There’s something about a wedding ceremony at sunrise, as well as sunset, that adds a little extra magic in the air, not to mention beautiful light. A sunrise ceremony is an incredible symbol of the start of something new together, while a sunset ceremony brings a sense of romance and the ending of your lives apart. These different times of day can add so much emotion and beauty to the atmosphere on your wedding day. As a Colorado elopement photographer, I know some couples may opt for midday ceremonies, particularly if they are navigating busy timelines. However, there is truly something magical about the golden glow of a sunrise or sunset ceremony that’s absolutely worth scheduling around! Throughout this post, I’ll share five reasons to consider a sunrise or sunset elopement.
Beautiful Lighting for Colorado Elopement Photos
One of the biggest reasons photographers love a sunrise or sunset elopement is the incredible lighting. Often referred to as ‘golden hour,’ these specific times of day bring a soft, warm light that makes for the best photos. Midday ceremonies can also be beautiful, but the light can be harsher. During sunrise in Colorado, you can expect crisp and cool mornings and a pastel-filled sky. This time of day is perfect for couples looking for a peaceful and dreamy vibe to their photos. It’s the perfect time to stand on a tall rocky mountaintop with the colors rising from below! While at sunset, couples can expect a warmer golden glow with dramatic colors filling the sky. It’s a great time for couples looking for a more moody experience.
A Private and Intimate Sunrise or Sunset Elopement Experience
I often recommend a sunrise or sunset ceremony for couples wanting privacy during their elopement ceremonies, especially for those looking to tie the knot in picturesque locations that tourists may frequent. A sunrise elopement is a great way to ensure privacy, as fewer people are out that early. It’s an incredible way to experience nature privately with your partner. A sunset elopement is certainly more popular than a sunrise just due to the time of day, however, there can be a sense of peace as many hikers and tourists begin to head home for the day. The world slows down and begins to close, allowing you to focus on what’s important – the commitment to your partner. If avoiding crowds is your top priority, sunrise is probably your best option!
Comfortable Temperatures During Your Ceremony
Depending on the season and time of year, temperatures can play a huge factor in choosing the best time for your elopement. These times of day ensure you won’t be battling extreme heat or cold, making for a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Remember, depending on where you elope, sunrise can often be a cooler time as the day hasn’t had a chance to warm up yet so I do generally recommend that sunrise elopements happen between May-September. A sunset elopement makes for warmer weather in Colorado as the day has warmed up fully and can be a good choice year round.
Breathtaking Views with Incredible Colors During Sunrise or Sunset Elopement
If you’re considering an elopement, you’ve probably already fallen in love with the idea of nature being the star of the show. No amount of wedding decoration can compete with the natural beauty found at sunrise and sunset. These times of day bring the most incredible colors to the sky, making for incredible backdrops for photos and a once-in-a-lifetime wedding day experience. You can expect pastel colors mixed in with the quiet, misty mountain air at sunrise. At sunset, you’ll see more rich and golden tones amplifying the romance and drama. Either way, both times of day are beautiful in their own way! Even cloudy days sometimes make way for impressive sunsets.
The Perfect Way to Begin or End Your Big Day
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I love the sentiment and meaning felt behind these ceremonies. It’s beautiful to start or end your wedding day with such a monumental moment. A sunrise elopement can signify new beginnings and a fresh start. Imagine waking up early, hiking to a breathtaking vista, and ending your wedding day with breakfast at your cozy cabin. The beauty found in the simple moments is unparalleled. A sunset elopement allows couples to exchange vows as the sun sets, symbolizing the end of one life and the beginning of something beautiful together. After your ceremony, you can celebrate with a candlelit dinner, a bonfire, or even sharing a bite of wedding cake under the stars. Both options allow for meaningful and unique experiences for couples to share.
While there is no wrong answer when choosing between a sunrise or sunset elopement, I know you’ll have an unforgettable experience either way. Whether you want a quiet and intimate morning together or a golden glow at night – either makes for breathtaking photos.
Are you ready to book your Colorado elopement photographer? Reach out today!
