Lake and Mountain Sunset Elopement in Buena Vista, Colorado
Lake and Mountain Sunset Elopement in Colorado
Jordan + Katie
Like many modern love stories, Jordan and Katie’s started online. But the twist was that they actually had several mutual friends and lived one block from each other. In the 2.5 years that they’ve been together, they spent time living long-distance when Jordan had a work opportunity that couldn’t be passed up, they have made the best of Katie’s long work hours while she is in pediatric residency, and have purchased and fixed up their first home.
Jordan and Katie’s private engagement at a rooftop bar was the first clue that an elopement would be right for them. But an elopement wasn’t their first instinct, initially, they expected to have a big wedding at home. But neither of them were excited about the process of planning the big wedding and they just couldn’t get excited about it. Eventually, they realized that eloping was right for them and their families were fully on board with the idea. They envisioned a day that was relaxing and stress-free, with beautiful mountain views and an adventure for just the two of them. In the months leading up to their elopement, we worked together to craft an elopement day that checked off all of those boxes and more.
After an unusually rainy summer, we were pleased to have clear skies on their elopement day. Jordan and Katie got ready separately in the house they rented and then had their first look in the backyard. It was important for them to include their families in their elopement day, so before heading out of the house, they had a group video call. They showed off their attire, the cake they made themselves, and told everyone about their plans for the rest of the day.
Next, we loaded up into our cars and drove to a secluded meadow for a short picnic. Initially, they planned to eat their cake during the picnic, but they ended up deciding to have cookies instead since those were easier to transport. While they sat together and ate their cookies, they read letters from their families.
They had their ceremony along the edge of a beautiful mountain lake. Alex started their ceremony with a short reading, and then Jordan and Katie read their personal vows to each other. One of the things that drew them to Colorado was that they could self-solemnize their marriage, meaning no formal officiant or witnesses were needed!
They ended their elopement day with a drive up a curvy mountain road to an incredible mountaintop location. We hiked on the trails and soaked in the last little bit of golden hour light before experiencing one of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve ever seen. Jordan and Katie laid their blanket out and watched the sunset together.
This elopement took place on Ute Land.