The Ultimate Colorado Elopement Photography Guide

Everything you need to kick off your small wedding planning and have the best Colorado elopement photography experience.

Colorado is a top destination for micro wedding and adventure elopement photography—and it’s easy to see why. The particularly stunning mountain scenery combined with the ability to self-solemnize makes it an ideal place to marry your person. With FOUR National Parks (each uniquely breathtaking), endless National Forests, BLM land, as well as open spaces––the options for incredible backdrops are nearly limitless. Add in a variety of outdoor and indoor wedding venues, and Colorado certainly has something for every couple who enjoys natural beauty and being surrounded by nature.

Colorado Marriage License & Self-Solemnization

Did you know you can marry yourself in the state of Colorado?! It’s basically one of the easiest places to get married because it’s one of the few states where you do not need a witness or officiant for your marriage. This clearly makes it a perfect spot to head into the mountains and say “I do”, just the two of you. (And a photographer, like me)!

Here’s what you need for a Colorado marriage license:

• $30 fee
• Proper identification including driver’s license, military ID, or passport
• Social security numbers

Each county clerk’s office in Colorado has its own rules for marriage license pickup. Some offer walk-in services, while others require an appointment. As of 2023, not all counties allow a dog’s paw print on the license—though a few still do! Be sure to research the offices along your travel route and follow their specific guidelines to ensure everything goes smoothly.

And no, you surely do not need to be a Colorado resident to be married here!

Beautiful Colorado Elopement Photography Locations

Let me tell you, there are a lot. Here are some of my top favorite places to photograph elopements in Colorado:

Love what you see? Then check out my list of 40+ Colorado Elopement Locations!

Best Colorado Mountain Wedding Venues for Small Weddings

If you’re imagining your wedding day surrounded by some of your closest people, say 10+ guests, I highly recommend reserving a ceremony site or local venue for your gathering. This allows you to share the joy of the day in a more private setting (and helps protect our beautiful outdoor spaces). Then, after your ceremony, you can always go off and explore more remote locations just the two of you! Here are some favorite (and still incredibly beautiful) spaces you can reserve for an intimate wedding.

• A-Frame Club
• Alta Lakes Observatory
• Aspen Falls Villa
• Camp Hale
• Gold Mountain Ranch
• Juniper Mountain House
• The Landing at Estes Park
• Mountain Wedding Garden
• Palmyra Lookout
• Piney River Ranch
• Romantic RiverSong Inn
• San Sophia Overlook
• Sopris House
• Taylor River Lodge
• Treehaus
• Wild Basin Lodge
• Winding River Ranch
• YMCA of the Rockies

If you’re in the market for a small wedding venue in Northern Colorado, only an hour and half from Denver International Airport, check out my list of Best Intimate Wedding Venues in Estes Park.

Best Time of Year for a Colorado Elopement Photography

Well, really? Any time of year. It just depends the vibe you’re going for.

But let’s break it down.

Summer Weddings in Colorado

Plan your wedding between mid-June through early-September

If you’re dreaming of eloping in Colorado’s mountains, summer is truly a breathtaking time to say “I do.” It’s when you’ll find the most comfortable temperatures—especially at higher elevations—making outdoor adventures that much more enjoyable.

Mid-June through early-September is likely what you’re picturing when you think of a quintessential summer. During these months, the weather is warm, the scenery is vibrant, and the mountains are in full bloom. It’s a magical time when the landscape transforms into a lush, colorful wonderland.

Picture this: rolling hills dotted with wildflowers, crystal-clear alpine lakes reflecting blue skies, and hillsides that look like they’ve been plucked straight out of The Sound of Music. Everything feels alive during this season, especially in June, July, and August, making it the perfect backdrop for couples who want their wedding day to radiate joy, color, and life.

Beyond its beauty, summer in Colorado offers accessibility and variety. Trails are open, mountain passes are clear, and there’s no shortage of outdoor venues to choose from—be it a meadow bursting with wildflowers or a serene forest clearing. Whether you’re hiking to your ceremony spot or celebrating at a cozy mountain cabin, these months set the stage for unforgettable adventures.

Why I love it: The vibrant, flourishing landscape feels like nature is celebrating right along with you. It’s also a season of warmth, color, and boundless possibilities for adventure.

Fall Weddings in Colorado

Plan your wedding for mid-September through early October

Colorado’s autumn may be short, but it’s nothing short of spectacular. This fleeting season transforms the mountains into a canvas of golden hues as the aspen groves burst into vibrant yellows and oranges, perfectly complemented by the evergreen pines. Even if you miss peak foliage, the mix of colors creates a stunning backdrop that feels quintessentially Colorado.

