Colorado Elopement Guide

Colorado Elopement Guide

Ultimate Colorado Elopement Guide

Why Choose Colorado for Your Elopement?

Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes make it one of the most sought-after elopement destinations in the United States. From towering Rocky Mountains and serene alpine lakes to vibrant aspen forests and dramatic desert mesas, the Centennial State offers an unforgettable backdrop for your big day. This guide will help you plan your dream elopement—and show why hiring Beautiful Chaos Photography ensures your story is captured beautifully.

How to Plan Your Colorado Elopement

Step 1: Choose Your Perfect Location

Colorado boasts a variety of landscapes perfect for every type of elopement. Here are some top locations:

National and State Parks

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

   • Features: Towering peaks, alpine lakes, and lush meadows.

   • Perfect For: Couples looking for a classic mountain experience.

2. Great Sand Dunes National Park

   • Features: Expansive sand dunes with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as a backdrop.

   • Perfect For: Unique desert vibes and sunset ceremonies.

3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

   • Features: Sheer cliffs and dramatic river views.

   • Perfect For: Adventurous couples seeking a rugged, dramatic setting.

4. Garden of the Gods

   • Features: Striking red rock formations with Pikes Peak in the distance.

   • Perfect For: Iconic and accessible elopement spots.

5. Maroon Bells

   • Features: Iconic twin peaks mirrored in crystal-clear Maroon Lake.

   • Perfect For: Picture-perfect elopements during sunrise or sunset.

Other Scenic Locations

• Telluride: Majestic mountain views with charming small-town vibes.

• Crested Butte: Wildflower meadows and remote alpine trails.

• Hanging Lake: A pristine turquoise lake nestled in Glenwood Canyon.

• Boulder Flatirons: Iconic rock formations with sweeping views.

Step 2: Secure Your Elopement Vendors

Why Hire a Professional Photographer?

Your elopement is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and having a skilled photographer ensures your memories are preserved forever. With Beautiful Chaos Photography, you’ll receive stunning, emotive images that reflect the essence of your love story.

Benefits of Hiring Beautiful Chaos Photography:

• Expertise in navigating Colorado’s varied landscapes and weather.

• Assistance with location scouting and day-of planning.

• Adventure sessions tailored to your unique vision.

• Breathtaking imagery that feels candid and timeless.

Other Recommended Vendors:

• Florists: The Perfect Petal in Denver or Alpine Flower Delivery in Vail.

• Hair and Makeup: Beauty Bar by Saiko in Boulder or Alchemy Face Bar in Denver.

• Officiants: Many Colorado-based officiants specialize in adventure elopements and custom ceremonies.

Step 3: Plan Your Ceremony

Legal Requirements for Eloping in Colorado

• Marriage License: Obtain your license at any Colorado county clerk’s office. Both parties must appear in person with valid IDs.

• Waiting Period: None.

• Witnesses: Not required in Colorado, making it perfect for intimate elopements.

• Self-Solemnization: Colorado allows couples to marry themselves without an officiant.

Ceremony Ideas:

• Exchange vows at sunrise on the Trail Ridge Road overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Say “I do” amidst the aspens in Steamboat Springs during fall.

• Opt for a desert ceremony at Great Sand Dunes, followed by stargazing.

• Celebrate your love on a scenic gondola ride in Telluride.

Where to Stay in Colorado

Romantic Lodging Options

• Dunton Hot Springs (Dolores): A luxury resort with private cabins and natural hot springs.

• The Broadmoor (Colorado Springs): Five-star accommodations with stunning views.

• The Little Nell (Aspen): A boutique hotel offering ski-in/ski-out access and elegant suites.

• Vista Verde Ranch (Steamboat Springs): A secluded retreat with a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Camping Options:

• Glacier Basin Campground (Rocky Mountain National Park): Perfect for stargazing.

• Sand Dunes Recreation Campground: Near the Great Sand Dunes.

• Turquoise Lake (Leadville): A serene alpine camping experience.

Where to Dine in Colorado

Celebrate your elopement with a meal at one of these local favorites:

Fine Dining

• Frasca Food and Wine (Boulder): An award-winning Italian dining experience.

• The Wolf’s Tailor (Denver): Creative seasonal dishes with a focus on sustainability.

Local Favorites

• Handlebar Tap House (Colorado Springs): Casual dining with craft beer.

• Creekside Cellars (Evergreen): A winery and bistro with picturesque creek views.

Coffee Shops

• Two Rivers Coffee (Salida): Perfect for a cozy morning start.

• Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters (Lakewood): Known for their artisanal brews.

Elopement Day Timeline Example

• 5:30 AM: Sunrise first look at Maroon Bells.

• 6:00 AM: Exchange vows with the sun rising over the peaks.

• 7:00 AM: Adventure session with Beautiful Chaos Photography capturing candid moments.

• 9:00 AM: Breakfast picnic with locally sourced pastries and coffee.

• 12:00 PM: Relax at your lodging or explore nearby trails.

• 4:00 PM: Sunset photoshoot at Garden of the Gods.

• 6:00 PM: Celebrate with dinner at a local restaurant.

• 8:00 PM: End your day stargazing in the Colorado wilderness.

Why Colorado is Perfect Year-Round

• Spring: Melting snow and blooming wildflowers.

• Summer: Warm weather and accessible trails.

• Fall: Vibrant aspen foliage and crisp mountain air.

• Winter: Snowy peaks and cozy evenings by the fire.

Book Your Colorado Elopement Photographer

Your elopement deserves to be as unique and beautiful as your love story. With Beautiful Chaos Photography, you’ll have a photographer who understands Colorado’s landscapes and your vision. Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain-top ceremony, desert vows, or a forest elopement, Beautiful Chaos Photography will ensure your day is unforgettable.