Somewhere along the way, weddings became less about getting married and more about planning a production. If that doesn’t sound like you, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve realized you’d rather exchange vows on a mountain than in a ballroom. Maybe the idea of spending your wedding day with hundreds of guests feels more overwhelming than exciting. Or maybe you simply want a day that’s centered around your relationship instead of a timeline full of traditions that don’t really fit. Learning how to plan an elopement doesn’t have to be overwhelming; in fact, it can be one of the most fun parts of creating a wedding day that’s completely your own.
If you’re still figuring out whether an elopement is the right fit, I asked real couples why they chose to elope, and their answers might sound a lot like what you’re feeling. Read what they had to say here.
That’s exactly why I love elopements.
As a Denver elopement photographer, I’ve helped couples create wedding days that feel relaxed, intentional, and completely their own. Whether that looks like hiking to a quiet overlook, reading your vows over coffee, bringing your dog along, or celebrating with pizza and a local brewery afterward, there’s no right way to elope, only the way that’s right for the two of you.
If you’re wondering how to plan an elopement in Denver, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the best season to understanding Colorado’s marriage laws, so you can spend less time stressing about logistics and more time looking forward to marrying your favorite person.
Here’s What to Come
- How to Plan an Elopement in Denver: Why It’s So Incredible
- How to Plan a Denver Elopement for Every Season
- How to Plan an Elopement in Denver When You’re Traveling
- What to Pack and Wear for Your Denver Elopement
- Everything You Need to Know About Legally Eloping in Colorado
- How to Plan an Elopement Timeline That Feels Like Your Wedding Day
- Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Denver Elopement
- Book Erin as Your Denver Elopement Photographer
How to Plan an Elopement in Denver: Why It’s So Incredible
If you’ve decided to elope in Colorado, Denver is a great place to begin your adventure. It gives you the flexibility to create a wedding day that’s completely your own without sacrificing convenience, incredible scenery, or amazing experiences.
One of the biggest reasons couples choose a Denver elopement is because you don’t have to pick between the city and the mountains. You can start your morning by grabbing coffee at your favorite cafe, get ready together in a boutique hotel, exchange vows surrounded by Colorado’s incredible landscapes, and celebrate afterward with dinner at one of Denver’s amazing restaurants. Your wedding day can feel adventurous without feeling rushed.
Denver is also an ideal choice if you’re inviting a small group of family or friends. Since Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, it’s easy for loved ones to travel in from almost anywhere. They get the chance to experience Colorado alongside you, while you still enjoy all the intimacy and flexibility that comes with an elopement.
What I Love Most About Denver Elopements
What I love most about photographing Denver elopements is how many different experiences are within easy reach. Whether your dream day includes mountain views, peaceful lakes, rolling meadows, evergreen forests, or a downtown celebration with incredible food and cocktails, you can create a day that feels completely unique to your relationship. You’re never locked into one type of wedding experience.
Eloping in Denver gives you permission to slow down. Instead of spending months planning a wedding around traditions that don’t feel like you, you get to build a day around the moments you’ll remember. Maybe that’s reading private vows over coffee, hiking to a beautiful overlook, including your dog in your ceremony, or ending the evening with pizza and your favorite brewery. There isn’t a checklist for creating an unforgettable elopement. The moments you’ll remember most are usually the ones you never planned. If you’re still on the fence about whether eloping is right for you, you might also enjoy reading my guide to the top five most common myths about eloping in Colorado.
That’s what makes learning how to plan an elopement in Denver so exciting. It’s not about finding the “perfect” location or checking every box on a wedding checklist. It’s about creating a day that reflects your relationship from beginning to end.
How to Plan a Denver Elopement for Every Season
One of the first questions I get as a Denver elopement photographer is, “When’s the best time to elope?” My answer is always the same: there isn’t a wrong season, only the one that’s right for your dream day.
Every season in Colorado has its own personality. Some couples dream of colorful wildflowers, while others can’t stop thinking about snowy mountain views or golden trees. Here’s what each season is really like, so you can decide which fits your dream day best.
