Which States Allow Self-Solemnization For Weddings?

Self-solemnization, or self-uniting marriage, is a way for couples to marry without an officiant. This means that the couple can officiate their own wedding and exchange their vows without a third party. In the US, there are a few states that allow self-solemnization, including Colorado, California, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Washington D.C., Nevada, Kansas, and Maine. However, the requirements and recognition of self-solemnization vary across these states. For example, in Wisconsin, couples are required to sign a form acknowledging that the government may not recognize their self-uniting marriage in all contexts. On the other hand, states like Colorado and Washington D.C. have very simple processes for self-solemnization, without the need for extra applications or paperwork. While self-solemnization offers couples more privacy and flexibility, it is important to research the local laws and regulations before planning a self-officiated wedding, as the process can differ significantly between states and even cities.

States with simple self-solemnization processes

Self-solemnization, or self-uniting marriage, is when a couple marries without a third party present to officiate the wedding. This means that no officiant or witnesses are required. While this is not legal in all US states, some states have simple processes for self-solemnization.

Colorado

Colorado is one of the only states in the US that allows self-uniting marriages. It is also one of the simplest places to self-solemnize your marriage. Couples can obtain a marriage license from any DMV or County Clerk & Recorder office, go on an adventure, say their vows, sign their license, and turn it back in. No extra applications or paperwork are required.

Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. also has a very simple process for self-solemnization. Couples can simply make a note on their marriage application that they elect to officiate the marriage themselves.

Illinois

Illinois allows self-solemnization in accordance with religious or indigenous ceremonies. No extra applications or paperwork are required.

Kansas

In Kansas, as long as both parties consent, a couple can self-solemnize their own marriage. No extra applications or paperwork are required.

It is important to note that each state and even certain cities within them have unique regulations regarding self-solemnization. Therefore, it is recommended to research the specific requirements of the location where you plan to get married.

States that require religious exemption

In some US states, couples can officiate their own weddings through self-solemnization or self-uniting marriage. This means that no third party is required to officiate the wedding, and the couple can marry themselves.

Some states require couples to obtain a religious exemption to be eligible for self-solemnization. Here is a list of states that require religious exemption for self-solemnization:

California

In California, couples may choose to have a non-clergy wedding. The state defines this as "used for the recording of marriages for members of religious societies or denominations that do not have clergy for the purpose of solemnizing a marriage." Couples must disclose their religious society or denomination on the license.

Maine

In Maine, members of the Quaker, Friend, or Baháʼí faiths are able to self-solemnize their marriage. Couples are required to sign their names in the officiant section of the marriage license.

Nevada

Similar to Maine, Nevada also requires couples to be members of the Quaker, Friend, or Baháʼí faiths to self-solemnize their marriage. Only one adult witness is required to sign the marriage license in Nevada.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, couples may self-solemnize their marriage if at least one of them belongs to a religious society, denomination, or sect that has customs, rules, and regulations regarding self-marriage. While proof of religion is not required, couples must sign the marriage license and acknowledge that the government cannot guarantee their marriage will be acknowledged in all contexts.

Witnesses and signatures

On the other hand, states like Colorado, Washington, D.C., and Illinois do not require any witnesses or signatures for self-solemnization. Couples in these states have the freedom to marry without an officiant or witnesses present. This provides an opportunity for a truly private and intimate ceremony.

It is worth noting that even in states that do not require witnesses, couples may still choose to have guests or loved ones present during their self-solemnization ceremony. In these cases, guests can participate in various ways, such as signing the marriage license, performing readings, or taking part in unity ceremonies.

Additionally, some states offer flexibility. For instance, while Washington state generally requires two witnesses, it is possible to self-solemnize with only one witness who is ordained and can assist with the legal paperwork.

It is important to research the specific laws and requirements of your state before planning a self-solemnization ceremony. Each state has its own regulations, and it is essential to ensure that your self-uniting marriage will be legally recognized.

Self-solemnization ceremony tips

Self-solemnization (or self-uniting) is where a couple marries without an officiant or witnesses. This gives you the option to have a completely private ceremony or to have an officiant who isn't legally ordained, like a friend or family member.

Benefits of self-solemnization

• Privacy: You can exchange vows in an intimate setting without any other people present.
• Customization: You have complete freedom to customize your ceremony, including the location, timing, and structure.
• Flexibility: You don't need to schedule or coordinate with an officiant, giving you more flexibility with the timing of your ceremony.
• Location options: You can choose a location based solely on your preferences, without having to consider whether an officiant is willing or able to travel there.

States that allow self-solemnization

• California
• Colorado
• District of Columbia
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maine
• Nevada
• Pennsylvania
• Wisconsin

Tips for planning a self-solemnization ceremony

• Write your own vows: Self-solemnizing couples often write personalized vows since they aren't following a traditional script.
• Choose your own activities: Your ceremony can occur during any activity you choose, such as standing on a mountaintop or jumping out of an airplane.
• Length of ceremony: There are no restrictions on the length of your ceremony, so make it as long or short as you like.
• Include guests: Self-solemnization doesn't mean you can't have guests or family present. You can even have your pet as a witness!
• Choose your location carefully: Select a location that is meaningful or special to you, such as a scenic outdoor spot.
• Plan ahead: Take care of essentials like booking locations or people in advance, especially if you're travelling to a popular destination during peak season.
• Include items from your bucket list: Incorporate activities or destinations from your bucket list into your self-solemnization ceremony.
• Hire a photographer: Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture your special day so you can share those memories with friends and family.

Legalities of self-solemnization

Self-solemnization is a legally recognized form of marriage in the US, even in states that do not allow it. However, it's important to research the specific laws and requirements of the state where you plan to marry, as they may vary.

Legal recognition and marriage green card applications

Self-solemnization, or self-uniting marriage, is legally recognized in some US states, including Colorado, California, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Washington D.C., and Kansas. In these states, couples can legally marry themselves without requiring an officiant or witnesses. However, it's important to note that state laws and regulations can change, so it's always advisable to check with your specific state and local authorities.

For marriage green card applications, evidence of a valid and legally recognized marriage is necessary. While self-solemnization is not recognized in all jurisdictions, it can still impact the application process. Consulting with an immigration attorney is recommended to understand the specific requirements and implications for your particular situation.

If self-solemnization is legally recognized in your jurisdiction, you may use the ceremony as proof of a valid marriage. This could include documentation such as photographs, videos, and affidavits from witnesses. In cases where self-solemnization is not legally recognized, alternative options may be available, such as having a separate legal ceremony performed by an authorized officiant.

It's worth noting that even if a state does not officially recognize self-solemnization, couples can still choose to have a private self-led ceremony. They can then follow it up with a legal ceremony, either before or after, to ensure their marriage is officially recognized. This approach allows couples to have the best of both worlds, combining their dream wedding with the legal requirements.

Additionally, some states that allow self-solemnization also require the signatures of one or two adult witnesses on the marriage license. This can be anyone, from a photographer or videographer to a friendly person met on a hiking trail. In some states, like Colorado, couples can even have their dog "sign" the marriage license using a non-toxic ink pad to stamp their paw print.

Frequently asked questions