Colorado self-solemnization

Marry yourselves in Colorado — with a script you actually love.

Colorado is one of the only U.S. states where the two of you can legally solemnize your own marriage. No officiant. No judge. No witnesses required. Just the two of you, your words, and a marriage license.

Is it really legal?

Yes. Under C.R.S. §14-2-109, Colorado law allows a marriage to be solemnized by the parties themselves. You do not need an officiant, minister, or judge — and Colorado is unusual in that it also does not require witnesses.

Step 1 — Get your marriage license

  • Apply together at any Colorado county clerk's office (or online, depending on county).
  • Bring valid photo ID; fees are typically around $30.
  • The license is valid for 35 days from issuance.
  • After the ceremony, both of you sign it and return it to the clerk within 63 days.

Step 2 — Plan your ceremony structure

A self-solemnized ceremony can be as short as five minutes or as full as a traditional wedding. A simple, meaningful outline:

  1. A brief welcome or intention — say why this moment matters.
  2. Your love story or a shared reflection.
  3. Optional reading (a poem, passage, or lyric that means something to you).
  4. Vows — either traditional or written in your own words.
  5. Ring exchange.
  6. Pronouncement — you declare yourselves married.
  7. Sign the marriage license.

Step 3 — Write the script (or let the builder do it)

Our ceremony builder walks you through each section, generates a personalized love story from your answers, and produces a print-ready script — including an opt-in self-solemnization appendix with legal reminders and signing tips. Perfect for elopements, mountain ceremonies, or an intimate reading at home.

Common questions

Do we need witnesses?
No. Colorado does not require witnesses for a self-solemnized marriage.
Can a friend still "officiate" symbolically?
Absolutely. A friend can guide the ceremony while the two of you remain the legal solemnizers on the license.
Do we have to say specific words?
No specific wording is required by Colorado law. The builder gives you traditional and custom vow options.

Want a coach, not an officiant?

Wendee at Custom Weddings of Colorado offers coaching-only sessions for self-solemnizing couples — script polish, day-of flow, and license logistics — without officiating the marriage itself.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with your Colorado county clerk.