If you’re here, you’re probably thinking about how to plan your Colorado self-solemnized elopement ceremony — and honestly, I can’t blame you! Marrying yourselves in Colorado is one of the coolest, most freeing legal perks out there. No officiant, no witnesses, just you, your partner, and your love story unfolding against the jaw-dropping backdrop of the Colorado mountains. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s as intimate as it gets.

But just because it’s simple legally doesn’t mean you want your ceremony to feel like a rushed formality or an awkward afterthought. Nope. You want it to be memorable, meaningful, and a reflection of your relationship. So, this is your step-by-step guide to making your Colorado self-solemnized elopement ceremony flow beautifully from start to finish, with tips, tricks, and plenty of encouragement along the way.

What Is a Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremony? (And Why It’s So Rad)

Let’s start with the basics, because knowing exactly what you’re getting into makes everything less intimidating. A Colorado self-solemnized elopement ceremony is unique in the U.S.—it means you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to get legally married in the state. That’s right: you and your partner can officiate your own wedding, sign your marriage license yourselves, and voilà — legally married!

Why is this so rad? Because it puts the power back in your hands. You’re not bound by traditions or by anyone else’s script. No need to wrangle friends or family into officiating, no awkward “do you take this person” Q&A, and no external pressure. You get to build a ceremony that fits you and your relationship, whether that’s quiet and reflective or playful and full of inside jokes.

This freedom also means your wedding can be as small and intimate or as unique and elaborate as you want, without the usual constraints. It’s perfect for adventurous couples who want to hike to a secluded mountain top, or for those who just want a meaningful moment in an easily accessible location.

Learn more about how to self-solemnize in Colorado here!

Step 1: Get Your Marriage License (Because No License, No Legal Marriage)

Before you can dive into the fun of planning your ceremony, there’s a little bit of paperwork you can’t skip. You need a marriage license, and in Colorado, the process is pretty straightforward—but here’s what you need to know to keep things smooth:

• Both you and your partner must appear in person at any Colorado county clerk’s office. It doesn’t have to be the county where you plan to marry, so if you’re traveling or eloping somewhere remote, just find the closest clerk’s office.
• Bring valid photo IDs like driver’s licenses or passports. If either of you was previously married, you’ll need to provide the date your last marriage ended (divorce decree or death certificate).
• The fee usually runs between $30-$40 — check your county’s website for exact details.
• Once you get your license, you can get married immediately. No waiting period or ceremony restrictions.
• Your license is valid for 35 days, so plan your ceremony within that window.

Pro Tip: Many county’s now offer online pre-application forms, which can save you time at the clerk’s office. It’s worth checking your county’s website before you go. And if you’re eloping during a busy season, try to get your license early to avoid any last-minute stress.

Step 2: Plan Your Ceremony Flow — The Heart of Your Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremony

Now that the legal side is taken care of, let’s talk ceremony flow — aka the blueprint for your day’s emotional magic. Without an officiant guiding things, it’s helpful to have a simple plan to avoid any awkward silences or “what do we do next?” moments.

Here’s a basic ceremony flow to get your creative wheels turning:

Welcome & Setting the Tone

Start your ceremony by simply grounding yourselves. Take a moment to breathe, look at each other, and soak in your surroundings. The beauty of a self-solemnized ceremony is the raw authenticity of the moment, so don’t be afraid to keep it informal and real. You might say:

“We’re here, surrounded by these mountains and each other, ready to make this official in our own way.”

Or just hold hands and smile, letting the natural emotion set the tone.

Why We’re Here (Optional Personal Story)

If you want, share a short reflection about your relationship — how you met, why this moment matters, or what marriage means to you both. This is your chance to speak honestly and vulnerably. For example:

“From our first coffee date to all the adventures since, you’ve been my best friend and my rock. Today, I’m excited to commit to you with my whole heart.”

This personal touch helps your ceremony feel intimate and tailored.

Vows

This is your moment. Whether you write your own vows or lean on a favorite traditional script, speak from the heart. Feel free to include humor, promises, or even inside jokes. The point is to make it uniquely yours. If you need a little help with your vows, I wrote this blog just for you!

Exchange Rings (If You’re Doing Rings)

Simple but meaningful — a physical symbol of your love and commitment. You can keep this traditional or switch it up with bracelets, necklaces, or any token that holds meaning.

Closing Words & Kiss

End with a heartfelt statement — something like “With all my heart, I marry you” — then seal it with a kiss that marks your new chapter together.

Sample Vows & Script Ideas for Your Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremony

Writing your own vows can be intimidating, so here are some ideas to get you started — mix, match, and customize!

Simple & Sweet
“I promise to be your partner, your best friend, and your biggest fan. Through all the adventures life throws our way, I’ll stand by you, laugh with you, and love you without hesitation.”

