Spring Proposal at Echo Lake Park

Maria and Mason’s Colorado Engagement Story

This story is honestly wild! Full of many twists and turns, as most surprise proposals are! From changing plans, to last minute details, to cold weather…but in the end everything turned out great, and I can’t wait to share more about how this session unfolded. Their story is a wonderful example of what a mountain surprise proposal can look like, and why having an engagement photographer who knows how to pivot the session and create backup plans is so important. If you’re looking for inspiration about what your Colorado Engagement or proposal session could be like, keep reading!

Looking to plan your own proposal or engagement session?

How it all started

This story actually starts with Mason’s sister-in-law and a vow renewal session! In February, she and I connected because her and her husband had a visit planned from out-of-state and wanted to renew their vows on a mountain! She knew, (rightly so) that Trail Magic would be all for that, so we quickly put our heads together for the next few weeks to find an epic spot for this session set to be in early May.

A few weeks later, Mason reached out to me directly about wanting to propose to Maria! They have been together for over 10 years and we had shot a couples session for fun months earlier, so he knew he wanted me to be there to capture the moment. His original thought was to add it on to the vow renewal so that his family could be there, and because we were already making plans to be somewhere beautiful and private, the way he’d always envisioned this proposal.

Eventually, it came out that his sister-in-law and brother were “in” on the plan and wanted to pivot their session to help celebrate Maria and Mason’s big moment instead, so we changed course entirely from mountain vow renewal to surprise proposal!

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Choosing the location

I sent Mason a guide to my favorite location recommendations that would be within 2 hours of Denver with mountain views and a little bit of hiking options. We played around with some different spots and originally thought Rocky Mountain National Park would be a great option! At the time, his family was still planning on coming out, so we used their vow renewal session as a “decoy” to keep everything a secret from Maria. However, once his sister-in-law and brother canceled their trip due to sickness, we had to change our plans even more to keep Maria from getting too suspicious! The plot thickens!!

Ultimately, we landed on Echo Lake Park up near Idaho Springs because it is accessible, the snow levels are manageable this time of year (since most of the snow in the high country doesn’t melt until late June, early July most years!) and it would still have beautiful mountain and lake views, especially during sunrise. The best lighting called for a 3:45am wake up call, but I promised him that it would be 100% worth it for gorgeous views and secluded spots!

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The big day

3:45am arrived that morning and I found myself making extra cups of tea to prep for the drive ahead. The weather looked a bit cloudy, but the temperatures weren’t too bad. I knew that as we got higher in elevation, the temperature would drop, but I had hopes that the wind speeds would stay low and we’d still get some good lighting up at the lake.

Mason confirmed that they were also on their way, so I headed up the mountain and immediately hit a cloud bank! Just clouds as far as the eye could see and very little visibility as I winded my way up the mountain from Idaho Springs to the trailhead. I kept replaying the conversation I had with Mason the day before about lighting and how “beautiful sunrise is” and couldn’t help but laugh ironically, because I knew that we weren’t going to get that alpenglow light I had originally planned for, BUT that’s just how nature works, especially in the mountains. You make plans, you change plans, and you adapt with the moment!

When they arrived it all worked out because Maria LOVED the icicles on the trees. There was a misty fog coating the lake that added to the dreamy feel of the area. We spent some time taking portraits before Mason’s big moment, just in case the sun made any appearance, but after a few minutes, I knew there was no sense in waiting, the secret had been held in for too long! I gave him our agreed upon signal, and before we knew it, she had said yes!!

The rest of our session was full of laughter and true giddiness! We meandered around the lake together, soaking in the foggy views, frozen trees, and recalling all the crazy parts of the story that Maria didn’t know about yet. It was an incredible morning, completely private, and just what Mason envisioned when we first spoke. I’m so excited for the journey ahead of these two after having been together for 10+ years already. This next engaged chapter may be the best one yet!

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Looking for a Colorado Engagement Photographer?

Hi, I’m Hannah! I’m a Colorado Elopement photographer specializing in meaningful adventure sessions and elopements. I’m all about documenting moments, emotions, and experiences and care about the process and feeling of our time together just as much as the final images! If you’re looking for an engagement photographer, I’d love to chat with you! Reach out here to schedule your free consultation with me!

How to Budget for your Elopement

How to Build your Elopement Budget

by an Elopement & Microwedding Planner

Building a budget for your elopement is a crucial, and often overlooked, first step on the path to planning your dream elopement. Determining from the get-go what you can/ are willing to invest in your elopement day will allow you to find more ease in the planning process. You will also feel much less stressed about each payment you make when you know that you have allotted the funds for it and are following your plans. It can be a little daunting to begin to plan your elopement budget, as there are significantly less resources available than for a traditional wedding. This guide will help you figure out what you need to include in your budget, how to organize and stick to your budget, how to budget for guests, and even a fun list of budget-friendly activities for your elopement day/weekend! I also include different sample budgets for three different elopements to help give an idea of average costs surrounding elopements of different lengths/ sizes. 

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Investing in your Elopement

There is a common misconception in the elopement and intimate wedding industry that eloping has to mean stripping away all of the luxuries, parties, and “spending” generally associated with a wedding. Realistically, having an intimate wedding allows you the freedom to focus on the components of a wedding that excite you most. You can have a private elopement with just the two of you on public land with a homemade cake, or you can invite a few guests and elope on the property of a gorgeous bnb, or you can elope in a state park and throw a party at your favorite brewery after with all of your friends and family. The best part is- nobody can tell you that you’re doing it wrong! 

When beginning to plan your elopement, consider what it is important for you to invest in. Is it important for you to look back and have gorgeous photos documenting your mountaintop ceremony? Do you dream of spending the night leading up to your elopement with both of your families, under the roof of a space big enough to comfortably accommodate you all? Do you want to always recall how much fun you had on the kayaks that you rented for the morning before your ceremony? Spend some time determining what is most important to you, and focus your attention on that when planning your budget. You’ll never regret investing in something deeply important to you when it comes to your wedding.

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Budget Breakdown

Let’s break it down! Here are the main components that you need to consider when planning your elopement: 

Photographer: 

There are many talented elopement photographers for you to choose from. Most photographers offer a few different packages of varying lengths. These can range from only a few hours to multi-day coverage and cover a wide range of budgets. Keep in mind that cost is often reflective of experience- seeking out the cheapest photographer you can find will reflect in the quality of your photos. 

Planner: 

Many people believe that because their elopement does not involve the same amount of details to coordinate as a traditional wedding, that a planner is not a necessary vendor. We believe that you are just as deserving of a stress-free planning experience and wedding day when you choose to elope! Hiring a planner who specializes in elopements and intimate weddings will help bring your day to life, and give you the freedom to relax on your big day knowing that every detail is tended to. 

*Pro tip: Consider a photography and planning team like us to help condense your costs and save you money! 

Other Vendors: 

Some other potential vendors for your elopement include florists, hair stylists, makeup artists, bakers, any food caterers/ restaurants, and stationers. The cost of some of these will be dependent on if you are inviting any guests to your elopement, or hosting a party of some sort after your ceremony. There are also costs associated with using a hosting platform like The Knot for your wedding website, as many eloping couples still choose to have a wedding registry to share with friends and family. 

Wedding Attire

This includes ceremony attire, and anything else you may need for the day. Oftentimes, if an elopement requires a lengthy hike to the ceremony location, the couple will hike in a more comfortable outfit and get ready at the site. Your photographer will be present and documenting the entire time, so make sure you are happy with everything you wear!

Travel

Flights, rental cars, gas, anything else you may need to get you to your elopement location! Don’t forget to budget for the expenses that pair with travel as well, such as meals on the road or that airport coffee! 

Accommodation

Including accommodation for any stops en route to your location and for the night before and after your elopement. These could be hotels, inns, airbnbs/vrbos, campgrounds, or even a tent in the backcountry! There are options for every budget! 

Location Permits

Depending on where you are choosing to elope, your ceremony location may require a permit to utilize the land. These can range in cost anywhere from $10 to upwards of $200. There are also plenty of free options as well, but it is important to be aware of any costs associated with your location from the start! 

Marriage License and Officiant 

To legalize your marriage, you need to make sure to get your marriage license before eloping. In Colorado, the cost is $30, and an officiant is not required. In NC, the cost is $60. Officiants are required in NC, and many couples in CO will still choose to have an officiant despite not being required. Officiants cost around $200-$300, sometimes more depending on the remoteness of your location. 

Activities

One of our favorite things about elopements is how customizable elopement days are! You can choose to do really any activity you desire, whether it is a free activity like taking your mountain bikes for a ride, or an expensive activity like a helicopter tour. Consider what you would like to do to fill your time during the day, and make sure to budget accordingly. 

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Budgeting for Guests

Your elopement doesn’t necessarily need to be just the two of you! There are plenty of ways to incorporate guests into your elopement day, whether it be at the ceremony, or in a celebration afterwards. It is important to consider what components of the day guests will be included in when creating your budget, as it is expected that certain things will be covered for them. The extent of what you cover is entirely up to you and your budget. 

If you decide to host guests for your elopement, some associated costs could be: meals, transportation, accommodation, and gifts. Since elopements are much smaller than a traditional wedding, it is not uncommon to see couples host everyone on the grounds of an Airbnb or something along those lines. If choosing to cover accommodation, from there it is important to decide what meals you will cover for guests. Will you have a breakfast spread set up for the elopement morning? Will you have dinner served afterwards? Choosing to host everyone for the event can be a fun and personal approach, but does increase the amount to budget. 

Another way to host guests is to simply throw a party afterwards. This can look like many different things- a backyard bbq, renting an event space at a brewery or restaurant, a picnic and campfire at a campground, etc. When throwing a party, costs to consider are space rentals, food and drink costs, seating/table rentals (if not present at the venue), and decor. If you are choosing an option such as renting a brewery space, you can have a cash bar as opposed to covering the whole tab, but it should be very clear on the invitation to the party that such is the case. 

