Photo Credit: Morguefile.com

We all know Independence Day to be a day of barbecues that last late into the night and gazing at fireworks on the beach, but Billy Joel and longtime girlfriend Alexis Roderick had a different idea this year. Instead of independence, they celebrated unity.

The regular fourth of July party the couple holds every year became the venue for a wedding not even the guests were expecting. Joel and Roderick tied the knot in front of surprised friends and family members after six years of being together.

The ceremony, which was held on Joel’s Long Island estate was presided over by longtime friend Governor Andrew Cuomo. Others, including actor Kevin James and Joel’s daughter from his marriage with Christie Brinkley were in attendance as well. Via Instagram ex-wife Brinkley wished the new couple a beautiful congratulations on their marriage, though they will have something else to celebrate together very soon.

Joel and Roderick are expecting their first child together this summer. Here’s to congratulating the beautiful couple on their love and bundle of joy on the way!