A couple embraces in the San Juan Mountains during their elopement.

We believe eloping should feel effortless, intentional, and deeply personal, not overwhelming or boxed into traditions that don’t fit you. We’ve created this guide to share everything you need to start planning your Colorado elopement, drawing from years of experience helping couples craft meaningful, adventure-filled days. If questions come up along the way, we’d love to connect and talk through your vision together.

Now, let’s dive in.

Colorado elopement packages offer a simpler path for couples to exchange vows surrounded by breathtaking scenery, without most of the traditional wedding accompaniments. You choose exactly what you want your day to look like, whether that’s a quiet courthouse ceremony or a full-day (or multi-day) experience centered around exploration, intention, and storytelling. Many packages include experienced elopement photographers who know how to navigate and showcase iconic locations like Breckenridge, Estes Park (Rocky Mountain National Park), and Telluride, and at Wanderlust Elopements, our packages always include two photographers, so no moment or perspective is missed.

With the flexibility of self-solemnization, Colorado allows couples to create a truly personalized and adventurous wedding experience, whether your plans are beautifully simple or thoughtfully expansive.

In this article, you will learn:

A 4-hour "Half Day" elopement package with photography and full planning assistance can cost approximately $4,800.
Comprehensive elopement packages with 8 hours of photography coverage average around $8,400.
Colorado allows self-solemnization, meaning you don't legally need an officiant or witnesses to get married.
Booking 3-14 months in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date and vendors.
Marriage licenses in Colorado cost between $30-$35 and are valid for 35 days.

What are Colorado elopement packages, and why should I choose one?

Colorado elopement packages cater to couples desiring a small, adventurous wedding with beautiful scenery, simplifying the planning process. These are typically all-inclusive options that provide a seamless experience against the backdrop of Colorado’s natural beauty.

Choosing a Colorado elopement package offers numerous benefits:

· Flexibility: Packages can be tailored to suit your style and budget, whether you envision a mountaintop ceremony or a quiet lakeside exchange of vows, giving you the freedom to shape the day around your vision.

· Trusted Vendors: Gain access to experienced local professionals, including photographers skilled at capturing breathtaking outdoor moments and officiants familiar with area regulations, ensuring your day is beautiful and compliant.

· Simplified Planning: Comprehensive planning guides help you navigate everything from permits to location selection, keeping you organized and confident throughout the process, with many packages including pre-arranged timelines and checklists.

· Insider Knowledge: Many packages include a local guide who knows the terrain intimately, leading you to hidden gems and scenic spots, adding a special touch to your celebration and providing invaluable expertise for navigating permits and regulations.

· Emphasis on Connection: These experiences prioritize you and your partner, removing the pressure of a large event, allowing you to focus on sharing an intimate, meaningful moment together in a breathtaking setting for deeper connection and unforgettable memories.

Choosing a Colorado elopement package means embracing adventure, simplicity, and romance. With expert support and unforgettable scenery, it’s a beautiful way to begin your journey together. The convenience and personalized touch make it an ideal option for couples seeking an intimate and memorable wedding experience.

How much do Colorado elopement packages cost, and what influences the price?

The price of elopement packages in Colorado varies based on inclusions and event duration. Shorter packages, such as a 4-hour photography option, can cost around $4,800. More comprehensive packages, offering 8 hours of coverage, are approximately $8,400. The most extensive packages, designed to capture every moment with 12 hours of photography, can reach about $12,000.

Several elements influence the overall price of a Colorado elopement package:

· photography time: longer coverage equates to higher costs due to the photographer's time and editing efforts

· inclusions: packages bundling vendor coordination, planning assistance, or other services generally cost more

· location: remote or popular locations often increase expenses due to vendor travel costs and permit requirements; for example, a permit for a ceremony in Rocky Mountain National Park can add to the overall cost

· additional services: add-ons such as videography, floral arrangements, professional hair and makeup, or custom photo albums increase the total price

What is typically included in Colorado elopement packages?

Colorado elopement packages are designed to remove the stress of planning your wedding day, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience. These packages typically include a variety of services to simplify the process, allowing you to focus on what matters most. Many packages include a customized timeline and a planning session to fine-tune the details, with some even offering thoughtful additions like a private changing tent.

Here's what's typically included in a Colorado elopement package:

· Photography: Skilled photographers capture every meaningful moment, providing you with stunning images to cherish forever.