Ultimately, any guest that you choose to invite to celebrate something as intimate as your elopement is a very special person to you and your relationship. They will not care whether you are splurging on a five course meal for them or hosting them for s’mores and beers around a fire. Stay true to yourself and your day, and include guests in the way that feels most genuine. It is entirely possible to have your people present without breaking your budget!

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Sample Budgets

$5k: An intimate state park elopement in NC

• Photography and Planning team: $3200 

• Officiant: $200 

• Florals: $50 (homemade bouquet with flowers from Trader Joe’s )

• Small notebooks for vows: $10

• Accommodation: $450 (Treehouse airbnb for 2 nights)

• Food: $300 

• Paddleboard rentals: $80

• Permits: $45

• Marriage License: $60

• Attire: Thrifted dress: $150

Suit rental: $100

• Dessert: $10 (gourmet cupcakes from local bakery) 

• Travel: $100 (gas budget) 

• Wedding bands from Etsy: $200 

Total: $4955

$10K: Rocky Mountain NP elopement with ten guests

• Photography and planning team: $5k

• Officiant: Free (self-solemnize) 

• Florals: $100 (boutonniere and bouquet)

• Vow books: $30 

• Accommodation: $1000 (four nights at a cabin near the park) 

• Food: $500 

• Post ceremony dinner with guests: $500

• Attire: Wedding dress: $700

Suit: $250

• Permits: $300 

• Marriage license: $30 

• Cake: $200 

• Travel: $800

• Mountaintop picnic: $150

• Rings: $300

• Invitations: $30 (handwritten, plus postage) 

Total: $9890

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How to Organize and Stick to your Budget

Okay, so you’ve done the work of setting your budget… now you have to stick to it! With the right tools and guidance, organizing and sticking to your budget can be an easy task. 

The first thing to consider when selecting your budgeting tools is if you prefer to have physical, handwritten copies, or if virtual copies work better for you. You can also keep track of your budget in both ways if that is helpful for you! 

Creating a budget binder: 

A binder is a great tool for keeping all of your budget information in one place! Your binder should include:

• An overview of your budget

• A breakdown of your budget by category

• A chart to record all of your spending

• A calendar with due dates for payments

• Contracts with any vendors

• Receipts of your purchases

Creating a budget spreadsheet:

Organizing a virtual spreadsheet can be a great way to keep track of how much is left in your budget as you continue to invest in your elopement. A spreadsheet should include:

• Every component of your budget, broken down into categories and subcategories

• A column that lists your budget for each category

• A column to record your actual spending for each category

• Due dates for each payment

• A continuously updated total of spending and remaining budget

Free Budget tools:

If you don’t want to create your own budgeting tools, you can find some options online. However, most online tools are curated for traditional weddings, so they are not as elopement-centric as any tools you would create. Some options for these tools are through The Knot, Bridal Musings, and Wedding Wire.

Pro tip! 

Investing in a planner can not only save you stress, but money too! Elopement planners can help you keep track of your budget and spending, and also have connections in the industry that can ultimately save you money on things like vendor services, accommodations, and activities. 

Looking for a planner that will help you with your budget? Reach out to us here! 

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Budget Friendly Elopement Activities

There is no shortage of elopement day activities for budgets of all sizes! Some of our favorite low cost activities include: 

• Taking a scenic drive (Blue Ridge Parkway, anyone?)

• Packing out a picnic to eat on a mountain top

• Kayak/ canoe/ paddleboard rentals

• S’mores around a campfire

• Baking your wedding cake together 

• Brewery or Vineyard hopping 

• Finding a remote spot to relax in a hammock together

• Having a board game marathon

• A morning coffee date

• Apple, strawberry, or other fruit picking 

• Exploring a new mountain town

• Hiking to a fire tower, viewpoint, or waterfall

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Although elopements are generally much cheaper than traditional weddings, building your budget from the start will make your planning process much smoother. It will help you identify what you want to prioritize, and remove any guilt you may feel about the larger expenses of your day, as you know you have accounted for and can afford them. Want more assistance with your elopement budget? Reach out to us, we would love to chat!

Planning your elopement? We want to help!

Hi! We’re Becca and Hannah! As your elopement planning and photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up your table decor and shooting posed portraits after the ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! Elopement planning is our absolute jam, so if you’re interested, reach out here to schedule your free elopement consultation with us!

Best Places to Elope in North Carolina

Favorite NC Elopement Spots from a Local Elopement Planner

North Carolina is a deceivingly large state. From Franklin, NC (a charming Appalachian Trail town in Southwest NC), to the Outer Banks on our Northeast coast, is nearly an 8 hour drive! Our long distance backpacking trail, the Mountains to Sea Trail, traverses almost 1200 miles through the state. When I first relocated to North Carolina from the tiny New England state of Connecticut, I truly had no idea just how expansive North Carolina is. Exploring all that Western NC has to offer has proven to be a time-intensive but rewarding task. In the ancient mountains of Southern Appalachia, I’ve uncovered countless places that make incredible spots to say your “I do’s”. Keep reading for a list of some of my personal favorites!

K&J exploring Glen Marie Falls on the Glen Burney Trail in Blowing Rock, NC

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What to look for in your elopement location

Setting/ Views: 

When you envision exchanging your vows, what is the backdrop? Do you see the peaks of our southern sixers? The cool-toned layers of the Blue Ridge mountains? The 360 degree views a grassy bald affords? Or are you tucked into a green forest? In a tunnel of blooming rhododendrons? At the foot of a cascading waterfall? Lucky for you, western NC is incredibly diverse and you will likely find many options with the views you are looking for. Type of setting is a great jumping off point when beginning to evaluate your options.

Accessibility:

Accessibility has two different meanings in the context of elopements- accessibility in travel and accessibility of the trail/spot itself. When it comes to travel, it is important to consider distance from an airport if you are flying in, distance from your accommodation, or distance from home if you are local. More than likely, you are not going to want to spend hours driving on your elopement day. Accessibility of the location itself matters most if you or any guests that you plan to host have any accessibility needs. There are many locations in NC that allow for awesome views without requiring a long or treacherous hike. 

Crowds/ Seasons

Depending on the location and time of year, certain trails and viewpoints in NC have pretty consistent heavy traffic- which isn’t exactly ideal when you are trying to exchange intimate vows. If you are considering a more popular location, consider it for a weekday, early or late in the day, or off-season (which depends on the trail location itself). The season may also impact the accessibility of the trail, as some trailheads (especially in the Smokies or off of the Blue Ridge Parkway) can experience road closures in poor weather or the winter months. 

Local amenities- activities, accommodations

A positive of the North Carolina mountains is that although you can be fully submerged in nature, you are rarely so remote that you can’t access a nearby town with accommodation options, restaurants, and activities for your elopement day. When you are creating your timeline, consider how you would like to fill the rest of your day around your ceremony. It is important to prioritize access to any amenities that you would like to include. 

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Best NC Waterfalls for Elopements 

Under the falls: Dry Falls

Located near: Highlands, NC in Nantahala National Forest

Traffic Level: Heavy 

Accessibility: Very accessible- .2 mile paved trail

Although a popular trail, we love Dry Falls because of the unique ability to go behind the falls. You can still find seclusion here in the earlier and later hours of the day. It is also a short distance from Bridal Veil Falls, visible from the road, and multiple other falls and swimming holes. This area is great for the summer months if you love to go for a dip!

Dramatic falls: Mingo Falls

Located near: Cherokee, NC, just outside of GSMNP

Traffic Level: Moderate

Accessibility: Short trail- .4 miles to falls, but many stairs. Moderate difficulty.

Located a short distance from the Oconoluftee Visitors Center in GSMNP, Mingo Falls is a tall, cascading waterfall viewable from a small footbridge directly at the base of the falls. Still a moderately popular trail, the stairs do deter some visitors. Mingo Falls is also a great place to stop for some pictures before a ceremony within the Smoky’s boundaries at Mingus Mill- a historic mill building and permitted elopement location in the park. 

Seclusion- Glen Marie Falls

Located near: Downtown Blowing Rock, NC, near the Blue Ridge Parkway

Traffic Level: Mild-moderate

Accessibility: Located along the Glen Burney Trail, an approximately 2 mile out and back trail, this hike is moderately rated. Rocks, roots, and a steep climb back up to the trailhead make this hike inaccessible for everyone.

Walkable from downtown Blowing Rock, this trail follows a set of falls along a pathway through rhododendrons and other greenery. It is generally easier to find yourselves alone on this trail, especially as there are two waterfalls and multiple points to view them. This trail also has some excellent picnic locations, so grab some snacks from the local deli before heading down the trail!

*Bonus*- Backpacking on the Foothills Trail- NC/SC

If you are a waterfall fanatic and interested in a backpacking elopement, consider a section (or all!) of the Foothills Trail, which winds in and out of South and North Carolina. The waterfalls are numerous on this trail, with the opportunity to camp near multiple. You can also find views of Whitewater Falls- the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies. A backpacking trip would allow you to elope in front of a waterfall only accessible to people who have hiked miles and miles, meaning it will be much easier to find yourself alone! 

From left to right: Under Dry Falls, Mingo Falls, Glen Marie Falls, Whitewater falls on the Foothills Trail

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Best Elopement Spots in Great Smoky National Park- NC Side

For views- Heintooga Overlook

Located near: Maggie Valley, NC

Traffic level: Low

Accessibility: Very Accessible- picnic area off of road, short trail walk to overlook with benches

In a less trafficked area of Smokies you can find Heintooga Spur Road, aka Balsam Mountain Road. The drive itself is stunning, with views of Mt.LeConte, Clingman’s Dome, the Plott Balsam Range, and the Blue Ridge Parkway to stop at and enjoy all the way up the road. At the end of the road you encounter the picnic area, and the short spur trail to the overlook, with expansive views of the Smokies. 

