What to Prepare for your Colorado Mountain Elopement
What to Prepare For Your Colorado Mountain Elopement
Embarking on a Colorado mountain elopement promises breathtaking views paired with an adventure. To make sure that your special day goes off without a hitch, you'll need to be well-prepared for some of the unpredictable elements that come along with getting married in nature. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to pack and some essential tips to help you know what to expect for your elopement in the Colorado Rockies!
Essential Colorado Elopement Packing List
Hiking Boots
Whether you're trekking through rocky paths, muddy trails, or uphill routes, comfortable hiking boots are a must. You'll want sturdy footwear to keep your feet dry and secure. Don’t worry about hiking in your wedding shoes—switch into them once you reach the elopement spot for those perfect photo ops!Water
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially at high altitudes where the air is drier.Electrolytes and Canned Oxygen
The altitude in Colorado can be challenging for some, so bringing electrolytes and canned oxygen can help mitigate any altitude sickness symptoms.Coat (not just a jacket!)
Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly in the mountains. A warm coat is essential for staying comfortable, especially for sunset-time elopements. You can bring a cute wedding-styled jacket but I still recommend bringing a heavier-duty coat or puffer just in case the mountain weather decides to go from chilly to downright cold.Bug Spray
Mountain areas, especially those near water, can have their share of insects so make sure to pack bug spray so you’re not swatting them away mid-ceremony!Sunscreen
The higher altitude means stronger UV rays. Apply sunscreen on your face and body to protect your skin from sunburn. Your makeup artist may have recommendations for makeup-friendly sunscreen.Snacks
Pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up, especially if you’re going on 3+ hours of exploring and getting married, people tend to get hungry!Lint Roller
SUCH a necessary tool to remove any stray lint or pet hair.
Outfit to Hike In
Wear comfortable clothes for the hike to your elopement location. Once you arrive, you can change into your wedding attire for the ceremony and photos. “But where will I change in nature?” Most couples change behind a tree or blanket! I promise it isn’t as difficult as it may sound.Rings & Ring Box
Don’t forget to pack your rings, this goes without saying! A box helps keep your rings safe and holds them upright for ring photos.Vows
Prepare and bring your vows. Whether they’re hand written on paper or typed on your phone, having them written down ensures you aren’t forgetting to say anything important!Umbrellas and Ponchos
Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, sometimes bringing rain. Pack clear umbrellas (one per person) and a poncho for each person to stay dry. It’s a good idea to have these on hand, even if the forecast looks clear.Hair/Makeup Touch-Ups
Bring along essential touch-up items like hairspray, lipstick, and foundation. The mountain air can affect your hair and makeup, so having these on hand will help you stay looking fresh.
Optional Items
Champagne or Bottle to Pop
Celebrate tying the knot with a toast! A bottle of champagne or your favorite drink can add a fun touch to your elopement.Picnic
Consider packing a picnic for a post-ceremony celebration. It’s a great way to enjoy the stunning mountain scenery while indulging in your favorite foods.Photo Album
It can be so special to relive some of your favorite memories together through a printed photo album on the day of your marriage. I love it when couples bring sentimental items to reminisce over and remind them of the adventures they have shared together.
Elopement Weather Planning in Colorado
Colorado’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, particularly in the summer. Evening rain is common, and while it may only drizzle briefly, there’s always a chance of more persistent rain or lightning. In case of severe weather, we may relocate to your Airbnb, hotel, or another indoor venue if needed.
Some couples choose to embrace the rain and continue taking photos with umbrellas or clear ponchos. To stay comfortable, even in summer, bring warm clothing like coats, gloves, socks, hand warmers, and leggings. The mountaintops can either be chilly and windy, or they can be sunny and warm, and even the weather apps can’t truly predict which it will be!
Backup Plan Options:
We will go over your preferred backup plan before the elopement day. Please note that once the photographer arrives at the location, the elopement may not be rescheduled or refunded due to weather.
Checking the weather beforehand is important. Below are some scenarios for different weather predictions.
Light rain predicted: Continue plans as normal, bring clear umbrellas and ponchos, and schedule the elopement to start 30-60 minutes earlier to account for waiting time if it sprinkles.
Severe rain/thunder/blizzard predicted: Reschedule the elopement to the next available date or move it indoors to the hotel space. If you are having a reception/dinner at a venue, you may contact them to see if they could accommodate arriving earlier to celebrate indoors. If the weather stops, we can always venture back outdoors for sunset photos (depending on timing.)
Unpredictable weather: If severe weather was not in the weather prediction and a rogue storm comes rolling in out of nowhere, it is always important to prepare for any type of weather and dress warmly. If the weather/rain/snow/wind is mild enough, some couples have opted to keep going underneath umbrellas. Driving to another location may be an option if time allows for it, or waiting out the storm in a safe area such as a car. Having a backup indoor space is ALWAYS recommended for scenarios like these.
Eloping in Colorado’s Winter
Some couples opt to embrace the beauty of winter in Colorado. Although it is important to be aware of some challenges that may come along with winter elopements such as cold temperatures, snow, and road closures, winter elements are also what make these elopements so magical! Winter sunset is around 4:30pm, so your elopement can start earlier in the day and leave plenty of time for an evening dinner or reception. Plus snow-filled photos look gorgeous (and yes, your dress will still stand out even if it is white!)
Colorado Elopement Tips Summarized
Communicate with Your Photographer: Let me know if you have any specific concerns or preferences regarding weather or attire. I have seen it all and can fill you in on how things will go and what backup plans we might need!
Check the Weather Forecast: Regularly monitor the weather to adjust your preparations as needed.
Create a Backup Plan: Of course everyone wants their day to go exactly as planned, but a backup plan ensures you don’t have to make any last minute decisions if nature decides to throw us a curve ball!
Enjoy the Moment: Embrace the adventure and beauty of your Colorado mountain elopement. The unexpected elements often create memorable experiences. The most important thing is that you get to marry the person you love most! No matter what happens, your day + your photos will be stunning and I’ll be here to be a comforting presence while helping with anything you need. You can use me to carry your dress, gather umbrellas, fix your hair, and wipe your mascara.
Acclimate yourself to the altitude: I highly recommend that out-of-state couples arrive in Colorado at least 3 days before their elopement. Altitude sickness is unfortunately no joke, and giving your body time to get used to the elevation ensures you can avoid nausea, shortness of breath, and other altitude-related issues! Keep in mind that Denver is a mile high, and many mountain locations are well over 2 miles high (some reaching 14,000 feet.)
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Here’s to a beautiful and unforgettable elopement in the majestic Colorado mountains!
