After dating for several years and failing to find the man of her dreams, a 40-year-old woman from Houston, Texas, decided to marry herself in an elaborate ceremony that involved friends and family.
Yasmin Eleby’s wedding was quite similar to a traditional one, except the bride wore purple, there was no groom, and it was the bride’s mother, not her father who walked her down the aisle. Since self-weddings aren’t legally recognized in the U.S., the ceremony – conducted by three ministers – was described as a spiritual one. Yasmin made heartfelt vows to forgive, honor, and love… herself!
“I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support that was shown to me during my celebration of love and life,” Yasmin wrote on Facebook, after the ceremony. She also added that she “couldn’t imagine the ceremony being any more poignant and meaningful.”
Yasmin had announced her decision to marry herself in May 2013, on Facebook. “’Did you guys really think I would get married without letting anybody know????? I want all y’all to dance at my wedding so I wouldn’t do it without you! So be ready by 2015!!!!!!” she wrote.
Since she loves to travel, Yasmin now plans to go on an extended honeymoon by herself later this year, to Cambodia, Laos and Dubai.
“Don’t be afraid to take risks. I’ve learned that family and friends are always willing to welcome you back home if/when you decide to return,” she said. “Thank you once again to each and every person that took the time out of their busy schedule to help me celebrate turning 40!”
This isn’t the first time we’ve heard of women marrying themselves. The concept is actually quite popular in Japan, where companies provide solo wedding services – meant for women who have always dreamed of getting married, but haven’t quite found the right man yet.
Photos: Yasmin Elby/Facebook