Chapel Vibes- Palmer Chapel

Located near: Cataloochee Valley, NC

Traffic Level: Low

Accessibility: Very accessible- a short walk off of the road

Built in 1898, Palmer Chapel once served the Cataloochee Valley community. It now sits empty, along with a few other historic buildings in the area. It makes a great backdrop for a couple who loves history, or wants to include their religion in a more unique, non-traditional way. The GSMNP also allows permits for elopements and microweddings inside the chapel itself- a space with ample natural lighting, a small alter, and lots of pews for seating. Cataloochee Valley is also home to NC’s elk population, and you can frequently spot them in the area in the mornings and evenings.

View of Fontana Lake from above

Seclusion and lake views- The Road to Nowhere

Located near: Bryson City, NC

Traffic Level: Moderate

Accessibility: Very accessible- drive to parking area with overlook

Another Smoky Mountain spot with deep history, the “Road to Nowhere” is a 6 mile scenic drive that… you guessed it… leads to nowhere. Initially started to replace an old highway now buried under Fontana Lake, construction was halted due to economic reasons. But the road does indeed lead to some incredible views of the mountains and of Fontana Lake, as well as a long, stone tunnel that makes a cool background for some incredible shots! 

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Best Elopement Spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Accessible views- Wiseman’s View

Located near:  Linville, NC

Traffic level: Moderate

Accessibility: Accessible, a paved walk to the viewing area. Some stairs at viewing area, but not mandatory for a view. 

Off of the unpaved, rugged Old NC 105, just one mile from the BRP, sits this incredible view of Linville Gorge. From the two viewpoints you can see the unmistakable peaks of Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock, as well as the Linville River over a thousand feet below. Although an easy walk, traffic is not as intense here as at the neighboring Linville Falls. Wiseman’s also has a little grassy area perfect for a picnic! 

View of Table Rock from Wiseman’s View

History buffs- Moses H Cone Memorial Park

Located near: Blowing Rock, NC

Traffic Level: Moderate-Heavy

Accessibility: Generally accessible, depending on where in the park you go

With 25 miles of hiking trails, a historical manor and carriage house, and sweeping vistas, Moses Cone is a great place to elope. Not only are there plenty of things to do here between picnicking, touring the manor, and hiking, but there are also many local horseback riding guides to take you on a tour through the woods of the property! 

Photo by Karl Johanson, from a guided horseback ride we took in 2021. The front of the manor is visible in the far right.

Lake Views- Julian Price Park

Located near: Blowing Rock, NC

Traffic Level: Moderate

Accessibility: Very accessible

Price Lake is a stunning lake, and the prized gem of Julian Price Park. This park is the ideal elopement spot for couples who would like to spend some time on the water on their elopement day. There are on-site rentals for canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards in the warmer months, and in the winter you can travel along the lakeshore on cross-country skis. There is also a campground in the park, perfect for a post-elopement bbq or campfire!

View of Price Lake from the Price Lake Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway

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Best Mountain Town to Elope near 

Hot Springs, NC

Located near: The NC/TN border, about 45 min NW of Asheville

Hot Springs, a sweet little town nestled along the French Broad River, is home to the only natural hot springs in the state. The Appalachian Trail runs right through downtown, making it a hub for hiking and adventuring. There are many awesome spots in nature to elope near Hot Springs- including the Rich Mountain Fire Tower and Lover’s Leap to the north. Enjoy a romantic stay at Hot Springs Resort & Spa, and live music and delicious tacos at Big Pillow Brewing. Hot Springs is also the closest town to Max Patch, where elopements currently are not permitted, but is still an amazing place for a sunrise hike on your elopement day! 

The view from Rich Mountain Fire Tower near Hot Springs

Black Mountain, NC

Located near: Asheville- about 20 minutes west of AVL 

Black Mountain is an eclectic mountain town with a charming downtown full of unique shops and yummy restaurants. Named for the mountain range that is home to the tallest mountains on the east coast, including Mount Mitchell, Black Mountain is a great place to stay for access to many different hiking options. Lake Tomahawk sits a few blocks from downtown, setting a beautiful backdrop with views of Graybeard Mountain from below. Access to Asheville and a multitude of other mountain towns also makes this a great location to explore if window shopping, brewery hopping, and trying out all the local dining spots is up your alley!

The mountains surrounding Black Mountain, NC. You can see the town tucked into the landscape though the bare trees.

Highlands, NC

Located near: The NC/SC border in Nantahala National Forest

Highlands and the neighboring town of Cashiers attract nature junkies and foodies alike with access to the many waterfalls of Nantahala National Forest and award winning restaurants. Highlands Heritage Trail offers the opportunity for history lovers to dive into the local area’s past. Highlands is also close to Whiteside Mountain, believed by scientists to be one of the oldest mountains in the entire world. We love the area for its lush, temperate rainforests, dozens of diverse shops, and artsy vibe.  

Highlands, NC tucked into Nantahala National Forest, visible from Sunset Rock, a popular hike in the area.

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Best Place for a Backpacking Elopement

Linville Gorge

Located near: Morganton, NC

Difficulty level: Very difficult

Length: 25-35 miles, depending on the route you choose

Linville Gorge is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East” and is known for its stunning views of surrounding mountains and of the gorge itself. Although the gorge is home to a few easier trails, like the Hawksbill Trail, the backpacking loops themselves are recommended for experienced backpackers only, linking some of the most difficult trails in the area. There is a 3 day, 2 night camping maximum in Linville Gorge Wilderness, so keep this in mind when determining the length of your trip. Although difficult terrain and grade, we can’t not recommend Linville Gorge with how breathtaking the wilderness is. 

Roan Highlands

Located near: Roan Mountain, TN

Difficulty level: Moderate- Difficult

Length: Approx. 14 miles

A stretch of the Appalachian Trail that is near and dear to us here at Trail Magic, the Roan Highlands straddle the NC/TN border, with expansive 360 degree views of both states from the balds. A great one night backpacking trip with plenty of stunning campsites, this trail does have a couple of difficult climbs and descents, but also has many miles of easy walking as well. The first couple of miles from Carvers Gap are very popular for day hikers, but once you make your way through the first long stretch of woods, you will find a much less trafficked trail with plenty of opportunities to be alone. It is an easy place to fall in love with, and the perfect place to elope. 

PRO TIP: We recommend adding the short spur trail up to Grassy Ridge Bald- a stunning 6k footer with some of our favorite views in the area!

Wayah Bald

Located near: Franklin, NC

Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult

Length: 10 miles- 20+ miles

A choose your own adventure along the Appalachian Trail, there are plenty of starting and ending points to choose from to determine the length of your trek. Wayah Bald itself is home to a lookout tower that is an easily accessible elopement spot itself- making this a great option if you would like to backpack and also include guests in your day. They can meet you at the tower! We recommend starting just south of the Nantahala Outdoors Center and following the AT approximately 20 miles to FS 69, just west of Franklin, NC. Franklin is a great town to celebrate both your elopement and your trail miles over a beer at Lazy Hiker Brewing! 

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*BONUS* Best Elopement Spots for Adrenaline Seekers

Nantahala Outdoor Center- Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and more! 

Located near: Bryson City, NC

The NOC’s Bryson City hub is an adventure junkies paradise with guided raft tours, zipline tours, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and mountain biking at Tsali Recreation Area- one of the top rated mountain biking destinations in the US! There are also two riverside restaurants, and lodging onsite! 

Asheville- Hot Air Balloon Rides

Want to experience what the mountains look like from above? Asheville Balloon Company can make your dreams come true! Owned by an experienced balloon pilot and commercial pilot, the company is experienced in weddings and can even accommodate guests across multiple balloons for an in-flight wedding! 

Lake Lure: Rock Climbing

Rumbling Bald, towering over the famed village of Lake Lure (where Dirty Dancing was filmed!), offers climbing for any skill level, nearly year round thanks to the area’s more tame weather. Part of this area is also owned by Chimney Rock State Park, providing some great elopement spot options as well. 

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North Carolina truly has something for everyone, no matter what you are looking for in your elopement day. I hope that these ideas have helped you think outside the box a bit and given some insight into just how many options there are. Realistically, this list barely scratches the surface of all that western North Carolina offers. We have dozens more locations that we adore up our sleeve! Reach out to us here and we can get a start on planning your dream elopement together!

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Planning your North Carolina elopement? Let’s chat!

Hi, we’re Becca and Hannah! As your NC elopement planning and photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up table decor and shooting posed portraits after the ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! Elopement planning is our absolute jam, so if you’re interested, reach out here to schedule your free elopement consultation with us!

Colorado Springs Elopement Guide

How to Elope in Colorado Springs

If you’re here it probably means that you’re considering eloping in Colorado Springs, right? Well we, as an Elopement Photographer and Elopement Planner based in Colorado, think that is a great idea, and find that many couples tend to overlook this area when planning their adventurous Colorado Elopement, and they shouldn’t! So, let’s dive into your guide to the ultimate Colorado Springs Elopement!

Looking for other helpful Colorado Elopement Resources? We recommend checking out these other articles!

• How to Elope in Colorado

• Best Colorado Small Wedding Venues

Why elope in Colorado Springs?

1. Colorado Springs is so close to the mountains: It’s pretty common to hear about Denver or even Boulder being “so close to the Rocky Mountains”, but every time we head down to the Springs for a hike, have a shoot, or meet up with friends, we are completely blown away by how CLOSE Colorado Springs is to the mountains. Much much closer in proximity than Denver!

2. Accessible 14er for an epic adventure: Pikes Peak, one of the most famous mountains in Colorado, towers over the city.

3. A classic spot where you can get married, for free! Garden of the Gods, another famous spot, is so centralized and other-worldly, it’s impossible to miss.

4. Fewer crowds & more solitude: And to top it all off, there are also so many nearby parks and hiking trails that don’t see nearly the same traffic as those up in Boulder or areas closer to Denver, making it much easier to find seclusion for your day!

So, If you’re looking to avoid the bustling traffic of Denver while still getting incredible views, unique activities, and adorable accommodations, then you’ve come to the right place, and we can’t wait to gush in this post about all the amazing things Colorado Springs has to offer!

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Your Colorado Springs Elopement Checklist

1. Brainstorm together about your elopement - consider all your favorite activities that you do as a couple and write them down. They may be the perfect ideas for your wedding day! 

