In the past, when you told people you were eloping, there may not have been a super warm reaction, right? People may have had preconceived notions of what that meant or an idea of the reasons behind it. However, a modern-day elopement couldn’t be more different! They’re filled with adventure, romance, intentionality, and are incredibly meaningful. As a Colorado elopement photographer, I can promise that elopements are incredibly beautiful and just as special as traditional weddings. Instead of couples rushing to the courthouse, they’re planning ceremonies in jaw-dropping locations, focusing on their relationship rather than the grand party. If you’re considering an elopement but are getting some pushback or feeling unsure, I’m here to help! Let’s break down the five most common myths about eloping in Colorado and hopefully make your decision to elope that much easier.

Eloping is Just Running Away

This may be the biggest myth of all, and couldn’t be further from the truth. Elopements in the past may have felt rushed or spontaneous; however, elopements today are purposeful, personalized, and meaningful. Couples who choose to elope often forgo the traditional wedding to connect with nature, create powerful and emotional memories on their special day, and focus on their relationship. You’re not running away from anything; you’re running toward a day that is true to who you are and your relationship. Nothing more.

Elopements Aren’t As Special As Traditional Weddings

Let’s break down an elopement. It’s about stripping away what doesn’t matter to you and your partner and focusing on what does—making space for emotions and memories to take center stage. Honestly, elopements and weddings are equally as special. When you boil them both down, the intention is the same: being with your person forever. An elopement offers couples the chance to plan a day that feels truly personal to their unique bond.

You Can’t Include Family or Friends When Eloping in Colorado

Would you believe me if I told you more than half of my couples include family or friends in their elopements each year? It’s true! There are many incredible ways to include the people you love on your big day, whether they’re in person or far away. If you value an intimate elopement ceremony, you could plan a post-elopement celebration, invite them to attend via Zoom, or have a videographer record it so you can relive it with them later. We are so lucky to live in a time where we have so many options for sharing important days in our lives, and a wedding videographer is someone who specializes in just that! If you’re leaning towards an elopement but value video, definitely hire a professional to be there for you.

Elopements Are Only for Couples on a Budget

While elopements can be more affordable than a traditional wedding, it’s not just about saving money. My eloping couples often forgo traditional wedding expenses to invest in what matters most to them, whether that’s an incredible location, their dream photographer, unique experiences, or a fantastic honeymoon. Eloping in Colorado is a great way to spend money intentionally, rather than worrying about planning a massive party on a budget.

Eloping in Colorado Means No Traditions

An elopement can be anything you want it to be! If that means you want to wear the white dress and exchange wedding rings, do it! Do you want to have a first dance under the stars? Absolutely. Elopements are incredible because they’re fully customizable to your specific wants and dreams. You can keep whatever traditions are meaningful to you and get rid of the rest!

There is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to get married, and that’s precisely why elopements are so powerful. Whether your dream day is in a chapel surrounded by family or friends or proclaiming your love to one another on a mountain top in Colorado, your elopement is real, beautiful, and most importantly, yours.

If you were looking for some encouragement to elope, consider this your reminder that eloping is never ‘less than’; it’s just a little different.

Planning on eloping in Colorado and looking for the perfect Colorado elopement photographer? Drop me a line!