The government shutdown has affected 24 couples set to be married in the National Mall and Memorial Parks. If the shutdown doesn't end soon, they may need to find alternative locations to hold their weddings.
For one lucky couple, however, a silver lining accompanied this disappointing news: Stephen Colbert came to the rescue and decide to marry the happy duo on The Colbert Report Thursday night.
See also: 15 Captivating Photos of the Government Shutdown
In this two-part wedding story, Colbert — who has a marriage license — introduced viewers around the world to Mike Cassesso and MaiLien Le, a couple supposed to be married on Oct. 5 at the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Unless Congress lifted the shutdown by that date, the couple wouldn't be able to get married in the memorial as planned. So instead, Colbert performed the "2013 Government Shutdown Wedding of the Century."
In a wedding bonanza complete with mini bachelor and bachelorette parties, an adorable ring bearer and an unexpected "celebrity" best man, Colbert married the couple on set in one truly unforgettable ceremony.
Watch both parts below:

The Colbert Report Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Video Archive

The Colbert Report Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Video Archive
Image: The Colbert Report