartfelt tradition with Judge Frank Sedillo has grown into a cherished annual event, and I am honored to help carry it forward.

Each year, Metro Court transforms into a place of joy, where couples from all walks of life come together to say, “I do.” As chief judge, I had the privilege of officiating several ceremonies, each one a beautiful testament to love, commitment and partnership. This tradition is one of the most uplifting aspects of our work, allowing us to serve the community in a truly meaningful way.

During the challenging COVID-19 years, we adapted our approach to ensure that love could still flourish. We successfully conducted virtual weddings, allowing couples to celebrate their special moments safely, even when in-person gatherings were not possible. This resilience in the face of adversity exemplifies the strength of love and community spirit.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Camille Baca and Dana Bustos, whose dedication and meticulous planning made this event a resounding success. Their efforts, along with the support of our judges, court staff and volunteers, ensured that every couple had a seamless and memorable experience.

While Valentine’s Day holds special significance, I want to remind the community that Metro Court performs weddings year-round at no cost. Couples interested in tying the knot can call the courthouse to check availability and schedule their ceremony.

To all the couples who began their journey with us — congratulations! May your marriage be filled with love, joy and lasting happiness. It was our privilege to be part of your special day, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.