2. Determine your budget - not sure how to do this? We got you! Check out our How to Budget for your Elopement guide!

3. Pick your season - Colorado Springs has perfect locations for elopements all year long, check out the different seasons below in this guide! 

4. Pick your Elopement Vendors - vendors like Elopement Photographers and Elopement Planners (like us!) are incredible resources for you when it comes to planning an elopement. It’s best to reach out to these folks early, so that they can help from the beginning and curate a day that’s perfectly tailored to you and seamlessly executed! 

5. Choose your location + secure necessary permits - Colorado Springs has so many great locations to consider, it will all be based on your preferences on scenery, solitude, activities, and proximity to other spots. Your Elopement Photographer and Planner will help secure the necessary permits you’d need (if at all, it’s typically pretty easy to elope in the Springs!) 

6. Book your travel + accommodations - Colorado Springs has so many cute vacation rentals, boutique hotels, and incredible mountain cabins for your stay. Check out our favorites that are linked below in the Places to Stay section! 

7. Have the best day ever!

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How to legally elope in Colorado Springs

Colorado in general is a very easy place to get married! It’s one of the states where you can self-solemnize, which means you don’t have to have any witnesses present or an officiant marry you. All you have to do is sign the marriage license yourself! 

Here are the steps to getting legally married in Colorado Springs: 

• Get your marriage license via an appointment at the County Clerk’s office - you can get your license from any county in Colorado, so if you’re driving down to the Springs from Denver you could set up an appointment there and pick it up on the way south! Some county clerk offices near the Springs are El Paso County, Denver County and Jefferson County

• Complete the online application before your appointment.

• Sign and Return the license - Once you have your marriage license, you have 35 days to use it and then 63 days to return it after it is signed. 

The fee for marriage licenses in Colorado is currently $30!

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When to elope in Colorado Springs

You can’t go wrong with any season in Colorado Springs. Most days there is plentiful sunshine, and gorgeous views. However, there are some things to consider, especially types of activities you’re interested in when planning when you want to elope in the Springs. It’s also still in the mountains, so the weather can change rapidly. With those things in mind, here are all of the seasons to consider: 

Colorado Springs Elopement in the Summer (Jun - Aug)

Summer is the prime season for eloping in Colorado Springs! There are so many outdoor activities to plan, Pikes Peak is in full swing, and the weather is stunning. This is the best time of year for any water activities because reservoirs are open and the weather is warm. This is also the best time of year for camping and having s’mores with your favorite people under a sky full of stars! You’ll still want to pack layers for summer elopements, especially if you’re planning to venture into higher altitudes. It’s good to know that as you climb 1,000 ft the temperature can drop about 10 degrees!

Colorado Springs Elopement in the Fall (Sept - Nov)

Fall is a wonderful season in Colorado Springs because the weather is cooler as it turns from late summer into fall and the forests start to pop with yellows and oranges as the leaves change colors. It is truly a gorgeous backdrop for photos and allows for so many activity options. Weather can be a bit unpredictable with sunny skies, thunderstorms, or even snow this time of year. It’s best to pack layers and keep an eye on the weather for an elopement in the fall!

Colorado Springs Elopement in the Winter (Dec - Mar)

Winter is magical in Colorado Springs! One day, Garden of the Gods could be dusted in snow and the next day it’s completely clear and sunny! Although chilly like most of Colorado in the winter, it doesn’t see the amount of snow and bone-chilling cold that the higher altitude mountain towns get this time of year. The Springs is a great place to elope in the winter months if you still want the possibility of clear trails at lower altitudes and less crowds. Layers are an absolute must, and it’s always great to have a plan indoors for warming up between activities.

Colorado Springs Elopement in the Spring (Apr - Jun)

Spring is a great time in Colorado Springs! Although it may be wet, and could have some snow, this is generally a great time of year for sunshine and wildflowers in the mountains. Backpacking season starts earlier here than it does in other areas of Colorado, so the Springs is a great spring location if you’re looking to do more outdoor activities! You can never be sure of weather this time of year, it could have big storms and sunshine all in one day. We always recommend packing layers and having a solid backup plan if weather leans in a different direction. 

What to do for your Colorado Springs Elopement

Colorado Springs has so many awesome activity options for your elopement day, our best advice is to chat together about your favorite types of activities and what you want your elopement day to be/mean for you. Here are some things to consider: 

• When you picture getting married, are you doing something completely new that neither of you have done before? Or do you want to fill the day with all of your favorite and familiar activities? 

• Where do you want to be? What type of scenery, environment, and number of people do you want to enjoy your day with? 

• Are you more inclined towards a day of adventure, leisure, or luxury? Colorado Springs has them all!

Still not sure exactly what you want to do? Here are some more Colorado Springs Elopement activities for inspiration!

• Hiking

• Camping

• Rock Climbing

• Backpacking

• Horseback Riding

• Wine Tasting

• Private Dinner

• Hot Air Balloon Ride

• Zip Lining Adventure

• Pikes Peak Cogway

• Jeep Tour 

• Kayak/Stand Up Paddle Board

• Mountain Biking

• Picnic

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Best Places to Elope in Colorado Springs

Once you have a general idea of what you want to do on your elopement day, it becomes much easier to narrow down your location! For example, if you love kayaking together or fishing, then it makes the most sense to plan your elopement around a lake or reservoir, which Colorado Springs has many options to offer! 

But, if you’re interested in going for a sunrise hot air balloon ride, then you may want to plan a different adventure that’s closer to town to celebrate with your family and friends once you touch down! Here are some great locations to help jump start your vision:

Pikes Peak

It’s hard to miss Pikes Peak when driving around Colorado Springs! At 14,115 ft, it towers 8,000 ft above the town, challenging visitors and tourists alike to journey to its summit. Although it’s a very popular location and tourist destination, it is still a fantastic place for your elopement! There is a road to the top of the peak, so you can drive to the top (making it very accessible) OR you can trek to the top via numerous hiking trails, or even take a cog train up. There are so many options, overlooks, and hidden gems spots around this peak, you don’t even have to summit to find a beautiful view for sharing your vows! 

Rampart Reservoir

Looking to paddle board, kayak, or boat on your elopement day? Look no further than Rampart Reservoir. It’s the perfect spot for a day-at-the-lake vibe for your elopement, and would be an easy place to include guests as well!

North Cheyenne Canyon Park

This park is SUCH a great spot for a small elopement ceremony and lots of activities. It’s right outside of downtown Colorado Springs, so it’s accessible and absolutely beautiful! If you love waterfalls, rushing creeks, rocky mountains, and gorgeous views, North Cheyenne Canyon Park could be the perfect choice for you.

Pike-San Isabel National Forest

This national forest area covers almost three million acres of land from western Kansas all the way to the Continental Divide. It’s full of hidden gem spots, gorgeous mountain passes, canyons, gulches, unique rock formations, challenging summit hikes, and beautiful lakes. If you’re looking to hike, camp, backpack, 4x4 drive, or even take a leisurely stroll on a beautiful trail for your elopement day, we absolutely recommend Pike-San Isabel National Forest. 

Lost Creek Wilderness

A wilderness area inside Pike-San Isabel National Forest that boasts rocky formations, mountain peaks, and beautiful vistas! This is a popular place for mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, and dispersed camping. The Colorado Trail cuts through part of it, so if a shoulder season backpacking elopement sounds like your jam, this would be the perfect place for it! 

Garden of the Gods Elopement

Probably one of the most popular spots for elopements and small weddings in Colorado Springs is Garden of the Gods. You can elope here for free and no permit is currently required. There are 6 ceremony spots available in the park on a first-come first-serve basis, with varying group sizes. This spot is perfect for a small, sunrise elopement with your favorite people before heading out for a longer adventure in the National Forest and then grabbing dinner at an amazing restaurant in town! You can find more detailed information on weddings in Garden of the Gods here.

Read Gabby & Grant’s Garden of the Gods Elopement story here!

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Colorado Springs Elopement Venues

Looking for something that you can reserve or that can accommodate a larger group of people? Check out our Best Colorado Small Wedding Venues guide that has tons of recommendations for elopement venues in Colorado Springs!

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Where to stay for your Colorado Springs Elopement

When considering where to stay in Colorado Springs, we always suggest considering what you prefer and how you want to feel! If you’re looking for somewhere private without strangers around, then something like a vacation rental or Airbnb is a great choice. These accommodations also tend to be more unique, and are in different places. If you’re looking for something close to downtown or where many people can stay, a boutique hotel is a great choice! 

Hotels

Here are some boutique hotels we recommend (one of them is LITERALLY a castle, how cool is that?!)

Boutique Hotels

• The Cliff House 

• Glen Eyrie Castle

• Pikes Peak Paradise Bed & Breakfast

• The Mining Exchange 

Image Courtesy of the Cliff House

Vacation Rentals

Here are some really awesome Airbnb and VRBO Rentals in the Colorado Springs area! 

Please note that Airbnbs + most VRBOs have strict rules about events and hosting people above the approved number of guests. None of the properties listed in this section are suited for events (see the next section for those options) but would be great, unique accommodations for you and your partner (+ some guests) to enjoy during your stay in the Springs!

Airbnbs

• Off-grid, Earthen home in the forest!

• Basecamp - A Modern Retreat near Old Colorado City

• Our Mountain Home

VRBOs

• Mountain Dream Hot Tub!

• Secluded Private Home w/ MountainView

• Modern Mountain Cabin Near Garden of the Gods

• Amazing mountain home on 126 acres bordering national forest land

Micro Wedding Options

Looking to include guests or host part of your elopement day on the property of a vacation rental? Check out these options below! 

VRBOS that allow events

*Please always read the listings carefully, because things may have changed and contact the host directly with any questions before booking the space! 

• Woodland Retreat 

• Pet-Friendly Cabin with Mountain Views

• Historic Allison House 

• Modern House

• 4BR House in the Mountains

• Corner Lot House in the Mountains

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Colorado Springs Elopement Packages

Have we convinced you that Colorado Springs is a great place for your elopement?! If you’re ready to start planning your Colorado Springs Elopement, we’d love to help! We offer planning and photo packages for elopements and micro-weddings, and are experts in all the wonderful things that Colorado Springs has to offer. 