The exact timing of peak fall foliage varies depending on the region. In northern Colorado, the colors tend to peak earlier, while southern Colorado hold out on its autumn hues a bit longer. Generally, you can plan for peak foliage anywhere from mid-September through early-October. This window of time offers some of the most magical scenery and perfect temps. Ideal for couples looking to embrace the beauty of the season!

Why I love it: There’s something so romantic about the crisp fall air and the golden aspen leaves shimmering in the sunlight. It’s the kind of fleeting beauty that feels extra special—especially when you time it just right.

Winter Weddings in Colorado

Plan your wedding between November and April

Winter in Colorado is nothing short of magical, but it’s a season that stretches much longer than you might expect. In the mountains, you can experience snow as early as October and as late as May, with the shoulder seasons (October-November and April-May) bringing milder conditions. The heaviest snowfall usually occurs between December and March, blanketing the peaks in a picturesque layer of white.

If you’re planning a winter elopement, consider the vibe you want for your day. Early winter offers that “first snowfall” charm, while the peak season creates a true winter wonderland with sparkling (deeply) snow-covered landscapes. Late winter and early spring bring opportunities for warmer days paired with snow-capped mountain views, offering a balance of comfort and beauty.

Why I love it: Winter weddings have this cozy, intimate feel. Whether you’re snowshoeing to your ceremony spot or warming up with hot cocoa after exchanging vows, the serene, snowy landscapes make every moment feel extra romantic and enchanting. Just plan to bring lots of warm layers.

Here are some tips for Colorado winter engagement sessions, many of which you can apply to your wedding too.

Spring Weddings in Colorado

Plan your wedding between late-April (at lower elevations) and June

Spring in Colorado is a season of transition and surprises, making it a unique and dynamic time for a wedding. At lower elevations, the landscape comes alive with budding trees, blooming wildflowers, and the first hints of greenery. Meanwhile, the mountains often hold onto their snowy peaks.

Weather during this time can be unpredictable—one day might feel like summer, while the next brings a dusting of snow. Check out this snowy early-May elopement in Estes Park to see what I mean. This mix of elements creates opportunities for one-of-a kind photos and experiences. Spring is also a quieter time for mountain destinations, meaning fewer crowds and a more serene setting for your elopement.

Why I love it: Spring is full of hope and renewal, and it’s incredible to watch the landscape wake up after a long winter. The mix of snow and blooming life creates an inspiring setting while offering lots of variety in landscapes for your wedding photos.

Traditional Elopement & Micro Wedding Ideas

Even if you don’t have hundreds of guests, you can still make your elopement or micro wedding feel like it’s not just another day with common wedding traditions! Here’s what a lot of eloping couples include in their day, even with some variations.

• Wedding cake. I mean, any excuse for some dessert right? Grab a small wedding cake to celebrate, or choose a favorite dessert of yours!
• First dance. Whether it’s in front of your family and friends or spontaneously in the wilderness, share your first dance your way. No pressure—just pure joy.
• Wedding vows. Take the time to write your own vows, whether they’re short and sweet or heartfelt and lengthy. Your wedding day is a special moment to express your commitment together.
• Marriage license. Make it legal and official with a Colorado marriage certificate. You can also use this as a fun photo opportunity and sign it somewhere fun and scenic.

Out-of-the-box Colorado Elopement Photography & Micro Wedding Ideas

Your wedding is already a little untraditional, so why not embrace that spirit fully? I love it when couples think outside the box—creating their own traditions, checking something off a bucket list, or making their wedding day completely special and meaningful to them. If you’re looking for unique elopement ideas to get started, here are some ideas to inspire your Colorado elopement.

Off-road to your elopement location
Colorado offers so many epic off-roading trails, especially in the San Juan mountains, but truly all over. Rent Jeeps (you can even hire a professional driver!), and access a remote location in nature for your elopement or small wedding. This option is generally ideal for weddings with 10 people or less.

Turn your celebration into a multi-day event
Who says you have to fit all the fun into one day? Perhaps you have a day celebrating with family, and one day all to yourselves for a more true elopement-style day.

Rent a private residence for your celebrations
Use a website like VRBO, filter by event-friendly, and find a home + property for your event! Bring in local vendors like a planner, private chef, or stylist and have the space transformed before your eyes.

Start a new tradition together
Consider starting a meaningful activity that you can add to each year. You could begin a painting together that evolves with time, return to your wedding location to re-read your vows, or write each other notes to read the following year on your anniversary. Choose something uniquely yours that reflects your journey and the memories you’re building together.

Wedding day time capsule
Find a chest on Etsy (or create one of your own!) and start a time capsule to open on your 20+ year anniversary! On the inside, you can put some mementos like love notes, photos, plane tickets, or anything that represents your story.

Check something off your bucket list
Hot air balloon ride? Skydiving? Horseback riding in the mountains? Visiting a hot spring? What’s something you’ve always wanted to do together?! This is a great time to check that off, and have professional photos so you’ll remember it forever.

