Eloping in Colorado offers so much freedom. Epic landscapes, year-round beauty, and one incredibly unique option: self-solemnizing your marriage. If you’re dreaming of a ceremony that’s deeply personal, authentic, and centered on your connection rather than tradition, self-solemnization might be the perfect path for you.
In this blog, I’ll break down exactly what self-solemnizing means, how to legally do it in Colorado, and tips to make your self-uniting ceremony unforgettable.
What is Self-Solemnization?
Self-solemnization means you can legally marry each other without an officiant or witnesses. That’s right, you and your partner can simply exchange vows, sign your marriage license, and be legally married in the state of Colorado. No officiant, priest, or judge required. No audience needed.
This makes Colorado one of the most elopement-friendly states in the U.S., and it's a major reason why so many couples travel here to elope.
Why Do Couples Choose to Self-Solemnize?
Self-solemnization appeals to couples who:
- Want a private and intimate ceremony
- Prefer to marry without religious or legal formality
- Are planning an adventure elopement in nature
- Don’t want to deal with hiring an officiant or arranging a full guest list
- Value the symbolism of marrying each other by each other
There’s something incredibly powerful about looking into your partner’s eyes in the middle of a mountain meadow or at the edge of an alpine lake and saying, "I choose you," with no one else around.
Is It Really Legal in Colorado?
Yes! According to Colorado law (C.R.S. 14-2-109), couples can solemnize their own marriage without a judge, officiant, or witnesses.
A few key points to know:
- You must still apply for and obtain a legal marriage license from any Colorado county clerk's office
- You both must be present to apply and provide valid identification (like a driver’s license or passport)
- Once you receive your license, it is valid immediately and good for 35 days
- After your ceremony (however simple or elaborate), you sign the license yourselves as the officiants
- Witnesses are optional
- Mail the completed license back to the county clerk within 63 days
Pro tip: Some couples even have their dog "sign" the license with a paw print!
How to Self-Solemnize in Colorado: Step-by-Step
Here’s a simple breakdown of how to self-solemnize your marriage:
Step 1: Get Your Marriage License
Visit any Colorado county clerk's office (you don’t have to live in that county) with your partner. Bring:
- Valid photo IDs
- Social security numbers (you don’t need cards)
- $30 for the marriage license fee
Some counties allow you to begin the application online.
Step 2: Choose Your Location
This is the fun part! Since you don't need an officiant or setup, you can marry just about anywhere in Colorado:
- Mountain trails
- Alpine lakes
- Aspen groves
- Sand dunes
- Desert canyons
- Urban rooftops
Just make sure to check if a location requires a permit (many do, especially national parks).
Step 3: Plan Your Vows and Ceremony
Even without an officiant, you can still create a meaningful ceremony. Ideas include:
- Writing your own vows and reading them aloud
- Including a symbolic ritual (handfasting, ring exchange, love letter box)
- Sharing a moment of silence or meditation
- Reading a poem or passage
You can make it as simple or as elaborate as you like. There are no rules!
Step 4: Sign the Marriage License
After exchanging vows, fill out your marriage license. You and your partner sign where it says "Officiant," since you're marrying yourselves.
Witness lines are optional. Feel free to have friends, family, or your pup sign!
Step 5: Return the License
Drop off or mail your completed license back to the issuing clerk's office within 63 days. You'll receive a certified copy to keep (you can also request extras for name changes, etc).
Creative Ideas to Make Your Self-Solemnizing Ceremony Special
Self-solemnizing gives you total freedom. Here are some creative and intentional ways to make your elopement feel unforgettable:
1. Elope at Sunrise or Sunset
Light matters! Golden hour gives your photos and experience a magical glow. Picture exchanging vows as the sun rises over a mountain ridge.
2. Write Letters to Each Other
If you're nervous about saying your vows aloud, consider writing private letters to exchange and read during the ceremony.
3. Bring Sentimental Items
Bring something meaningful: heirloom jewelry, a handwritten note, a photo, or a small token to include in your vows.
4. Include a Mini Ritual
Ideas: Pouring sand, tying a knot, planting something, or sharing a toast.
5. Hire a Photographer or Videographer
Even if it's just the two of you, having professional documentation allows you to relive the day and share it with loved ones. Aka hire me!!! :)
6. Create a Playlist
Bring a speaker and play your favorite songs during the ceremony. It adds ambiance and emotion.
7. Celebrate After
Plan a special dinner, book a luxury Airbnb, or pop champagne in the hot tub afterward!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need witnesses to self-solemnize?
Nope! You can sign and submit the license with just the two of you. Witnesses are optional.
Can we self-solemnize anywhere in Colorado?
Yes—as long as it’s a public or private location where you have permission to be. Many locations in national parks, state parks, and open spaces require permits.
Can a photographer sign as a witness?
Yes! If you’d like someone to sign as a witness, your photographer can definitely do so. Some couples include their dog, too!
Can non-residents self-solemnize in Colorado?
Yes! You do not have to be a Colorado resident to elope or self-solemnize here.
Can we have guests at our self-solemnized ceremony?
Absolutely. Whether it’s just you two or a group of your closest people, the experience is yours to design.
Final Thoughts
Self-solemnizing in Colorado is one of the most powerful and personal ways to get married. Whether you're hiking to an alpine lake, standing beneath golden aspens, or exchanging vows at a cozy Airbnb, you can create a ceremony that feels 100% like you.
As an elopement photographer, I’m here to help you with more than just photos. I help couples choose the right location, navigate the license process, build timelines, and create space for meaningful moments—no matter how big or small.
If you’re dreaming of a self-solemnized elopement in Colorado, let’s talk about how we can make it unforgettable.
Let’s create something magical!