Our packages include both Elopement Planning from a fully-certified Wedding Planner AND Elopement Photography from a local expert, so that your day is seamlessly structured and executed to perfection, without you having to do all the research and organizing yourself! 

Here’s what you can expect from our Elopement Planning & Photography packages: 

• Full Service Planning from initial concept to event tear down -  We work collaboratively to capture your vision and run with it. With full service planning your vision will come to life, but you won’t have to manage it. All of your elopement vendors, activities, decor, details and checklists will be booked and managed for you!

  Check out our Why You Need an Elopement Planner article to learn more about whether an elopement planner is the right fit for you!

• Personalized Location Assistance - don’t know where you want to elope in the Springs? We got you covered! All of our packages include personalized location recommendations and coordination once the spot is chosen. We’ll help you through the permit process, and provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect ceremony at that spot! 

• Timeline Creation - we’ll craft the perfect itinerary for your day based on all of the activities, locations, and other details being sure to consider boring logistics like travel times, time of day, guest accommodations and many other things. 

• Photo Coverage - all of our packages include full day photo coverage so that your day is documented beautifully to share for decades. 

• Day of Coordination  - with full service planning comes full day-of-coordination! You don’t have to worry about being a point of contact for any vendors, our team will have the checklists and the timeline at our sides, all you have to do is relax and enjoy the perfect day!

Ready to Plan your perfect Colorado Springs Elopement?

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Meet your Colorado Springs Elopement Planner & Photographer

Hi, we’re Becca and Hannah! As your Colorado Springs elopement planning & photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up table decor and shooting posed portraits after your ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! We would be honored to chat with you about your elopement, reach out here!

Two-Day Spring Elopement in North Carolina

What Does a Two-day Elopement Look Like?

Kassie and Jake’s multi-day elopement in Western North Carolina is one that we will never forget! It was two days full of adventure, back up plans, freezing cold temperatures, and unique activities that made for the perfect wedding experience for them. This is also a GREAT example of what a true adventure elopement can look like, and why having vendors who know how to pivot your day and create backup plans is so important. If you’re looking for inspiration about what a two-day elopement could look like, keep reading!

Looking to plan your own elopement or micro-wedding?

Why a two-day elopement

When we first chatted with Kassie and Jake about this day, we knew that we had to include lots of hiking, and quality time to slow down. They live in New York City and both have incredibly busy jobs, so they don’t get the opportunity to take it easy often. A two-day elopement worked well for them, because they would have time to soak up all of the best parts of Western North Carolina, travel to different areas, and not feel rushed about going back to the city after the day.

Planning an North Carolina elopement? Check out our blog post all about How to Elope in NC for our best tips and tricks!

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Day 1

Waterfall hike near Blowing Rock

During the planning process, when prompted with the question of their favorite activities to do together, they both immediately exclaimed “hiking and backpacking!” Kassie and Jake originally met in North Carolina and took trips together to the mountains before moving to New York City. The plan for the first day of their elopement was to inspire some nostalgia about Southern Appalachia to remind them of their first adventures together as a couple.

Becca and I met up with the couple at a quaint little coffee shop in downtown Blowing Rock, and we all shared some laughs and travel stories over lattes and tea as we prepped for our hike. Becca had scouted the perfect spot not far off of Main Street with a short 2 mile trail and two different waterfalls! It was an idyllic Spring day, filled with sunshine and early blooms. They took their time exploring the falls and soaking in each other’s company before their sunrise elopement the next morning.

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Day 2

Sunrise elopement ceremony at Carver’s Gap

Even though they had lived in NC for a long period of time, neither of them had ever been to Carver’s Gap, Tennessee. Becca and I knew that would be the perfect spot for them at sunrise, and wasn’t too far of a pre-dawn drive from everyone’s accommodations in Banner Elk. Unfortunately, as we watched the weather reports in the days leading up to it, we knew that it wouldn’t be quite the sunny, blue sky adventure we were hoping for. However, both Kassie and Jake felt it would still be worth it to check it out!

All four of us got a very early start on the morning of their ceremony, meeting at the trailhead around 6:30am. We knew the weather would be cold, but it was truly a winter wonderland!! As Becca and I made our way up the winding road to the trailhead, I watched as our car drove into the frost-covered cloud bank, with no normal, sprawling blue-ridge mountain views in sight.

After consulting with both Jake and Kassie, we decided to move forward with the first look and ceremony right on the Appalachian Trail, while keeping in mind the cold and everyone’s safety. Becca had come prepared with handwarmers, extra gloves, and multiple backpacking quilts and blankets to help keep the couple warm as they walked, side by side, up towards the grassy balds. It was still important for them to get married at the start of the day, so they could spend the rest of it reveling in each other’s company- so we did not want to alter that part of the timeline!

I’m honestly so glad we opted to stay at Carver’s Gap, even in the freezing cold. The soft dusting of snow and ice covered pine forest added to the romantic nature of the moment, setting a serene and peaceful backdrop. It was a beautiful experience watching these two share their first look and vows together with not another human in sight. Not a typical experience you get at this trailhead!

Warm afternoon at the vineyard

We had already planned to take a mid-day break after the sunrise ceremony, so everyone could relax, change their clothes and refresh for the afternoon activities. After the chilly sunrise adventure, the time to nap and warm up was well-deserved! We met up with Kassie and Jake again at Grandfather Vineyard to finish up their elopement experience with a wine tasting and charcuterie board designed by Becca. It was the perfect end to the experience for them, and we had so much fun exploring the vineyard, playing games and chatting before heading back down the mountain!

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Want to plan your own multi-day elopement?

Hi, we’re Becca and Hannah! As your North Carolina and Colorado elopement planning & photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up table decor and shooting posed portraits after your ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! Elopement planning is our absolute jam, so if you’re interested, reach out here to schedule your free elopement consultation with us!

How to Elope in North Carolina

How to Plan Your North Carolina Elopement

Planning your North Carolina elopement but unsure where to begin? We’ve got you covered! From the mountains to the sea, North Carolina is a stunning state full of quaint towns, dynamic cities, and endless opportunities for adventure. Home to four national forests, over forty state parks, and half of Great Smoky National Park, there is no shortage of spectacular elopement spots. So how do you go about narrowing down your options? Are there any places where you can’t elope? When should you elope? Keep reading for advice, guidelines, and information on how to start planning your North Carolina elopement!

Why Elope in North Carolina?

Aside from it’s undeniable beauty, North Carolina makes for the perfect elopement location because of it’s accessibility, moderate temperatures, and countless secluded locations. The people are kind, it is inexpensive to stay and travel in, and it is near impossible to run out of things to do and places to see. There is something about the wisdom of these ancient mountains and diverse forests that make for the perfect setting for any elopement. If you love grassy balds and sprawling views, rich shades of green, and the genuine charm of a mountain town, North Carolina is the perfect place for you to tie the knot! 

When it comes to planning your North Carolina elopement, there are many different factors to consider. This guide will give you some insight on the four main decisions you need to make when starting to plan your elopement: when to elope, where to elope, what is required to elope, and who to include in your elopement. Ready to get started? Read on! 

Table of Contents

1. When to Elope - Seasons Guide

2. Where to Elope - Location Ideas

3. What to Do - Permits, Marriage Licenses, Activity Recommendations

4. Who to Include - Eloping with Guests, Vendor Ideas

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When to Elope in North Carolina

The easy answer to the question of the best season for a North Carolina elopement is… there isn’t one! Each season in North Carolina has different pros and cons. The season that is best for your elopement is entirely up to you and your personal preferences. Here is some insight into each season and what they bring to the table! 

Summer

Months: June, July, and August- although summer’s heat can appear in May and linger into September

Why elope in the summer: Hours upon hours of daylight, lush green forests, and an abundance of waterfalls and swimming holes make summer an awesome time to elope in North Carolina. Although generally a hot and humid season, at higher altitudes the temperatures are not quite as intense. There are also ample opportunities to cool off, and summer is the perfect time for activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and white water rafting. Many wildflowers are at peak in June, contrasting with the rich shades of greens to create stunning, colorful backdrops for your elopement. 

Fall

Months: September, October, November

Why elope in the fall: Fall in Western North Carolina is a sight to behold- hence why people travel from all over to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in October. The weather is ideal, as the summer heat has died down and humidity has worn off. It tends to be one of the drier seasons, so the threat of rain on your elopement day is generally minimal. There are also so many fun activities, from apple picking and pumpkin carving to leaf peeping and bonfires. This is also the ideal time of year for a longer hiking or backpacking elopement! The possibilities for a fall elopement are endless in NC! 

Winter

Months: December, January, February, early March

Why elope in the winter: There is a gentle stillness that overtakes the North Carolina mountains in the winter. Snowy pine forests and ice-coated rhododendrons create peaceful forest walks, and the higher peaks are often snow-capped. This is also a great time of year to elope because the trails are often quieter. If you are desiring complete solitude, winter is the perfect time for you. There is also no shortage of winter activities in NC, including skiing and snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating. Think of the cozy fireside hot chocolate you can end the evening with! 

Spring

Months: Late March, April, May, Early June

Why elope in the spring: With the forests in full bloom, spring is a beautiful time to elope in North Carolina. The temperatures are generally comfortable, the trails have not reached busy season yet, and everything is beginning to come to life after the winter. It can take spring a little longer to reach the high peaks, but this just means that at any point in time throughout the season, somewhere in NC, there is a trail in its peak bloom! 

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Where to Elope in North Carolina

When it comes to where to elope in North Carolina, the options are abundant. North Carolina offers a little bit of everything, and it is possible to curate your elopement day to include exactly the setting you are looking for. When considering where to elope, it is important to consider not only the location of the ceremony, but also the surrounding area and its accessibility, as well as what it has to offer in the way of accommodations, food, and activities. 

