Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder Donna Linder and her staff invite engaged couples to join them as they perform marriage ceremonies on Valentine’s Day at the historic McHenry Mansion in downtown Modesto.

“Marriage at the Mansion” offers each couple a romantic experience that will take them back in time. All ceremonies are individualized and couples must sign up in advance. Ceremonies will start at 10 a.m. and run through 4 p.m. on Feb. 14, 2026 – Valentine’s Day.

Marriage licenses must be purchased and appointments made in advance at the Clerk Recorder’s Office located at 1021 I St. in Modesto.  The cost of the license and ceremony is $121 or $126 for confidential marriage licenses. Couples planning to tie the knot in 2026 should reserve their Valentine’s Day wedding without delay.

The non-religious civil ceremonies will be conducted in English or Spanish by Linder, her staff and invited deputy marriage commissioners. Guests are limited to 15 for each wedding.

The Mansion Gift Shop will be open with a Valentine’s Day theme. There is no flash photography in the mansion to preserve the valuable antiques.

For more information or to set an appointment, contact the Clerk Recorder’s Office at 209-525-5269 or 209-525-5205 and for assistance in Spanish call 209-525-5230.