From brainstorming to saying 'I do"
Ultimate Colorado Elopement Guide 2024
Imagine a wedding day focused on you and your love! That's exactly what elopements are all about. I love that elopements allow you to express who you are as a couple by getting married in a way that is authentic to you.
I have used my experience traveling, planning and photographing elopements to build this guide and it should help give you starting points to planning your epic elopement!
Feel free to reach out with any questions you might have.
As you go through this process, stay true to yourself and to the vision of your celebration. Congratulations for embarking on the best adventure of your life - marriage.
What does eloping mean?
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How to Elope in Colorado Elopement
Colorado Elopements - the Legal Stuff
Best Places to Elope in Colorado
5 Reasons to Elope in Colorado
Best Time to Elope in Colorado
There are a few unique things about eloping in Colorado that you’ll want to know before moving forward with your plans. But, those details are the same things that make Colorado such a perfect place to elope! Keep reading and you’ll learn how to elope in Colorado, what self-solemnization means, and what you’ll need to do to legally get married.
5 Reasons to Elope in Colorado
Self-solemnization is super easy and cuts down your elopement planning time and costs.
- No one except you two is required to be present and your elopement can be more private.
- You don’t need to worry about hiring another vendor.
- You save money.
- You don't have to worrying about having a stranger join both of you in marriage.
- You can sign your own marriage license.
- You can plan a ceremony without working around an officiant’s schedule.
Colorado’s self-solemnization allowance gives couples so much freedom to do their wedding their own way! But with this freedom comes very little direction during your ceremony. It’s just the both of you sharing your vows and exchanging rings. If you want some more help with how to organize this time, let me know!
You can marry yourselves in Colorado! Yep, you read that right. Self-solemnization is the ability to officiate your own wedding. Basically, it means the state does not require an officiant to preside over your elopement ceremony, and you can sign your own marriage certificate! Self-solemnization isn’t unique to only Colorado, but this state is one of those most familiar with the process, and it can help make your elopement planning easier.
You can marry yourselves in Colorado! Yep, you read that right. Self-solemnization is the ability to officiate your own wedding. Basically, it means the state does not require an officiant to preside over your elopement ceremony, and you can sign your own marriage certificate! Self-solemnization isn’t unique to only Colorado, but this state is one of those most familiar with the process, and it can help make your elopement planning easier.
Self-solemnization is super easy and cuts down your elopement planning time and costs.
✓ No one except you two is required to be present and your elopement can be more private.
✓ You don’t need to worry about hiring another vendor.
✓ You save money.
✓ You don't have to worrying about having a stranger join both of you in marriage.
✓ You can sign your own marriage license.
✓ You can plan a ceremony without working around an officiant’s schedule.
1. Self Solemnization
Colorado’s self-solemnization allowance gives couples so much freedom to do their wedding their own way! But with this freedom comes very little direction during your ceremony. It’s just the both of you sharing your vows and exchanging rings. If you want some more help with how to organize this time, let me know!
Want to learn more about self-solemnization?
Check out my How to Self Solemnize blog.
Most states require a minimum of five people for an elopement to be a legally binding marriage ceremony. Most states require the couple, an officiant, and two witnesses.
In Colorado, you legally only need two people present at your elopement. I’d argue, you need three – the two getting married, plus a rad photographer ready to document the day!
Of course, if you want to invite friends and family as guests, you’re more than welcome to! However, it’s nice that you don’t NEED anyone else to be there. If it’s your preference, we can plan an elopement day where no one except you and your partner is present.
- We can scout a location far out in the mountains where you’ll have privacy to share your vows, enjoy nature’s beauty, and spend time together without life’s typical distractions.
- I’ll step back, take photos, and help guide you if you’re new to the area. I like to think of Colorado as a “choose your own adventure” place to get married, and that level of freedom can be exciting!
2. You Don't Need Witnesses
Want to learn more about eloping?
Find answers to the Most Common Elopement Questions.
As a fur momma to 2 pups, I think this has to be my favorite reason of them all! Because you don't need 'real' witnesses to sign your marriage license, you can get creative and have your furry best friend sign it. Just make sure to bring an ink pad so you can stamp their paw.