While many people consider Asheville to be the hub of Western NC, there are many other options of areas you can elope in and have the experience of a lifetime. Here are some areas to consider! 

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Half of the Smokies lie in North Carolina, the other half in Tennessee. Many of the trails, including the Appalachian Trail, follow the border of the two states through the park. Aside from being home to multiple 6k footers, including Clingman’s Dome, fire towers boasting expansive views, and many waterfalls, the Smokies have more forest diversity than the entire continent of Europe! 

National Forests

North Carolina is home to four national forests, two of which are in Western North Carolina. Pisgah National Forest encompasses over 500,000 acres of forest surrounding Asheville to both the north and south. It is also home to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, Shining Rock Wilderness (home of the Art Loeb Trail), and the spectacular Linville Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Nantahala National Forest is the largest of NC’s national forests, situated in southwestern North Carolina. Within Nantahala’s bounds are Whiteside Mountain, which is considered by geologists to be one of the oldest mountains in the world, and Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. 

State Parks

Nine North Carolina State Parks fall in Western NC, with many others easily accessible from the area as well. Here are a few of our favorites for elopements: 

Gorges State Park: Located in the southwest corner of the state where NC meets SC and Georgia, Gorges has 26 waterfalls, views of Lake Jocassee, and part of the famous Foothills Trail. The remote trails and lush temperate rainforest are a great place to elope, and the perfect spot for a waterfall picnic! 

Elk Knob State Park: Although this park doesn’t have miles and miles of hiking trails, it’s proximity to the beloved mountain towns of Boone and Blowing Rock make it an awesome place to elope. Consider a winter elopement here, as a stretch of trail is open to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter! 

Mount Mitchell State Park: Standing at 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi. It is also a drivable peak, making this a great place to elope if you or any guests you plan to have need an accessible spot. 

Stone Mountain State Park: Stone Mountain is a great spot for an elopement because of the mountaintop surface it is named for- stone! After a nice climb to the top of the mountain, you are greeted with an expansive stone summit that offers sweeping views and countless spots to say your vows separate from any crowds. You don’t have to worry about the viewpoint being occupied, because the viewpoints are everywhere! 

Blue Ridge Parkway

Nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway winds 469 miles through NC and Virginia, offering breathtaking viewpoints and access to countless trails. Many mountain towns, state parks, and national forest lands lie right off the parkway, including Asheville, Linville Gorge, Grandfather Mountain, and much more! A great place for picnics, biking, camping, and of course driving the parkway is a fun elopement day activity in and of itself!

Airbnb Weddings

We love an Airbnb wedding! There are adorable airbnb’s all over North Carolina, with close proximity to some of our favorite mountain towns and activities. They also ensure that you don’t have to worry about any permits of any sort, just confirm with your host that you are allowed to have your ceremony and photography on the property!

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What to do for Your North Carolina Elopement

Permits and Restrictions

When planning your elopement, there are plenty of logistics to consider when it comes to your location. It is common that permits are required to elope in many places. There are also some locations in North Carolina, specifically a few along the Blue Ridge Parkway, that do not allow for elopements or highly discourage them due to heavy foot traffic or in an effort to conserve the land. It is generally fairly easy to determine when and when not a permit is required, as each state park and national forest has permit information on their website. Elopement planners are also a great resource for this, and will take the research off of your shoulders! Although an additional hurdle to the planning process, we believe it is important to go through all permit processes and to adhere to their regulations to best protect the land for decades to come.

*Fun fact- The Blue Ridge Parkway’s website specifically states that it is against the rules to release tigers, and to throw jell-o, among other things! Curious what caused them to explicitly include these restrictions? We are too!* 

Marriage Legality

In North Carolina, you can legally elope as long as you have an officiant and two witnesses present. The officiant cannot be included as a witness in NC. 

Marriage licenses can be applied for online, and both partners must be present to pick up the license from your local courthouse. The cost of a NC marriage license is $60, and it cannot be obtained more than 60 days prior to the elopement. This is the most important item to bring to your elopement! Your elopement photographer or planner can make sure to keep it safe in their pack for you as you go about your elopement day activities!

Activity Ideas

Speaking of activities, there are SO many different things that you can do to celebrate your NC elopement. We love elopements that feel 100% genuine to you, so don’t shy away from spending some time doing what you love most as a couple on your big day. A great way to brainstorm is to each write a list of what you love doing most with your partner, and then compare! Here are some ideas that we love for Western North Carolina to help get you started! 

• Hiking or backpacking

• Mountain biking

• Brewery hopping (Asheville consistently ranks in the top 10 for best beer cities in the country!)

• Camping or glamping (yurt, anyone?)

• A drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Paddleboarding or kayaking

• Playing board games

• Watching a movie that is important to you as a couple

• Creating a slideshow of pictures from your relationship thus far

• Visiting your favorite mountain town

• A morning coffee date

• Bake your wedding cake together

• Exploring a museum or historical site

• A backyard bbq with friends and family

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Who to Include in Your Elopement Day

Determining whether or not you would like guests present for your elopement is a big decision! In choosing to elope, you are already choosing to forego having many friends and family there.

Ultimately, no one can make this decision but you and your partner, but here are a couple of things to consider:

• Land restrictions: many elopement spots limit the number of people able to be present to 10 or 16 depending on the place. This number includes you and your partner, as well as your officiant, photographer, planner, and any other vendor you need present. 

• Accessibility: When choosing to include guests, you must determine if where you are choosing to elope is accessible for them, or if you would need to select an alternate location. 

• Legality: Having at least two people present to bear witness is required in NC. You can use your photographer and planner as witnesses, but keep in mind if you forego having either of those vendors present, you will need guests to replace them!

• Hosting: When you include guests, you are ultimately choosing to host. You likely cannot just ask people to come out for the ceremony, but will also need to plan additional components for the day that include your guests.

If it is important for you and your partner that certain people are present, by all means, prioritize that! Ultimately your day is about you, and if it is meaningful for you to have these people present, it is entirely possible to make that happen.

Vendors

Although an elopement doesn’t require near as many vendors as a traditional wedding, it is still important to consider everybody that will be present during your elopement. We strongly recommend hiring a photographer (specifically one who specializes in adventure elopements) and an elopement planner. An elopement planner will take the planning weight off of your shoulders, and make the process and your day smooth and stress-free.

You may also be interested in hiring the following vendors for your elopement:

• Hair and makeup stylist

• Activity/ rental company- ie kayak rentals, vineyard tours, etc

• Bakery or Caterer

• Florist (keep in mind that many elopement locations prohibit live flowers)

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North Carolina truly has so much to offer as the destination for your elopement. Spectacular in any season, it is as genuine, unique, and exciting as your love story, making it the perfect place to tie the knot. There is no shortage of panoramic views, lush forests, entertaining activities, and quaint mountain towns. With a little bit of everything, we are sure that you will have an unforgettable elopement. We hope that this guide has given you a synopsis of where to get started when it comes to your North Carolina elopement planning, and that you are excited to dive into the process!

Need a photographer or planner for your North Carolina elopement?

Hi, we’re Becca and Hannah! As your Colorado elopement planning & photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up table decor and shooting posed portraits after your ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! Elopement planning is our absolute jam, so if you’re interested, reach out here to schedule your free elopement consultation with us!

How to Elope in Colorado

How to Plan your Colorado Elopement

Looking to learn about eloping in Colorado? You’ve come to the right place! It’s no secret that Colorado is a paradise for adventurous spirits. Boasting 58, 14,000 ft peaks, 4 incredibly unique National Parks, sparkling alpine lakes and countless mountain vistas, it’s no surprise that people from all over the world come here to explore and enjoy Colorado’s incredible natural beauty! These are ALSO the reasons why many couples choose Colorado as their wedding destination. If this sounds like you and your partner, then this guide will be a great starting point for you to plan your incredible Colorado Elopement!

Why Elope in Colorado?

The short answer? Colorado is the perfect place to elope because of its straightforward marriage requirements, AND its epic landscapes. If you’re looking for a secluded, personal, and adventurous elopement experience where you get quality time to celebrate just the two of you, you shouldn’t look further than Colorado, it will check all of your boxes! 

Not convinced quite yet? That’s okay! There is so much more to know about how to elope in Colorado, so we’ve broken this blog post down into the 4 main things to consider (the when, where, what, and who) when starting to plan. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have all the information you need to have your dream Colorado Elopement experience! 

Table of Contents: 

1. When to elope - a guide to the seasons

2. Where to elope - location ideas

3. What to do - permits, marriage licenses, and activity recommendations

4. Who to include - eloping with guests and vendor ideas

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When to elope in Colorado - Seasons Guide

You can get married in any season in Colorado and have a stunning and amazing experience! But, there are some key things to know when it comes to planning an elopement in the mountains AND deciding what season you would prefer based on weather, scenery, and activities. In this section, we discuss the different seasons in Colorado and the types of elopements that work best for all of them! 

SUMMER

Typical Months of the Year: Late June, July, August

Why Elope in Summer - Summer is the most popular season for Colorado elopements because you have full accessibility to trails, mountain summits, 4x4, dirt, or even paved roads, and campgrounds! You’ll want to choose this season if you’re looking for a high alpine elopement with epic mountain vista views without having to worry about coming across much snow (**snow is always possible in high elevations, there really isn’t a surefire way to guarantee that you avoid it above 10,000 ft). Summer is also the time of year where wildflowers bloom, days are longest, and temperatures are at their warmest, without being humid. 

FALL

Typical Months of the Year: September, Early to Mid October

Why Elope in Fall - Fall is the second most popular season for Colorado elopements because you still have lots of accessibility to locations, AND the aspen trees are showing their true colors! You’ll want to choose this season if you’re looking for an elopement that shows fall colors, has crisp but not freezing weather, and still allows you to travel to higher alpine areas with less fear of snow. Fall is also a great time of year for hiking elopements because while the days are still long, the weather is slightly cooler, the mountains are stunning, and there are fewer thunderstorms clouding up the afternoons.