Spring (March–May)
Perfect for:
- Couples who love fresh greenery and blooming landscapes
- Anyone hoping to avoid peak tourist crowds
- Mild temperatures without the summer heat
- Adventurous couples who don’t mind a little unpredictability
Pros
- Beautiful new growth and vibrant greens
- Waterfalls and rivers are flowing from snowmelt
- Cooler temperatures for hiking and exploring
- Less crowded than summer and fall
Cons
- The weather changes quickly
- Some higher elevation roads and trails may still be snow-covered
- Mud can be a factor depending on where you’re exploring
One Thing to Keep in Mind
Spring in Colorado can bring all four seasons in a single day. Don’t be surprised if you’re wearing sunglasses one minute and a jacket the next. Flexibility is key, which is why I always build extra breathing room into spring elopement timelines.
What Spring Looks Like in Colorado
Think bright green meadows, rushing creeks, fresh leaves, and colorful wildflowers beginning to bloom at lower elevations. The mountains may still have snow on their peaks, creating a beautiful contrast that’s uniquely Colorado.
Summer (June–August)
Perfect for:
- Couples wanting the biggest variety of accessible landscapes
- Longer adventures and full-day elopements
- Hiking enthusiasts
- Wildflower lovers
Pros
- Long daylight hours
- Most mountain roads and trails are open
- Peak wildflower season
- Warm temperatures in most areas
Cons
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common
- Popular areas can become busy
- Hot afternoons at lower elevations
Don’t Let Afternoon Storms Scare You
Colorado’s summer storms sound intimidating, but they’re incredibly predictable. They’re one of the reasons I often recommend sunrise or early morning ceremonies; they’re quieter, cooler, and usually avoid the afternoon weather entirely.
What Summer Looks Like in Colorado
Lush green forests, crystal clear lakes, colorful wildflower meadows, and mountain views that seem to stretch forever. Summer is when Colorado feels the most alive.
Fall (September–October)
Perfect for:
- Couples who love cozy weather
- Anyone dreaming of colorful fall leaves
- Couples wanting comfortable temperatures
- Those who don’t mind planning further in advance
Pros
- Stunning fall colors
- Crisp, comfortable weather
- Gorgeous golden-hour light
- Ideal temperatures for spending all day outdoors
Cons
- One of Colorado’s busiest wedding seasons
- Hotels and vendors book quickly
- Popular destinations can be crowded during peak leaf season
Book Earlier Than You Think
Peak fall color only lasts a couple of weeks, and the timing changes every year depending on the weather. If colorful aspens are high on your priority list, flexibility with your date can make a huge difference.
What Fall Looks Like in Colorado
Golden aspens, warm evening light, cool mountain air, and landscapes that look like they’re glowing. If you’ve ever seen those iconic Colorado fall photos, this is when they happen.
Winter (November–February)
Perfect for:
- Couples wanting privacy and peaceful scenery
- Snow lovers
- Cozy, intimate wedding days
- Adventurous couples who don’t mind bundling up
Pros
- Snow-covered landscapes
- Fewer crowds
- Cozy cabins and winter experiences
- A truly magical atmosphere
Cons
- Shorter daylight hours
- Some roads may close depending on conditions
- You’ll need to dress warmly and be flexible with the weather
Winter Doesn’t Mean Standing in the Cold All Day
Winter doesn’t have to mean standing outside in freezing temperatures all day. Some of my favorite winter elopements include cozy coffee shops, fireplaces, breweries, cabin stays, and short adventures mixed throughout the day. The slower pace often makes the experience feel even more intentional.
What Winter Looks Like in Colorado
Snow-covered pine trees, frozen lakes, dramatic mountain peaks, and soft winter light. Everything feels quieter, more peaceful, and incredibly romantic.
So…Which Season Is Best?
Honestly? The best season is the one that matches your vision, not what’s trending on Instagram.
If you picture hiking through wildflowers, summer might be your perfect fit. If you’ve always dreamed of golden aspens, fall is hard to beat. Love cozy cabins and snowy mountain views? Winter could be everything you’ve imagined. And if you want fresh greenery with fewer crowds, spring is an incredible choice.
