Getting married was always part of our plan — we just didn’t expect to do it from separate countries.

When you’re in a cross-border relationship, especially with military deployment, everything gets more complicated. Paperwork, travel restrictions, planning — even picking a date can feel impossible.

We wanted to start our life together. But a traditional wedding just wasn’t realistic.

Then we found out we could say “I do” over Zoom — for real.

At first, we thought it was only symbolic. But after researching, we learned that states like Utah legally support fully virtual marriages — with a licensed officiant and official paperwork — and they’re even accepted in other countries.

We decided to go for it.

Here’s how it worked for us:

• We submitted our documents and filled out a quick form.
• We scheduled 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 joined the call, said our vows, and just like that — we were married.

I said “I do” from my apartment. My partner said it from their temporary station.

It was emotional. It was stress-free. And it was ours.

The officiant walked us through the process. The ceremony was quick, but powerful. And we received our legal marriage emergency wedding certificate right after — no courthouse, no plane tickets, no headaches.

Since then, we’ve used our online marriage to handle joint bank accounts, and every agency has approved it — no issues at all.

If you’re dealing with distance, don’t wait. Online marriage is recognized, and it’s a meaningful way to start your future — even if you’re not in the same place.

We’re proof that love doesn’t need borders — and that what matters most is the commitment.