THE BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN COLORADO
If you’ve been looking for places to elope in Colorado, you likely already know it’s home to incredibly diverse landscapes and notorious for having some seriously gorgeous alpine peaks. Colorado has some of the most beautiful and quaint mountain towns in the western and southern parts of the country. These areas are full of mountain ranges, vast and open meadows, forests, rivers, ski resorts, and much more. Visiting Colorado truly allows you to escape, unwind, adventure, and breathe fresh (mountain air). When you choose Colorado as your elopement location, you will have an experience like none other.
Being a Colorado native, it brings me joy to present my couples with spots that are perfect for them and take them on an adventure of a lifetime. I watch them almost literally lift that weight off their shoulders as they reap the benefits of choosing to have a wedding day in the Colorado wilderness.
WHY IT’S GREAT TO ELOPE IN COLORADO
Colorado is an exceptional destination for couples seeking an intimate and unforgettable elopement. Its stunning landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to enchanting forests, offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic celebration. With countless picturesque locations like Rocky Mountain National Park, Maroon Bells, and Garden of the Gods, Colorado provides diverse and captivating views that will satisfy the nature-lovers soul. The state’s favorable weather conditions, including mild summers and snowy winters, allow for year-round elopements, catering to every couple’s preferences.
In addition to its natural richness, Colorado hosts a thriving wedding industry. This makes it effortless for couples to find experienced vendors, talented photographers, and cozy accommodations tailored to their needs. Whether exchanging vows on a mountaintop, beside a crystal-clear lake, or in a charming mountain town, Colorado’s serene and breathtaking atmosphere promises an elopement experience that is both intimate and memorable.
After all my years of growing up and exploring Colorado’s best mountain towns, here is my guide on the best places to elope in Colorado:
OURAY
Best Time of Year: July-September
Where to Fly In: Montrose, Grand Junction, or Durango Airports
The Deets: Ouray is a gorgeous town to elope in Colorado! Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a mountain town hidden in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Its alpine scenery, with towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, creates a jaw-dropping intimate elopement. The town displays charm and character with its Victorian-era architecture, cozy bed and breakfasts, and welcoming atmosphere. Ouray’s peaceful and secluded setting provides couples with tranquility and privacy, allowing them to take in the joy of their special day. From exchanging vows in a mountain meadow to saying “I do” by a glistening waterfall, there are numerous locations for a romantic ceremony. Additionally, the town offers a variety of services specifically tailored to elopements, including experienced local officiants, talented photographers, and intimate venues.
TELLURIDE
Best Time of Year: July-October
Where to Fly In: Montrose Regional Airport
The Deets: Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by majestic peaks, Telluride boasts a mesmerizing natural beauty that is hard to match. This mountain town offers a blend of charm, adventure, and luxury, making it an ideal elopement destination. The towering mountains, waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers provide a stunning backdrop for an intimate ceremony. Telluride’s remote location and limited cell service give a sense of seclusion and privacy, allowing couples an experience with few distractions.
The town has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with its historic architecture, cozy accommodations, and exceptional dining options. For adventure-seeking couples, Telluride offers outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, adding an extra layer of excitement to their elopement experience. Additionally, Telluride is home to talented local vendors, including officiants, photographers, and florists, who specialize in crafting personalized elopements that reflect each couple’s unique style and vision. Telluride provides an idyllic setting combining natural beauty, adventure, and romance, ensuring a truly magical elopement.
CRESTED BUTTE
Best Time of Year: July-October
Where to Fly In: Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport
The Deets: Known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” Crested Butte showcases a breathtaking natural beauty that will captivate hearts. It features alpine meadows, towering peaks, and charming historic downtown. The abundance of vibrant wildflowers during the summer creates a kaleidoscope of colors! This adds a touch of magic and beauty to any ceremony. Crested Butte’s small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere ensure a personalized and intimate experience for couples. The town offers a variety of charming venues, from rustic mountain lodges to quaint chapels, providing options to suit every couple’s style and preferences. Crested Butte has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with local artisans, musicians, and photographers who can help bring the elopement vision to life. Elopement experiences can be infused with adventure for those who love outdoor activities. Engage in thrilling adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, allowing adventure enthusiasts to embrace the exhilaration of nature.
BUENA VISTA
Best Time of Year: June-September
Where to Fly In: Central Colorado Regional Airport
The Deets: Buena Vista surrounds itself with mountains, serene valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. With plenty of outdoor adventure activities, from hiking and mountain biking to whitewater rafting and skiing, allowing couples to infuse their day with excitement and adrenaline. Moreover, Buena Vista provides a sense of privacy and intimacy. It’s perfect for couples who wish to exchange vows in a secluded and peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle of traditional wedding venues.
Do you envision your ceremony in an enchanting forest clearing, a rustic mountain lodge, or a charming chapel? The town also offers a variety of unique venues. Lastly, beyond the ceremony, Buena Vista offers opportunities for memorable experiences, such as relaxing in hot springs, exploring nearby ghost towns, or stargazing under the clear mountain skies. All these factors combined make a sweet destination to elope in Colorado for those seeking natural beauty, adventure, intimacy, and unforgettable moments.
