Jersey Couples Say 'I Do' at Philly's Love Park

Ten couples married or renewed their vows at Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE sculpture on Valentine’s Day, with Jersey residents making up a significant portion of those celebrating at the annual tradition.

Marc Bondad of Cherry Hill was among the first to tie the knot, capping off a 13-year relationship in front of the famous sculpture. “It’s something that we’ve been wanting to do. Spontaneous. We’re from around this area. So why not here?” Bondad said, surrounded by family and friends.

The Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Department provided officiants from Journeys of the Heart, giving each couple 30 minutes for their ceremony in front of the sculpture that has become synonymous with romance in the region.

Between weddings, the celebration included a surprise proposal, with Augustine Joseph of Washington, D.C., successfully popping the question to Shramelle Dellesandro. “I was trying to avoid Valentine’s Day. I wanted to actually do it yesterday, but with everything, it fell on Valentine’s Day. So, I’m happy, regardless, he said yes, so I’m thankful,” Joseph said.

Dellesandro expressed her joy at the surprise: “I’m feeling very emotional, very happy. I’m absolutely happy.”

The Welcome Center transformed into the Make Love Market featuring Now + Then Marketplace, with 20 local vendors offering everything from caricature artists to florists for last-minute Valentine’s gifts. “So special Valentine’s Day edition, selling everything with lovers in mind, self-love, self-care,” said marketplace operator Steph Irwin.

For some Jersey couples, the event served as a perfect anniversary celebration. Tina McIntosh of Burlington County attended with her husband to mark their relationship milestone. “This is our fifth Valentine’s Day. We are celebrating two years of marriage. We have a 9-month-old. We are just so grateful,” McIntosh said.

Margie Omero, visiting from Maryland, captured the festive atmosphere: “To be here in the sun, and the wedding, just kind of bought Valentine’s Day back, very fun to celebrate it here.”

The LOVE sculpture, created by artist Robert Indiana, has anchored the renamed Love Park since 1976 and continues to draw couples from across the tri-state area for proposals, weddings, and romantic photo opportunities. The annual Valentine’s Day wedding tradition has become a fixture for couples seeking an unconventional but meaningful ceremony location.