Colorado elopements have my heart… especially when there’s a sweet winter surprise like snow to grace our presence! A snowy elopement adds such a magical element, too and I’m so excited to share their story with you!

After we talk all things Justine + Drake (and you get to see their stunning images), I’ll be sharing:

• Why Loveland Pass is the best spot to elope in the winter
• Tips and tricks for planning a winter elopement in Colorado, and
• How to staying warm during your winter elopement (because brrrrr, friends— I’m cold just looking at these!)

 

Justine + Drake’s Story

When Justine first contacted me back in December, it was reminiscent of so many of the brides contacting me when COVID first hit the scene.

Her photographer from Michigan was unable to travel with her, so she was looking for an experienced photographer in the area that could help her plan her elopement and snag some memorable shots…. enter muah. 🙂

So we chatted, fell in love (with each other, of course… sorry Drake), and that was it!

Just kidding. Obvi…

Story from Justine:

“We met on Tinder (Drake calls me his Tinderella). The first date was nothing short of a Christmas Hallmark movie and we’ve been inseparable since. We love doing dog parent things, anything athletic, traveling and cooking together. Anything with a challenge and we’re there: I guess that set us up for planning a wedding in 2020 this year took away too many things to mention but also taught us that life is short. Our heart was all in on getting married regardless of what obstacle the world through our way. After planning 13 weddings, lots of tears and wine, we landed at eloping in our favorite place. It was an absolute dream; the eye of a storm on top of a mountain (here again with the challenges) we also have a strong connection with the number 11:11 so 1/22/21 was incredible for a memorable day. We’re looking forward to starting our life as husband and wife (a lifelong dream that exceeded expectations a million times over, I’d like to convince everyone to make eloping the “norm”) and our vow renewal/reception next year to celebrate 1 year of marriage with everyone who lead us to each other!”

Loveland Pass: The Best Winter Elopement Spot IN THE MOUNTAINS

Why, You Ask?

• It’s the highest drivable pass in Colorado that’s open during the winter months
• 360° mountain views without having to hike intensely… count me in! (but the short distance walk at 11,000+ ft will leave ya without breath!)
• You don’t need a photography permit (check out Arapahoe National Forest and CDOT for the latest updates + possible closures)

 

TIPS + TRICKS FOR PLANNING A WINTER MOUNTAIN ELOPEMENT

SUMMER ELOPEMENTS AT LOVELAND PASS ARE AWESOME, BUT HERE’S HOW TO plan your winter elopement so it’s JUST AS EPIC:

• Wear the right shoes and foot gear. I cannot stress this enough, and when I work with my couples this is something we make sure to discuss in greater detail! I personally love Sorels.
• Incorporate one of your favorite winter activities! If it’s not hiking, consider snowshoeing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, or simply building a snowman or having a snowball fight.
• Make sure to plan for adequate warm up time (we’ll talk more in the next section!)
• Summer elopements are great for outdoor picnics, but for a winter elopement, I always recommend a sweet, cozy lodge nearby! This one is so cute and close to Loveland Pass!
• Here’s another idea for an alternative elopement spot for a Breckenridge winter elopement that you can reserve (but check here for updates because during COVID, it’s currently closed until further notice).

5 Tips to Stay Warm During Your Colorado Winter Elopement

Because a Colorado winter is damn cold, ya feel me?

• Not only did Justine score this adorable long sleeve dress here, but I’ve also seen some amazing alternative fashion here, worn by Devin, a past bride that adds some extra warmth and style!
• This might be an obvious one, but I’ll go ahead and say it anyway: wear fleece lined leggings or long johns (as my dad called ‘em— insert laughing face emoji here) underneath!
• Buy hot hands! You can use ‘em on your hands, feet, back— all over!
• Build time into your timeline to warm up, whether that’s in your car or at a lodge! This is something I like to work in with my couple’s when we plan the day because who likes to freeze!?
• This may be extra, but just go with me: pack a cute, vintage thermostat with your favorite warm drink!

Was this helpful? Do you want more info about eloping in the winter in Colorado? Or just eloping in general? Let me know in the comments below!