In Wallkill, NY, a couple tied the knot with their golden retriever Wally as their legal witness, complete with cake, dance, and tail wags.
Through life's greatest trials, you can count on man's best friend to be there every paw step of the way.
Dogs are lovable, loyal creatures that make their owner the center of their universe. They may not be able to talk, but how they feel about you can be seen in their eyes, which light up the moment you walk through the front door.
Owners who relate to the above may be inclined to include their pet in their wedding, whether it be walking down the aisle as a flower dog or serving as your wedding witness.
Yes, you heard that right. In the U.S., there are quite a few states where it is legal for your pet to serve as your wedding witness. Is Tennessee one of them? Here's what we know.
What is a wedding witness?
A wedding witness is a person who is responsible for signing the marriage license and certifying that the marriage of two people has taken place. The role plays an integral part of the marriage ceremony in the U.S. and ensures the marriage "is legally binding and provides documentation of the event while adding emotional significance and support for the couple," per Contracts Counsel.
Can my dog serve as a wedding witness in Tennessee?
In the state of Tennessee, a witness is not required for a valid marriage ceremony to take place, according to Davidson County General Sessions Court. This means your dog can be act as a symbolic witness.
Can my dog sign my marriage license in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a dog may serve as a wedding witness for symbolic purposes only. A dog cannot legally sign a marriage license because it is not human. Tennesseans who wish to wed must both sign off on the marriage license, which must also be signed by a legally authorized officiant such as a minister or judge. However, it is possible for your pet's paw print to be added to a decorative copy of your marriage certificate.
"Many couples keep this version for display at home alongside the official document." said Figo Pet Insurance.
U.S. states where pets can serve as a wedding witness
* Alabama
* Arkansas
* California
* Colorado
* Connecticut
* Florida
* Hawaii
* Idaho
* Illinois
* Indiana
* Iowa
* Maryland
* Massachusetts
* Mississippi
* Missouri
* Montana
* Nevada
* New Hampshire
* New York
* Ohio
* Pennsylvania
* South Carolina
* South Dakota
* Tennessee
* Texas
* Vermont
* Virginia
* West Virginia
* Washington, D.C.
Nina Tran covers trending topics for The Greenville News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her via email at ntran@usatodayco.com.