If you’ve ever wondered, what is an elopement wedding, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve been scrolling Pinterest late at night, pinning mountain-top ceremonies or cozy forest weddings, and thinking, “Could this actually be our day?” Or maybe you’re tired of all the stress and drama that comes with planning a huge wedding and just want a day that’s 100% yours. Either way, I promise you, elopements are your ticket to a wedding day that’s intimate, intentional, and honestly, way more fun than the traditional route.

Back in the day, elopements meant running away in secret, maybe grabbing a justice-of-the-peace and a handful of witnesses, and that was it. But today, elopements have completely evolved. Now, they are all about choice, freedom, and connection. And the best part? You can literally have your dream wedding anywhere: in the mountains, on a city rooftop, in a desert, or even at your favorite local trail. Your wedding, your rules, your love story.

In this guide, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about elopements, from the meaning and history to planning tips, guest questions, cost, legal stuff, adventure weddings, and even some tips on navigating family reactions. Consider me your Colorado elopement expert BFF guiding you through this whole thing.

What Is an Elopement Wedding?

At its heart, an elopement wedding is a small, intimate celebration that’s all about you two. No massive guest list, no hours-long reception, no worrying about seating charts or Aunt Karen’s dietary restrictions. Just you, your partner, and whatever combination of witnesses, friends, family, or vendors you decide to include.

Think of it this way: elopements are like the lovechild of a dream adventure and a wedding day. You get all the romance, all the ceremony, all the meaning minus the stress and pressure of traditional expectations. You can hike to a mountaintop and exchange vows at sunrise, or you can keep it cozy in a small backyard with fairy lights and homemade desserts. Either way, the focus is on connection, not logistics.

Historically, “elope” literally meant to run away secretly to get married. Sometimes it was about defying authority, sometimes about sneaking around societal norms. Today, eloping means something totally different. Modern elopements aren’t about secrecy (unless you want them to be). They’re about intention, authenticity, and crafting a wedding day that feels fully yours.

So why are so many couples drawn to elopements now? Because they are freedom. Freedom to choose the day, the location, the vibe. Freedom to have a day that truly feels like your story. And freedom to actually enjoy your wedding instead of feeling like you’re on a conveyor belt of expectations.

Take it from your Colorado elopement BFF (and hundreds of other couples we’ve worked with): I promise you won’t regret choosing an intimate, stress-free day that’s all about the two of you. No distractions, no drama, just pure connection and memories you’ll treasure forever.

Check out Sara and Ty’s elopement for inspo!

Elopement Wedding vs Traditional Wedding

If you’re on the fence between a big traditional wedding and an intimate elopement, here’s the honest truth…they’re totally different experiences. A traditional wedding can be beautiful, but it often comes with a lot of moving parts, expectations, and outside opinions. An elopement, on the other hand, gives you the opportunity to slow down, be fully present, and celebrate in a way that actually feels like you. Here’s how they stack up side by side:

Elopement Wedding	Traditional Wedding
Intimate and intentional, usually just the two of you or a handful of loved ones	Big guest lists that can sometimes feel overwhelming
Stress-free and flexible, no rigid timelines or pressure	Often involves months or years of planning, schedules, and expectations
Budget goes toward experiences you actually care about, like travel, views, and experiences you love	Budgets diminish quickly with catering, venues, and guest accommodations
Can happen anywhere, from mountain peaks to alpine lakes or your own backyard	Typically limited to booked venues with set packages and rules
The focus is entirely on your connection and your experience together	The focus often splits between guests, traditions, and hosting. Often putting the couple last
A timeline that fits your vibe, like sunrise vows or a sunset picnic	A structured day built around formalities and a set schedule
Photos that tell a story of adventure, emotion, and authenticity	Photos that document a beautiful day but often feel more posed or rushed
Feels like you, intentional, real, and full of meaning	Can feel traditional or like it follows a template

Elopements give you the freedom to design a day that is 100% about what matters most to you. They strip away the noise, keep the meaning, and let you be fully present in your experience.

How Many People Can We Invite to our Elopement Wedding? Can We Have Guests?

Many couples immediately worry, “If we invite anyone, is it still an elopement?” The short answer: yes. The beauty of elopements is flexibility.

Traditionally, elopements were just the couple, maybe an officiant and a photographer, but modern elopements can include a handful of guests. Think 10 to 20 people, usually close family or best friends. It still keeps the day intimate, and it’s much easier to have meaningful conversations and heartfelt moments with fewer people.

Here’s the thing: the number of guests doesn’t define whether it’s an elopement. The defining factor is intention. You’re creating a wedding day focused on connection rather than obligation. Want to invite your parents and your best friend? Perfect. Just the two of you? Equally perfect.

One of my favorite things about small guest lists? People actually get to be present. No distractions, no worrying about photographing everyone, no awkward seating charts. Just your people showing up fully for your love story.

If you’re wondering how to include your loved ones into your elopement, this blog is full of ideas!

Where Can We Elope and How Do We Pick a Location?

