Hey there! I am Michelle, an elopement photographer local to Colorado Springs and beyond. Just because your playing it “low key” (or not?!) by eloping, does not mean you cannot still do a lot of meaningful traditions. You can even make your OWN tradition. This is your wedding day, you know 😉 I recommend doing some activities and creative ideas before, during, and after your ceremony. This will help you have an amazing experience, and give you items to keep and remember the day.
Eloping isn’t just about skipping the big wedding—it’s about choosing an intentional, deeply personal experience where you and your partner can focus on what matters most: each other. But how do you make your elopement in Colorado feel even more special? Let’s dive into some creative ceremony ideas and traditions that will make your day uniquely yours.
Ideas and Traditions for your Elopement in Colorado:
1. Hiking to Your Ceremony Spot
If you’re an adventurous couple, why not turn your wedding day into an experience? Hike to a secluded mountain overlook, a hidden waterfall, or a peaceful alpine meadow. Sunrise or sunset ceremonies add an extra level of magic—just imagine those golden rays hitting the peaks as you say your vows! Find a local elopement photographer (cough cough) like me! I can show you all best locations.
2. Incorporate a Handfasting Ceremony
This ancient Celtic tradition involves tying a ribbon around your hands to symbolize your union (where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from!). It’s a beautiful, meaningful addition to your vows and looks stunning in photos.
3. Read Love Letters Before Your Vows
Before you exchange vows, take a moment to read letters you’ve written to each other privately. This can be a heartfelt way to reflect on your journey together before stepping into this new chapter.
4. Have a First Look
Having a first look makes the day more fun and exciting! Yes, it’s a little more work to get ready separately, and drive to the location apart. But seeing each other in your wedding attire for the first time right before you become one, is a moment you will never forget. As a plus, it is more photo memories you will get to keep for forever!
5. First Dance in the Wild
Just because there’s no dance floor doesn’t mean you can’t have a first dance. Whether it’s in a field of wildflowers, on a rocky overlook, or under a sky full of stars, playing your song and swaying together is pure magic.
6. Include Your Fur Babies
One of the perks of eloping is that you can bring your pets! Have your dog walk you down the “aisle” is really cute.
7. Unity Ceremony
There are so many creative ways to symbolize your unity. Here are a few ideas that are perfect for a Colorado elopement:
- Pouring sand from two different locations into one jar, representing the blending of your lives.
- Pouring local craft beer or whiskey into one glass (Colorado-style, of course).
8. Colorado Unity Ceremony with River Stones
A unique way to symbolize your union is by each selecting a river stone and tossing them into a flowing creek or lake together. This represents your love flowing forward, ever-changing and enduring.
9. Ring Warming
Before you slip those rings onto each other’s fingers, take a moment to hold them together in your hands. You can whisper a wish, a prayer, or an intention into them before exchanging them. If you have a small group present, they can pass the rings around and do the same—infusing them with love and good vibes.
10. Cut the Cake
You can bring cake to the elopement, and cut it and feed it to each other. Just like at a big wedding. But this ones just for you two (and the pictures 😉
11. Toast With a Sip of Bourbon
Want to make it a true Colorado moment? Take a celebratory sip of your favorite nice bottle of liquor together. You can then keep this bottle in your freezer, and have a sip on every anniversary.
12. Burning Sage for a Fresh Start
A nod to spiritual traditions, burning sage (or palo santo) can symbolize clearing away old energy and starting fresh as a married couple. It’s a beautiful way to set intentions for your life together.
13. Planting a Tree Together
Want to leave a lasting mark on your elopement? Plant a tree together as a symbol of your growing love. You can do this at a meaningful location or even bring a small potted tree home to plant in your backyard.
Final Thoughts for your Elopement in Colorado
The best part about an elopement? There are no rules. You get to create a day that feels right for you—whether that means including meaningful traditions, starting brand-new ones, or just keeping it simple and sweet.
No matter what you choose, your Colorado elopement is going to be magical. So go ahead—make it personal, make it intentional, and most importantly, make it yours. 💛
So, what kind of elopement in Colorado speaks to your heart? Whatever you choose, I promise it’s going to be magical. I would love to be considered as your elopement photographer! Reach out by (clicking here) and lets chat! Areas I serve and would recommend to have your elopement: Colorado Springs, Woodland Park, Divide, Summit County, and Pikes Peak Region.
More blog post of mine,
Elope in Colorado Springs – Tips, Ideas, Packages
Guide to the Best Colorado Springs Elopement Locations
Adventure Dream Elopement at Garden of the Gods