Playful & Fun
“I vow to keep making you laugh when life gets tough, to be your co-pilot on all our wild journeys, and to always share the last slice of pizza.”

Poetic & Heartfelt
“Today, in front of these mountains and under this sky, I choose you — not just as my love, but as my home, my safe place, and my forever adventure.”

Ceremony Script Snippet
“Today, in this beautiful place that feels like us, we declare our love and commitment — no one else needed, just us. We make these promises to each other freely and joyfully.”

Step 3: Location, Location, Location — Where to Say “I Do” in Colorado

One of the best things about a Colorado self-solemnized elopement ceremony? You can literally say your vows anywhere that feels meaningful. The only limit is your imagination (and maybe the weather).

Some iconic spots to consider:

• Maroon Bells near Aspen:
  Iconic peaks and reflective lakes — pure Colorado magic. Learn how to elope at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater here!
• Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs:
  Dramatic red rock formations make for stunning photos. Learn how to elope at GOTG here!
• Rocky Mountain National Park:
  Serene alpine lakes and wildflower meadows. Learn all about eloping in RMNP here!
• A cozy Airbnb:
  Intimacy and comfort — sometimes the best place to say “I do” is right where you are.
• Hidden Gems:
  I know plenty of off-the-beaten-path locations where you can escape the crowds and soak up stunning views, just the two of you.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check any permit requirements or regulations, especially in popular public areas.

Tips & Tricks for a Smooth Ceremony (So You Can Focus on Love, Not Logistics)

Here are some insider tips to make your ceremony day feel effortless and joyful:

• Practice:
  Run through your ceremony flow a couple of times to get comfortable. It helps reduce nerves and awkward pauses.
• Keep It Short & Sweet:
  A 10-15 minute ceremony is plenty long enough to be meaningful without feeling drawn out.
• Hire a Colorado Elopement Photographer (That’s Me!):
  Having someone there to capture your ceremony is more than just snapping photos — it’s about freezing those raw, real moments you’ll want to relive forever. Plus, I’m here to make sure your day flows smoothly, keep the vibe relaxed, and be that friendly, calming presence so you can focus on each other — no awkwardness, just all the love.
• Dress for the Weather:
  Colorado weather can change fast, especially in the mountains. Layers, boots, and a jacket are your best friends.
• Celebrate Afterwards:
  Plan something special — a picnic with your favorite foods, a hike, or a cozy dinner at a local spot.

Step 4: Legal Final Steps After Your Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremony

Once your ceremony is over, you’ll want to dot your legal i’s and cross your t’s:

• Return your signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office within the required timeframe (usually within 63 days).
• Order certified copies of your marriage certificate for any legal changes — like name change (optional), insurance, or passports.

Keeping these steps in mind early on helps avoid any surprises down the road.

Step 5: Make Your Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremony Truly Yours: Personalize Your Script & Rituals

Here’s where your ceremony gets next-level meaningful. When you’re writing your ceremony script, think about what you want to highlight. The good news? There’s no rush, no pressure, and no “right” way to do it.

• Include rituals that matter:
  Handfasting, letter readings, or sand pouring can be beautiful symbols of your union. Before starting the ritual, say a few words about why it’s important to you — it helps your guests (or just you two!) understand the meaning behind the moment.
• Play a song for your partner:
  Whether it’s a full song or a snippet of a tune that holds meaning, music can shift the mood instantly and bring emotion to the forefront.
• Add something uniquely yours:
  Maybe it’s a poem one of you wrote, a quote from a favorite book, or a small object like a family heirloom or a stone from a place you love. It’s these personal touches that make the ceremony unforgettable.
• Take your time:
  There’s zero need to rush through your ceremony. Pause between sections, look at each other, laugh if you want to — this day is yours to savor.
• Use your surroundings:
  Mention the wind in the trees, the mountain peaks, or even the way the light hits your partner’s face. Ground your ceremony in your Colorado setting for a deeper connection.
• Speak from the heart:
  If you get emotional or stumble over words, embrace it. Real beats rehearsed every time.

Why I Love Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremonies (And You Will Too)

As a photographer who’s witnessed hundreds of these ceremonies, I adore how raw, intimate, and authentic they feel. There’s no fluff — just two people standing together, promising to be each other’s person through everything. That honesty, that realness, is magic.

Plus, the Colorado landscape is basically your co-officiant. Those mountains, forests, and skies don’t just provide a backdrop — they elevate your vows, your promises, and your connection to a whole other level.

Your Colorado Self-Solemnized Elopement Ceremony, Your Way

So there you have it — a practical, honest, and (hopefully) fun guide to planning your Colorado self-solemnized elopement ceremony. Whether you want a simple, quiet moment or a ceremony bursting with personality and rituals, this is your chance to do it your way.

If you want help planning your ceremony and capturing those moments, I’m here for you — let’s make your elopement day unforgettable! Reach out to me here to begin planning!