Aspen Elopement Guide
HOW TO ELOPE IN ASPEN: UPDATED FOR 2024
Aspen is one of the best places to elope in Colorado featuring majestic mountain ranges such as the iconic Maroon Bells. Whether you’re looking for a private ceremony with just the two of you, or a small gathering of friends and family, Aspen offer the perfect setting for couples looking to exchange their vows.
As Aspen elopement photographers, we’ll explore the pros and cons to eloping in Aspen and the best tips and tricks to plan the perfect elopement in this stunning destination. So, if you’re considering an Aspen elopement, keep reading!
Table Of Contents
Reasons To Elope In Aspen
Here are some of the top reasons to elope in Aspen, Colorado:
Beautiful Landscapes
Aspen is located a 3-4 hour scenic drive from Denver in Colorado. It offers breathtaking scenery year-round! Whether you’re surrounded by snow-capped peaks in the winter or lush greenery in the summer, the natural beauty provides an unforgettable backdrop for your elopement.
Upscale Mountain Town
Aspen is one of the most boujee mountain towns in Colorado. This can be a pro or a con, depending how you look at it! On one hand it’s luxurious and offers delicious dining options, upscale lodging, etc. On the other hand, it is one of the most expensive places to visit in Colorado.
endless activities
Aspen is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of activities to enjoy together before or after your elopement. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the summer, you can create memorable experiences as you celebrate your love.
How To Plan An Aspen Colorado Elopement
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Is this your first time trying to plan an elopement? Don’t worry- as Aspen elopement photographers, we have quite a few of these under our belt and we’re here to help you through the whole process! Here’s a step by step guide on how to elope in Aspen:
1 HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER
Most couples hire us before they start planning anything! The reason for this is because we help our couples with logistics such as choosing the right date, which location(s) are perfect for them, navigating permits, finding local vendors, etc. You don’t have to do it all yourself, we’re here to help you.
2 CHOOSE YOUR LOCATION
After you’ve set a date with us you’ll gain access to our exclusive Aspen location guide. You’ll easily be able to see which location(s) perfectly fit what you’re looking for and have all the info you’ll need to obtain any reservations or permits needed.
3 PLAN OUT THE DETAILS
Next, you’ll book your lodging, transportation and any additional vendors such as hair and makeup, a florist, officiant, etc. (don’t worry, we’ll send you ideas for all of these). We’ll collaborate on a timeline to fit in all the locations and activities you want while getting the best photos throughout the day! You’ll also get your marriage license prior to the wedding.
4 GET MARRIED!
You’ll have the best day ever and we’ll be there capturing every moment! Within a few days you’ll have sneak peek photos in your inbox, and the full gallery within 2-3 months. All that’s left is to choose which photos to print!
“Authentic Collective gave us all that we could have asked for! They were able to get us our dream venue, Maroon Bells, and helped us with all that we needed to make our wedding day what we wanted.”
When To Elope In Aspen
Best Time Of Year To Elope In ASPEN, Colorado
The best time to elope in Aspen is late June to mid-October. It depends on your preferences and priorities, but many people consider late September to be the best time for elopements due to the cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. However, summer months (mid-June through the end of August) can also be popular due to warmer weather and more outdoor activities. Keep in mind that many locations become inaccessible in the winter until spring and sometimes even early summer due to snow. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons in Aspen:
Spring Aspen Elopement
April, May & June
While April and May are unpredictable, June in Aspen is absolutely magical. The mountains are still capped with snow, the crowds are yet to form, providing more privacy, and the temperature is mild and perfect for weddings!
If you’re considering eloping at Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado- you will need to wait until June as that is when it reopens for the year. It is possible to elope there during the winter, which we will explain soon, but it is much less accessible.
Summer Aspen Elopement
July & August to mid September
Summer in Aspen means that mountain passes are open, the trails are clear and conditions are perfect for an elopement. PLUS the days are long! While mid-day can be hot, mornings and evenings are still brisk.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Colorado mountains, especially during the summer months. However, these rain storms can mostly be avoided by opting for a sunrise or sunset event.
Fall Aspen Elopement
Mid-September To Mid-October
Aspen is renowned for its breathtaking fall foliage, with aspen trees turning vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red. Plan your elopement during peak foliage season, typically from late September to early October, to capture the stunning colors in your wedding photos.
However, keep in mind that fall in Aspen can be hit or miss. You can have beautiful fall colors one day, then it can snow storm the next and take down lots of leaves. Be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way!
Winter Aspen Elopement
November to march
Aspen in the winter is magical! A winter elopement in Aspen promises a romantic and enchanting experience amidst snow-capped peaks, cozy atmospheres, and the magic of the holiday season.
If you’re adventurous and enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, this could be the perfect time for your elopement. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and snowy conditions.
