Colorado Elopements: A Guide to Planning Your Dream Day in the Rocky Mountains
Colorado is one of the most popular elopement destinations in the United States, and for good reason. At Bug + Bear, we are so grateful to call this beautiful state home. With its stunning mountain scenery, breathtaking lakes, and lush forests, there's no shortage of romantic places to say "I do" in the Centennial State.
If you're dreaming of a Colorado elopement, here's a guide to help you plan your dream day:
One of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your elopement is choosing your location. Colorado has countless beautiful places to elope, so it's important to narrow down your choices based on your personal preferences.
Some popular Colorado elopement locations include:
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Maroon Bells Amphitheater
- Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Garden of the Gods
- Telluride
- Aspen
- Vail
- Breckenridge
- Estes Park
- Boulder
- Guanella Pass
- Sapphire Point Overlook
- Brainard Lake
If you're not sure where to start, Bug + Bear is happy to help! Complimentary location selection service is included with every elopement collection. You may also want to consider hiring an elopement planner who can help you choose the perfect spot for your ceremony and handle the logisitics of planning your perfect day.
To get married in Colorado, you'll need to obtain a marriage license from any county clerk's office in the state. There is a $30 fee for the license, and you'll need to provide proof of ID and age.
Plan your ceremony
Once you have your marriage license, it's time to start planning your ceremony. Whether you want a simple exchange of vows or a more elaborate ceremony, it's important to have a plan in place.
If you're eloping without guests, you may want to consider hiring an officiant to perform your ceremony. You can also choose to self-solemnize your marriage, which means that you and your partner will sign your own marriage license.
Book your vendors
In addition to an officiant, you may also want to book other vendors for your elopement, such as a photographer, florist, and hairstylist.
When choosing vendors, it's important to select ones who are experienced with elopements. They'll be able to help you create a personalized and memorable experience.
Elopements can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It's important to set a budget before you start planning so that you don't overspend.
Here are some tips for saving money on your elopement:
- Elope during the off-season (winter or spring)
- Choose a less popular elopement location
- DIY some of the elements of your elopement, such as your flowers or wedding favors
- Ask friends and family to help with certain aspects of your elopement, such as transporting you to your ceremony location or taking photos behind the scenes
Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy your elopement day. It's a special day to celebrate your love for each other, so be present in the moment and savor every memory.
Additional tips for planning your Colorado elopement:
- Be flexible with your dates. If you're flexible with your wedding date, you'll have more options when it comes to choosing a location and booking vendors.
- Consider eloping on a weekday. Weekday elopements are often less expensive than weekend elopements.
- Think about the weather. Colorado weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to have a backup plan in case of bad weather.
- Pack for all types of weather. Even if you're eloping in the summer, it's a good idea to pack a jacket and umbrella.
- Bring snacks and water. You'll likely be doing a lot of walking and hiking on your elopement day, so it's important to stay hydrated and fueled.
- Leave No Trace. Be sure to pack out all of your trash and leave your elopement location as you found it. To learn more about Leave No Trace Principles and how to follow them, check here: The 7 Principles - Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (lnt.org)
Colorado elopements are a truly magical experience! If you're ready to find out what its all about, Bug + Bear would be honored to capture your special day!!