A Courthouse Elopement at the 95th Judicial District Court of Dallas Country in Dallas, Texas

Becky Maiden (31 and a nurse anesthetist) and Justin Allen (31 and an attorney) met online, but from their first date, they knew there was something special betweent hem. Their relationship grew naturally, as they knew what they were looking for and had found those things in each other. One evening, the couple was discussing their relationship and Becky suggested that they get married; Justin immediately accepted. The couple said their vows five days later at the 95th Judicial District Court of Dallas County; in that time, they got their marriage license, rings, arrangements for a judge, a photographer, and Becky’s white dress. The courthouse was simple to book because Justin is an attorney and Christmas was three days away. When the couple went through the security line, the workers were all smiling and singing “Going to the Chapel” for them. After the ceremony, the couple went back to the restaurant where they had their first date and celebrated privately. “Things moved pretty quickly because we wanted to surprise our parents with the good news on Christmas. We gave our parents some framed photos from the wedding as Christmas gifts,” says Becky. “They were all happy, and Justin’s dad was even jumping up and down.” A month later, they had a reception at a local wine bar with their parents and close friends, at which they renewed their vows with their family, friends and dogs by their side. “We loved our secret elopement,” says Becky. “It was a meaningful day to us, and we were able to focus on the promise that we were making each other.” The couple sent out New Year’s cards to their friends and family announcing their elopement.