10 tips for planning your perfect, romantic elopement from your Colorado Elopement Photographer
As a Colorado elopement photographer and native Coloradan, I’m always on the look out for vendors and locations, and thinking about how to make planning your elopement as smooth as possible.
Check out my helpful advice for those of you traveling from out of state for your big day!
1. Arrive in Colorado a few days before your planned elopement
Having a few days to settle in and acclimate to the elevation and lack of humidity will keep you and your partner feeling your best! It’s very common to experience some symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and shortness of breath) especially if you’re staying in the mountains. It can help to spend a day at lower elevation before traveling to your ultimate high elevation destination.
I know that you’re excited to enjoy all of the natural beauty that Colorado has to offer, but try not to plan too much for the first few days of your time here. Allow your body time to rest and acclimate before you expect yourself to keep up with a rigorous schedule. Making sure to drink lots of water with electrolytes, and prioritize eating a balanced diet including plenty of protein will help speed up the acclimation process.
2. Use supplemental oxygen to help with altitude sickness
If you find yourself experiencing strong symptoms of altitude sickness, I highly recommend having supplemental oxygen on hand. It’s easy to find here in Colorado, you can pick it up at any local pharmacy or even Walmart!
Part of my preparedness as a Colorado elopement photographer is to have some in my kit just in case you need it!
3. Avoid Alcohol (at least while you acclimate)
I know, enjoying your favorite drinks adds to the celebration, but I can’t emphasize enough the importance of hydration. This may mean avoiding libations for a few days while your body has time to adjust (another reason to arrive a few days early!) In leu of cocktails, consider trying some mock-tails while your body adjusts to the elevation and climate. There are tons of amazing mock-tail recipes available at Half Baked Harvest that you can enjoy in the days leading up to your elopement ceremony. And once you’re feeling free of those symptoms feel free to enjoy your favorite “leaded” versions as part of your celebration!
4. Wear sunscreen before your big day!
It may surprise you to learn that it’s really easy to get sunburned in Colorado, even when it feels cold outside. At high elevations you’re exposed to more ultraviolet radiation due to the thinness of the atmosphere. Think that you don’t need sunscreen because there is snow on the ground? Think again! Snow reflects UV rays, which leads to sunburns in places you wouldn’t expect. Invest in some good quality sunscreen, and don’t forget to reapply it, especially in the days leading up to your Colorado elopement! Your photographer will thank you. 😉
5. Rent an all wheel drive vehicle
Although not necessary for all locations, having an all wheel drive vehicle will open up your options for exploration! I definitely recommend spending some time exploring the mountains in the days leading up to (and following) your Colorado elopement. Colorado is full of wild beauty, much of it easier to access with an all wheel drive vehicle. In addition, having an all wheel drive makes driving on ice and snow much easier.
6. For mountain locations, plan for all weather
Even on days that feel hot in Denver, temperatures in the mountains can drop below freezing quickly even in summer months, so it’s best to come prepared for the cold. I highly recommend investing in a down jacket for the Colorado mountains; they’re lightweight, warm, and fold down to a very small size. You can often find nice options at REI before your trip, or make a stop at one of their many locations once you arrive. You can also try your luck finding a down jacket at a local thrift store if you have the time! I’ve had good luck at thrift stores around Boulder.
7. Plan extra time for hiking with your wedding attire
If you’re extra adventurous you may consider choosing an elopement location that requires a hike, and as your Colorado elopement photographer I’m here for it! I just suggest allowing more time than you think you need for the trek!
If you choose a mountain top it may work best to pack your wedding attire and change once we reach the location. Keep in mind that hair, makeup, and flowers may not remain intact, so make your plans accordingly. If those things are super important to you I’d suggest finding a location that we can drive up to, or one that only requires a short walk. And don’t worry, many of the beautiful locations in Colorado are close to parking if hiking isn’t appealing to you.
8. Use local vendors
As an elopement photographer based in Boulder, Colorado I can connect you to Boulder local vendors for all of your elopement needs! Working with local vendors ensures quality and freshness that you may not get from chain suppliers. Some of my favorite vendors are Fiori and Artimis Flower Farm for flowers; and Boulder Beauty Bar for hair and makeup. If you’re more of a DIY person, I fully support that, too! My husband and I planned our wedding on a shoestring budget, and I’ll gladly pass along some of my favorite hacks that saved us thousands on our wedding if that’s more your style!
9. Plan your ceremony for golden hour – sunrise or sunset
Time of day has a huge impact on the quality of your photos. And choosing the best time of day in the mountains isn’t as straight forward as you might think. When planning your ceremony, make sure you consult your elopement photographer for the best timing based on the specific location in Colorado. What works facing West won’t work facing East, so make sure you confirm your plans with me, I’ll gladly go scout out your location in advance to ensure that we have the best light so that we can capture the most stunning photos of your elopement!
10. Find an epic location close to where you’re staying
Your Colorado elopement photographer is one of the best resources for selecting an amazing location! Regardless of where you plan to elope, I guarantee we can find a beautiful backdrop for your photos.
Are you looking for a stunning mountain backdrop? Brainard Lake, less than an hour from Boulder, fits the bill. Or if you want to venture farther Rocky Mountain National Park boasts some of the most gorgeous mountain locations, but you’ll need a permit. More interested in a creekside ceremony? There are many canyons with beautiful creeks in the Boulder area. Like fields with wildflowers? We have those too! I’d love to connect with you to help you choose the perfect spot no matter what you’re hoping for in a location.
Ready to start planning? Start by choosing me as your Colorado Elopement Photographer!
I LOVE my job, and will do everything I can to help you plan your perfect Colorado elopement. Traveling from out of state? I’ve got you! I’ll be your feet on the ground, your location scout, your local vendor expert. Often part of being an elopement photographer is helping your clients with the planning stage. I’ll be with you every step of the way, helping you make informed choices and acting as your biggest cheerleader! And if you happen to be a Colorado local I’d love to hear all of your thoughts on your favorite locations and vendors. I’m always adding to my list!
Check out some of my favorite locations around Boulder, Colorado here!
