If you’re dreaming of a Colorado elopement, then you’ve got great taste. Think about the stunning peaks, golden aspen trees, and alpine lakes. Colorado’s got all the mountain magic you could ask for. But before you start packing your hiking boots and that non-traditional wedding dress you’ve been eyeing, there are a few things you have to know. Whether you’re keeping it intimate, or adventurous, these five tips will make your Colorado elopement everything you’ve imagined and more.
1. Consider the Best Season to Elope
Colorado is absolutely stunning year-round, but each season has its charm…and challenges. Picking the right time of year will set the vibe for your elopement, so think about what feels the most you.
- Spring (March – May): The snow starts melting, and wildflowers begin to bloom, especially in late May. But remember, spring weather can be unpredictable here. You might get sunny skies or a sudden snowstorm.
- Summer (June – August): This is peak hiking and wildflower season! The days are warm, the lakes are crystal clear, and most mountain roads are open. Just be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.
- Fall (September – October): Golden aspen trees everywhere. Fall in Colorado feels like you stepped inside a painting. Plus, the weather is cooler, and the dreamy light makes everything extra romantic. Just don’t wait too long. By late October, snow might sneak up on you.
- Winter (November – February): Want that cozy snow-globe elopement vibe? Winter is your season. Think snow capped mountains and intimate cabins with fireplaces. But remember, winter means icy hikes, and some locations may not be accessible. Bring layers!
Consider how you envision your elopement photos and overall vibe. Are you rocking a flowy gown in a meadow of flowers, or are you cozying up in a snowy cabin? The season you choose will make a major difference!
2. Hire Your Photographer First
First things first, find your photographer! Hiring a photographer early is key because they’ll be your secret weapon for planning. A good adventure photographer knows the dreamiest spots, best lighting times, and how to make your vision come to life. Want photos on a cliffside at sunrise? Need help finding an accessible trail for grandma to join the ceremony? They’ve got you covered. Bonus points if they double as your unofficial wedding planner. Many photographers (like myself) specialize in elopements, so lean on their expertise. Plus, they’ll help you figure out logistics like permits, timing, and avoiding crowds. Colorado’s hot spots can get busy (especially in summer).
3. No Officiant Needed!
Okay, here’s what makes Colorado stand out. Colorado is a self-solemnizing state. That means you and your partner can legally marry each other. No officiant is necessary. All you need is a marriage license (which you can grab at any county clerk’s office in Colorado) and yourselves. Want to exchange vows on a mountaintop with no one else around? Done. Want your dog to sign as your witness? Totally allowed here!
If you’re wondering how all this works, check out my blog on How to Legally Get Married in Colorado. It breaks down everything you need to know, including tips for getting that license and making it official without the stress.
4. Book Accommodations Early
Colorado is a hotspot for tourists and adventurers alike, so booking your accommodations early is a must. Popular accommodations in Estes Park, Breckenridge, or Aspen can fill up quickly. If you’re dreaming of a secluded cabin in the woods or an Airbnb mountain lodge, snag it as soon as you can. And if you’re planning a peak-season elopement (summer or fall), book months in advance.
Pro tip: Stay somewhere close to your ceremony spot or hiking trailhead. The last thing you want on your wedding day is to stress about traffic, long drives, or missing the sunrise you planned your vows around.
5. Spend the Entire Day Exploring the Mountains
Here’s the thing about eloping, it’s not just a quick “I do” and done. Make it an adventure! This is your day, so take your time exploring the mountains and soaking in every magical moment. Turn your elopement into an all-day experience. Start the morning with a sunrise hike to your ceremony spot, or enjoy coffee on the hike. Exchange vows overlooking a valley, then spend the day chasing waterfalls, picnicking in a wildflower meadow, or wandering through golden aspen groves. Consider ending the day snuggling under a blanket, watching the sunset, or maybe even stargazing. P.S., Colorado’s night skies are next-level magical.
For more ideas, check out my blog on the 5 Steps to Planning Your Dream Mountain Wedding. Even if you’re eloping instead of hosting a full wedding, trust me, there are gems in there.
Are You Ready To Elope In Colorado?
Eloping in Colorado is the ultimate way to make your wedding day intimate, adventurous, and totally unforgettable. From choosing the perfect season to spending the day exploring epic mountain trails, these tips will help you craft a day that feels authentically you.
And hey, if you’re ready to start planning and need a photographer who totally gets the magic of elopements, I’d love to be a part of your adventure! From helping you find hidden gem ceremony spots to capturing every dreamy, windswept moment in the mountains, I’ve got you. Think of me as your photographer, and guide all rolled into one.
Sound amazing? Fill out my contact form! Together, we’ll make sure your Colorado elopement is everything you’ve dreamed of and more.
