What to Pack for a Colorado Mountain Elopement
By far one of my favorite parts about being an elopement photographer in the beautiful state of Colorado are the epic adventure elopements that come with the job. Whether you’re getting married on a mountain top, in a state park or outside a cozy airbnb, there is so much to love about eloping in Colorado.
More than likely though, this will be the first elopement you’ve planned, so you might not know what you need to bring with you on the day. Well, you’re in luck because in this blog we are going to go over everything you need to pack for your Colorado mountain elopement.
How to Elope in Colorado
What is an Elopement
First off, let's start with the basics: what is an elopement? An elopement is a wedding experience where two individuals get married, with the option to bring a handful of witnesses or guests. These days many couples are choosing to elope because they want an intimate, intentional, or adventurous experience rather than a large traditional wedding.
And in Colorado you have plenty of options for creating an elopement experience that feels like your dream wedding day. You can exchange vows overlooking the mountains, hike to an alpine lake, explore a national forest, or have a quiet ceremony at your Airbnb before heading out for an adventure together.
How to Plan a Colorado Elopement
Planning an elopement in Colorado is actually very simple. Here are the basics on what to expect when planning your elopement.
Choose a location
Choose a photographer, you can find more information about my elopement packages here!
Choose a date with your photographer
Apply for your marriage license
Get married!
Of course there are a few more details that go into planning your elopement day. Things like permits, timelines, hiking conditions and weather. But that’s part of why having an experienced Colorado elopement photographer can be so helpful to your experience. For more information on my Colorado elopement packages you can check out my blog here!
Self Solemnization in Colorado
One of the biggest reasons couples choose to elope in Colorado is self-solemnization.
Self-solemnization is a couple's ability to conduct their own wedding ceremony without witnesses or an officiant. In other words, if you want an extremely intimate ceremony, you can go on a hike up the mountains with your partner, exchange vows, sign your marriage certificate and come back down the mountain as a married couple.
Self-solemnization is a great option for couples who want their day to feel personal and private. You don’t need to worry about finding an officiant or having friends or family serve as witnesses. This gives you even more freedom when planning your day.
What to Pack for Your Colorado Mountain Elopement
When packing for your Colorado mountain elopement you’ll want to customize your packing list for the experience you’re planning. This is something I can help with as your elopement photographer!
I have a full elopement guide that goes out to all of my elopement clients that will help them to make decisions based on their wedding day including what to pack, how to prepare for the weather and what to expect during an adventure elopement.
Note, this packing list is a great starting point for outdoor adventure elopement in Colorado, but your final packing list should always be customized to your personal experience.
1. Extra layers, including waterproof layers
Colorado weather can be unpredictable, especially when you’re hiking up a mountain. Temperatures change, and conditions can be completely different at varying elevations. Bringing extra layers including waterproof and windproof layers can completely make your wedding day.
And don’t forget you can wear multiple outfits! You can change into your wedding attire once you’ve hiked the mountain or even bring a second outfit just for exploring.
2. Reusable water bottles
Hydration is extremely important when you’re coming from a lower elevation. Bring plenty of water for your hike and the rest of your day. Especially if you’ll be spending several hours outside.
3. Extra socks/comfy shoes
Even if you’re planning to hike in your wedding attire, I highly recommend bringing a comfortable pair of hiking boots or shoes that you can switch in and out of. Extra socks are also a must! If your feet get wet, or muddy during your elopement, they can really save you for the hike back.
4. Snacks
Bring snacks that are easy to pack and won’t make a mess on your wedding attire or in your bag! You can also plan a special meal or picnic for after your ceremony. One of my favorite ways for couples to celebrate is with a little cake back by their car or a bit of champagne after their elopement ceremony.
5. Sunscreen and chapstick
Colorado sun is not something you want to mess around with on your wedding day. The elements can be intense so sunscreen and chapstick can help a lot with your experience!
6. Moleskin for blisters
If you’re a hiker, I’m sure you’re familiar with moleskin, a blister-prevention product. Even if you’ve broken in your boots or wedding shoes, a long hike in attire you’re not used to walking in can cause blisters you weren’t expecting. Having something in your bag to protect your feet can save you from a painful walk back.
7. Oxygen canisters
If you think you might want them (Many of my out of state couples do these and think they help, you can get them at almost any mountain gas station or grocery store. I have never tried them so it's purely based on past recommendations).
If you’re planning a destination elopement in Colorado be sure to check out my blog on everything you need to know to plan a destination elopement in Colorado!
I know this sounds cheesy, but the best thing you can pack for your Colorado elopement is the patience to roll with the unexpected. Colorado is beautiful, but the weather can change multiple times throughout the day, trails can close, or you might stumble upon a beautiful path we had no idea was there. The adventure of your elopement is the best part of the experience, so be sure you’re prepared for your one of a kind Colorado elopement experience.
If you’re looking for more information on planning an elopement, be sure to check out my elopement page of the blog! And if you’re ready to take the next steps and book your photographer be sure to reach out via my contact page and we can start planning!
