The Simple 6-Step Plan to Eloping in Colorado

So you’re recently engaged and considering eloping in Colorado or planning a small wedding here in the mountains?!

You love the idea of something intimate and a little adventurous. Maybe the thought of a big traditional wedding just doesn’t feel like you. But once you start looking into locations, permits, timelines, and logistics, it can quickly feel overwhelming.

If you want your day to feel simplified, laid-back, while remaining incredibly meaningful and unforgettable, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break the planning process down into six clear, doable steps so you can move forward with confidence and actually enjoy this season.

And maybe even have a little fun with it! 😉

Step 1: Decide What Kind of Experience You Want

Not location just yet, but experience first!

• Are you eloping just the two of you?
• Are you bringing guests?
• What’s the season, weather and temperature like?
• Are you doing the things you love or trying something new together?
• What’s the vibe?

Step 2: Choose Your Colorado Elopement Location

Colorado has no shortage of incredible places to elope. From alpine lakes and mountain overlooks to desert landscapes and cozy cabin properties, there truly is something for every kind of couple.

If you’re drawn to somewhere iconic like Rocky Mountain National Park, or you’re dreaming about a quieter mountain town experience, this is where having someone local in your corner makes all the difference.

I help my couples narrow down locations based on the kind of experience they want to have, not just what looks pretty online. I’ll guide you through guest limits, permit considerations, accessibility, lighting, and even backup plans so you can feel confident in your choice.

And together, we’ll bring that vision to life in a way that feels effortless and true to you.

To kickstart this process, check out these 40+ Colorado Elopement Locations.

Step 3: Book Your Vendors & Travel

Which vendors are a must have for you? Photographer, florist, hair & makeup artist, planner, etc..

And know that most elopement photographers can help guide you with a lot of the pre-planning! Things like locations as mentioned above, but also matching you with other vendors they work great with, activity ideas, lodging suggestions, and more!

Check out some of my very Favorite Colorado Wedding Vendors here.

Step 4: Understand Colorado Marriage Laws

And quick fun fact about eloping in Colorado? You don’t need an officiant or witness to legally marry here! It’s actually one of the easiest states to marry in!

Once you have your path of travel, look for the nearest county clerk office and check their rules and requirements for a marriage license. Some offices require appointments in advance (especially those near larger cities), while others don’t.

You do not need to pick up your marriage license in the same county in which you have your ceremony.

Step 5: Choose Activities

Your elopement is not just a 20 minute ceremony. It is a full day of moments and meaning.

Start with getting ready somewhere cozy. Share coffee. Read letters from family and friends. Head out for a hike or a scenic drive. Exchange vows somewhere beautiful. Stay for sunset. Maybe even for some stargazing too.

Here’s some Elopement Activity Ideas to get you feeling inspired!

Step 6: Build an Elopement Day Timeline

…and make sure it feels unrushed!

When you build your timeline around the experience instead of just the ceremony, the entire day feels intentional and relaxed.

And don’t worry! I help my couples map out a day that feels natural and spacious, taking into account lighting, travel time, trail conditions, and energy levels. The goal is simple. You should feel present, not hurried.

Meet Your Photographer (and Planning Sidekick)

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