If you want your pup to dress up for you amazing elopement, check out these sites for bowties, cuffs, dress and tuxes.
Baxter Boo
Posh Puppy Boutique
Funny Fur
David’s Bridal
3. Your Dog Can Sign Your License
Still not convinced?
Here are 8 More Reasons to Elope in Colorado.
Colorado isn’t just all-day hikes and exhausting 14ers (though those adventures are wonderful in their own way), there are many easily accessed views, lakes, and elopement locations perfect for couples of all skill levels. Reach out and I’ll help you find the perfect Colorado elopement location for your dream outdoor wedding!
Colorado has SUCH a diverse landscape. We have snow-capped mountains, turquoise alpine lakes, sand dunes, canyons, wildflower meadows, hot springs, arches, and canyons!
With 4 National Parks, 8 National Monuments, and 3 National Heritage Sites, Colorado has limitless elopement locations. You could choose to say your vows on a mountain top, or go hiking all day to reach an alpine lake where privacy is cherished and the world feels all yours. Or, you could elope in Great Sand Dunes and friends who see the photos will think you got married in Morocco!
4. The Epic Locations
Want detailed Elopement Location information by city?
Check out my Location Guide Blogs.
Because of Colorado's diverse landscape, there are so many different elopement activities you can do.
Getting married in Colorado can include fun activities like brewery hopping, horse back riding, and sky diving. You can take a nap in a hammock in the middle of an Aspen grove (my hubby and I did this)! There are rivers to go white water rafting and hot springs to soak in. You can take a helicopter tour. You can go rock climbing or canoeing. We have dog sledding, snowmobiling, mountain biking, fishing, ice skating, hot air ballooning, snow shoeing, ziplining. You can explore caverns or check out wine country. You can take a ride on trains or simply enjoy an outdoor meal while soaking the views.
5. Endless Activity Ideas
Want to make your elopement extra special?
Check out these 50+ Ideas to Make Your Elopement Unique.
To legally elope in Colorado, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license in person (both of you must go). If you are not able to apply in person, you can provide an Absentee Affidavit to the county you’re applying to and you’ll just need a copy of her/his valid I.D. and notarized signature. Click HERE for more information.
Important Facts
- There is no waiting period to get married in Colorado, so once you have your license you’re good to go
- However, I do recommend obtaining your papers at least a few days before your elopement – that’ll
be one less thing to worry about!
- You’ll have 35 days to sign the license and become married.
- Then you have 63 days to return your license for processing.
Whether you want to get the paperwork processed before your elopement, or if you want to sign the certificate as part of your ceremony, the choice is entirely yours. To learn how to fill out your marriage license click HERE.
Unlike other places where there are waiting periods, officiant requirements, and witness requirements, Colorado is one of the most elopement friendly states in the country.
If you're wondering how to get married in Colorado check this out: to legally elope in Colorado, you’ll need to apply for a Colorado marriage license in person (both of you must go). If you are not able to apply in person, you can provide an Absentee Affidavit to the county you’re applying to and you’ll just need a copy of her/his valid I.D. and notarized signature. Click HERE for more information.
What You’ll Need
- $30
- an I.D. (passport, driver’s license, military I.D.)
- your social security number.
Questions You’ll Need to Answer
- The date that you are getting married
- Where you are marrying
- The exact date and location of your divorce or
previous spouse’s death.
- Both parties must be able to provide this
information.
- If you were previously in a civil union and are
marrying someone else, you must provide the
name of your partner in the civil union.
- Know your relationship if related by blood
- The city and state where parents of both parties
were born
Colorado Elopements: The Legal Stuff
Colorado Elopements: - The Legal Stuff
*This is to help guide you in your process but should not be used as legal advice. Please review all Colorado law requirements to understand how to legally get married.*
What You’ll Need
- $30
- an I.D. (passport, driver’s license, military I.D.)
- your social security number.
Questions You’ll Need to Answer
- The date that you are getting married
- Where you are marrying
- The exact date and location of your divorce or previous spouse’s death.
- Know your relationship if related by blood
- The city and state where parents of both parties were born
Important Facts
- There is no waiting period to get married in Colorado, so once you have your license you’re good to go!
