Getting married was always part of our plan — we just didn’t expect to do it from different time zones.
When you’re in a cross-border relationship, especially get more info with military deployment, everything gets more complicated. Paperwork, travel restrictions, planning — even picking a date can feel stressful.
We wanted to start our life together. But a traditional wedding just wasn’t an option.
Then we found out we could have a legal virtual wedding.
At first, we thought it was some kind of loophole. But after researching, we learned that states like Utah allow fully virtual marriages — with a licensed officiant and official paperwork — and they’re 100% valid.
We decided to go for it.
Here’s how it worked for us:
- We uploaded our IDs and filled out a quick form.
- We booked our wedding time with an officiant who was licensed for online ceremonies.
- We invited our closest friends and family to join via Zoom.
- And when the day came, we connected to the ceremony, said our vows, and just like that — we were married.
I said “I do” from my living room. My partner said it from their temporary station.
It was emotional. It was easy. And it was ours.
The officiant made it feel official. The ceremony was intimate and sweet. And we received our certified marriage certificate immediately — no courthouse, no plane tickets, no headaches.
Since then, we’ve used our online marriage to handle joint bank accounts, and every agency has recognized it — no issues at all.
If you’re separated by borders, don’t wait. Online marriage is recognized, and it’s a modern way to start your future — even if you’re not in the same place.
We’re proof that weddings don’t need venues — and that what matters most is the person on the other end of the call.