February 18, 2010

Opulent weddings are standard in Charlottesville, but in today's tough economic times, many couples are choosing to get married in simpler settings. CBS19's Bianca Spinosa introduces us to two venues, the University of Virginia Chapel and the Charlottesville Courthouse.

Many former University of Virginia students return to grounds to tie the knot. Just a stone's throw from Mr. Jefferson's Rotunda is the UVa. Chapel, which plays host to dozens of weddings each year.

One such couple, Brenda Garton and Steve Miner, got married just a few days ago, on Valentine's Day.

"It's very romantic. I kind of talked him into it," said Brenda.

"It has practical benefits as well. I'll never forget my anniversary date. [The chapel] has meaning for both of us, to be able to come back here and join our lives together is a great opportunity," added Steve.

Getting married on grounds at the Chapel is a dream many share, and one that won't break the bank. For alumni and faculty, a Chapel wedding will only cost your $350, and only $200 for current students. For couples not affiliated with the university, it'll cost you $750.

The plaza of UVa. Chapel is currently under construction, but officials say it will be ready for peak wedding season this fall. However, spots fill up quickly and weddings during football season are awarded through a lottery.

"If their name isn't picked for the lottery, what we would do is they call back within the next week and go with what's available," said UVa Event Planner, Elizabeth Carey.

Sometimes it's not where you get married, but who marries you. The Charlottesville Circuit Courthouse might not strike you as the most romantic place to get married, but one former sheriff's deputy has been officiating for years and makes each wedding special.

"It's your special day, we'll do it your way. If you don't have your own vows, ours are non-religious and politically correct. I do get stopped a lot and told 'you married me twenty years ago!' That's usually a good sign," said wedding official, Dave Duncan.

The ceremonies are run by the Charlottesville Sheriff's Office.

"Thirty dollar fee for your license, which you get from your clerk's office, and then there's a fifty dollar fee for the ceremony," said Charlottesville Sheriff, James Brown.

Chapel or Courthouse, these two venues provide joy in simple traditions, whether you have time to plan or no time to waste.