- You’ll have 35 days to sign the license and become married.
- Then you have 63 days to return your license for processing.
Whether you want to get the paperwork processed before your elopement, or if you want to sign the certificate as part of your ceremony, the choice is entirely yours. To learn how to fill out your marriage license click HERE.
Unlike other places where there are waiting periods, officiant requirements, and witness requirements, Colorado is one of the most elopement friendly states in the country.
7 Common Elopement Mistakes
Picking the Perfect Elopement Dress
Seven amazing Reasons to Elope
Free Elopement Resources
check out more
There are so many absolutely breathtaking locations in Colorado. I’m especially passionate about helping couples find hidden gems for their elopement. In fact I have a detailed list of over a 100 amazing locations! As you choose where to elope in Colorado, consider the activities you want to take part in during your elopement.
Colorado Elopement Locations Considerations
- Do you want to go for a hike? Would you rather drive somewhere?
- Are you more drawn to an open field, Aspen groves, lakes, mountains, canyons?
- Do you like running barefoot in the sand, or would you prefer the feeling of grass underfoot?
- Maybe you want your dog to act as Best Man or Maid of Honor, and a pup-friendly trail is a top priority.
Permits
Almost EVERY location in Colorado requires a permit and they can take anywhere from 5 mins to 5 months to obtain. Some of these permits are free and some cost $300. While this may be surprising, it’s a lot less than what most venues cost and the money supports the land that we all love! If you’re unsure if a location requires a permit, you can reach out to a ranger in that district. Better yet, get in touch with me and I’ll help answer all your questions. Even more, I include permit costs in all of my elopement packages!
Leave No Trace
Wherever you choose to elope in Colorado, you’ll be sure to have an adventure! But in order to keep Colorado beautiful please make sure to follow all Leave No Trace Principles. As an adventure wedding and elopement photographer, I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t remind you! These seven principles help reduce the impact of our natural spaces and protect the wild places we love so much!
Below, I’ve listed my favorite locations to elope in Colorado and detailed what you’ll need to know to elope at each. Wherever you choose, it’ll be beautiful!
There are so many absolutely breathtaking locations in Colorado. I’m especially passionate about helping couples find hidden gems for their elopement. In fact I have a detailed list of over a 100 amazing locations! As you choose where to elope in Colorado, consider the activities you want to take part in during your elopement.
Best Places to Elope in Colorado
- Do you want to go for a hike?
- Would you rather drive somewhere?
- Are you more drawn to an open field, Aspen groves, lakes, mountains, canyons?
- Do you like running barefoot in the sand, or would you prefer the feeling of grass underfoot?
- Maybe you want your dog to act as Best Man or Maid of Honor, and a pup-friendly trail is a top priority.
Permits
Almost EVERY location in Colorado requires a permit and they can take anywhere from 5 mins to 5 months to obtain. Some of these permits are free and some cost $300. While this may be surprising, it’s a lot less than what most venues cost and the money supports the land that we all love! If you’re unsure if a location requires a permit, you can reach out to a ranger in that district. Better yet, get in touch with me and I’ll help answer all your questions. Even more, I include permit costs in all of my elopement packages!
Below, I’ve listed my favorite locations to elope in Colorado and detailed what you’ll need to know to elope at each. Wherever you choose, it’ll be beautiful!
Want detailed Elopement Location information by city?
Check out my Location Guide Blogs.
Want detailed Elopement Location information by city?
Check out my Location Guide Blogs.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is the perfect Colorado elopement location for desert lovers! In the spring, you can hike out to patches of wildflowers growing amongst the dunes, discover locations where snowy mountains are backdrops to sandy ceremonies, or find yourself on Mars at places where you’ll see nothing but sand as far as you look.
Elope at Great Sand Dunes National Park
More AMAZING Colorado Elopement Locations
The Brainard Lake Recreation Area is a beautiful bit of wilderness just south of RMNP. It makes a perfect place to elope for its accessibility, various hiking trails, and incredible backdrops. Depending on how secluded you want your elopement to be, Brainard Lake would make the perfect start-off point for a day hike or the perfect place for an early morning elopement on the shores of the lake.