Read wedding vows privately.
Even if you’re having an intimate wedding ceremony with your people, you can save your vows for a moment when it’s just the two of you!

Rent a unique vehicle for the day
Gone are the days of limo getaways. Search online for a classic car, a convertible, dream motorcycle to significantly elevate your day in a fun way!

For more unique elopement photography ideas, check out these two resources:

Elopement Activities: Including Personal Adventures into Your Day
10+ Unique Wedding Photography Ideas

Hiring a Planner for Your Elopement or Intimate Wedding

Should you hire a planner for a small event like an elopement or micro wedding? Of course that’s 100% up to you, but it sure does have it perks.

Though it’s entirely up to you, there are some undeniable perks to having a wedding planner, coordinator, or event stylist by your side. One of the biggest benefits is the opportunity to fully enjoy the experience without the stress. They’re there to ensure everything goes smoothly—from handling any unexpected hiccups to managing vendor connections, decor setup, and cleanup. Additionally, their local knowledge and established relationships can open doors to unique locations and top-notch service providers. Hiring a planner or coordinator is an added luxury, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love without the worry.

View my full article about hiring a wedding planner for your elopement or micro wedding here.

Vendors to Consider for Your Elopement or Micro Wedding

Beyond a planner, coordinator, or event stylist, there are plenty of professional vendors who can elevate your day and make it truly unforgettable. These experts can bring your vision to life and add personal touches all while creating a stress-free experience for you. Here’s a list of popular Colorado vendors to consider for your elopement or micro wedding.

Photographers

One of the most common wedding vendors, and often one of the first to book! Often times, elopement-specific photographers (like me!) can help with locations, connecting you with the right vendors, and also ensuring you have all the permits for your day to run smoothly.

Hair & Makeup Artists

Did you know there are even hair and makeup artists like A Vow to Artistry who are entirely mobile and will hike with you, wake up in the middle of the night to make sure you’re all set for sunrise, and go above and beyond for your elopement experience!?

Some other favorite Colorado hair & makeup artists include:

• Glammed Up Designs
• Cate Hair & Makeup
• Rotella Beauty
• Estes Park Bridal

While you’re here, you might find this blog post helpful: Choosing a Hair & Makeup Artist for Your Adventure Elopement

Florists

Choose a florist whose style resonates with your vision! Whether you’re dreaming of wild, cascading bouquets or something more traditional, finding a florist whose work inspires you is key. Pro tip: If your elopement involves outdoor adventures or hiking, ask about sturdy, long-lasting blooms that can handle the elements. Delicate flowers might not hold up, but the right choices will stay beautiful all day long!

Some of my favorite Colorado florists include:

• Lace & Lilies based in Fort Collins, CO
• Marigold based in Idaho Springs, CO
• Fanciful Floral based in Estes Park, CO
• Woodland based in Breckenridge, CO
• Bramble & Bloom based in Crested Butte, CO

Caterers & Private Chefs

Having a “done-for-you” meal on your wedding day is such a treat! Whether it’s an intimate dinner for just the two of you or a feast for your whole group, hiring a private chef or bringing in catering can make your day feel extra special. And who says it has to be a traditional wedding meal? It’s your day—why not indulge in your favorite dishes, even if they’re a little unconventional?

You could also consider a pop-up picnic! It’s a creative way to enjoy a delicious meal while sharing in a unique and memorable experience.

• Sunrise Chefs based in Estes Park, CO
• Harvest to Home based in Longmont, CO
• Mod Picnic Co. based in Northern CO
• UNI Personal Chefs based in Denver, CO
• Crested Butte Personal Chefs based in Crested Butte CO

Officiants

Though as mentioned above, an officiant is not required in the state of Colorado, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have one there! If you’re looking for a professional to guide you through a structured ceremony, considering hiring an officiant to personalize your ceremony experience.

• Phil Gallagher based in Breckenridge, CO
• Ceremonies with Lisa based in Boulder & Durango, CO
• Lyrical Life Ceremonies

Videographer

Looking to capture your day with movement and sound? Consider hiring a videographer! Though I highly recommend choosing someone whose style complements your photographer’s. This ensures your day flows seamlessly and doesn’t feel overwhelming with too many cameras and too much direction in the mix.

• Embr Films based in Denver, CO

Guides & Outfitters

Especially if you’re looking for an adventure! Hire a professional Jeep driver, horseback riding professionals, or climbing guide! The opportunities are endless here, especially in the state of Colorado.

Dog concierge

Is your dog lucky enough to join you? Maybe you don’t want to be responsible for them the entire time, and this is where a dog concierge comes in! A dog concierge will be available to transport your dog, is trusted to care for them and even watch them over night, and so much more. Check out one of my favorite dog concierges, Plus the Pups.

Meet Your Colorado Elopement Photographer