· Planning Assistance: Expert guidance ensures everything flows smoothly, from vendor coordination to on-the-day logistics.

· Timeline Creation: A personalized schedule is built around your vision and preferences, optimizing your time and the best lighting for photos.

· Location Scouting: Insider knowledge of the most scenic and intimate spots to exchange vows, including hidden gems and permit requirements. Consider locations like Maroon Bells for iconic views or Garden of the Gods for unique rock formations.

· Permit Handling: Assistance navigating and securing any necessary location permits, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

· Access to Trusted Wedding Vendors: Curated recommendations for florists, hair and makeup artists, and other key vendors, saving you time and ensuring quality.

· Personalized Ceremony Advice: Support in designing a ceremony that truly reflects your relationship, including vow writing assistance and unique ritual ideas.

· Officiant: A certified professional to legally conduct your wedding, ensuring all legal requirements are met.

While the specifics may differ from one package to another, the purpose remains the same: to deliver a relaxed, unforgettable elopement experience set against Colorado’s breathtaking backdrop.

A couple eloping in the aspens outside of Telluride, Colorado.

Does the package include photography, planning assistance, and venue permits?

Yes, most elopement packages in Colorado include photography, planning assistance, and venue permits. These comprehensive packages ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

Experienced photographers, familiar with Colorado's stunning landscapes, are typically included to capture your special day. They understand the best locations and lighting to create breathtaking images.

Elopement planners are another key component. They handle the logistics, from creating a detailed timeline to securing necessary permits and coordinating with the venue. Their expertise simplifies the planning process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your elopement. Planners often manage location-specific paperwork, ensuring compliance and a stress-free experience.

Photography services often provide convenient online access to high-resolution images, allowing you to easily share your memories. Some packages include a professionally designed album, offering a tangible keepsake of your Colorado elopement.

Where are the best locations for Colorado elopements included in packages?

Colorado elopement packages often highlight breathtaking mountain settings that combine natural beauty with a sense of seclusion. Popular destinations include Breckenridge, Estes Park, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Vail, and Telluride. Each location offers a unique charm, from serene alpine lakes and dramatic peaks to quaint mountain towns and vibrant city backdrops.

These packages frequently grant access to private, off-the-beaten-path locations, perfect for couples seeking a more personal and quiet ceremony. Imagine exchanging vows amidst the sweeping vistas near Rocky Mountain National Park or within the cozy ambiance of a snow-covered ski village. Colorado offers a diverse range of settings to suit every couple’s style and vision.

To simplify planning, many packages also include essential services like photography. Skilled elopement photographers, especially those familiar with the Colorado terrain, are often part of the package, ensuring that every moment is beautifully documented against the state’s stunning landscapes. Some packages may also incorporate travel assistance or lodging options, further streamlining the elopement process.

Which regions offer stunning backdrops and secluded venues?

Colorado is a treasure trove of breathtaking elopement spots, each offering its own distinct appeal. Whether you're drawn to majestic peaks, serene woodlands, or the buzz of a lively city, the state delivers a variety of picturesque and secluded settings perfect for saying “I do.” Its diverse landscapes have also made it a favorite among mountain elopement photographers, thanks to the stunning backdrops and ever-changing scenery.

Here are some regions that offer stunning backdrops and secluded venues:

· Colorado Springs, nestled near Pikes Peak and the iconic Garden of the Gods, boasts dramatic red rock formations and panoramic mountain vistas, offering a peaceful blend of natural wonder and quiet corners, ideal for couples seeking a more intimate celebration,

· Denver/Boulder provides a unique mix of urban charm and mountain views, making it great for couples who want a city vibe with nature close by; Boulder features the striking Flatirons and lush evergreen forests, combining accessibility with scenic beauty,

· High Rockies (Aspen/Vail), known for their luxury appeal, are surrounded by alpine splendor; from upscale ski resorts to hidden mountain trails, this region is perfect for those dreaming of a high-end yet nature-filled elopement,

· Telluride, Durango, and Southern Colorado, tucked away on the Western Slope, offer dramatic mountain scenery and a sense of solitude; with fewer crowds and awe-inspiring views, places like the San Juan Mountains provide a peaceful, off-the-grid atmosphere for a truly private ceremony.

Many couples are drawn to lesser-known venues in these areas, seeking a more personal and secluded experience. Breckenridge, with its sweeping mountain views and tranquil lakes, offers a serene setting, while Estes Park serves as a gateway to the rugged beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. Together, these destinations present a rich variety of options for couples looking to create a meaningful and unforgettable elopement in the heart of Colorado.

