Talking about money can be uncomfy, but it’s so important for planning an elopement.
Saving money is one of many reasons couples choose to elope because it allows them to still have an epic day and celebrate love. In 2023, the average cost of a “traditional” wedding was $29,000. That’s INSANE. The cost of eloping in Colorado can vary a ton based on your location and vendors, but I promise it will always be cheaper than a big wedding. If you’re ballin’ on a budget or just want to know more about how much it costs to elope in Colorado, this is for you.
Get on the Same Page
First things first, you and bae need to have an open, honest conversation about your budget. Set aside some time to talk through how much money you’re each comfortable spending, what the non-negotiables for your big day are, and who, if anybody, will be there. Once you have a clear plan, then you can start thinking about the details.
Location
Most couples who elope in Colorado are coming out here for the scenery. There are a lot of amazing elopement locations that are completely free, but you can also elope somewhere like Rocky Mountain National Park for a low cost. Most national parks will require you file a permit for your elopement, which is just $200-$300.
Another option is an Airbnb or Vrbo elopement. I’ve had a lot of couples go this route. While there might be a larger cost up front, your rental doubles as your elopement location AND lodging, which can save you some money in the long run. Location and time of year will play a big factor in total price, but you can expect anywhere from $600 a night in more remote areas to $1,500 a night in more popular mountain towns.
Vendors
Vendors have the biggest impact on the cost of eloping in Colorado. But remember, the amount of vendors you have for your elopement is totally up to you! I’ve seen it all – from DIY to just flowers and a photographer to 6+ vendors – there is no right or wrong.
- Photographer: This is one of the first vendors you should book once you’ve decided on a date. My pricing starts around $7,000 for a five-hour elopement and all planning services. I’ve had elopements longer and shorter than five hours, so we’ll work together to make a package that works best for you and bae.
- Officiant: The best part about Colorado is self-solemnization! Because you can marry yourself, an officiant isn’t required. That said, some of my couples appreciate having someone there to guide them through their vows. If you plan to hire an officiant, it’ll cost around $300 – $500.
- Florals: Bouquets and boutonnieres are a great way to elevate your Colorado elopement, regardless of if you choose real, dried, or silk flowers. The type you choose will determine the cost, but most of the vendors I recommend range from $200 – $600.
- Hair and Makeup: If you want to feel pampered on your elopement day, Colorado has some amazing hair and makeup artists. Depending on if you’re doing just hair, just makeup, or both, the cost can be from $300 – $600. Don’t forget many businesses have an additional fee if you want them to travel, usually around $60.
- Cakes and Desserts: Enjoying some dessert is a fun way to end your elopement and spend intentional time together. From cakes, donuts, and charcuterie boxes, you can go simple around $20 to bougie around $200.
- Videography: I’ll be honest – most of my couples don’t choose to book a videographer. BUT I’m always stoked when they do. It is definitely a bigger cost than some other vendors, but none of my couples have regretted having a video they can watch forever. Costs in Colorado range from $4,000 – $8,000 based on how long your elopement day is.
Other Details
The vendors I included are what is “standard,” but we all know I work with badass couples who don’t follow the norm. These are some other details to keep in mind when figuring out the cost of eloping in Colorado.
- Dinner or Private Chef: Do you want to end your day with a nice dinner out on the town? Or would you rather stay in and have a chef come to you? Whatever your choice is, don’t forget to factor it into your budget. Restaurant cost will depend on your taste, and private chefs can range from $400 to $800 based on the meal they’re preparing.
- Tattoos and Other Experiences: If you want to incorporate anything else important to you and bae, make sure it’s included in your planning. I’ve watched my couples get matching tattoos, smoke unity joints, and bring in a company to play a murder mystery game.
- Travel: If you don’t live in Colorado, how are you getting here? We love flying on Southwest (two free bags, buddies), but there is also a Frontier hub out here, so you can usually find great deals on a flight to Denver.
- Lodging: If you’re not eloping at an Airbnb or Vrbo, don’t forget you and bae will need somewhere to stay. Hotels in downtown Denver or in popular mountain towns will cost you more than remote locations in Colorado.
- Marriage License: Probably the cheapest part of your elopement day, but don’t forget about it! A Colorado marriage license will cost you $35.
Your Colorado elopement will be amazing, regardless of what you spend. Celebrating the love between you and bae is all that matters.