Oh, this is the fun part! Choosing a location is one of my favorite parts of planning elopements because it sets the stage for your entire day. And trust me, Colorado is one of the most stunning backdrops in the country from snow-capped mountains to golden aspen forests, alpine lakes, and rolling meadows.

When picking a location, start by asking yourselves a few questions:

• What scenery speaks to us? Mountains, forests, deserts, city views?
• Do we want accessibility, or are we okay with a little adventure?
• Do we have a meaningful place in mind? Where you first met, a favorite hike, or a family cabin?
• Will our guests (if any) be able to travel here?

Logistics also play a big role. Check park regulations, permits, and accessibility. Some national parks require permits for weddings, especially if you have vendors or decorations. Don’t worry, I’ve done this hundreds of times and can help guide couples so everything is legal and smooth!

Remember, your location should reflect you. It should feel magical, memorable, and totally aligned with your love story. When it does, the day feels effortless.

Check out my favorite dog-friendly elopement locations in Colorado here!

What Do We Need to Plan an Elopement Wedding and What Does the Ceremony Look Like?

Here’s where people start sweating: “What do we actually do on the day?” Let me reassure you: the ceremony and your entire elopement experience can be whatever you want. Truly!

Here’s a checklist to help:

• Vendors:
  Photographer, videographer, florals, officiant, hair/makeup. Or keep it super simple and DIY.
• Witnesses:
  Some states require them; some don’t. Check ahead.
• Timeline:
  Include travel, ceremony, photos, maybe a meal or toast. Even intimate weddings benefit from a rough plan.
• Attire:
  Wear what feels good. Some couples hike in wedding attire, some keep it casual, some go fully themed for adventure elopements. We say wear what makes you both feel amazing!
• Personal touches:
  Write vows, do a symbolic ritual, include a small toast, or even pack a picnic to enjoy after the ceremony. The possibilities are endless here!

Ceremonies can be sunrise or sunset, on a mountain-top, cozy cabin, city hall, adventurous or calm. The key is that it reflects you. And here’s my favorite part as a Colorado elopement expert: the photos will be genuine, emotional, and timeless because you’re present, not stressed about logistics.

Julie and Brandon’s elopement ceremony was one of the most unique I’ve ever seen and you can read their story here!

How Much Does It Cost and Is Eloping Cheaper?

Let’s talk money. One of the big myths about elopements is that they are always cheaper. They can be, but it really depends on your choices.

Here’s what influences cost:

• Guests:
  Less catering, fewer rentals, smaller venue, smaller cake.
• Vendors:
  Fewer vendors overall, but investing in a photographer or videographer for a full day is worth it.
• Location:
  Adventure elopements may have travel costs, lodging, or permits.
• Experience:
  Some couples splurge on a luxury mountain cabin, helicopter access, or fine dining.

The beauty of elopements is control. You can spend your money on what matters to you, not on a million things that don’t. Want amazing photography and a tiny, intimate meal? That’s doable. Want to hike all day and finish with a private chef? Also doable. There is no ceiling to what your elopement can look like, especially when you’re only planning with the two of you in mind!

You can check out our Colorado elopement photography and videography packages here!

How Do We Tell Our Family and Friends? What About Reactions?

Worried about reactions? Totally normal. You might be thinking, “Is eloping selfish?” or “Won’t my family be mad?” First of all, I want to say, eloping is NOT selfish, not even a little bit. So we can put that straight outta our minds. Secondly, you don’t have to tell anyone anything. If you’re not sure how to start the conversation, this blog might be helpful.

Here’s my advice: if you do choose to tell loved ones, communicate with love. Be clear that this day is about you and your partner. Some couples send a heartfelt letter explaining their decision. Others celebrate later with a small reception or brunch. Some plan a big reception a year later. However you choose to tell your loved ones (or not) is entirely up to you.

Expect mixed reactions. Some family members will be overjoyed, some may need time to process. That’s okay. You get to decide how to include loved ones without compromising your day. Photos, videos, or a post-elopement celebration are perfect for sharing the magic without losing intimacy.

Are There Legal or Logistical Issues with an Elopement Wedding?

Yes, legal stuff matters. Don’t let it stress you, but do it ahead of time.

• Marriage license:
  Each state or country has rules. Some require waiting periods or ID.
• Officiant:
  Make sure they are legally recognized. Some states allow self-officiation (like my state, Colorado!).
• Permits:
  Parks, public lands, or historic sites may require permits for ceremonies.
• Travel and logistics:
  Adventure elopements may require extra planning, including gear, weather prep, and travel time.

Plan this in advance and your day runs smooth, leaving more space for connection and fun. I wrote an entire blog about how to legally elope in Colorado. You can read that here!

What If We’re Doing Something Adventurous or Out of State/International?

Adventure elopements are amazing, but they require extra planning.

• Gear and clothing:
  Dress for your activity and location. Hiking boots might be better than stilettos.
• Weather:
  Check forecasts and have a backup plan. Colorado weather is famously unpredictable.
• Travel logistics:
  Make sure lodging, transportation, and accessibility are sorted.
• Permits:
  Certain adventure locations may require permits for ceremonies or photography.