As your Denver elopement photographer, I love helping couples choose a season that fits their relationship. Together, we’ll build a day around the experience you want to have, not just the scenery you want to see.
How to Plan an Elopement in Denver When You’re Traveling for Your Denver Elopement
Your wedding doesn’t have to start when you put your dress on. It can begin the moment you arrive. Where you choose to stay sets the tone for your entire experience. Whether you picture slow mornings in a boutique hotel, coffee on the balcony of a mountain cabin, or exploring downtown together the night before your vows, your accommodations become part of your story, not just somewhere to sleep.
Boutique Hotels
Perfect for:
- Couples who love great restaurants and nightlife
- Those wanting getting-ready photos with beautiful architecture
- Weekend getaways that feel a little luxurious
Some of my favorite boutique hotels include:
- The Ramble Hotel
- The Crawford Hotel
- The Oxford Hotel
- The Maven
These hotels photograph beautifully and make it easy to turn your elopement into a full weekend experience.
Mountain Cabins & Airbnbs
Perfect for:
- Couples wanting privacy
- Slow mornings together
- Multi-day adventures
- Cozy winter elopements
There’s something really special about waking up together in a cabin, making breakfast, reading your vows over coffee, and easing into the day instead of rushing between appointments.
Cabins also make incredible locations for getting ready, private first looks, and even post-ceremony celebrations.
Staying Close to Your Ceremony
Stay as close as possible to where you’ll be spending most of your wedding day. While a long drive might seem manageable during the planning process, it often feels like unnecessary stress once your wedding day arrives. The less time you spend in the car, the more time you’ll have to enjoy being together.
Arrive Early If You’re Traveling
If you’re flying into Denver from another state, I always recommend arriving at least one or two days before your elopement. Colorado’s elevation affects everyone differently, even people who hike regularly back home.
While you’re settling in:
- Drink more water than you think you need.
- Skip scheduling a packed itinerary your first day.
- Get outside for a short walk to acclimate.
- Treat the days leading up to your wedding like the beginning of your honeymoon, not another item on your checklist.
Getting Around During Your Denver Elopement
If you’re planning to explore beyond downtown Denver, renting a car is almost always the easiest option. Having your own transportation gives you flexibility if we decide to adjust plans because of weather, traffic, or changing light. It also makes it easier to stop for spontaneous moments along the way, whether that’s grabbing coffee, pulling over for an incredible mountain view, or celebrating afterward at your favorite brewery.
One thing I’ve learned after photographing so many Colorado elopements is that the best moments rarely happen because everything went exactly according to plan. They happen because couples leave room to be present with each other. The more breathing room we build into your day, the more those moments naturally unfold.
What to Wear (and Pack) for Your Denver Elopement
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that you have to choose between looking amazing and being comfortable. The truth? You absolutely can have both.
Whether you’re hiking to your ceremony, walking through downtown Denver, or celebrating in the mountains, your wedding attire should let you move freely, stay comfortable, and feel completely like yourself. The last thing you want is spending your wedding day worrying about cold fingers, sore feet, or constantly adjusting your outfit.
Here’s what I recommend after photographing elopements in Colorado year-round.
Wedding Dresses
Perfect for:
- Brides who want movement and a romantic, effortless look
- Anyone planning to walk, hike, or explore throughout the day
What Works Best
Flowy fabrics like chiffon, tulle, silk, and crepe move beautifully in Colorado’s wind and photograph effortlessly, especially if you’re walking through meadows or mountain trails.
Don’t be afraid of a little dirt on the hem. It’s part of the adventure, and some of my favorite images happen after couples stop worrying about keeping everything perfectly clean.
Things People Don’t Think About
Colorado can be windy.
If your dress has a long veil, I’ll absolutely encourage you to bring it because they create some of the dreamiest photographs, but just know we’ll probably spend part of the day laughing while the wind tries to steal it.
Suits
Perfect for:
- Grooms who want to look polished while staying comfortable
- Couples wanting a timeless look that still works outdoors
What Works Best
Lighter-weight wool suits are a great choice for most seasons because they breathe well while still looking elevated. In cooler months, layering with a vest or textured jacket adds warmth without sacrificing style.
