Colorado Elopement Frequently Asked Questions

What if we're awkward in front of the camera?


What if we're awkward in front of the camera?

First off, you’re not alone! Almost everyone feels a little awkward in front of the camera at first, but trust me, it’s totally normal. I take a lot of time to get to know my couples long before the wedding day, so when I show up for your elopement, it feels like we’re already friends. My job is to make sure you feel at ease, relaxed, and truly yourself throughout the day. Instead of stiff poses or awkward smiles, I’ll capture the real, candid moments—the laughs, the glances, the quiet moments of connection—that show off the real you. No pressure, no posing—just you two, enjoying the adventure of your elopement. Plus, once you're in the moment, you’ll forget I'm even there!








how many people can we invite to our elopement/intimate wedding?

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN WE INVITE TO OUR ELOPEMENT/INTIMATE WEDDING?

This depends largely on the location you choose. Many of the more remote mountain locations that I photograph at contain fragile ecosystems and we prefer not to bring groups larger than 15 people (including the couple and vendors) for Leave No Trace purposes. However, I can photograph at reservable locations that can accommodate a larger group size for your intimate wedding, such as Rocky Mountain National Park or Maroon Bells Amphitheater

what permits do we need?

what permits do we need?

This question entirely depends on where you choose to elope, how many people you want to attend, and what activities you want to incorporate into your elopement. I do the heavy lifting here, but if there is somewhere specific you'd like to elope, you can always call the ranger district in that area and inquire! 

can our dog be our witness?

can our dog be our witness?

In some counties, yes! It is seriously one of my favorite parts about being elopement photographer in Colorado. I get to watch the cutest pups watch their humans get married and even sign their marriage license with their paw print. Some counties in Colorado have stopped accepting a dog print on the marriage license (womp womp) so just double check with the County Clerk's and Recording office before you get a marriage license there if this is something you want to do. 

do we need an officiant?

do we need an officiant?

Nope! Colorado is a self-solemnizing state, which means that you do not need an officiant or any witnesses at your wedding. You essentially act as your own witnesses. If you do want an officiant at your elopement we can provide recommendations! Looking for information on how to officiate your wedding? This blog is for you!

how much time should we book?

how much time should we book?

This is such a good question! It entirely depends on how you want your day to look and what activities you want to incorporate into your wedding. I can help you figure out how much time you might need based on your vision!

Do you have videographer recommendations?

if we just book photo and not video, does jake come as a second shooter?

Absolutely! While I focus solely on photography, I have a handful of talented videographers I trust and love working with. Reach out and I'll point you in the right direction!

do you take weddings outside of colorado?

do you take weddings outside of colorado?

At this time, I am not offering elopement coverage outside of Colorado. 

when is the best season to elope in colorado?

when is the best season to elope in colorado?

Every season in Colorado is absolutely beautiful! It entirely depends on what you want for your wedding day. The seasons here in Colorado are a little different than most states. Most people, when they think of spring, think of blossoming trees and budding flowers. Unfortunately, that is not the case in the mountains of Colorado. We usually get the bulk of our snow between January-April, so if you're looking for a winter wonderland elopement those would be your go to months. Spring, or "mud season" is May-June in the mountains (however, June at lower elevations is gorgeous). July-August are our summer months and the wildflowers are out of this world! September-October are gorgeous fall months and November-December are the shoulder season months. Keep in mind the weather can be wildly unpredictable during every month, it can even snow in the summer so it's best to be prepared for anything. Read a more in-depth blog here!

are afternoon thunderstorms dangerous?

are afternoon thunderstorms dangerous?

When we're looking at summer elopements, I recommend couples opt for a sunrise elopement because the afternoon thunderstorms are like clockwork here, we can usually predict them every day. Thunderstorms on their own aren't necessarily dangerous, however, thunderstorms above treeline are. When you are above tree line you are extremely exposed and the tallest thing on that mountain, therefore, thunderstorms are dangerous above treeline. 

is it better to elope at sunrise or sunset?

is it better to elope at sunrise or sunset?