Elope at Brainard Lake
Loveland Pass is a high mountain pass at nearly 12,000 feet, and one of the highest passes to remain open all winter. In the summer, this makes for a popular mountain scenic drive, and in the winter this area is popular for all levels of snow sport.
Elope at Loveland Pass
The picture of pristine Colorado wilderness, Lake Isabelle is a perfect elopement location for couples willing to make the trek to this beautiful alpine lake. A bit harder to reach in the winter months, Lake Isabelle will not disappoint you with its stunning mountainous backdrop, blue waters, and pine trees. Camp there and wake up for a sunrise elopement in the summer – you’ll be amazed by the alpenglow turning mountains bright orange!
View Halley and Austin's Lake Isabelle Hiking Elopement.
Elope at Lake Isabelle
Dillion Reservoir is located in Dillon near Silverthorne and Breckenridge and has amazing mountain vistas. You can even rent a sailboat and set sail at sunset and say your vows on the water. There is even a pavilion that can be rented at the Marina for those who want to elope with some guests.
View Taylor and Brian's Dillon Reservoir Elopement.
Elope at Dillion Reservoir
Emerald Lake is located near the quaint alpine town of Crested Butte. Not only is this lake accessible by car (so you can avoid getting too hot and sweaty during a hike) but it also has the most adorable red canoe that is free to use. In the springtime, the area is COVERED in wildflowers, and in the fall, the trees engulf the landscape in beautiful yellows and oranges.
View Kenzi and Mike's Emerland Lake Elopement.
Elope at Emerald Lake
Bridal Veil Falls is an amazing location is nestled in Telluride. The 365-foot waterfall at the end of the box canyon is the largest waterfall in Colorado. It’s easily accessible by a high clearance 4WD (preferable a Jeep style vehicle) and is absolutely STUNNING in the fall. There are also so many other amazing views located nearby!
Elope at Bridal Veil Falls
This secret location is easily accessible by car. There is an adorable little bridge at the end of this short, easy hike. There is also a spot for enjoying a picnic, cut a small wedding cake, or celebrate with some champagne.
Elope at Secret Location 1
This secret location is up a rocky, steep drive that is not for the faint of heart. But the views are so worth it! It’s located in between two gorgeous mountain peaks and overlooks a valley. It also has a small alpine lake and campsites that make it a perfect location for multiday elopements.
Elope at Secret Location 2
Colorado continues to surprise me with its beauty year-round. Knowing when to elope in Colorado often depends on what activities you want to do during your elopement. You can enjoy a warm July elopement surrounded by wildflowers and sunshine or a crisp colorful September elopement spent sipping on hot cider or even a snow-capped winter elopement spent snowboarding down a mountain after exchanging your vows!
- Narrowing down when to elope in Colorado also depends on the location you have in mind.
- There are many beautiful mountain locations that are inaccessible during the winter season because
of snow.
- In the springtime, we also have avalanches that can cause road closures making the location you had in
mind now impossible to get to.
- Learning more about each month and season will also help you know when to elope in Colorado.
- Colorado is crowded with tourists at different times of the year.
- If your heart is set on a timeframe that falls during this busy season, consider having a weekday
elopement or even a sunrise elopement.
- This will help ensure more privacy and intimacy during your special day.
- If you’d rather not worry about that, elope during one of our ‘off’ months when we aren’t as busy.
Weather in Colorado
An important fact to note about the weather in Colorado, is that it is erratic. Storms can roll in out of nowhere and while it might be sunny and warm in the metro area, there could be a blizzard in the mountains. In 2019, it snowed so much that people were skiing on the 4th of July!
My elopement day was supposed to be on June 17th but that day was a continuous torrential downpour. We ended up rescheduling for the next day which was filled with blue skies and sunshine. But even in mid-June, it was 31 degrees on the top of the mountain at sunrise.
That being said, I STRONGLY encourage you to always wear layers no matter when you choose to elope in Colorado. It’s always better to be able to take off a layer and be comfortable than to wear too little and be cold and miserable.
No matter when you elope in Colorado, you’re bound to have an amazing time! Each season offers something unique and special. To make the most out of your elopement, make sure to research the time of year you want to elope. For up-to-date information click here!
