Photo Credit: Katie Todd Photography
Why Elope?
Once reserved for runaways and secret rendezvous, elopement has shed its reputation as an act of rebellion to become one of the most intentional ways couples choose to marry on their own terms. Colorado is particularly well-suited to elopements—it is one of the only states that allows self-solemnization, meaning couples can legally marry without an officiant. But pulling it off beautifully still takes a bit of planning.
Your elopement should feel like you in every detail. Here are Southwest Weddings’ six tips for making it every bit as stylish and unforgettable as you’ve imagined.
1. Find Your Vibe
Before anything else, decide on the feeling you’re going for. A desert ceremony at golden hour is a world away from exchanging vows on a snowy summit or slipping away to a secluded canyon. There’s no wrong answer, but knowing your vibe early makes every decision easier. It shapes your location, your photographer, your attire, your florals, and the moments you’ll actually remember. Start here, and the rest tends to fall into place.
Photo Credit: Grace Perry Productions courtesy of Lost Fork Base Camp
2. Plan Your Budget
Eloping is typically more affordable than a traditional wedding, but costs can add up quickly once you factor in travel, accommodations, photography, and your look. Set a realistic number early, and decide whether you want to fold a honeymoon into the trip while you’re at it. Knowing your priorities upfront means you can spend freely on what matters and let go of what doesn’t.
Photo Credit: Katie Todd Photography
3. Guest List (or Lack Thereof)
Elopements are intentionally intimate, but that doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Some couples want just their two closest people there, while others prefer total solitude with a photographer as their only witness. Decide what feels right for you, keeping in mind that your guest count will shape everything from venue capacity to travel logistics.
Photo Credit: Crystal Cousin Photo
4. Explore Your Options
You don’t have to figure everything out from scratch. Many venues and hotels offer elopement packages that bundle the essentials, like an officiant, photographer, and florals, into a single, simplified experience. If you’d rather hand the details to someone else entirely, an elopement planner can take the reins and tailor everything to your vision. Either way, compare a few options before committing to make sure the style, services, and price point feel right.
Photo Credit: Katie Todd Photography courtesy of Wild Poppy Events
5. Choose Your Vendors
The right vendors can make your elopement feel truly special. And with a smaller guest list, you can often invest more in the ones that matter most to you. A photographer, officiant, florist, and hair and makeup artist are the core vendors worth considering. If you’ve booked a venue package or hired a planner, lean on their recommendations—they’ll know who works best in your chosen setting. When in doubt, prioritize your photographer above all else. These are the images you’ll have forever.
Photo Credit: Four Seasons Custom Florals
6. Making It Official
The romance is the easy part—and the paperwork is simpler than you might think. Colorado’s self-solemnization law means you don’t need an officiant to make it legal, but you will need a valid marriage license from a Colorado county clerk. Requirements vary slightly by county, and some have waiting periods, so build this into your timeline early. Get the admin out of the way ahead of time, so the day itself is entirely yours.
Photo Credit: Sunfire Films
Uniquely Yours
Whether you choose a romantic getaway or a heartfelt ceremony close to home, your elopement should be a meaningful celebration of your commitment to one another. Eloping allows you to create a wedding experience that is uniquely yours, free from the pressures and expectations of a traditional wedding. By following these wedding tips, you can elope in style and create a truly unique and meaningful celebration.
Colorado Elopement FAQs
How long is a Colorado marriage license valid? Once you obtain your license, it must be signed within 35 days and filed within 63 days of the ceremony. You file it by returning it to the issuing county clerk in person or by mail.
Where do you get a marriage license in Colorado? You can obtain your marriage license from any county clerk’s office in Colorado. It does not have to be in the same county where you plan to get married. If you’re traveling from out of state, check ahead since most offices require an appointment, and both partners must appear in person with valid ID.
Do you need witnesses to elope in Colorado? No, you do not legally need witnesses to sign your marriage license in Colorado. You’re welcome to bring guests, but it’s entirely your call.
Do you need a permit to elope in Colorado? It depends on your location. National parks will always require a permit, and popular spots like Rocky Mountain National Park have a limited number available each year, so plan well in advance. Permits generally cost anywhere from $50 to $300. Many other public locations do not have a permit requirement, so always check the specific rules for your preferred venue.
How much does it cost to elope in Colorado overall? Beyond the $30 marriage license, costs vary significantly based on vendors and location. Elopements in Colorado typically fall somewhere between $30 and $5,000. The range is wide because the choices are entirely yours.
Can you elope in Colorado if you’re from another country? Yes, non-U.S. citizens can get married in Colorado. There are no residency requirements, waiting period, or witnesses needed, but a valid passport is required in place of state ID. Colorado also recognizes same-sex marriages.
Author: Spencer Earp
