Estes Park is a stunning destination for couples dreaming of a romantic mountain elopement. Nestled at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, it offers breathtaking views, serene landscapes, and an intimate setting perfect for saying “I do.” Here are ten tips to help you plan the perfect elopement in Estes Park:
1. Set A Budget
Even for a small elopement, it’s important to set a budget. Factor in travel, accommodations, officiant, photography, and any special touches you want to add. Estes Park offers a variety of affordable and luxurious options, so setting a budget early on will help guide your decisions.
Here’s a breakdown of what to include in your elopement budget:
1. Venue Costs
Consider the cost of your chosen elopement location. If you’re planning to marry at a public place like Rocky Mountain National Park, there will be permit fees (around $300). If you opt for a private venue such as Romantic RiverSong Inn, you might find that their all-inclusive elopement packages cover the cost of the venue, ceremony, and sometimes even additional amenities.
2. Travel Expenses
If you’re traveling to Estes Park from out of town, include expenses like transportation (flights, car rentals, fuel) and accommodation. Estes Park offers a range of lodging options, from cozy cabins to luxurious inns. Budget for the cost of staying in a place that suits your style and needs. Couples love Romantic RiverSong Inn for their elopement because of the beautiful location and rooms available all on one location.
3. Marriage License
In Colorado, obtaining a marriage license costs approximately $30. This fee is paid at the county clerk’s office where you apply. Remember, you’ll need valid identification, so ensure you factor in any costs associated with obtaining or renewing these documents.
4. Officiant Fees
Although Colorado allows self-solemnization (meaning you can marry yourselves), you might still want an officiant to perform the ceremony. Officiants can charge anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on their experience and the services they offer. If you’re eloping at a venue like Romantic RiverSong Inn, we provide an officiant as part of our packages.
5. Photography and Videography
Capturing your elopement is a must! Professional photographers and videographers can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on their experience and the duration of coverage. Many elopement packages include photography, but if not, make sure to allocate funds to hire someone who can beautifully document your special day.
6. Attire
Your wedding attire is another important budget item. Whether you’re purchasing a new dress or suit, or planning to rent, factor in costs for fitting, alterations, accessories, and any special items like shoes and jewelry. Don’t forget to include attire for any guests or family members if they are joining you.
7. Flowers and Decor
Even for a small elopement, you may want to include flowers or minimal decor. Budget for a bouquet, boutonniere, and any other decorative elements you want to enhance the setting. Depending on your preferences, this could range from $100 to $500.
8. Meals and Celebrations
Consider if you want to have a meal or celebration after the ceremony. This could be a romantic dinner at a local restaurant, a picnic, or even a small gathering with close friends and family. Allocate funds for dining and any special touches you might want to include, such as a celebratory cake or a bottle of champagne.
9. Miscellaneous Costs
Include a buffer for unexpected expenses or any last-minute details that may arise. This might cover things like transportation to and from the ceremony site, extra copies of your marriage certificate, or tips for service providers.
10. Additional Services
If you desire any additional services, such as a spa day, adventure activities, or a celebratory event, make sure to include these in your budget. Estes Park offers various activities that can add a special touch to your elopement experience.
2. Choose a Meaningful Location
Estes Park boasts some of the most scenic elopement locations in Colorado. From the iconic lakeside views at Lily Lake to the alpine meadows of Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll be spoiled for choices.
Sometimes choosing the location means considering a place that you can return to for years to come as part of celebration and establishing tradition and memories.
Romantic RiverSong Inn, offers secluded gardens, private rooms, delicious breakfasts, mountain views, and even elopement and vow renewal packages that takes care of all the details.
3. Pick the Perfect Date and Time
With its changing seasons, Estes Park provides a variety of gorgeous backdrops, from wildflower-filled meadows in the summer to snow-capped peaks in winter. Consider planning your elopement in the season that’s right for you, not just for your wedding day, but to celebrate in years to come.
Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect timing for your special moment in Estes Park:
1. Consider the Season
Estes Park is stunning throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Spring (May to June) brings blooming wildflowers and mild weather. Summer (July to August) offers warm temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor ceremonies. Fall (September to October) features vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, creating a picturesque backdrop. Winter (November to April) provides a serene, snowy landscape, ideal for a cozy, intimate elopement. Choose a season that aligns with the ambiance you desire and the type of experience you want to create.
2. Weather Conditions
The weather in Estes Park can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Research average temperatures and weather patterns for your chosen month. If you prefer a warmer climate, summer might be ideal, while cooler or snowy conditions may be better suited for a winter elopement. Consider having a backup plan or indoor option in case of unexpected weather changes.
3. Time of Day
The time of day can significantly impact your elopement photos and overall experience. Morning ceremonies offer soft, golden light and fewer crowds, which can be perfect for a serene and private occasion. Afternoon and evening elopements provide stunning sunset views and dramatic lighting, ideal for capturing breathtaking photos. Plan your ceremony time based on the lighting and atmosphere you want for your special moment.
4. Special Dates
Think about any significant dates that hold personal meaning for you as a couple. It could be the anniversary of when you first met, a memorable trip, or a date that aligns with your love story. Choosing a date with personal significance can make your elopement even more special.