This seasonal guide should help give you a better idea of when to elope in Colorado.
Colorado continues to surprise me with its beauty year-round. Knowing when to elope in Colorado often depends on what activities you want to do during your elopement. You can enjoy a warm July elopement surrounded by wildflowers and sunshine or a crisp colorful September elopement spent sipping on hot cider or even a snow-capped winter elopement spent snowboarding down a mountain after exchanging your vows!
Best Time to Elope in Colorado
Want to learn more, and see a full breakdown of every month?
Read my post on the Best Months to Elope in Colorado.
- Narrowing down when to elope in Colorado also depends on the location you have in mind.
- There are many beautiful mountain locations that are inaccessible during the winter season because of snow.
- In the springtime, we also have avalanches that can cause road closures making the location now impossible to get to.
- Learning more about each month and season will also help you know when to elope in Colorado.
- Colorado is crowded with tourists at different times of the year.
- If your heart is set on a timeframe that falls during this busy season, consider having a weekday or even a sunrise elopement.
- This will help ensure more privacy and intimacy during your special day.
- If you’d rather not worry about that, elope during one of our ‘off’ months when we aren’t as busy.
Weather in Colorado
An important fact to note about the weather in Colorado, is that it is erratic. Storms can roll in out of nowhere and while it might be sunny and warm in the metro area, there could be a blizzard in the mountains. In 2019, it snowed so much that people were skiing on the 4th of July!
My elopement day was supposed to be on June 17th but that day was a continuous torrential downpour. We ended up rescheduling for the next day which was filled with blue skies and sunshine. But even in mid-June, it was 31 degrees on the top of the mountain at sunrise.
That being said, I STRONGLY encourage you to always wear layers no matter when you choose to elope in Colorado. It’s always better to be able to take off a layer and be comfortable than to wear too little and be cold and miserable.
No matter when you elope in Colorado, you’re bound to have an amazing time! Each season offers something unique and special. To make the most out of your elopement, make sure to research the time of year you want to elope. For up-to-date information click here!
This seasonal and month-to-month guide should help give you a better idea of when to elope in Colorado.
Pros
Winter elopements in Colorado are great if you want to cozy up by a crackling fire. It’s also a great time to check out some of our alpine lakes that freeze over. Our winters are filled with fresh powder the caps the mountains. You won’t have to worry about dreary, wet weather. Most winter days are filled with blue skies and sunshine. (Did you know Colorado has over 300 days of sunshine per year?)
Cons
During the winter season, many of the mountain roads are closed. This limits the number of locations that are accessible. Depending on which month you want to elope, the mountains can be busy with ski enthusiasts. The days are also shorter meaning less daylight to photograph in (but if you’re planning a sunrise elopement, this also means waking up later!)
Check out these Winter Elopements
Winter Elopement Guide
Breckenridge Skiing Elopement
Ice Skating Elopement
Telluride Winter Wonderland Elopement
Horse Drawn Carriage Winter Elopement
Winter Colorado Elopement
Pros
We have some beautiful, warm, golden tones in our sunshine during these months. We also don’t have too many tourists. Your best place to elope in Colorado during the springtime is southern Colorado, especially at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This desert area is still cool and it’s the perfect time to enjoy the sandy dunes while also avoiding the heat of summer.
Cons
Springtime in Colorado is pretty much anything but spring. We have VERY erratic weather during this time. Honestly, Colorado spends these months completely confused and unable to decide if it’s supposed to be winter or summer. Somedays we’ll get 2 feet of snow and the next day it will be 85 degrees and sunny. When it snows, we get a lot of heavy, wet snow. We also get hails storms during this time. On the warmer days, the snow melts quickly causing muddy trails and avalanches. It’s not to say an elopement can’t happen in the springtime, it’s just really hard to plan around because of the unpredictable weather.
Check out these Spring Elopements
Snowy Spring Elopement
Warm Denver Spring Elopement
Sunny Spring Sprague Lake Elopement
Spring Colorado Elopement
Pros
This is such a beautiful time in Colorado. The weather is bright and sunny, the wildflowers are blooming, the days are longer. Our summer months are our only guaranteed snow-free months out of the year. Colorado is also a very dry state meaning there is very little humidity. All the mountain roads are finally open, meaning we have access to so many more gorgeous locations! This time of year also offers more activities like horseback riding, rock climbing, and swimming.
