Believe it or not, in the beautiful state of Colorado, your dog can legally sign your marriage license. This might sound like a joke, but it’s a real perk of Colorado’s marriage laws!
Colorado is one of the unique places in the U.S. where couples can self-solemnize their marriage. This means you can get married to your partner without the need for an officiant or even witnesses. It’s perfect for those who want a very intimate ceremony or have their special day in a unique way, such as involving their pets.
Imagine having your loyal canine friend play an official role in your wedding. In Colorado, this dream can easily become a reality. Let’s dive into a real-life story of a couple who did exactly that.
“Cece” The Pawficial Officiant
When Kristy Biro and Eric Gaidis planned their wedding, they knew one thing for sure—they wanted their beloved dog, Cece, to be a part of their special day. The question was, how?
They chose to get married at the stunning Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado. This location not only provided breathtaking views but also allowed them to utilize the state’s self-solemnization law. This meant Cece could not only attend but also officially sign the marriage certificate—well, with a paw print!
During the ceremony, captured beautifully by their photographer Felicia TeKolste, Cece, a five-year-old Golden Retriever/Great Pyrenees mix, stamped her owners’ marriage license with her paw. The video posted by TeKolste highlights this unique feature of Colorado weddings, where no officiant is necessary, and a furry friend can make the marriage official.
A Wedding Tail to Remember
The couple’s 2022 wedding was a destination event attended by 45 of their closest friends and family. With no formal officiant, the couple leaned on their guests to contribute to the ceremony, making it a deeply personal and communal affair.
“Our ceremony combined our three favorite things: our closest friends and family, Cece, and the mountains,” Biro explained. The highlight, of course, was having their marriage certificate adorned with Cece’s paw print, a memento they’ll cherish forever.
Cece wasn’t just a silent participant; she actively contributed to the ceremony. After the couple took their places, Cece ran down the aisle and settled peacefully next to the best man, fully involved and present for her pawrents’ big day.
A Beautiful Memory Amidst Challenges
Adding another layer of emotional depth to their wedding, the couple faced personal challenges during their engagement. On the day Eric proposed, they received distressing news about Kristy’s father’s health—his cancer had returned. Throughout their engagement, her father battled his illness, undergoing surgery and treatments.
However, in a turn of events that seemed nothing short of miraculous, Kristy’s father felt a surge of strength during the wedding week. Not only was he able to attend, but he also delivered a heartfelt speech and participated in the father-daughter dance, creating memories that Kristy holds dear.
Why Colorado’s Law Is So Special
Colorado’s allowance for self-solemnization isn’t just about simplifying the wedding process; it provides a chance for couples to design a ceremony that truly reflects their personalities and values. Whether it’s having your dog as a signatory or eliminating the need for an officiant, this law enables unique celebrations that stand apart from traditional weddings.
For animal lovers and those who seek a more personal touch, this aspect of Colorado’s marriage laws is a delightful discovery. It speaks to the state’s spirit of independence and respect for individual preferences, making it a popular choice for non-traditional weddings.
Conclusion: Celebrating Love Your Way
Kristy and Eric’s wedding story is just one example of how couples can take advantage of Colorado’s unique marriage laws to create a day that perfectly encapsulates their relationships and lifestyles. Including Cece in their ceremony wasn’t just a whimsical choice—it was a profound expression of their family unit.
For those planning a wedding and looking for a way to make it deeply personal, consider Colorado. Not only will you find majestic landscapes and a welcoming atmosphere, but you’ll also find the freedom to celebrate your love in a way that might just include paw prints on your marriage license!
