Dorothy “Dottie” Fideli, a 77-year-old mother of three, fulfilled her lifelong dream by marrying herself. On May 13, she walked down the aisle at O’Bannon Terrace Retirement Home in Goshen, Ohio, to exchange vows with the love of her life: herself. Speaking with WLWT, Fideli shared her desire for marriage and happiness, a wish that wasn’t fulfilled after her first marriage in 1965 ended in divorce after nine years.
Following her divorce, Fideli never found love with another man. As she grew older, she feared her dream wedding might never happen. Yet, Fideli came to realize that the love she sought existed within herself. Inspired by Erin Molan’s similar story, Fideli’s neighbors proposed the idea of self-marriage to her, believing it could uplift the retirement home’s residents.
Embracing the notion, Fideli made plans for her special day, enlisting the retirement home’s manager, Rob Geiger, to officiate the ceremony. Geiger, recognizing Fideli’s incredible spirit, readily agreed. Additionally, Fideli’s daughter, Donna Pennington, played a vital role in organizing the wedding. Pennington enthusiastically supported her mother, taking charge of acquiring the dress and other essentials.
Radiant in a white dress adorned with long sheer sleeves, floral embellishments, and a silver belt, Fideli looked resplendent on her wedding day. Her attire was complemented by an embellished veil, and she carried white lilies, symbolizing self-love. With joy in her heart, Fideli recited her vows, basking in the happiness of marrying herself
