Valentine's Day Weddings at the Courthouse

This Valentine's Day was a special one for many couples who got married at the historic courthouse on the Lawrenceville square. Magistrate Court judges performed marriage and vow renewal services free of charge in the old Justice of the Peace office today

"It's Valentine's Day, and I thought that would be sweet for her," Jody Brookshire said of his reason for choosing to marry his bride, Robin, earlier today. The bride in question laughed and said, "He's lying! He just wants to have our anniversary be on Valentine's Day so he only has to buy one present!" Jody and Robin were just one of the many couples who took advantage of the Magistrate Court judges' free Valentine's Day marriage and vow renewal ceremonies at the Historic Courthouse in Downtown Lawrenceville. The courthouse was decorated in red and white, traditional Valentine colors, and couples "got hitched" wearing everything from white gowns and suits to faded jeans and t-shirts.  To Roosevelt Williams and Reba Smith, one of the …

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To Submit or Not to Submit

Are you a submissive wife?

Are you a submissive wife? The recent question posed to Michelle Bachman at the latest GOP debate is a question that many wives are asked. The word submission has negative connotation for many women, especially in America. In the early years of my marriage, if someone ever asked me about submission I would always feel the need to present myself as not being a weak woman. Because in my mind to submit was a sign of weakness. I mean, what kind of impression was I giving my clients and other women by submitting to my husband. That's what I thought about when it came to submitting, but as I became more mature in my marriage I realized submitting to a good man is a good thing. The impression I was giving was one of wisdom, insight and maturity. …

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Katha Blackwell

8:07 pm on Monday, August 15, 2011

Thanks Cathie! I have no problem submitting to my husband, especially when he is good to me.   more ›

Money Matters

Marriage & Money

The honeymoon is when the wedding is over and life together begins—including your financial life.

Financial issues are one of the leading causes of divorce in the U.S. The risk that any marriage will end in divorce is about 45 percent, and given the various financial complications, it’s crucial to air and resolve financial disagreements beforehand. Create A Few Simple Plans in the Beginning of Your Relationship It’s tough to find someone who has the same financial priorities as you—you may value saving for the kids college, while his priorities are on saving for a new boat. The two of you must address your money situation and come up with a plan for dealing with the finances that you bring to the table—good or bad. You must also talk to your partner about whatever financial issues are important to you. Developing a financial strategy …

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Marriage: The Priority

Children will eventually grow up and move out, so make your marriage a priority.

Parenting comes with it's ups and downs, but there is nothing like parenting with someone who loves you. The love from your spouse can soothe the most frustrating day and make parenting a great adventure. However, without the proper care and attention, a loving relationship can become dull and boring. While I was pregnant, one of my co-workers gave me some valuable information. She said, “Katha, once you start having kids, don't forget to spend quality time with your spouse because now that my kids are gone, my husband and I barely know each other.” I could see the disappointment in her face when she said this to me. And I took those words to heart. Now, three years later, I have a better understanding of what she meant. At least every …

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Katha Blackwell

8:12 pm on Monday, April 18, 2011

It's rough trying to wear both capes at the same time. It sounds like your husband is understanding. Keep up the good work! It's better to try a few experiments than to not do anything at all.   more ›

Couples Tie the Knot at Historic Courthouse on Valentine's Day

The city celebrated love by offering free wedding and vow renewal ceremonies.

Courthouse bells served as wedding bells at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Monday, as more than a dozen couples lined up outside before the doors even opened at 10am. Couples like Brett Price and Janeka Jackson were there to exchange marital vows on Valentine’s Day.  For them, the decision to come down Monday was easy. “Because we love each other.” Said Mr. Price “And it’s Valentine’s Day , it's his birthday and we love each other and he’s my soul mate.” Added the future Mrs. Price. The city offered free wedding ceremonies to those who were lucky in love. The couples did need to have a valid marriage license before the fourteenth. Judges also performed vow renewal ceremonies for husband and wives looking to rekindle romance like the Nyes…

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Nicki Mayo

11:35 am on Tuesday, February 15, 2011

I love the "big poofy white dress on the beach" soundbite at the end. Looking GOOD! I felt like I was there.   more ›