Elizabeth Branske and Melissa Nunez became the first couple to marry in Cook County in 2026, marking a historic milestone as the county’s first lesbian couple to win the annual lottery for the first marriage license of the year. The ceremony took place Friday morning at the downtown office, with Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon officiating.
Branske, 27, and Nunez, 25, celebrated their marriage surrounded by family and friends. Branske wore a red dress while Nunez matched with a red sweater. The couple met on Tinder about two years ago after Branske rescheduled their first date three times before finally meeting at Emporium Arcade Bar in Logan Square. Both described their relationship as open and supportive.
“That’s just kind of been our whole relationship, just being able to talk to each other and be open and no judgment,” Branske said.
Gordon spoke at the ceremony, saying, “I believe in love. I believe in forever love. And I’m looking at you too, and I’m like this is going to last forever.”
Nunez applied for the highly sought-after first marriage license as a surprise for Branske. More than 1,000 couples entered this year’s lottery—the highest number ever recorded—though another couple initially won before withdrawing from the contest. Officials confirmed that Branske and Nunez are also the first lesbian couple to achieve this recognition.
“I think that’s really cool,” Branske said of their milestone. “2026 is supposed to be a year of love and prosperity, so I’m excited to see what it has in store.”
Friends and family expressed happiness for the couple’s achievement after facing challenges together. Jen Guzman, one of Branske’s close friends who learned about her engagement last September, said their marriage was “meant to be.” Guzman noted that after various struggles, they now have “a happy ending.” Branske’s 11-year-old son also shared his excitement about their future plans.
Both women live in Humboldt Park; Nunez works at Home Depot while Branske is a hairstylist. They plan further celebrations next year with a honeymoon and reception for their extended family.
Reflecting on her journey to marriage equality, Branske offered encouragement: “We’re happy, excited to start this next chapter. I never thought I’d get married. So to anybody who thinks that way now, remember that it’ll happen.”
After their wedding ceremony, local businesses provided gifts including a hotel stay at the Ritz-Carlton and flowers from LaSalle Flower Group.
