How to Elope in Colorado - Planning advice from a photographer
Woah! Hey there and welcome to your Colorado Elopement Guide. You’re probably on your way to planning your elopement or just dreaming, either way. I’m glad to have you here and and share a handful of the top things that you should consider when planning to elope in Colorado whether you’re coming in from out of state, the country or getting married locally.
I’ve tried to keep everything brief as I know some guides are incredibly extensive with heaps of info and sometimes you just don’t have time for all that. This is a good starting point and will help cover the basics and I’m always available as well if you have any questions along the way.
1. Pick When You Want To Elope
All Seasons of Colorado are beautiful!
First you’ve got to figure out when you want to elope! Generally couples will book their elopement anywhere from 6-12 months out. Weather fluctuates in Colorado so it’s important that you consider this when making a decision but also that you’re working with a photographer (and other vendors) that are local to CO or are very familiar with the area. Why? Because It can be 70 degrees in Denver but 45 in the mountains and can change drastically depending on the location of the sun and direction the wind is blowing.
Some of the snow in the Colorado mountains never melt even in the summer, so if you’re hiking you’ll want to be prepared with layers of clothing and good hiking boots.
Spring in Colorado generally means wildflowers, rain, flowing rivers, melting snow and very green plains! Winter brings the snow, but also the sunshine! It can be very cold temperature wise but feel warm because of the sun. Just something to remember when thinking about when you’d like to elope. Summer and Fall in Northern CO (where I am based) can be anywhere from 70s to mid 90s in temperature in the Foothills, but cools off big time once you get into higher elevation.
Date:
When picking a time of year you’ll also want to nail down a date. If you’ve got a specific date or timeframe that you’re wanting to lock-in then contact the photographer an any vendors you’re hoping to work with so you can get the day secured. Pro-tip: Pick a weekday!
Lodging:
Book your mountain town Airbnb asap! And if you’re wanting to start the day there and want suggestions on good places with the best views and lighting, I’ve got you covered.
Travel:
Book your flights and get your rental if you’re traveling to CO.
2. Pick Where in Colorado to Elope
Colorado is a big state with so many different terrains from mountains, open plains, sand-dunes and alpine lakes.
It’s so important that you take time to brainstorm and even put together a mood-board of places that you love.
And even more important to work with a photographer and other vendors that have real experience working in different locations and can offer custom location scouting and ideas for you to choose from.
Elopement Locations to consider in Colorado:
Ouray, Telluride, Breckenridge, Vail, Georgetown, Idaho Springs, Buena Vista, Silverton, Silverthorne, Fort Collins, Boulder, Colorado Springs
Things to consider
Make your elopement unique to who you are!
Questions to ask:
Do you want to hike?
Do you want to explore 4x4 trails?
Do you love sunset (golden hour) photos in the mountains?
Do you want to camp on your elopement day?
Do you love snow?
Do you want to avoid people and do a sunrise elopement?
Would you like to have florals?
Do you want to have a private chef cater a meal?
What details are important to have on your day?
Would you like to have a first dance?
Want to pack a picnic?
DREAM BIG! It’s your day. You get to celebrate it your way!
3. Finalize Details
Marriage license, timeline, permits, vendors, packing list, logistics etc
Now that you’ve figured out where and when you want to elope you’ve got to nail down a few important things.
You need a Colorado marriage License
If you need it mailed to a CO address, you can have it mailed to me.Good news! You don’t need an officiant, unless you’d like to have one. Colorado allows couples to self-solemnize, so all you need to do is exchange vows or make a verbal commitment and mail in your signed marriage license.
Check-list! Make sure you’ve got everything you need especially if you’re coming out to Colorado for a destination elopement. I have a packing list here
Double check your itinerary, logistics and make sure your photographer has helped you with all necessary permits.