When planning a winter elopement it’s important to be prepared for the elements and have an indoor location you can use as a back-up incase of storms. Be aware that the road to Maroon Bells close mid-October as it’s prone to avalanches, but you can still do a snowmobile tour back there !
Choose A Weekday At Sunrise
We always recommend having your wedding on a weekday (Monday-Thursday) to minimize the amount of tourists that will be in the area. Sunrise or sunset is the best time of day to elope for the most privacy and best lighting!
Be Aware Of Important Dates
When selecting your wedding date, it’s also important to know of any events in the area that might impact your elopement. For example, there are races, hot air balloon festivals and so much more happening every year. You can look at the Aspen Snowmass event calendar to see the events!
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Best Places To Elope In Aspen
Aspen elopement locations
Aspen is a charming town located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and aspen forests. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and many other outdoor activities available all year round.
Aspen also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with many excellent restaurants, shops, and galleries. The town is home to several cultural events and festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival, the Food & Wine Classic, and the Aspen Ideas Festival. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Aspen is known for its luxurious amenities and services. The town has many high-end resorts, spas, and restaurants that cater to affluent visitors.
Here are some of the most popular and scenic places to elope in Aspen:
Maroon Bells Amphitheater
The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is an outdoor wedding ceremony location with a stunning mountain backdrop. The amphitheater is available for ceremonies only, needs to be reserved 1 year in advance and sells out extremely quickly. This is not a private location- it’s very popular and there will be many other visitors present.
MOUNTAIN ELOPEMENTS
If you love mountains and are looking for a beautiful and unforgettable location for your elopement, Aspen can be a great choice. Aspen is surrounded by stunning peaks and valleys that provide a beautiful and scenic backdrop.
MAROON BELLS, INDEPENDENCE PASS, ASHCROFT GHOST TOWN, SMUGGLER MOUNTAIN TRAIL, SNOWMASS SKI AREA, AJAX MOUNTAIN, HUNTER CREEK TRAIL.
Elope At A Lake
MAROON LAKE, CRATER LAKE, LOST MAN LAKE, AMERICAN LAKE, CATHEDRAL LAKE, SNOWMASS LAKE, CONUNDRUM HOT SPRINGS, GENEVA LAKE, THOMAS LAKES, AND RUEDI RESERVOIR.
Take A Gondola
SILVER QUEEN GONDOLA TO ASPEN MOUNTAIN, ELK CAMP GONDOLA TO SNOWMASS, EXHIBITION CHAIRLIFT TO ASPEN HIGHLANDS OR SUMMIT EXPRESS CHAIRLIFT TO BUTTERMILK.
Rent a shelter at a public park
Aspen Parks and Recreation offers a variety of shelter rentals for events and gatherings. Keep in mind that the surrounding locations are public even if you’ve reserved a shelter, so don’t expect complete privacy at these locations. Rental fees and availability may vary depending on the park and the time of year.
RIO GRANDE PARK, KOCH LUMBER PARK, WILLOUGHBY/LIFT 1, HERRON PARK, WAGNER PARK, MOLLIE GIBSON PARK, PROMONTORY PARK, JOHN DENVER SANCTUARY, HARMONY PARK, FOX CROSSING PARK.
We’ll show you the best locations
You won’t find the best locations online. You need a photographer who has spent time hiking around and scouting these locations in person to help you plan your Aspen elopement.
We provide our couples with exclusive Aspen elopement location guide, custom timeline, vendor recommendations and even lodging ideas!
Small Wedding Venues Aspen Colorado
If you’re planning a wedding with 15+ guests, a small wedding venue may be better suited for your event. Aspen offers a variety of unique and stunning wedding venues for couples seeking a memorable and picturesque backdrop for their special day. Here are some popular small wedding venues in Aspen Colorado:
Lynn Britt Cabin
The Lynn Britt Cabin is a historic log cabin located in the Snowmass Ski Area in Aspen, Colorado. Its rustic charm and beautiful mountain setting make it a popular choice for small weddings. This venue offers both ceremony and reception options. It’s common to have a Maroon Bells ceremony and Lynn Britt reception!
Cost: Starts at $10,000 for weekday weddings under 60 guests
Capacity: Summer 65 inside or 200 in tent outdoors, 50 winter
Snowmass Wedding Terrace
The Limelight Inn is a luxurious hotel located in Snowmass Village. They have a ceremony location, the Snowmass Wedding Terrace, which overlooks the surrounding mountains and is perfect for outdoor ceremonies. It features a meadow surrounded with aspen trees and mountain views.
Pine Creek Cookhouse – Located in Castle Creek Valley, just outside of Aspen, Pine Creek Cookhouse is nestled among the picturesque mountains and features breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The venue features a rustic, yet elegant atmosphere, with natural wood finishes, cozy fireplaces, and large windows that showcase the stunning views.