5. Availability of Key Elements
Check the availability of important elements such as your chosen venue, officiant, and photographer. Popular times, like weekends or peak seasons, may require early booking to secure your preferred date and services. If you have specific dates in mind, reach out to these vendors well in advance to ensure they are available.
6. Local Events and Crowds
Estes Park hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. While some events can add to the charm of your elopement, others might lead to increased crowds and higher accommodation costs. Check local event calendars and choose a date that allows you to enjoy a peaceful, private ceremony without interference from large gatherings.
7. Guest Availability
If you’re inviting close family or friends, ensure the date works for them. Consider their schedules and availability, and try to pick a date that allows them to join you if that’s part of your plan. Even if you’re eloping privately, a date that accommodates your loved ones’ schedules can make the celebration even more meaningful.
8. Venue Considerations
If you’re eloping at a specific venue like Romantic RiverSong Inn, verify their availability and any restrictions related to dates or times. Some venues may have preferred dates or offer special packages during certain times of the year.
4. Decide Your Ceremony Style
Estes Park offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and natural beauty, making it ideal for both traditional and non-traditional ceremonies. Whether you want a simple, nature-filled ceremony or something with a touch of Colorado elegance, you can easily tailor your elopement to your style.
A traditional ceremony may include religious elements, formal vows, or cultural traditions that hold meaning for you and your partner. If these customs are important to you, they can add a sense of grounding and significance to your elopement. However, if you crave something more personal, a non-traditional ceremony offers the freedom to write your own vows, include symbolic elements like a handfasting or unity candle, or even incorporate your favorite hobbies or shared experiences into the ceremony.
Another thing to consider is whether you want to blend both traditional and non-traditional elements. Many couples find joy in crafting a ceremony that is uniquely their own—a perfect mix of familiar traditions and personal touches. Think about what resonates with you: Do you want to exchange vows on a mountaintop with just the two of you and your officiant, or do you prefer a more structured ceremony with a small group of loved ones? There is no right or wrong way to say “I do.” The most important thing is that your ceremony reflects who you are as a couple and sets the tone for your journey together.
5. Create Your Guest List
One of the most important decisions when planning your elopement is deciding whether to invite guests or keep it a private, intimate affair. Eloping traditionally evokes the image of just the two of you, but that doesn’t mean you can’t include a select few who mean the most. Consider inviting close family members, your best friends, or even a small group of people who have played a significant role in your relationship. If the idea of sharing this moment with a handful of loved ones appeals to you, it can add extra meaning to your day while still keeping the focus on your love.
However, it’s also okay to opt for a private ceremony with just the two of you. Elopements are often about intimacy and removing the stress and expectations that come with a larger gathering. If you feel that having guests would take away from the romantic simplicity you desire, keep it small or even consider including family and friends virtually through a video call. Whatever choice you make, it should reflect what feels most comfortable and true to you as a couple. Remember, this is your day, and it’s important to surround yourself with the people—or lack thereof—that will make it truly special.
6.Plan Your Attire for the Colorado Climate
When planning your wedding attire for an elopement in Colorado, it’s important to consider the varying climate and terrain. In Estes Park, the weather can change quickly, so layering is key. Brides might want to bring a stylish wrap or jacket for warmth, especially in cooler months. And while you may envision stunning photos in heels or stilettos, it’s smart to pack practical shoes like hiking boots or flats for walking to the ceremony site—especially if you’re trekking through rugged or uneven terrain. Grooms should also think about comfort, balancing style with warmth and durability to suit the location and season.
7. Hire a Photographer Who Knows Estes Park
Capturing your elopement in Estes Park’s stunning landscapes is a must. Hiring a photographer familiar with the area ensures they know the best spots for those perfect mountain shots. Whether it’s sunrise over the mountains or a golden sunset by the river, these moments will be worth preserving.
8. Keep Decor Simple and Natural
With the natural beauty of Estes Park surrounding you, you won’t need much in the way of decor. Consider a simple bouquet of wildflowers, lanterns to line the ceremony space, or a small arch to frame your vows. The scenery does most of the decorating for you!
9. Obtain Your Colorado Marriage License
Getting married in Colorado is easy, especially since the state allows self-solemnizing ceremonies, meaning you don’t even need an officiant. Just make sure to obtain your marriage license from the county clerk’s office, and you’re all set. For Estes Park, you’ll need to visit the Larimer County Clerk’s office in nearby Fort Collins.
10. Plan a Relaxing Day in Estes Park
Create a relaxed itinerary for your elopement day. After your ceremony, you can take a scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park, have a romantic picnic by a mountain lake, or enjoy a quiet dinner in town. Estes Park is filled with opportunities for adventure and relaxation, making it the perfect elopement destination.
Bonus Tip: Announce Your Elopement in Style
Once you’ve eloped, share your excitement with friends and family by sending out elopement announcements. Include a beautiful photo of the two of you in Estes Park’s stunning setting, along with details about your special day.
Ready to Elope in Estes Park?
If Estes Park sounds like the perfect spot for your elopement, let us help you plan every detail. From choosing a ceremony location to booking a photographer, we’ll ensure your day is magical. Contact us today to start planning your dream elopement in the heart of the Colorado Rockies!