Considering an elopement in Colorado? Consider this your sign to do it! Eloping in Colorado allows you and your partner to create a meaningful and unique wedding experience. You’re able to celebrate your unique love. With its breathtaking mountain views, intimate sunrise ceremonies, and beautiful weather year-round, Colorado is a top spot for adventurous couples looking to elope. While elopements are often simpler than traditional weddings, a little planning still goes a long way. That’s why I’ve created this Colorado elopement checklist, which hopefully makes planning a bit easier and a little simpler along the way!

Start with Your Overall Vision of the Day

Before diving into the details, take a moment to close your eyes and dream about what your ideal elopement looks like. Do you picture yourselves making promises at sunrise on a mountaintop or enjoying a laid-back ceremony with a view surrounded by your closest family and friends? Colorado offers many elopement settings, making it a great place to elope no matter your vision. Sit down with your partner and decide what is most important for your elopement: scenery, adventure, and whether you will have guests. These decisions will make the rest of your planning come together quicker and simply.

Select a Date and Location

Once you have your dream wedding day in mind, it’s time to choose your date and location. Colorado’s seasons each offer their own unique natural beauty, from golden trees in the fall to snow-covered mountaintops in the winter. When selecting a location, research whether a permit is required, especially if you plan to elope in a national park or public land. Places like Rocky Mountain National Park and Summit County often require advance applications. If you plan to elope in the winter, plan a backup plan if the weather doesn’t cooperate. I’m always willing to help in any way I can!

Handle the Legal Details – Colorado Elopement Checklist

One of the things that makes Colorado such a popular elopement destination is how easy it is to make your marriage legal. You can head to any Colorado county clerk’s office to get your marriage license to make it legal! Colorado also allows for self-solemnization, which means you can legally marry yourselves without needing an officiant. Once your license is signed, you’ll return it to the county to make it official. One of my favorite things about marriage laws in Colorado is that your pets can sign as witnesses to your wedding.

Book Your Vendors

Even an intimate elopement may need some support from trusted wedding vendors. At the very least, you’ll want a Colorado elopement photographer who specializes in adventurous moments and understands how to capture Colorado’s natural beauty while focusing on your connection. Depending on the dreams you have for your big day, you may also consider hiring a videographer, florist, hair and makeup artist, or planner.

Prepare What You’ll Need – Colorado Elopement Checklist

While every elopement is unique, there are a few essentials you’ll definitely want to have on hand. You’ll want to bring your vows (maybe written in vow books), wedding rings, and marriage license. Practical items like water, snacks, season/weather-appropriate layers, and sturdy shoes are so important, especially if your elopement involves hiking or spending time outdoors. If you plan to elope during sunrise or sunset, you may want a flashlight or headlight for additional light. Don’t forget any personal touches, like a bouquet, champagne, or letters from loved ones to read!

Add Personal Elements to Your Colorado Elopement

The intentional, personal moments woven throughout the day make an elopement personal and unique. Consider writing your own vows, sharing important moments in your relationship, including a symbolic unity ritual, or inviting a few loved ones to share a reading or blessing. You might choose to have a first look, incorporate family traditions, or take time to create intimate and private moments to reflect together. Eloping offers couples the ability to slow down and plan a day that’s a real representation of your relationship.

Planning an intimate elopement doesn’t mean giving up aspects of a traditional wedding you love. It’s all about creating a day centered around your love story. While planning with your partner, focus on what matters most, your elopement can be just as heartfelt and memorable as any traditional wedding day. Whether you’re exchanging vows at sunrise on top of a mountain or celebrating with a sunset toast in the city, this Colorado elopement checklist can help you stay grounded, prepared, and focused on what truly matters: the two of you.

If you’re looking for a photographer who’s familiar with Colorado’s best hidden gems, trail-friendly dresses, and timelines that make space for both adventure and connection, let’s chat!

While planning your elopement, if you’re looking for more Colorado elopement ideas, check out my Pinterest for more inspiration!