The Cliffhouse (at the top of Summit Express Lift) – This mountaintop location offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a picturesque and romantic setting for a wedding. It’s modern interior features floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious deck, and a cozy fireplace.
Aspen Meadows Resort – Choose from a variety of ceremony and/or reception options such as Anderson Park, Bass Terrace and more.
T-Lazy-7 Event Lodge – Located only 15 minutes from Maroon Bells, this is the closest venue to the amphitheater making it a great choice for your wedding reception! You can also have your ceremony here as they have a ceremony meadow with stunning mountain views.
Spring Creeks Ranch – Located about 30 minutes outside of Aspen, Spring Creeks Ranch offers really nice mountain views. Starting at just $5000 for weekday weddings, this is one of the more affordable small wedding venues in Aspen, Colorado.
Little Nell Wedding Deck / Wedding Overlook – Possibly the most beautiful venue in all of Colorado, The Little Nell is a luxury wedding venue in Aspen. The wedding deck and overlook features breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is accessible via gondola ride, which adds an element of adventure and excitement to the wedding day. This venue is not budget friendly.
How To Get Legally Married In Aspen Colorado
To get legally married in Aspen you will need to obtain a Colorado marriage license. The closest County Clerk and Recorder office in Aspen is Pitkin County located at 530 E Main St, Ste 104, Aspen, CO 81611. However, you can get your license from any county in Colorado, it just has to be completed and returned to the same office you obtained it from.
You can elope in Aspen and legally get married even if you live out of state. Plus, in Colorado you can self-solemnize (you don’t need an officiant or any witnesses) and you can even have your pet sign your marriage license!
Aspen Elopement Permits & Regulations
It’s important to ensure you follow all regulations when eloping in Aspen, and obtain any necessary permits. For popular areas like Maroon Bells, you’ll need to obtain reservations and parking passes. For other areas like National Forest Land, you may only need a special use permit if you have a large group of 50+ people.
It’s important to hire a local Aspen elopement photographer that can assist with finding what permits are necessary for your chosen locations.
Additionally, you should always be familiar with Leave No Trace principles as well as be prepared for the elements and wildlife that come with an outdoor elopement in Colorado.
How Much Does It Cost To Elope In Aspen, Colorado?
The cost to get married in Aspen starts at $30 which covers your marriage license from Pitkin County. At a minimum, you’ll likely want to purchase wedding attire, hire a photographer, videographer, florist, hair and makeup artist. You may also need to account for travel, transportation and lodging.
Aspen is one of the more expensive towns in Colorado. You’re likely to spend more on food and lodging here, especially during peak season. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other destinations in Colorado that offer similar experiences at a lower cost.
The couples that hire us value their photos and experience more than anything, which is why they typically spend majority of their budget on their photography package.
Hey, we’re Savannah & Greg!
Aspen Elopement Photographers
We’re a husband and wife team specializing in elopement photography and videography in Aspen, Colorado. We believe eloping is the best way to get married, so much so that we did it ourselves! We know it can feel overwhelming not knowing where to start, which is why we help couples set a date, pick a location, make a timeline, etc!
Aspen Elopement Videographers
In addition to photography, we also offer a variety of videography options! These include everything from a short, super 8 style music video (as seen here), to full professional videography with your full day, vows and other audio included.
Aspen Colorado Elopement Packages
Photography Packages
It might seem counterintuitive to look for a photographer before you have an exact location and date set, but trust us on this one. If you’re looking for some help finding the perfect location, an elopement photographer who specializes in the area you’re considering will be a huge help to you.
Photography & Videography
Professional photography and optional videography services from an experienced husband/wife team who’ve photographed over 150 weddings together. Posing guidance and direction to make you feel and look great in front of the camera, no experience necessary.
Planning Guide
A 50+ page digital planning guide to help you through the whole elopement planning process. Including tips on booking travel and lodging, buying your attire, activity ideas, packing checklists, including family and more.
Custom Location Guide
A list of all the most beautiful locations in the area you choose based on scenery, accessibility, permits and logistics. We do the work so you don’t have to!
Timeline Creation
We’ll craft a timeline that fits all the locations, activities, and moments you have planned for your day as well as consider ideal lighting and making sure your whole experience is relaxed and stress free.
Vendor Recommendations
Looking for a florist, hair and makeup artist, or other vendors? We’ve got you covered with local recommendations.
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Colorado Elopement
Planning checklist
Get instant access to the full Colorado planning checklist for insider information on everything you need to plan a successful Colorado elopement!
Aspen Elopement Photos
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planning Resources
Planning guide
The Best Places To Elope In Colorado
Planning guide
Colorado Elopement Planning Guide
Planning guide
Small Wedding Venues in Colorado