A couple eloping near Manitou Springs, Colorado.

How do I plan and book a Colorado elopement package?

To start planning your Colorado elopement, begin by picturing your ideal day. Consider the setting (mountain vista, alpine lake, or cozy forest), the time of year (snowy winter, wildflower-filled summer, or colorful autumn), and the services you'd like included (photography, officiant, flowers, or gourmet picnic). Once you have a vision, reach out to an elopement provider offering packages aligned with your preferences. These professionals guide you through the entire process, from securing your date to selecting vendors and finalizing details.

Explore venues specializing in elopements and contact them directly. Typically, the first step involves filling out a planning form. After that, you’ll receive a personalized quote and contract via email. Many companies use an online platform where you can customize your package, sign documents, and handle payments. Many also provide monthly payment options, which can help you manage your budget.

To officially reserve your date, you’ll usually need to pay a retainer (often 30%), sign the agreement, select a general location, and confirm the date. Many Colorado adventure elopement packages include perks like:

· local guide (that’s us!): A knowledgeable guide can lead you to hidden gems and ensure your safety in the backcountry

· permitting assistance: Navigating Colorado's permitting requirements can be tricky; some packages include assistance with this process.

It’s also worth connecting with a photographer specializing in mountain or adventure elopements to ensure your day is captured in a way that reflects your story.

Book as early as possible to secure your preferred date, especially if you're planning a popular time like summer weekends or fall foliage season. Popular vendors and locations book up quickly.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking your elopement package three to fourteen months in advance is a smart move. This timeframe significantly increases your chances of securing your preferred date, working with top-tier vendors such as experienced mountain elopement photographers, and reserving sought-after locations.

Popular spots, especially iconic destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park and Maroon Bells, tend to get booked quickly, particularly during peak seasons like summer and fall.

While you can technically plan an elopement with as little as a day's notice or up to a year ahead, giving yourself more time unlocks a wider range of options and reduces potential stress. You'll find it easier to reserve unique venues like secluded cabins or mountaintop overlooks, arrange accommodations for yourselves and any guests, and handle necessary permits, especially if you're considering a location within a national park or forest. A little extra planning upfront ensures a smoother, more enjoyable, and personalized elopement experience.

A couple gets married on a hike near Durango, Colorado.

What legal requirements should I know for a Colorado elopement package?

When planning an elopement in Colorado, understanding the legal requirements is essential. Colorado boasts some of the most relaxed marriage laws in the U.S., offering unique flexibility. A key feature is the option to self-solemnize your marriage, eliminating the need for an officiant or witnesses. This allows for a deeply personal and intimate ceremony, though you're welcome to include loved ones if desired.

Keep in mind that eloping in a public or outdoor space might require a permit, so checking with local authorities beforehand is advisable. Many Colorado elopement photographers and planners are experienced with these regulations and can provide valuable assistance.

To obtain your marriage license, visit any county clerk’s office in Colorado. The fee generally ranges from $30 to $35. Both partners must apply in person, presenting a valid photo ID and their Social Security Number. There is no waiting period, and the license is valid for 35 days from the date of issue. Ensure you sign the license within this timeframe and return it to the issuing county clerk's office within 63 days of the signing date to finalize your marriage.

While witnesses aren’t legally mandated for your ceremony due to self-solemnization, certain locations, such as national parks or public lands, might have their own permit requirements. Always verify with local officials before solidifying your plans. Consulting resources like a dedicated Colorado Elopement Guide or seeking advice from experienced photographers can streamline the process and ensure a legally sound and stress-free elopement.

Where do I obtain a wedding license, and are special permits needed?

In Colorado, you can obtain a marriage license from any county clerk's office. To make the process faster, it's a good idea to complete the online application beforehand.

When planning an elopement, keep in mind that special permits might be needed. These requirements depend on the location, the number of guests, and the vendors involved, particularly in national or state parks.

Many Colorado elopement packages include help with getting the necessary permits. Permit fees can vary widely, from around $25 to $1,500, depending on the location and the type of event. You can find the most accurate and current information on the official website of the specific park under "special use permits."

Many elopement photographers who specialize in Colorado locations know a lot about permit regulations. They can guide you through the application process, making sure you have everything you need for your elopement. They can also give advice on locations that are easier to get permits for or suggest other options if your first choice is too difficult.