State lawmaker gets married at the Georgia Capitol

State Rep. Patty Bentley joyously changed her last name to Stinson in a wedding ceremony on the grounds of the Georgia Capitol on Tuesday.

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State Rep. Patty Bentley marries Bobby Stinson outside the Georgia Capitol on Sept. 19, 2023.

Credit: Donna Lowry / GPB News

A delighted crowd of loved ones and friends — including fellow lawmakers — watched as Bentley married Bobby Stinson, a childhood friend.

The new Rep. Stinson (D-Butler) wanted the public to share in her big day, so she had it in a place that has meant so much to her during her 11 years in the Georgia House.

The pair specifically chose to exchange vows outside on the northeast corner of the Capitol next to the statue of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., so those in her district who attended the ceremony could visit the monument.

“So, they can come to their state Capitol in Atlanta and celebrate with their representative,” Stinson said. “It just meant so much … to bring some joy to the people of House District 150 and others across this state.

The Stinsons plan to hold a private wedding reception closer to home this weekend.