“Since joining the community of Essex we have been met with nothing but support and have been embraced by all we meet. When we became engaged, it only made sense to hold our wedding here in town. This is the town we have set down roots in and this is the town we intend to grow our life and future family. What drew us to Essex? Believe it or not, it wasn't the fried clams. It was the rich history and the families that have been here for generations. It is this legacy that makes Essex great.

Who knew that when we selected our first song years ago, it would have the lyrics "Like a river flows, surely to the sea", that we would end up here? The desire to hold our wedding at Riversbend in Essex and to have live music is not a whim. It is a celebration of our love, our life together, and the town we intend to grow our lives in! “

-Drew Godfrey & Justin Kane

Drew and Justin took a huge risk moving to Essex. They made it their home and continued the legacy of a successful business here. Their bed and breakfast is an essential part of this community. Their business provides the lodging needed for the visitors of a town dependent on tourism and hospitality. Even in providing this service, they didn’t stop there. This couple has continuously made an effort to give back to our community. This couple is tireless in their efforts to promote the town of Essex, local businesses, and the greater Cape Ann community. They are also appointed officials, as members of the Essex Historical Commission. This couple supports their neighbors whenever possible. In short, they are exactly the kind of friends everyone hopes to have, that every town seeks to attract.

After months of anticipation and planning, Drew and Justin are at the final stages of their wedding preparation. It is because of the community of Essex and its support for them that they have chosen to get married here. It is their hope to show their friends and relatives the new life they have created. It is important to note that their vision for this celebration of life and love includes an outdoor event with music by the river.

On May 23rd the Essex Board of Selectmen denied the request to issue a one-day entertainment license for this event. While there is historical evidence to support that couples before Drew and Justin were married on the premise with similar celebrations, the request was denied. The Essex Board of Selectmen cite a concern for “precedent’ in their ruling, ignoring the well-documented precedents of which many long standing residents are aware.

On June 1, 2022, there will be a public hearing to appeal this arbitrary decision. Drew and Justin have made incalculable contributions to this town. This couple is the embodiment of a good friend and neighbor. Their request is that the Board of Selectmen work with them and Riversbend to come to a reasonable agreement. Drew and Justin simply want to celebrate their marriage by the side of the river with live music, as so many couples have done before them.

Let your voice be heard for Drew and Justin and for the other business owners who want to support love and joy. Please join us in supporting live music at Drew and Justin’s wedding!"