As part of a new initiative to open the doors of City Hall to the public, City Hall will host its first wedding ceremony this week.
The first couple to book the space are two long time City of Victoria employees. They met at work and will marry in a public building that they both love.
The bride, Paula Ronald, works in Building Services and most recently has worked in City Hall setting up for meetings and special events such as this.
The groom, John Ehses, has worked at the City for 25 years and currently works in Engineering and Public Works department removing graffiti from public property.
They share a pride in public service and have a strong connection with Victoria’s historic City Hall.
Unlike many other City Halls across the country, Victoria City Hall has not been available for weddings in the past.
In late 2015, a new public use policy was introduced which includes offering weddings to be held on select days in 2016. As a trial year, those dates will be offered on May 20, August 19 and December 16.
Because of legislation differences between British Columbia and some other provinces, couples are required to hire an independent marriage commissioner to oversee the wedding.