BRECKENRIDGE
Best Time of Year: July-September
Where to Fly In: Denver International Airport, Eagle/Vail Regional Airport, or Colorado Springs Airport
The Deets: Breckenridge has a charming and vibrant atmosphere. Its historic Main Street lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and exquisite dining options. The town offers outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking, for adventurous couples. Plenty of venues, from rustic mountain lodges to elegant event spaces that cater to diverse preferences, ensure the perfect setting for a personalized ceremony. The town’s experienced wedding professionals and service providers are well-equipped to assist couples in planning every detail of their elopement, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. In essence, if you want to elope in Colorado, Breckenridge offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, vibrant ambiance, adventure opportunities, and professional support, making it an ideal destination for your elopement.
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS
Best Time of Year: June-October
Where to Fly In: Yampa Valley Regional Airport
The Deets: Steamboat Springs is known for the (you guessed it) iconic Steamboat Ski Resort. The scenic vistas and breathtaking views provide a captivating backdrop for an intimate elopement ceremony. Steamboat Springs offers outdoor activities, including hiking, hot air ballooning, and skiing. The town also has soothing hot springs, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation before or after the ceremony. With a range of charming venues, from cozy lodges to rustic barns, Steamboat Springs provides options to suit various styles. Additionally, the town offers excellent local support to execute a seamless elopement.
LEADVILLE
Best Time of Year: July-September
Where to Fly In: Denver International Airport
The Deets: Eloping in Leadville, Colorado, offers an off-the-beaten-path wedding experience. This historic mountain town, located at a high elevation, presents a unique setting that sets it apart from other destinations. Leadville surrounds itself with tall peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and stunning wilderness. The town exudes a nostalgic charm with its well-preserved Victorian architecture, adding a touch of romance and character to the occasion. It offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility, allowing couples to exchange vows in a private and intimate setting away from the crowds. For adventure enthusiasts, Leadville provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The local community in Leadville is known for its warm hospitality. From historic buildings to mountain lodges, Leadville offers options that cater to any preference.
Perhaps you’ve noticed a common thread among each location to elope in Colorado. Each serves as a sanctuary of seclusion, intimacy, and slowness, offering an escape from our everyday lives in busy cities. I hope this has sparked inspiration, guiding you toward the perfect setting for your intimate or adventurous elopement in the beautiful state of Colorado. If you need more assistance or want to learn more about me, I’m just a quick message away!
Colorado Elopement Packages
Elopement Packages and Pricing for Colorado
>> Half, full or multi day elopement photography coverage anywhere in Colorado
>> 70+ page Elopement Guide exclusive to Whitney Rae couples
>> Unlimited Consultations
>> Personalized location scouting + vendor recommendations plus created just-for-you activity list
>> Handcrafted elopement timeline
>> Permit and marriage license assistance
>> Optional complimentary officiant service
>> Digital online gallery with full resolution image and printing rights
>> Sneak peek images within 48 hours
Photographer travel fees covered anywhere in Colorado Starting at $5,600
Call it authentic, candid or genuine. Whatever the adjective, I want to create a wedding celebration that resembles you, from the big celebrations and the in-between moments to the images I deliver that help you relive the day for years to come. When it comes to your wedding day, the moments you want to remember aren't always perfect, staged or scripted, they are uncut, raw and true to you.
AN HONEST WEDDING EXPERIENCE
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“Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still”
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Let's Connect
I'm WHITNEY.
*Virtual Wave*
Hello! I feel beyond honored that you've made your way here! In order to give you the best representation of who you'll be spending your wedding day (one of the best days you'll live) with, here's a brief run down!
First and foremost, I'm a mountain gal through and through. I was born and raised in Vail, Colorado and unless it's another mountain town, my husband and I will always call this home. It's the tightly knit community, the fresh air (but really, it hits different here), the scenery and most importantly for us, the recreation + lifestyle. This is something that will always come through in my work, and what I believe sets me just a little bit apart - I am, and will forever be, inspired by the poetry of love in landscapes.
I have a deep desire to be on the move, to see everything before I don't have the opportunity to, and are therefore happiest when traveling and exploring new places (which I feel so lucky is a part of my work!)
Spending quality time hiking/biking/skiing/camping with my husband and our two border collies, clocking in some R&R at home or catching up with a friend over a glass of wine/craft beer are things that always sit at the top of the priority list.
If you're in to it- I'm a Libra, A Manifesting Generator (6-2) and an Enneagram 7 Wing 6/8. In short, I'm a people person, an optimist, and for lack of better terms- like to get shit done and make things happen. I'm a feeler, with a strong sense of empathy and sense of what people are experiencing, both when it comes to myself and others. I'm a bit of a goof, a tiny little thing packed with some sass, and ultimately just want to live a fun and adventurous life that's packed with new experiences and people.
..I guess that's why I do what I do. I feel so grateful to be on this journey of having my own business where I have freedom to curate the life I want to live, where I get to connect with truly so many amazing humans, travel to some really beautiful places, and document that as a whole, as creatively and beautifully as I can for you.
"she made the day feel so easy and seamless"
