Planning your Colorado elopement can be a hefty task, so I decided to dive into all the details you need to know before celebrating your day to make sure you don’t miss anything. Let’s chat about each of those details below! 

How to Elope in Colorado: Key Details 

The best time to have your ceremony and take portraits is sunrise or sunset. These times offer the best lighting for photos and keep the temperatures cooler if you’re eloping in the summer. Choosing a sunrise or sunset ceremony may also be based on your specific location. Some locations may be better suited for one or the other, and crowds will be a factor in this as well. The rest of the day you can spend however you’d like. Maybe go hiking, sightseeing, or even have a fun picnic with a great view! 

You can self-solemnize in CO and you don’t need witnesses. Check out this article on how to apply for a marriage license in CO! If you and your partner are dog-lovers, your dog can actually sign your marriage license. How cute?! When you elope there’s no waiting period, you can get married the same day you apply for your license. The whole process is extremely seamless and stress-free, which is why I love photographing elopements here. 

Colorado offers a huge variety in locations for your elopement. Some of my favorite elopement locations include Crested Butte, Breckenridge, Estes Park, Grand Junction, State Parks in CO, San Juan Mountains, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Garden of the Gods. You’ll want to make sure to do your research on the best time of year, permits, and accessibility when choosing a location. 

The best times of the year to elope in CO are July-August for beautiful greenery, and wildflowers in late July. If you want rushing waterfalls, you should elope in June -July. October-June is the best time for snow capped mountains, and October-April fit best for snowy elopements. Typically by May/June, the snow will be gone from the ground, but you’ll still have those beautiful snow covered mountains. 

Another major detail that can affect your elopement is the attire. Wear the right shoes like hiking boots for a more adventurous elopement or comfortable shoes if you have an easily accessible location. Pick out a wedding dress that’s comfortable to move around in. For the guys, wear suits that you feel comfortable in and can easily move around with. Staying warm is super important, too.

Depending where you are eloping in CO, it may be cold if you’re in elevation, especially for a sunrise elopement. You’ll want to make sure to bring the necessary items to keep you nice and toasty such as jackets, hand warmers, fleece leggings under your dress, and warm socks. These details may seem small, but including them is what makes an elopement easy and unforgettable. 

Eloping in a Way That’s Authentic to You 

While planning out your day, you’ll want to take the time to really think about what you want your elopement to look like. My biggest advice is to research locations and find what the best fit will be for you. Think about how you’d like to spend the rest of your day, what other activities you’d like to plan. Whether you take the more relaxed route and celebrate with a fancy dinner, or hike to the top of a mountain to embrace your adventurous side, it’s important to celebrate this big milestone with your loved one in a way that you’ll cherish forever. 

Ready to start planning your own Colorado elopement next?

Count me in! I’m a Wisconsin based wedding and elopement photographer who is ready to meet you wherever your love story takes you. Capturing elopements is one of my favorite parts about my job. I’ve made some of the most adventurous and unforgettable memories photographing my couples in exotic places. If you’re looking for a sign to elope, this is it! Learn more about my process here, and if you’re ready to take that next step and start planning, then let’s chat! I can’t wait to hear all about your vision and bring it to life. In the meantime, check out some more adventurous elopements like this one on the blog to get you inspired! 

Abigail Traver Photo | Wisconsin + Destination Photographer

Come and see the rest of this dreamy Colorado elopement below.

Vendors that made this Colorado elopement extra special

Design + Coordination: @amaracollective_ 

Models: @wouldntwannabeah @aschillz 

Florals: @bustleandbloomco 

Rentals: @copartyrentals 

Host: @alivecontentretreats