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This 77-year-old woman took self-love to a whole new level by marrying HERSELF!
When we hear the words ‘I do,’ an image of a bride walking down the aisle and a man waiting for them at the altar usually comes to mind. But one bold and vivacious woman decided to flip the script and redefine what it means to say those magical words.
Meet Dorothy Fideli, a 77-year-old woman who showed the world that love could come in all shapes and sizes and doesn’t always have to include another romantic partner – by tying the knot… with herself!
On Saturday, the 77-year-old woman living at O'Bannon Terrace Retirement Home in Goshen, Ohio, celebrated her self-love journey by marrying herself in a lovely ceremony held at the retirement home, surrounded by friends and family.
On Saturday, the 77-year-old woman celebrated her self-love journey by marrying herself in a lovely ceremony held at the O'Bannon Terrace Retirement Home in Goshen, Ohio. Credits: Facebook via Today
Dorothy was first married back in 1965 after a quick, no-frills ceremony. However, just nine years later, she got divorced and had sworn off all men since then.
The idea of marrying herself only came to her while she was at church.
'I have been with myself for 40 years. Something just came over me one day in church that you ought to do something special for yourself,' she told reporters.
'I said, you know what, I've done everything else. Why not? I'm going to marry myself.'
With the idea in her head, Dorothy contacted Rob Geiger, the property manager at her retirement home, to ask if he would be willing to perform the ceremony. Despite being a little taken aback, he eventually agreed.
He thought the ceremony would be a beautiful way of honouring a 'very incredible woman' who has 'always thought of others’.
Fideli’s daughter, Donna Pennington, also found the concept of her mother marrying herself quite endearing. Mrs Pennington took charge of the wedding preparations, ensuring her mother had a dress, catering, and beautiful decorations for her special day.
Like any other bride, Dorothy experienced a blend of nerves and excitement in anticipation of her solo wedding. 'This is something new for me. I've never gotten married like this before,' she said. 'It's emotional for me because this is something I've always wanted.'
The charming event was held at the retirement home's community hall at 3pm. Credits: Facebook/Today
The charming event was held at the retirement home's community hall at 3pm, where Dorothy donned a lovely white dress, veil, bouquet, and a pair of brand-new white sneakers. Dorothy happily said, 'I never thought I would look this pretty in a bride thing.'
Geiger said that this was not the first dream that Dorothy had seen come true during her time at the retirement home. Just a few years ago, she taught herself to read by studying late into the night and is now even reading the Bible for the first time.
Dorothy had this piece of advice to both young and old, single and married, who have yet to fulfil their dreams:
'Love is the most important thing in this world, and if you love God and love yourself, this world will be a field of roses. If it's not in the cards... then there's something out there that will make [you] happy... and fulfil [your] soul.’
'I'm at the point in my life where it's about me now. My kids are all good, and my grandkids, one of them is going to have a baby… and I have a set of triplets that's all graduated from college. So, it's my turn to do what I want to do.'
What an inspiring story! Dorothy Fideli has broken boundaries and demonstrated that it is indeed possible to live the life we truly want and give ourselves the love we deserve in the process, whether through a unique gesture like her solo wedding or simply by actively focusing on our happiness and growth. We at the Seniors Discount Club wish Dorothy all the best as she starts this new chapter in her life.
So, members, what do you think about Dorothy’s inspiring journey? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