One of my favorite things about elopements is that you aren’t limited by tradition. Wear the green suit. Skip the tie. Add hiking boots. If it feels like you, that’s what matters.
Shoes
If there’s one place I recommend prioritizing comfort over fashion, it’s your shoes. You can absolutely wear your wedding shoes for portraits if that’s important to you, but if we’re walking any distance, I almost always recommend bringing a comfortable second pair.
Some of my favorite options include:
- Blundstones
- Danner Boots
- Tevas (great for summer adventures)
- Clean white sneakers
- Hiking boots
Your feet will thank you.
Layers Are Your Best Friend
Colorado weather has a funny way of reminding you who’s in charge.
Even during the summer, temperatures can change dramatically depending on elevation and the time of day. A cozy sweater, shawl, jacket, or blanket can make all the difference, and they often add beautiful texture to your photos.
During colder months, hand warmers tucked into your pockets can be absolute lifesavers.
Don’t Forget the Details
Some of the smallest items end up meaning the most.
Think about bringing things that tell your story, like:
- Handwritten vows
- A meaningful piece of jewelry
- Family heirlooms
- Champagne or your favorite craft beer
- A picnic
- Your dog’s leash and treats
- A favorite book
- A record player for your cabin
- Polaroid cameras
- Personalized vow books
These little details don’t just make your day more meaningful; they become some of the memories you’ll cherish most when you look back at your photos.
My Denver Elopement Packing Checklist
No need to overpack, but there are a few things you’ll be glad you brought along.
Essentials
- Marriage license
- Rings
- Vow books
- IDs
- Phone charger
Comfort Items
- Water
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Hand warmers (winter)
- Bug spray (summer)
- Blanket
- Extra socks
- Jacket
For Photos
- Bouquet
- Veil
- Detail items (rings, invitation, perfume, jewelry)
- Champagne or a celebratory drink
- Towels if you’re near water
- Comfortable backup shoes
One thing I always remind my couples: don’t save your outfit for the photos. Wear the dress. Sit on the rock. Dance in the grass. Get a little dirt on your boots. Your wedding day isn’t a styled shoot; it’s one of the biggest days of your life. The best photos happen when you’re fully present instead of worrying about keeping everything perfectly clean.
Everything You Need to Know About Legally Eloping in Colorado
One of the biggest reasons couples choose a Denver elopement? Colorado makes getting married refreshingly simple.
Unlike many states, Colorado gives couples a lot of flexibility when it comes to making their marriage official. Whether you’re traveling from across the country or you’re local to Colorado, the legal process is surprisingly straightforward.
Here’s everything you need to know before your wedding day.
Getting Your Colorado Marriage License
The first step is obtaining your marriage license.
The good news? You can get your marriage license from any County Clerk and Recorder’s Office in Colorado; it doesn’t have to be in the county where you’re planning to elope.
Here’s what to expect:
- No waiting period
- The license is valid for 35 days
- Both partners typically need to be present when applying (or follow the county’s alternative procedures if one person can’t attend)
- You’ll need a valid photo ID
- There is a small application fee
Once you have your marriage license, you’re ready to get married whenever your timeline calls for it. There’s no waiting around for approval.
Colorado’s Self-Solemnization Laws
This is probably my favorite thing about getting married in Colorado.
Colorado is one of the few states where you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to legally get married. It’s called self-solemnization, and it means you can exchange vows with just the two of you if that’s what feels right.
For many couples, that’s exactly what makes an elopement so meaningful. There isn’t pressure to perform for anyone else or follow traditions that don’t fit your relationship. It’s simply the two of you making promises to each other.
It’s one of the reasons Colorado has become such a popular destination for couples looking for an intimate wedding experience.
If you’re curious about exactly how self-solemnization works, I’ve put together a full guide that walks you through the process step by step.
Do You Need a Permit?
The answer is…sometimes.
Whether you’ll need a permit depends entirely on where you’re planning to exchange your vows.