Adventure elopements are some of my favorite weddings because couples are completely present. They laugh, they hike, they toast on top of mountains, and the photos capture moments that are raw, genuine, and unforgettable.

I put together a really fun blog about elopement day activities that you can read here!

Is an Elopement Still a “Real Wedding”? Is This Okay?

Yes, yes, yes!!! Eloping is absolutely a real wedding. You are legally committing to your partner, sharing meaningful vows, and creating a day that is 100% yours.

Elopements often feel more authentic than traditional weddings. There’s no pressure to entertain hundreds of guests. There’s no pressure to please everyone else. Just connection, joy, and intentionality.

Remember, your wedding is valid because you are choosing it. And honestly, in my experience photographing Colorado elopements, these days often feel more romantic, heartfelt, and memorable than huge traditional weddings.

If you’re looking for some incredible elopement inspo, check out our Colorado elopement blogs here!

What Does a Colorado Elopement Wedding Look Like?

When most people picture a Colorado elopement, they imagine towering mountains, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and endless skies, and honestly, they’re not wrong. Colorado offers some of the most breathtaking backdrops in the country for an intimate wedding day.

Here’s a peek at what a Colorado elopement can look like:

• Mountain Adventures:
  Picture tying the knot at sunrise on a rugged peak, the clouds swirling below you, the sun casting golden light on your vows. Whether it’s the San Juan Mountains, Rocky Mountain National Park, or Maroon Bells, the mountains give your elopement an epic, cinematic feel.
• Alpine Lakes & Forests:
  Some couples prefer tranquil, reflective lakes or dense aspen forests. Imagine walking hand-in-hand down a quiet trail, saying your vows surrounded by vibrant autumn colors or lush summer greenery.
• High Desert & Red Rocks:
  For those craving warm tones and dramatic landscapes, Colorado’s deserts and red rock formations offer unique adventure elopement options. Think Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes, or the Colorado Plateau.
• Urban & Rooftop Elopements:
  Not every Colorado elopement is about wilderness. Downtown Denver or Boulder rooftops give couples a modern, chic option with city skyline views and minimal travel stress.

Colorado elopements combine adventure, beauty, and intimacy in ways that feel effortless. And the best part? Every elopement is completely customizable, from sunrise hikes to sunset picnics to private mountain cabins. Your day is uniquely yours, reflecting both your personalities and your love story.

If you’re looking for my favorite places to elope in Colorado, you’ll love this blog!

Why Should We Choose an Elopement Wedding?

Now that you know what an elopement is, you might be thinking, “Okay, I get it. But should we really elope?” Let’s chat about that.

Couples choose elopements for all sorts of reasons. Others want to escape the stress and expense of a traditional wedding. Some want a day that feels adventurous, intimate, or just plain fun. Others couples are tired of spending months trying to please everyone and want to focus solely on themselves and their love story.

Here are some of the top reasons couples I’ve worked with choose to elope:

• Intimacy and focus:
  Instead of juggling hundreds of guests, everyone is there for one reason: to celebrate your love. The energy is so different. You feel seen. You feel supported. And you actually get to enjoy every moment.
• Fewer guests:
  Less stress, less obligation, fewer logistics. Imagine having a small, meaningful crowd that actually makes your heart full instead of feeling overwhelmed.
• Adventurous opportunities:
  Elopements let you plan your wedding around experiences you actually love: hiking to a mountaintop, climbing a peak at sunrise, or even eloping in another country. Adventure elopements are becoming my absolute favorite because couples are truly present in every moment.
• Financial flexibility:
  Without the traditional wedding expenses, couples can invest in experiences that matter: like a killer photographer, a private chef, or a dream honeymoon. Or they can spend less overall.

Here’s a pro-tip from me: when deciding if eloping is right for you, ask yourselves, “Is this day for us, or is it to meet everyone else’s expectations?” If your answer leans toward us, an elopement is your answer.

Did you know that Colorado is a self-solemnizing state? Read all about that here!

Ready to Plan Your Colorado Elopement?

If you’re feeling inspired and thinking, “Yes! This is exactly what we want!”, then it’s time to start planning. A Colorado elopement is not just a wedding, it’s an experience, an adventure, and a memory you’ll carry with you forever.

I’ve been guiding couples through these magical elopement days for years, from cozy intimate ceremonies to epic mountain adventures. My goal is to make your day effortless, joyful, and completely about you. I’ll help with timelines, locations, permits, and capturing every heartfelt moment so you and your partner can relax, be present, and actually enjoy your wedding day.

Let’s chat about your dream Colorado elopement. Whether you want to hike to a secret alpine lake, exchange vows in a golden aspen grove, or celebrate quietly on a city rooftop, I’ll help make it happen and we’ll have a blast doing it.

Your adventure awaits. Your wedding day, your way. Let’s plan it together. Contact me here to start planning your Colorado elopement!