WINTER

Typical Months of the Year: Late October - March

Why Elope in Winter - Truly, Winter is one of Colorado’s busiest tourist seasons, because of its world-class ski resorts! It’s an amazing season for an elopement if you and your partner are interested in winter recreation, or romantic cozy atmospheres. Winter allows for different types of access - more trails and high alpine roads are closed (not all of them though!) but other popular areas for summer hiking like Rocky Mountain National Park or Great Sand Dunes National Park have less competition for permits. You’ll want to consider winter for your elopement if you’re really interested in an adventurous experience, and not afraid of the cold. Most days have sunshine, but that doesn’t mean the temperature is high! 

SPRING

Typical Months of the Year: Late March - Mid June

Why Elope in Spring -  Spring in Colorado is probably the least predictable. In Denver, it can be almost 80 degrees and sunny one day, and then a blizzard the next (the mountains can also maximize these extremes!) However, it’s a great season if you’re interested in escaping any crowds! Ski resorts are winding down for the season, and summer hiking hasn’t taken full swing yet, so there are lots of opportunities to take advantage of in Spring if you’re willing to research (or connect with local vendors who know their stuff), and pack layers for any type of weather! 

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Where to elope in Colorado

You’re probably curious about how to find the best places to elope in Colorado, so we broke it to it down for you based on two key factors: 

1. Proximity for travel within Colorado 

2. Types of landscapes  

Here is a map of popular elopement locations/areas in Colorado, to help you visualize where they are in relation to major cities, and each other! Colorado is a big state, it’s important to understand where you want to focus your elopement and whole trip, so that you can truly customize your experience to your exact preferences! 

NATIONAL PARKS

Rocky Mountain NP
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 1.5 - 2hrs

Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is always a crowd pleaser! With its gorgeous alpine lakes, high alpine tundra, and accessibility, it’s no wonder that hundreds of couples decide to get married here every year. The permit process is very competitive and requires lots of advanced planning, but if you snag one, it’s 1000% worth it! You can learn more about their special use permit system here. 

Great Sand Dunes NP
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 4 hrs 

If you’re looking for an other-worldly type landscape for your elopement, look no further than Great Sand Dunes! From towering sand dunes to snow capped mountains in the distance, this park has so much to offer couples looking for adventure, fun, and a unique elopement experience with less crowds than somewhere like Rocky Mountain! You can learn more about their special use permit system for weddings here! 

Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 5.5 hrs

Black Canyon is still one of Colorado’s underrated parks & gems! The canyon is incredibly deep and impressive, with lots of river activities, hiking options, and stunning overlooks. If the high desert landscape entices you, we highly recommend checking this park out for a beautiful, secluded elopement experience. Another bonus about this lesser traveled park is that the permits are far less competitive and may not be necessary depending on how many guests you bring. You can check out their permit info here. 

Mesa Verde NP
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 7 hrs

Most famous for its preservation of cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde might not seem like a typical Colorado elopement location, but it definitely has beautiful high desert cliffs, rock formations, and trails that would be perfect and secluded for your elopement experience! Their permit system is also less competitive, and doesn’t take as long to process. Check out their special use permit applications here. 

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FRONT RANGE LOCATIONS

Areas Included: Denver & Denver Mountain Parks, Boulder, Colorado Springs
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 1-1.25 hrs
Closest airport - Denver 
Types of landscapes: jagged mountains, red rocks and boulders, 360 mountain vistas, accessible overlooks and short hike options.

The front range areas offer a wide variety of activities, landscapes, accommodation options and vendors because of the proximity to Denver and/or Colorado Springs. Some popular sites include Sunrise Amphitheater in Boulder, Garden of the Gods, and Echo Lake Park. 

CENTRAL MOUNTAIN LOCATIONS

Areas Included: Aspen, Breckenridge, Buena Vista, Vail 
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 1.5 - 3 hrs
Closest airport - Denver or Aspen 
Types of landscapes: high alpine peaks, alpine lakes, wildflowers, aspen forests, mountain passes, accessible overlooks, longer hike options and short hike options.

The Central Rockies offer stunning views, world-class hiking and activities, and lots of options for venues, Airbnbs, and meals in charming mountain towns. Some popular areas include Windy Point Campground, Loveland Pass Lake, Maroon Bells Amphitheater, but there are plenty of hidden gem spots as well! 

SAN JUAN MOUNTAIN LOCATIONS

Areas Included: Ouray, Telluride
Proximity to Denver International Airport (DIA) - within 7 hrs 
Closest airport - Montrose Regional Airport
Types of landscapes: high alpine peaks, mountain passes, waterfalls, deep turquoise lakes, aspen forests, accessible overlooks, longer hike options and short hike options.

If you’re looking for a secluded and absolutely beautiful adventure for your elopement, the San Juan region should be at the top of your list! It offers stunning views, gorgeous lakes, waterfalls and everything in between. This area is best explored by 4x4 drives to access incredible wilderness areas without needing to hike extensive miles. Popular areas include San Sophia Overlook, Bridal Veil Falls, and Alta Lakes.

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What to do for your Colorado Elopement

This section covers the logistics of planning your elopement like securing permits and obtaining your marriage license, and also offers you some fun activity ideas to consider for planning a partial day or even full to multi day elopement experience! 

Permits

Since Colorado is such a popular destination for weddings, most areas have implemented permit systems to ensure that public lands and facilities are maintained and protected from overuse. Here at Trail Magic Elopements & Micro Weddings, we absolutely appreciate these measures because they help us keep our earth protected for future generations to enjoy! 

However, we know permits can sometimes be a complicated and unclear process when planning your elopement. Our best advice for permits is to consider all the requirements, keep guest lists smaller if you’re wanting to utilize public land, and always keep your decor/ceremony props to a minimum. We also highly recommend hiring an Elopement Photographer and an Elopement Planner because they can help you navigate the permitting process seamlessly! 

How to legally elope in Colorado

Getting your marriage license

The process for applying for and getting your marriage license in Colorado is simple, but does require some planning ahead to make sure everything works smoothly. Here are the 4 easy steps to obtain a marriage license in Colorado: 

1. Set up an appointment at the County Clerk's Office - this appointment will be with the county clerk's office where you are going to elope for you to come in and pick up your marriage license. Appointments are NOT required but they do speed up the process and give you peace of mind, especially in busier counties like Denver, Jefferson, and anything near the metro area. **It’s important to note the business hours of the clerk’s office you plan to go to - these government offices are not open on weekends, and some aren’t open on Fridays. Be sure to plan ahead if you’re coming from out of state! 

2. Complete the marriage license online application - this needs to occur before going to your in person appointment. It has basic information about you and your partner, and provides information about the identification materials that you need to provide at your appointment.

3. Pick up your marriage license - at your in person appointment you’ll pick up your marriage license and pay the $30 fee! 

4. Sign and return it -  On your elopement day you, your partner and any witnesses or an officiant (if you choose to have these) will sign your marriage license. *Note that Colorado doesn’t have a waiting period  for marriage licenses. You can technically pick it up and use it within the same day! It just has to be signed within 35 days of picking it up. Once it is signed, it then needs to be returned in person to the county clerk’s office or mailed back to them. It’s important that this occurs within 63 days of it being issued. 

Popular County Clerk Offices that you might need for your Colorado Elopement: Be sure to visit the website of the county clerk you need to confirm the necessary information and details for obtaining your Colorado marriage license. 

Other Popular Areas

El Paso County (Colorado Springs)
Larimer County (Estes Park & RMNP)
Summit County (Breckenridge)
Pitkin County (Aspen)
San Miguel County (Telluride)
Alamosa County (Great Sand Dunes NP)

Denver Metro Area
Denver County
Jefferson County
Boulder County

Self- Solemnization

Colorado is unique because you are able to self-solemnize your marriage, which means that you and your partner can legally marry yourselves without the need of an officiant and multiple witnesses to sign the license. This is an amazing option if you are looking to elope without any guests because you don’t have to rely on anyone else - it can literally just be the two of you sharing your vows together with not another soul in sight! The perfect scenario for a “just-us” private experience! 

Although self-solemnization is an option, it’s not required. You can always opt to have someone who is ordained lead your ceremony and witnesses sign, if that’s important to you! Everyone has different preferences for what they’d like their elopement ceremony to look like, and the best part about Colorado is that it offers you options, something lots of other states don’t, so you can completely customize your elopement to what makes you feel the best and most comfortable!

Elopement Activity Ideas

There are lots of lists about activity ideas for your elopement out there, so we wanted to first offer you our best piece of advice: don’t feel pressured to choose activities just because they are the trendy elopement thing. The absolute best elopements include activities that mean something to you and your partner - these are the days that are easy to photograph because they are full of genuine smiles, laughter and even tears because the couple is out there doing things that feel natural and that they LOVE.

So with that in mind, start brainstorming activities that you love doing together already and how you could incorporate them into your elopement day and here are some additional ideas to get you started: 

• Visiting a brewery or vineyard

• A mini road trip

• Ice cream tasting

• Romantic picnic

• Sailboat or boat ride

• Helicopter tour

• Swimming in a lake or waterfall

• Private letter readings

• Flying kites

• Eating at your favorite restaurant

• Playing lawn games or board games 

• Visiting an art museum

• Hiking

• Backpacking

• Camping

• Cooking a meal together

• 4x4 drive 

• Skiing/snowboarding

• Sand boarding

• Kayaking or Paddleboarding

• Fishing

• Painting

• Having a campfire

• Playing musical instruments 

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Who to include in your elopement

Guests

Whether to include guests or not is a very personal choice…elopements are great both ways! We always recommend talking with your partner and clarifying exactly who would be included and establishing boundaries for the maximum number of people. Guest lists can easily start to spiral out of control if you’re not on the same page and communication is always key! Here are somethings to consider when considering guests for your elopement in Colorado: 

• For ceremonies on public lands, it’s generally better to keep your group size as small as possible, this helps keep usage down for the area and also makes planning the logistics of the day (especially if you’re hiking etc..) simpler. 

• For smaller venues or vacation rentals, always check with the owners regarding guest counts to ensure that you’re falling within those requirements. 

