“This is an entirely novel experience for me,” expresses Dorothy Fideli, who had previously tied the knot through a simple courthouse ceremony back in 1965.
In a remarkable event, Dorothy “Dottie” Fideli, a 77-year-old woman from Ohio, embraced self-love by entering into a one-of-a-kind marriage ceremony. Surrounded by friends and fellow residents of her retirement community, O’Bannon Terrace in Goshen, Dottie celebrated her profound love for herself on Saturday.
Expressing a mix of nerves and excitement, Fideli confessed to feeling both anxious and thrilled about her momentous day. She confided in the outlet, “This is uncharted territory for me. It’s an emotional experience because it fulfills a lifelong desire.”
Fideli had previously entered into a short-lived marriage through a courthouse ceremony in 1965, but the relationship ended in divorce after nine years. Reflecting on her past, she shared with Today, “I wore a black dress, so I was doomed before I got started.” Despite concerns that it might be too late to have the wedding she had always envisioned, Fideli experienced a change of heart.
“After being by my own side for 40 years,” she remarked, as reported by KCEN, “I came to the realization while attending church that I wanted to do something truly extraordinary for myself.”
The inspiration to marry herself came to Fideli through her neighbors, who had witnessed a similar act on a talk show, as reported by WLWT. “Now I have an opportunity to do something that will bring me joy,” she expressed to the outlet.
Having devoted much of her life to caring for her children and grandchildren, Fideli now eagerly embraces the notion that life is centered around her. As Today reported, she exclaims, “It’s my time now, and I can focus on my own desires. It’s my turn to pursue what brings me happiness.”
Fideli’s daughter, Donna Pennington, played a significant role in making her mother’s special day a reality. Pennington assisted Fideli in finding the perfect dress, prepared food for the event, and adorned the retirement home’s community room with festive decorations, including a balloon arch.
Fideli expressed her gratitude to her daughter, sharing with Today, “I told my daughter, ‘This is the best thing I’ve ever had, apart from having you kids.’ This is my long-standing dream, and I’m incredibly grateful that you made it happen for me.”
