Library is offering one lucky couple the chance to say ‘I Do’ in a dreamy wedding with no costs

Many people envision their perfect wedding day long before meeting their soulmate. While weddings can be magical and joyous occasions, they’re often accompanied by a hefty price tag, leaving couples financially stretched for years. But what if you could have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank? It might sound too good to be true, but the Arlington Public Library is making it a reality for one lucky couple. The Virginia-based library recently announced that it will host a free wedding for one fortunate pair, turning a fairy-tale moment into an affordable reality.

According to the library’s website, one lucky couple from the Greater Washington National Capital Region—which includes Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia—will win a free wedding sponsored by the Friends of the Arlington Public Library. The ceremony is set for July 12, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., in the Central Library Lobby & Auditorium. The venue can accommodate up to 50 guests, and the library will handle everything from food and cake to a photo booth, DJ, and music, ensuring the couple can relax and fully enjoy their special day.

However, the library would not sponsor alcohol, wedding attire, gifts for the wedding party, fees related to applying for the marriage license and any other ceremonies outside the pre-decided venue. Library Director Diane Kresh spoke about the heartwarming and innovative initiative and said, "At Arlington Public Library, we believe in the power of love." All married, unmarried and even engaged couples can take part in this unique contest but the only condition is that they should be above 18 and be Arlington Public Library card holders. Besides, the library has stated that It is seeking couples who "love books, love libraries and love love."

To enter, couples must submit an application explaining—through writing or visuals—"Why would you love to get married at the library?” along with the form. Couples who want to win the chance to have a free wedding have to submit their applications by January 24, 2025. Following this, the selected top three couples will then appear for a short virtual interview in the first week of February and the winning couple will be declared on February 13, 2025 – on Valentine's Day eve.

Weddings can be incredibly costly unless couples commit to serious budgeting. On a similar note, Michel Janse (@michel.c.janse) shared some clever plans to save money for her wedding on TikTok. Her five "semi-controversial" money-saving ideas included sending virtual PDF invitations instead of printed cards, skipping bridesmaid bouquets, hiring a taco truck ($14 per person) instead of traditional catering, setting up self-serve cocktail stations and finally asking guests to contribute their talents rather than gifts.

In a follow-up video with over 1 million views, Janse suggested using Airbnb for the rehearsal dinner and serving donuts instead of a traditional wedding cake. While most viewers on the social media platform supported her budget-friendly approach, few even criticized Janse for asking guests to work during her wedding. So if you too are planning for your big wedding day then Janse's ideas might help you reduce the financial burden on you.