Colorado Elopement Guide

You’ve come to the right place

If you’re here and reading this you should be stoked because you’ve made the choice to elope in Colorado and it’s going to be the best decision ever.

If you’re doing a backpacking trip, a short hike or accessing epic locations in a 4x4 vehicle, this Mountain Elopement Checklist will help make sure that you’ve got everything you need and a bit more just to be safe.

You need to be able to move freely in what you wear. I would not recommend super tight or stiff clothing, but something that you are able to sit in, touch your toes, and spin around in. You get the idea.

You can also wear hiking gear then change into whatever you want to wear for your actual elopement! Especially if you’re hiking more than 1 mile - I would highly recommend doing this and changing into your formal attire.

There’s a good chance you will be on your feet for a few hours and the last thing you want are achy tired feet when you elope. So wear comfortable, supportive boots or shoes! Also keep in mind that if you’re eloping in the Colorado Rocky Mountains you will encounter mud, water, and most likely snow. And wearing Hiking Boots when you elope is totally the new thing, so you’ll be in style.

I can’t stress this one enough. When you’re in the mountains at a high elevation you will become hungry and thirsty on a whole other level. So bring snacks, think carbs, high protein, low sugar. I will also be having some snacks and pounding water, so plan on having a snack time. Staying hydrated will also help you avoid elevation sickness!

4. Toilet Paper And A Poop Shovel

I mean, who doesn’t carry TP and a poop shovel with them normally? You can get a tiny poop shovel from Walmart so worst case scenario you can dig a hole for your toilet. I suggest a shovel because I believe in the Leave No Trace Policy which means you need to burry your biodegradable stuff deep in the ground or better yet bring a clean waste kit and pack it out.
If you want to learn how the experts do it just click here

5. First Aid Kit

Anytime you’re in the mountains or in a desolate place it’s a good idea to have a basic first aid kit with you. I also recommend having Aspirin or Ibuprofen in case anyone gets a bad headache with the elevation. Totally not meant to scare you, just something to consider. I’ve been hiking and photographing in the mountains for a long time, I always carry a kit and have never had to use it.

Now that you feel like you’re preparing for a wilderness survival trip, don’t forget the important things like your wedding vows. You can totally choose how you want to go about this, some couples will memorize what they are going to say or read them off a piece of paper.

I suggest bringing a small book where you can write your vows (before your elopement day) and read them to each other.
This gives you something to take home from your elopement and it also makes for great photos.

If you’re wanting to have hair and makeup done professionally make sure to schedule it in advance. If you're eloping in Colorado and need vendor recommendations, I’ve got you covered.

You can also do no makeup or do your thing in the car or wherever you are before your big day.

There are no rules, it’s up to you!

Flowers: If you want a bouquet or flower crown make sure to schedule this so you can pick everything up the day before your elopement. And if the weather is going to be cold, you can explore the option of using a dried flower bouquet, crown or whatever you’re feeling.

Marriage License: Make sure to look up local laws and see what’s required for you to get legally married. You can bring your license and sign it or do so after you elope!

I’m also ordained, so if you need that certificate signed, I’ve got you covered.

Rings: If you’re about those weddings rings, don’t forget them!

Bring a bottle of champaign to pop! Pack a thermos of your favorite hot toddy. Have a cake in the car to throw down on after you elope. The options or limitless, go wild with it, have fun and dream big.

Find the little things you want to do to make your day extra meaningful and special.

10. Additional Items To Consider

- flashlight
- headlamp
- waterproof jacket
- warm gloves
- warm hat
- sunscreen
- warm blanket

Have an AMAZING epic time on your elopement!

And remember, it’s about you, not about pleasing others.