In the summertime we recommend opting for a sunrise elopement as the thunderstorms usually roll in every afternoon and you certainly do not want to be caught in a thunderstorm above treeline. However, you can certainly opt for a sunset elopement in the summer with the caveat that we may have to change locations if the weather does not permit us in your elopement location. Sunrise and sunset also depend on a few things like the location you choose, if you're a morning person or not, and if you have family/friends joining you. I can help you make the best choice for your day!

how many photos will we get?

how many photos will we get?

It totally depends on which package you book and the scope and scale of your elopement. I guarantee 30-50 edited images per hour of photographing. 

what if the weather is bad?

what if the weather is bad?

We have a saying in Colorado that goes, "if you don't like the weather, wait 20 minutes." The weather can move out as quickly as it moves in here. We usually have a backup location and timeline to account for any "bad" weather. But usually, if we wait it out it'll pass. For severe or extreme weather that poses safety risks, we'll assess the situation and look at all of our options, even switching days if that is a possibility for both parties. I have never had to do this *knock on wood* but I have certainly had my fair share of location changes due to weather!

can we bring our kid(s)?

can we bring our kid(s)?

Of course! You know your family dynamic better than anyone, so that is totally up to you! One thing that I've seen that is really helpful is bringing along a family member or friend so they can stay with your kids when it's time to do portraits of just the two of you. 

can we bring our dog(s)?

can we bring our dog(s)?

Yes! Your fur friends are welcome to join in on the wedding adventure! There are a few companies in Colorado that specialize in tagging along with you for your elopement just to hold your dogs when needed. Or you can have a family member or friend tag along for this part, too. This is especially helpful during the ceremony. 

what shoes should we wear for our elopement?

what shoes should we wear for our elopement?

I recommend shoes that you feel comfortable in. If you are hiking at all, even if it's just a little bit, I recommend hiking boots with wool socks or hiking sandals. You can always bring a change of shoes along for the ceremony if you want! I am a firm believer that comfort is key. You'll also want to make sure that you have adequate time to break in your shoes if you are buying new ones for your elopement because blisters are no fun! 

do we wear our wedding clothes while hiking?

do we wear our wedding clothes while hiking?

Totally up to you! You can certainly pack your wedding attire in or on your backpack and change when we get to your elopement location. Or you can wear your wedding attire for the hike! Whatever you are most comfortable doing. 

WHAT SHOULD WE PACK FOR OUR ELOPEMENT DAY?

WHAT SHOULD WE PACK FOR OUR ELOPEMENT DAY?

This will vary depending on the season you are eloping in but this is a good baseline to start with. I would absolutely recommend a medium sized backpack for each of you. Plenty of water, snacks, extra socks, hat, a coat that you are excited to be photographed in, gloves, any hair/makeup supplies (if you're using) for touch-ups, a blanket for sitting, any elopement accessories like an elopement sign for your backpacks, and your bouquet(s) and/or boutonniere(s). You can read a more in-depth blog post about what to pack here

should we plan activities for our elopement?

should we plan activities for our elopement?

Most couples include something during their elopement, whether that a short, easy hike or an activity like rock climbing or backpacking. You certainly do not have to plan any activities, but if you have booked a longer package, I recommend having an activity like getting ready coverage, a hike, or another activity that resonates with you. You can see a list of ideas here!

how do we choose a location?

how do we choose a location?

When a couple books with me, I'll send them a questionnaire that helps me get the know them better. At the end of that questionnaire there is a location questionnaire that will help me put together a handful of locations that I think would be perfect for you. I'll send that your way so you can pick the perfect spot for your elopement!

how far in advance should we book you?

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD WE BOOK YOU?

On average I would say that 6-9 months in advance is pretty typical to book your elopement photographer. I do offer a full calendar year in advance for booking, though! I have also booked, planned, and photographed an elopement in three weeks so there really isn't a fast and hard rule. However, it is never too early to book your vendors for your elopement!

BASED IN FORT COLlINS, COLORADO

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