Some locations require ceremony permits, others only require photography permits, and many don’t require either. Rules can also change over time, which is why it’s important to check the current requirements before your day.
The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
As your Denver elopement photographer, I’ll help point you in the right direction, answer questions about permits, and make sure you’re aware of any requirements before your wedding day so there aren’t any surprises.
Can You Bring Guests?
Absolutely! Eloping doesn’t have to mean it’s just the two of you.
Some couples choose a completely private ceremony, while others invite parents, siblings, grandparents, or a handful of their closest friends. The right number of guests is whatever feels right to you.
Keep in mind that some public locations have guest limits or permit requirements for larger groups, which is something we’ll consider while planning your day.
Can You Bring Your Dog?
Please do. Okay…only if your dog enjoys adventures! Colorado is an incredibly dog-friendly state, and I love when couples include their four-legged family members on their wedding day. Whether they’re walking down the trail with you, standing nearby during your vows, or patiently waiting for post-ceremony treats, pets often become one of the most memorable parts of the day.
That said, every location has different rules regarding pets, so we’ll make sure to choose somewhere that welcomes them if having your dog there is important to you.
What Happens if the Weather Changes?
If there’s one thing you can count on in Colorado, it’s that the weather likes to keep us on our toes. Mountain forecasts can change quickly, especially during the summer, but that doesn’t mean your day is ruined. One of the biggest advantages of working with an experienced Denver elopement photographer is having someone who’s constantly keeping an eye on the forecast and helping adjust plans if needed. Sometimes that means shifting your timeline by an hour. Other times it means embracing a little rain, wind, or snow and ending up with photos that are even more memorable than you imagined.
I once had a couple panic because rain was rolling in about an hour before their ceremony. We shifted the timeline, waited it out, and ended up with this incredible rainbow over the mountains that neither of us could’ve planned if we’d tried.
One thing I always tell my couples is this: don’t let the legal details stress you out.
Marriage licenses, permits, timelines, and weather forecasts are all things we can plan for together. Once those pieces are taken care of, you get to focus on what actually matters, marrying your favorite person.
How to Plan an Elopement Timeline That Feels Like Your Wedding Day
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that your wedding day will only last an hour or two. It absolutely can if that’s what you want, but one of the best parts about planning a Denver wedding is that you don’t have to rush through any of it.
Without a packed reception schedule or dozens of traditions to fit into one afternoon, you suddenly have the freedom to build a day that reflects your relationship. You can slow down, stay present, and enjoy every part of it instead of wondering where the time went.
When I help couples plan their timeline, my goal isn’t to fill every minute. It’s to create enough space that you never feel like you’re racing from one thing to the next.
Here are a few ideas for what your day could include.
A Slow Morning Together
The best way to start your wedding day? Slowly. Instead of waking up in a rush, give yourselves permission to enjoy the morning.
Sleep in a little. Order room service. Make breakfast together at your Airbnb. Take your dog for one last walk before getting ready. Read letters over coffee. Watch the sunrise from the porch.
Those quiet moments often become some of the memories couples tell me they treasure most.
Getting Ready
Whether you get ready together or separately is completely up to you. Some couples love keeping the anticipation of a first look, while others can’t imagine spending the morning apart. Neither choice is more romantic than the other; it simply depends on what feels the most like you.
Take your time. Play your favorite music. Open a bottle of champagne. Help each other get dressed. Call your parents. Soak it all in.
Your wedding day has already started.
The Ceremony
Your ceremony doesn’t have to be long to be meaningful. Some couples exchange handwritten vows that last twenty minutes. Others keep things beautifully simple with a few heartfelt promises. Some couples laugh through their entire ceremony. Others cry from start to finish. Most end up doing a little of both.
Time to Explore
This is where elopements become so much fun. Instead of taking all your portraits in one location before heading to a reception, we can spend time exploring together.
Maybe that means:
- Visiting two different locations
- Walking through a meadow at sunset
- Watching the mountains change colors
- Stopping for ice cream
- Grabbing tacos
- Taking a scenic drive
- Finding a brewery
- Sharing a picnic
- Dancing in a parking lot because your favorite song came on
Some of my favorite photographs happen during these completely unplanned moments.
