HOW TO GET MARRIED AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
As a wedding photographer who specializes in documentary-style photography, I’ve had the incredible privilege of capturing love stories in some of the most breathtaking locations. One of my absolute favorites? Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in Colorado. With its stunning landscapes, serene settings, and rugged beauty, RMNP offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, intimate, and authentic elopement. If you’re considering a Colorado elopement, here’s everything you need to know about tying the knot amidst the towering peaks and wildflower-filled meadows.
Why Choose a Colorado Elopement?
Elopements have surged in popularity, and for good reason. They allow couples to celebrate their love in a true-to-self way, free from the stress and pressures of a traditional wedding. A Colorado elopement provides the opportunity for an intimate ceremony, surrounded by nature’s grandeur. Picture exchanging vows at the edge of a glacial lake, with the mountains standing sentinel in the background. It’s magical, it’s personal, and it’s all about you two.
Opting for a microwedding or elopement means you can prioritize what truly matters: your love and commitment to each other. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your closest friends and family, elopements foster a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to soak in every moment without the hustle and bustle of a large wedding.
Planning Your Elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park
1. Choose Your Location Wisely
Rocky Mountain National Park is vast, offering numerous picturesque locations for your ceremony. Popular spots include Bear Lake, Dream Lake, and the alpine tundra along Trail Ridge Road. Each location boasts unique views, so think about the vibe you want to capture in your photos. Do you envision saying “I do” amidst wildflowers, or perhaps with a dramatic mountain backdrop?
Not sure where to start with locations? Not a problem! When you book an elopement with me, I am there every step of the way to help plan your perfect day. Each of my elopement couples will receive a personalized location guide to help choose their wedding spot!
2. Obtain Necessary Permits
Before you get lost in daydreams of your wedding day, ensure you check the National Park Service’s regulations for weddings and elopements. Most areas require a special use permit for ceremonies, and the park can help guide you through the process. It’s important to secure this well in advance of your planned date. Permits are released one year in advance and are first come, first serve.
I can also assist in securing a permit for you! Permit fees for Rocky Mountain National Park weddings are $300 and must be used at their dedicated ceremony spots. For more information, click here.
3. Time Your Ceremony
Timing is everything, especially in the mountains. Consider the lighting for your ceremony. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is ideal for stunning photos, but it can also be crowded. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, an early morning ceremony can be enchanting, offering a peaceful atmosphere as the sun rises over the peaks. Eloping during a weekday is also recommended to anyone wanting to avoid the crowds.
4. Hire a Wedding Photographer (hopefully me!)
As you plan your Colorado elopement, finding the right photographer is crucial. You’ll want someone who understands your vision and approach to elopement photography. My style focuses on documentary photography, capturing candid moments and genuine emotions in a relaxed, unobtrusive manner. I thrive on creating a casual environment where you can be yourselves, ensuring your photos are authentic and true to your unique love story.
What to Expect on Your Elopement Day
On your wedding day, you’ll want to enjoy every second without feeling rushed. After a leisurely morning getting ready, you can head to your chosen location for the ceremony. Whether you decide to write your vows or share something special from your hearts, the moments you create will be cherished for a lifetime.
As your Colorado wedding photographer, I’ll be there to document the day as it unfolds naturally. From the quiet anticipation before the ceremony to the joyous celebration afterward, I’ll capture the essence of your love story—every laugh, every tear, every joyful moment.
Celebrating After the Ceremony
Once you’ve exchanged vows, take time to soak in the beauty around you. Perhaps have a small picnic or pop open a bottle of champagne to celebrate your new union. You could even explore some nearby trails for more breathtaking photos. RMNP offers endless opportunities for adventure and intimacy, making it a perfect place to reflect on your day.
There are also some amazing spots in Estes Park for a small get together with your closest friends and family. From coffeeshops, to fine dining, to local park areas — there is certainly a space for you to gather!
The Bottom Line
Choosing to elope at Rocky Mountain National Park is not just about the stunning visuals; it’s about creating an authentic, intimate experience that resonates with who you are as a couple. Your Colorado elopement is an opportunity to focus on your love, surrounded by the beauty of nature, with a relaxed and casual vibe that traditional weddings often overlook.
If you’re ready to embark on this adventure, I’d love to help capture your journey. Together, we can create an unforgettable experience that’s true to you. Let’s make your Rocky Mountain elopement a story worth telling! Get in touch by filling out my contact form here and we can start planning your dream elopement!
Hey, I’m Elissa!
I’m a Nebraska-based wedding and elopement photographer specializing in documentary-style photos that feel like you.
I think it is so important for you and your partner to feel comfortable in front of my camera, so I prioritize creating a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you’re considering a Colorado elopement, or a cozy Nebraska wedding — I’d LOVE to help capture it! Let’s get in touch and start planning the dreamy details.
