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Love in the air for local marriage commissioner

Brenda Parkinson’s husband Stewart’s birthday falls on Valentines Day
10632003_web1_Brenda-Parkinson

Valentines Day has arrived and love is in the air, particularly for Sooke marriage commissioner Brenda Parkinson, who’s husband’s birthday also happens to fall on Feb. 14.

Parkinson and her husband, Stewart Parkinson, were married in Europe almost 39 years ago, and still have no trouble keeping the spark alive.

“I’m a romantic,” chuckled Brenda. “Our rule is to have at least two date nights a month, where we get out of Sooke and go for dinner or to a movie or something.”

She explained that throughout her time as a commissioner, she has often had to work on Valentine’s Day, but this year she is taking it off to spend time with her husband.

“I think a lot of people want to get married on Valentine’s Day because it’s such a romantic day,” said Brenda. “But I didn’t have a request this year, so I think my husband and I will stay in and I’ll make him something on the barbecue.”

Brenda has been a marriage commissioner for 10 years, but this year will be her last.

“You can only do it for a maximum of 10 years, but I’m feeling okay to be finished and I’ve really enjoyed doing it over the years,” said Brenda.

One of her most memorable weddings to perform was her cousin’s, who came all the way from Berlin with her fiancé and family to get married at China Beach.

But overall, Brenda said she has enjoyed meeting all the people, writing up ceremonies, going to different locations that she might not have been to otherwise, and seeing all the beautiful wedding dresses.

“It’s been a really fun experience,” she said.