How to Elope at a Denver Courthouse

Are you thinking about eloping at a Denver courthouse?

There are a ton of resources online about how to elope in Colorado, but I’ve noticed there’s not a lot out there specifically for how to elope at a Denver courthouse. I’m here to help! Let’s break it down.

1: Get your marriage license

Getting your marriage license is something you’ll have to do whether you’re eloping, having a courthouse wedding, or hosting a big, traditional wedding. Most counties, like Denver, will let you complete the marriage license process in-person or online. If you do it online, you HAVE to be in the state of Colorado for your virtual appointment. Because of that, I honestly think it’s easier to just go in person. You’ll fill out some information online, schedule an appointment, go in with your partner to pick it up, pay your $30, and you’re good to go! Don’t forget to sign the marriage license after you say, “I do” and mail it back to the county it was issued in. You can also just drop it off at the courthouse before leaving town.

2: Find a judicial officer and location

Once you have your license, you’ll need to find a judicial officer to help you elope at a Denver courthouse. Remember – we have self-solemnization in Colorado, so you never need a witness or someone official to get married. But because you want to get married at the courthouse, a judicial officer needs to be there.

Check out this website to find out who is available and when. Once you figure out who you want, you’ll have to do the leg work of emailing them to coordinate. Some of them will even officiate your ceremony outside on the steps, depending on the weather.

In your email, you’ll want to make sure you both agree on a date, time, and location. More on your location options below! You also need to confirm whether they allow certain things in the courtroom, like fresh flowers, photographers, and videographers.

Denver courthouse locations

Byron White, 1823 Stout St.

This location has the traditional big, white columns you envision when you think about a courthouse. It’s right downtown and has a really clean, classic vibe. Keep in mind only federal judges are permitted to officiate ceremonies at this location.

Denver County Court, 520 W Colfax Ave.

Probably the most recognizable Denver courthouse, this location is right in the heart of downtown. It has beautiful flower gardens and a large grassy area in the front, which is a great photo location for before and after you say “I do!”

Lindsey Flanigan, 520 W Colfax Ave.

If you want a modern vibe for your Denver courthouse wedding, this is the location for you. The outside is all windows and concrete, so it definitely sets itself apart from the other two options.

3: Finalize your vendors

Maybe I’m biased, but at a minimum I always recommend a photographer if you’re eloping. Photos and video are the only things that will last as long as your marriage! Some other things you can consider adding to make your day special are flowers, a special outfit, some champagne, or sweet treats! If you want any of these things inside the courthouse, make sure you get approval from your judicial officer first. Remember, these are government buildings so you need to follow their rules.

4: Say “I do”

The part you’ve been waiting for! Whether it’s just you and bae or a small amount of family and friends, do your best to soak in every moment. It’s YOUR day!

5: Celebrate!

There are so many things you can do to celebrate after you elope at a Denver courthouse. Since you’ll be downtown regardless of the location you choose, you have tons of options for bars, breweries, and restaurants. If you want to do something more active, Denver has a lot of fun activities like mini-golfing, arcades, candle making, sporting events, and more. You’re not far from the mountain towns either, so you could also head up into the mountains for a long weekend adventure. Let me know if you need any recs!