When Taylor and Chris first contacted us, they gave us a list of key things that their Colorado elopement must include: outdoors, mountains, good food, and memories with their families that will last forever. After brainstorming even more, it was clear that they also wanted a location that included an off-road Jeep trail. After considering Telluride and Crested Butte, Taylor and Chris landed on Breckenridge, Colorado. And while Breckenridge might not be the most famous place in the state for off-roading, it has some amazing hidden gems and ended up being perfect for Taylor and Chris!

On the morning of their elopement, Taylor and Chris got ready with their families and then drove separately out to one of our favorite lakes in the area. They both arrived feeling a bit anxious and we promised that those feelings would melt away as soon as they saw each other. Chris stood out on a rock that overlooks a forested lake and waited for Taylor to join him. Taylor chose a gorgeous wedding dress with lots of layers and a long train, so she took her time carefully navigating her way to where Chris was waiting. And as is almost always the case, they embraced each other and the stress melted away. We hiked up to a second alpine lake where they exchanged their private vows together. We love when our couples with guests choose to have a private vow exchange. It allows them to write their vows just for each other and no one else. Sometimes it can be difficult to pour your heart out to your partner in front of a group of people, but that worry goes away with a private vow exchange!

Next, we headed to The Lodge at Breckenridge for their more “formal” ceremony with their families. The ceremony was held on the deck behind the Lodge and had stunning mountain views. Their ceremony was short and sweet, officiated by one of Chris’ friends and attended by their immediate families as well as many other loved ones via Zoom. After their ceremony, they ate a casual charcuterie lunch, had their first dance, and even joined together for speeches with their guests.

Once they had said goodbye to their families, we hopped in our Jeeps and hit the road. Often, we do easier Jeep trails, but Taylor and Chris were up for a challenge. In single file, we slowly made our way up the very bumpy, rocky road. Along the way, we stopped at a dispersed campsite for a picnic. Taylor and Chris laid out a picnic blanket and enjoyed sandwiches and snacks prepared by Chris’ aunt. As we continued up the trail, the forest opened up and we could see incredible views in all directions. We parked our Jeeps and explored some more dispersed campsites. Taylor and Chris’ elopement day was seriously perfect and incorporated everything we love about elopements. There was adventure, beautiful views, time alone in the wilderness, and celebrations with family and friends.

This elopement took place on Ute Land.

Location Disclaimer: The location with the alpine lakes no longer allows weddings or elopements. We no longer come to this location with our couples.

Photographs

Colorado Elopements

Destination Elopements