Cons
With all this amazingness comes lots of people who want to take part in it. We are very busy with tourists during the summer, making it harder to have an intimate elopement. To avoid that, consider eloping during the week or at sunrise.
Check out these Summer Elopements
Hiking Summer Elopement
Summer Kayaking Elopement
Wildflower Elopement
Summer Colorado Elopement
Pros
Colorado is covered in jaw-dropping fall colors during these months. Most of the state is full of oranges, yellows, and reds. The weather also starts to cool down and is much milder, making it easier to plan an elopement.
Cons
The window of fall colors doesn’t last long and varies by elevation. The higher in elevation the earlier the fall colors. Because of the beauty of the landscape, we also have lots of tourists during this time. It’s almost impossible to have a spot for yourself on the weekends. Again, consider a weekday or sunrise elopement. The mountain roads also begin to close at the end of fall in anticipation of the winter snow.
Check out these Fall Elopements
Fall Waterfall Elopement
Fall Denver Elopement
Fall Crested Butte Elopement
Fall Vail Elopement
Fall Colorado Elopement
Let's do this thing!
Alex, Coastal Elopement
"We loved our experience having Marcela as our elopement day photographer.
What was even more special about our experience was her ability to set us at ease months before our day. Through constant communication leading up to, and during, the day we got eloped. Her personality is that, in just four days time, we felt as if we've known her for years.
Ah, but you're wondering about her photos. We loved every thing about them especially the raw emotion captured in many of the shots."
Caitlin, Alpine Lake Elopement
"My husband and I have been trying to put into words how simply amazing working with Marcela was.
From the start we could tell she truly cared about us, our relationship, and our story. She asked us so many questions, valued what we wanted, and kept up with the ever changing plans that came along with planning a wedding.
She made us feel so comfortable, made us laugh till we cried, and captured our true wholesome love for each other."
"We loved every moment of the day she helped create. Marcela was the perfect photographer for our adventure elopement! She worked tirelessly to make our adventure into marriage happen after our first options were snowed in! Great Sand Dunes felt like the perfect unique place for two Floridians who met in the mountains.
She made us comfortable to be ourselves throughout the whole day while making her job look effortless and fun. Our cheeks hurt from smiling, laughing and a few tears.
Marcela captured every precious moment! Her photography is absolutely stunning every way! I highly recommend Marcela for your elopement or wedding!"
Lauren, Sand Dunes Elopement
Amy, Forest Elopement
"Instead of telling us how to pose or interact with each other, Marcela gave us prompts that seemed simple but made a huge difference.
She asked us to talk about our first date. We discussed the weirdest things we loved about each other (which made us laugh) and how we could fulfill each other’s love languages. Amy and I played games with each other and Marcela captured the energy that happened naturally between us.
I love this shoot because it perfectly captures the love we share. It’s incredible to see that love and admiration encapsulated in a photo! Thank you for this!"
Chris, Anniversary Session
"The photos we just got back from Marcela are giving me CHILLS!! They are absolutely stunning!!!
She did SO MUCH more than just photograph us — she created special moments that I’ll cherish forever.
She encouraged Con & I to genuinely interact & share intimate moments together. She prompted us to tell each other things that we love about one other, ways that the other person inspires us, & how being together has positively changed us.
It was more than just a beach shoot. We ended up giving each other precious, heart melting encouragement & that makes these photos all the more treasured to me."
Andrea, Red Rocks Elopement
"We had a pre-meet with her before the big day which definitely helped me feel more relaxed going into the wedding day. She gave us great suggestions and things to think about to be ready with on the wedding. On the day of she showed up early to help scope out the venue. She was creative to try and pull extra joy into our photographs.
When I look at these photos I see more than just beautiful images. I feel the moments that Marcela helped us experience and the connection we had.
I can't thank Marcela enough! We will treasure these moments forever!"
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My business is rooted in inclusivity, equality for all, and the inarguable truth that love is love. I am whole-heartedly and endlessly committed to capturing and celebrating your love regardless of race, color, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
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