A Couple Named Burger and King Got Married, and Burger King Paid for the Wedding
An Illinois couple with the last names Burger and King drew national attention after their engagement announcement caught the eye of the Burger King chain. Ashley King and Joel Burger, who had known each other since childhood, shared a photo taken beneath a Burger King sign when they announced their engagement in a local newspaper. The playful coincidence quickly spread beyond their hometown and led to an unexpected response from the company itself.
How a Joke Turned Into a Real Offer
The engagement announcement reached Burger King corporate within months. Instead of a polite nod or a social media wink, the company made a bigger move. Burger King contacted the couple and offered to cover the cost of their wedding. According to reporting at the time, the couple retained control over how the money was used.
They already planned a large ceremony in Jacksonville, Illinois, with ten bridesmaids and ten groomsmen. The sponsorship simply picked up the tab and added branded extras.
A Ceremony That Leaned Into the Humor
The wedding took place on July 17, 2015, at Annie Merner Chapel on the campus of MacMurray College. The ceremony itself was traditional, but the reception was not. Guests spotted Burger King crowns, branded mason jars, customized favors, and gift bags. Groomsmen wore Burger King T-shirts under their suits. Cufflinks, socks, and small details nodded to the brand. Paper crowns and formalwear proved to be a compelling visual mix, and the internet responded accordingly, as photos quickly circulated.
Why This Worked as a Brand Moment
Image via Wikimedia Commons/The Bushranger
This story resonated with viewers because Burger King did not overthink it. The brand reacted to an existing moment instead of manufacturing one.
Local papers introduced the story, national outlets amplified it, and lifestyle and tabloid coverage carried it even further. Each step widened the audience without the brand needing to say much at all. The couple stayed central to the narrative, which was important. The brand simply supported the moment instead of hijacking it.