• Accessibility for guests is also a huge consideration - as your guest list grows, your options for non-traditional spaces become more limited. You’ll also want to consider the mobility needs of your guests when thinking of activities, accommodations and ceremony locations. Many public land spots don’t allow for chairs or things to be set up, which could be an issue for older guests. 

Our best piece of advice when thinking about guests at your elopement is to consider if your guests would be adding to your experience or not? If they add to the experience for both you and your partner, GREAT! If you’re not sure they will, then a 2-person elopement is never a disappointment!

Vendors

You can choose as many or as few vendors for your elopement as you’d like, but there are a few staples that we always recommend to give you peace of mind and ensure your day runs as smoothly as possible. Here are the vendors we strongly suggest hiring for your elopement:

• Photographer - we recommend finding someone that specializes in elopements and adventurous weddings

• Elopement Planner - we have a whole blog post about why you should hire an elopement planner, but in summary if you’re looking to elope with guests or are truly wanting a stress-free experience, an elopement planner is for you!

Here are some other  vendor ideas to consider depending on your preferred elopement adventure: 

• Bakery

• Kayak Rental

• 4x4 off roading driver

• Hair & Makeup Stylist

• Private Chef or Caterer

• Florist

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Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with choosing Colorado as your elopement destination! It has something for everyone to enjoy and options to make your elopement as accessible or remote as you’d like. Between the outdoor activities, the local cuisine and drinks scene, quaint mountain towns, and stunning scenery, you’re going to be able to plan a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable elopement experience in Colorado, completely tailored to you! We hope this post has inspired you to hit the ground running with your planning process and given you lots of new tools to start embracing the freedom, romance, and natural beauty that Colorado has to offer!

Need a photographer or planner for your Colorado elopement?

Hi, we’re Becca and Hannah! As your Colorado elopement planning & photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up table decor and shooting posed portraits after your ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! Elopement planning is our absolute jam, so if you’re interested, reach out here to schedule your free elopement consultation with us!

Why You Need an Elopement Planner

The Benefits of Hiring a Planner for Your Elopement

You’re over the moon about your recent engagement, and now you’re deep into the initial planning phase. You and your partner have already decided that an elopement is best for the both of you. But now what? Sure, there are seemingly a lot less details to consider when the wedding you’re planning doesn’t involve a 200 person guest list. But the little details are still piling up, and you start to realize that some of them may actually be more difficult to tackle than if you had settled on a large party. That is where an elopement planner is ready to swoop in and save the day!

Maybe your reason for downsizing your wedding is because your wedding budget is lower, and you are hesitant to book a planner and add that cost. Or maybe you wanted an intimate wedding for a more personal feel, and you are afraid that bringing in a planner will strip your day of that. In reality, a great planner will only make your day feel unique to you, AND will streamline the organization of details in a way that ultimately stretches your budget further! But, we know this is not always an easy decision, so we’ve created this post to cover all the reasons why you should hire an elopement planner for your epic day!

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Let’s first cover the most important question…

What does an elopement planner do?

Elopement planners wear many hats and every individual vendor has a different approach, but generally all planners offer a variety of these three services:

1. Location Scouting: They use their local expertise to find the perfect location(s) for your elopement ceremony and activities. 

1. Plan your day to a “T”: Elopement planners are experts at organizing epic events! They handle vendor communication and booking, secure permits and create back-up plans for weather or closures, and also plan our your entire elopement day timeline for you.

2. Day-of-Coordination: Coordinate your elopement day including set-up and tear down, and coordinate schedules with any guests so you can be fully present and stress-free.

We’ll break these three items down in the next sections, so you can fully understand whether an elopement planner is the right fit for your wedding experience!

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Location Scouting

Your elopement planner will commit the time and energy required to seek out the absolute best spot for your vows! They act as your local guide with feet on the ground, traveling to and testing out the possibilities. You communicate your non-negotiables (or preferences)- i.e. sprawling mountain views, a quiet pine forest, wheelchair accessibility, etc, and your planner puts in the work to find just what you are looking for. Vows aren’t their only priority, though. An amazing elopement planner will take it upon themselves to scout the entire area, searching for other places and activities that will make your day unforgettable! For example:

• Love coffee? Your planner will find the perfect coffee shop for you guys to grab a cup o’joe on route to your elopement spot. 

• Want to go on an afternoon kayak adventure? Your planner will figure out where this is possible, and how to make it happen! 

• Want to meet some friends at a local brewery after your ceremony? Your planner is on it! Not only will they gladly seek out the best brewery to fit the vibe of your day, but they will do the necessary communicating with the brewery as well! 

Ultimately, your planner knows just how important location is to your elopement, and it is not something they will take lightly. They will communicate with you every step of the way to ensure that you are ecstatic about the choices being made. At the end of the day you will find yourself eloping in a location so much more unique and personal to you than you would have been able to find through a google search of “places to elope in _.”

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Plan your day to a “t” AKA “Logistics”

A common misconception that people have is that eloping is easy. However, it isn’t as simple as just finding your dream location and showing up. Sure, it may not be as stressful as a traditional big wedding, but it still requires logistics to be planned. There are many restrictions surrounding where you can elope, and even restrictions on when. Luckily, if you have an elopement planner, you don’t have to worry about these, they will take care of them for you! Some details that your planner will deal with include:

• Permits: Many places where you would like to elope (National Parks, Recreation Areas, National Forests, etc..) require permits to do so. A planner will do the necessary research to ensure that all of the legalities of utilizing the land are being taken care of. This includes knowledge of the rules for eloping in any particular place as well. 

• No-go’s: Public land is not always accessible for every purpose. It is possible that your dream location is off limits for elopements entirely. Your planner will do their best to find an alternative with similar offerings.

• Closures: It is not uncommon for roads in certain areas to be closed for weather or other reasons throughout the year. Your planner will make sure to be aware of any possible road closures that could affect accessing your spot. They will have alternative routes or a back-up location on the ready. 

• Communicating with vendors: Sure, there are definitely less vendors involved with elopements than a traditional wedding. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any! This could include your officiant, any food/dessert vendors, the companies you are using for any activities, or the state park that runs the campground you want to use for an evening bonfire. They will recommend/help you choose vendors, and also manage the bulk of the communicating so you don’t have to. 

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Day-of-Coordination

Having a planner will take the organizational and detail-related stress off of your shoulders on the day of your elopement, especially if you are utilizing their day-of coordinator services. From start to finish, your day has been carefully curated with their professional input and assistance. Every detail has been tended to and confirmed. In the event that something does go astray, your planner will be present to take care of it while you are busy living in the moment. Here are some ways in which your elopement planner makes your day worry-free and smooth-sailing:

• Planning and Packing Checklists: By providing you with checklists that help reassure you that nothing has been overlooked or forgotten. You won’t have that lingering “I am definitely forgetting something” feeling hanging out in your consciousness the whole day, because everything will be acknowledged and accounted for. 

• Providing you with an Elopement Timeline: Don’t know how to plan an elopement timeline? No worries! Your planner has mapped out all travel time and considered any potential roadblocks for the day. They have factored in buffer time in case there is traffic, or you are feeling like you would like to linger over your morning coffee together just a little longer. 

• Managing Gear & Supplies: They keep tabs on the things you will definitely need, and have the things you might need- just in case. From keeping your marriage license and vow books safe while you hike, to having printed copies of all activity reservations, to carrying an emergency lint roller and bobby pins, your planner will make sure everything is in order. 

• Decorating & Setting Up: They handle the check-ins and set-ups so you can focus all your time on each other! Enjoy the views while your planner sets up your mountain top picnic, or sit by the water while your planner checks in with the campground host. 

At the end of the day, your planner’s job is to ensure that you have the best elopement day possible. This means allowing you the freedom to enjoy every moment of it without worry. They are cool, calm, and collected, and create the space for you to truly relax into your day.

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How do you decide if an elopement planner is right for you?

Whether you are planning a large scale wedding, a 20 person micro-wedding, or an intimate elopement, wedding planning takes time- and lots of it. An elopement planner invests the time and energy needed to make your day exactly how you envisioned it, so you don’t have to manage the research and keep track of all the little details! If you’re still on the fence, here are some final reasons why an elopement planner might be right for you:

1. You are BUSY - you value quality time with your partner, family, and friends and want to spend as much of your little free-time doing things that you enjoy, and searching on Google is not one of them.

2. You feel overwhelmed- you’re not planning a 200 person event, but you still don’t want it to be simple either….all your research is leading to more logistics to consider and it’s feeling like A LOT.

3. You have a specific budget - you and your partner have decided to allocate a specific budget to your elopement, and really want to stick to it!

4. You don’t live in the area where you want to elope - you want your elopement to be a brand new travel adventure or are planning to elope out of state, closer to family. You don’t even know where to start with finding vendors, vetting locations, or even handling the legalities of getting married in the area.

5. You’re inviting guests - you want to have your core people present on your elopement day, but don’t know how to best manage their needs on top of your own! You don’t want them (or yourself) to feel stressed or burdened with DIY-ing everything.

6. You’re super organized, but want some help - maybe you LOVE to plan and build a good checklist, but also are stressed you might miss something or just want accountability and professional assistance to keep everything on track.

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When it comes down to it, there is a reason that a wedding planner is a wedding planner. They are creative and detail-oriented people, who care deeply about providing unforgettable memories for your big day. Just because you have chosen to go the non-traditional route for your wedding does not mean you have to, or should, sacrifice the professional expertise that planners bring to the table. Between the time they will invest, the knowledge they will provide, and the details they will tend to that would likely otherwise be overlooked, hiring a planner for your elopement is a decision you will not regret.

Need a Colorado or North Carolina Elopement Planner?

Hi, we’re Becca and Hannah! As your Colorado and North Carolina elopement planning & photography team, we’re more than just the vendors setting up table decor and shooting posed portraits after your ceremony. We’re here to create a safe and community driven space for you to make your meaningful wedding vision a reality, without you having to do any of the heavy lifting! Elopement planning is our absolute jam, so if you’re interested, reach out here to schedule your free elopement consultation with us!