Chansa and Will reached out to me for their elopement because they wanted an adventure. They are both pilots, and they love to travel and explore so Colorado was perfect for them. And when we decided on the San Juan Mountains for their elopement location I was over the moon with excitement. They wanted an intimate elopement ceremony surrounded by nature and then we met up with some friends and family later in the morning for portraits and celebration!
Planning an Elopement in the San Juan Mountains
Self Solemnization in Colorado
One of the best parts about getting married in Colorado is the flexibility you have. Because of Colorado law you can elope without any witnesses and without an officiant. This means you can head out for a hike on a mountain with your marriage license and come back married! Self-solemnization makes Colorado the perfect destination for a mountain elopement.
Can You Elope in the Mountains in Colorado?
Yes! You can elope in the mountains in Colorado. The mountains are some of the most popular locations to elope in Colorado because of the adventurous experience, the privacy they offer, and the dramatic backdrops that transform your wedding album. When planning your elopement, be sure to check out the regulations on the exact location you plan to elope.
Where is the Best Place to Elope in the San Juan Mountains
For Chansa and Will we explored an alpine lake tucked into the mountains. We chose this spot for their sunrise elopement because of the beautiful alpenglow as well as the seclusion that comes with the location. These two were able to have a fully private elopement immersed in nature.
Some other great spots in the San Juan Mountains
Ice Lake and Island Lake
Blue Lakes
4x4 Trail
Yankee Boy Basin
Governor Basin
Trout Lake (A super accessible location!)
Things to Think About When Planning a Mountain Elopement
Booking a Local Photographer
When you book a Colorado elopement photographer for your Colorado elopement, you're also booking a guide who knows countless vetted locations, has connections to a community of wedding vendors they've worked with in the past, and is well-versed in everything you need to plan your Colorado elopement.
Researching Permits
Though there are many locations throughout Colorado that do not need permits, some areas do. In general, you do not need a permit to elope in most parts of the San Juan Mountains. If you are bringing a setup or a number of guests to your elopement you could need a permit though. When we start planning your day we will go over the logistics of your vision and I will help you to determine whether or not you need permits for that location!
Getting a Marriage License
Getting your marriage license in Colorado is easy! Though it can depend on the location, for the majority of Colorado County Clerk’s Offices you will need to go in on a weekday, fill out some paperwork, and then you can walk out with your marriage license the same day! Not only can you receive your marriage license the same day that you apply, but you can also use said license the same day you obtain it. There is no waiting period when you apply for a marriage license in Colorado!!
For more information on how to get a marriage license in Colorado, check out my blog here.
Planning for Altitude and Weather
If you're not from the Colorado area, you should prepare yourself for the altitude. I want to make sure you have the best experience possible for your Colorado wedding, and the altitude change can present a bit of a challenge. Here are some quick tips to not let the change in elevation get the best of you:
Extra O2: Cans of O2 can be found at gas stations and can really help in a pinch if you’re feeling like you need a little more oxygen.
Acclimate: Arrive a couple days before the wedding to rest and relax and get used to the elevation change.
Limit Alcohol: Higher elevations mean you will feel the effects of alcohol faster. Take it slow and pace yourselves!
Hydrate: You’ll need more water than you think, and you may even want add electrolyte packets to help boost hydration and reduce your risk altitude sickness.
Chansa and Will's Sunrise Mountain Elopement
We had an early morning for Chansa and Will's elopement. Knowing they were open to waking up early, I suggested we head up early enough to catch the alpenglow which turned out amazing. They shared their first look by the water as the sun was coming up and we spent the morning exploring the area together.
After their portraits and spending the morning exploring as the sun rose, we headed to the base of the mountains to meet up with family and take some portraits. Their day was the perfect combination of intimacy and celebration. I am so happy for these two and I loved exploring with them! If you're in the process of planning your Colorado elopement, you're in the right place! Reach out via my contact page to set up a call and start planning your day!
