Colorado’s Unique Marriage Laws: Let your dog sign your marriage license

Have you ever dreamed of having your furry friend play a significant role in your big day? Well, in Colorado, that dream can become a reality, thanks to a unique marriage law that allows couples to self-solemnize or self-unite their marriage.

‘Cece’ Người chính thứcchó ký giấy phép kết hôn của chủ sở hữuSource: @feliciarenaephotography

Colorado stands out among the states for its progressive approach to marriage ceremonies. Here, couples can tie the knot without the need for an officiant, or even guests if they prefer. This opens up a world of possibilities for those seeking a truly personalized and intimate wedding experience.

couple with a dog holding their marriage licenseSource: @feliciarenaephotography

Kristy Biro and Eric Gaidis recently took advantage of this law in a heartwarming and unconventional way. When planning their wedding, they knew they wanted their beloved pup, ‘Cece,’ to be an integral part of the celebration. But how could they incorporate her into the ceremony in a meaningful way?

 

The 2022 bride told PEOPLE that they opted for a “destination wedding with 45 of their closest friends and family.” 

The couple decided to exchange vows at the stunning Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado, surrounded by nature’s beauty and their closest loved ones. With no officiant present, they seized the opportunity to have Cece not only attend but also participate in a unique and memorable manner.

wedding ceremony in the mountainsSource: Felicia Renae Photography

In a video captured by their photographer, Felicia TeKolste, Cece, a five-year-old Golden Retriever/Great Pyrenees mix, can be seen adding her paw print to her owners’ marriage certificate. It’s a heartwarming moment that encapsulates the bond between pet and owner, immortalized on an official document.

couple kissing and dog sitting by their side – Source: Felicia Renae Photography

The absence of an officiant allowed the couple’s friends and family to take on more active roles in the ceremony, fostering a sense of community and intimacy. For Kristy and Eric, their wedding was a perfect fusion of their favorite things: cherished loved ones, majestic mountains, and their beloved Cece.

But their special day held even deeper significance. Amidst the joy of their wedding planning, Kristy’s father faced a daunting health battle. However, his determination and resilience allowed him to not only attend the ceremony but also surprise the couple with a heartfelt speech and a sign that elicited laughter and tears from all present.

couple getting married in the mountainsSource: Felicia Renae Photography

For Kristy and Eric, their wedding day was a testament to love’s enduring power, resilience in the face of adversity, and the profound bond between humans and their furry companions. As they danced under the starlit sky, surrounded by mountains and loved ones, they knew that this day would forever hold a cherished place in their hearts.

Colorado’s unique marriage law offers couples the freedom to craft weddings that reflect their personalities, values, and deepest desires. And for Kristy, Eric, and Cece, it allowed them to create a celebration that was truly one-of-a-kind—a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.