Celebrate Your Way
Your ceremony doesn’t have to be the end of your wedding day. In fact, I think you should celebrate even more.
Some ideas couples have loved:
- A private chef at your Airbnb
- Dinner at your favorite restaurant
- Pizza and local beer
- A charcuterie picnic
- Your first dance under the stars
- Cake for two
- Inviting family for dinner afterward
- Renting a cabin for the weekend
- Stargazing together
- Ending the night around a campfire
There isn’t a “right” way to celebrate. The only goal is to create a day you’ll want to relive over and over again.
One of the biggest mistakes I see couples make is trying to squeeze every idea into one day. The beauty of eloping is that you don’t have to. Some of the most meaningful wedding days I’ve photographed have been the simplest ones because there was room to slow down, laugh together, and enjoy the experience. That’s what you’ll remember long after the day is over.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Denver Elopement
How far in advance should we start planning an elopement in Denver?
I usually recommend reaching out 6–12 months before your ideal date, especially if you’re hoping to elope during peak wildflower or fall color season. If you’re planning something on a weekday or during the winter, you may have a little more flexibility. Even if your timeline is shorter, don’t hesitate to ask; I’ve helped couples plan incredible weddings in just a few weeks.
Do you need witnesses to elope in Colorado?
No! Colorado is one of the few states that allows couples to self-solemnize, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses. If you’ve always imagined exchanging vows with just the two of you, Colorado makes that possible.
Can we bring family to our Denver elopement?
Absolutely. Eloping doesn’t have to mean it’s just the two of you. Some couples invite parents, siblings, or a small group of loved ones before celebrating privately afterward. The best part about eloping is that you get to decide what feels right for your relationship.
What’s the best month to elope in Denver?
It really depends on the experience you’re dreaming about. Summer offers wildflowers and easy access to the mountains, fall brings those iconic golden aspens, winter creates cozy snow-covered landscapes, and spring is perfect for couples looking for fresh greenery and fewer crowds. The best month depends on the experience you’re hoping to have.
Do we have to hike to have a Denver elopement?
Not at all.
One of the biggest misconceptions about Colorado elopements is that every ceremony requires a long hike. While that’s certainly an option, there are also plenty of beautiful locations that are easily accessible. Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain overlook, a quiet lake, or somewhere your grandparents can comfortably attend, there’s a location that fits your vision.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Colorado weather can change quickly, but that’s part of the adventure. I always keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your wedding day and help build flexibility into your timeline whenever possible. Sometimes a small adjustment is all it takes, and sometimes unexpected weather leads to some of the most memorable photos of the entire day.
Can our dog come to our elopement?
If your location allows it, absolutely! I love when couples include their pets. Just keep in mind that every park and venue has different rules regarding dogs, so we’ll choose a location that’s a good fit if having your furry family member there is important to you.
Do you help us plan our elopement?
Yes! Helping couples plan their day is one of my favorite parts of the experience. From choosing the right season and location to creating a relaxed timeline and sharing trusted vendor recommendations, I’m here to help make the planning process feel simple and enjoyable, not overwhelming.
Book Erin as Your Denver Elopement Photographer
Planning an elopement isn’t about following a different set of wedding rules. It’s about creating a day that feels authentic to your relationship.
Whether that means hiking to a quiet overlook, sharing vows over coffee at your Airbnb, celebrating with your closest family, or ending the night with pizza and your favorite local brewery, your wedding day should reflect who you are, not what anyone else expects it to look like.
If you’re ready to learn how to plan an elopement that’s relaxed, meaningful, and completely your own, I’d love to help bring it to life. From choosing the perfect location to building a timeline that lets you enjoy your wedding day, I’ll be there to guide you through every step of the planning process.
Ready to start planning your Denver elopement? I’d love to hear what you’re envisioning and help create a day that’s completely unforgettable, for all the right reasons.
Planning your dream Colorado elopement and looking for inspiration and tips? Keep scrolling!
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