Non-Traditional Wedding Ideas

90% of my couples are from out of state, so it’s important to me to create an experience they’ll remember forever.

I want to make sure they can look back in 50 years and think, “Holy shit that was so us,” and not, “I wish we would have done something more memorable.” Wedding days are so much more than exchanging vows and getting a mountain backdrop. These non-traditional wedding ideas (or elopement ideas!) will make you wish you could re-live your day over and over.

Unity J’s

Nothing is quite more Colorado than unity joints, which are 100% a thing, and 100% a thing I support. I’ve had couples share a unity J before their ceremony for an intimate moment, or after their ceremony as a way to celebrate. And have I mentioned how badass everyone looks in these pictures?!

Intimate dinner with your fam

If you’re bridging the gap between an elopement and an intimate wedding, I call that a hybrid elopement. Spending time with your friends and family over an intimate dinner is a great way to include them! Say your “I do’s” with only bae by your side and then head back to your Airbnb or a restaurant to celebrate with your loved ones. Take the stress away by hiring a caterer to really make it a celebration to remember.

Read letters from special people

As far as non-traditional wedding ideas go, I love this one if you’re adamant about eloping alone but still want to incorporate friends and family. Reach out to the people who mean the most and ask if they’ll write something special for you two. Whether it’s lovey-dovey well wishes, funny advice, or a favorite memory of you and bae, it’ll definitely be a special moment you won’t forget. AND you’ll have the letters forever.

Masculine floral arrangements

Masculine wedding outfits don’t need to have the prom-style boutonniere. I’ve seen so many unique floral arrangements, like big styles for lapels or even decorative florals for ballcaps. I love when couples embrace getting as creative with masculine arrangements as they do with the feminine styles.

Polaroids

Polaroids are back, and I’m here for it. Snap some pictures throughout your day and make a small album when you get back home. You’ll have your professional photos to show off too, but Polaroids are 1.) FUN and 2.) can capture more intimate moments your photographer may not be around for. I also take some film photos for my couples to give them variety in their elopement album.

Bring your doggo

I always encourage my couples to bring their doggos if it’s a priority to include them. Plus, it means I get to pretend I have a dog for the day. A lot of traditional wedding venues don’t allow pets on property, but with an elopement or intimate wedding, I can easily find a spot for you that would allow your fur baby.

Make a video for your future selves

Remember in elementary school when your class made a time capsule that will probably never see the light of day? Similar idea, but this won’t be forgotten. Sit down with bae on the day of your elopement and record a video to watch together in the future. Maybe it’s about how you’re feeling that day, what you love about each other, or what your hopes are for your future.

Write one-year anniversary notes

If you’re not comfy with making a video, nothing beats a handwritten letter. Just make sure the more responsible partner is in charge of keeping them safe… You don’t want to lose these keepsakes.

Enjoy your favorite meal together

I’m a big foodie, so I love the idea of celebrating your elopement with a fun snack or meal. Pack up a homemade PB&J (are we team grape or strawberry?) or get a little boujee with a charcuterie board complete with your fave goodies. Pack it all up for an intimate picnic with your boo. I’m also always down to make a stop for McDonald’s or Taco Bell!

Get creative with your unity ceremony

There are so many unique ways you and bae can signify becoming one. Take unity shots (Illinois friends, we’re leaving the Malört AT HOME), take a Polaroid selfie you’ll have forever, or head to a tattoo parlor after saying “I do” to really seal the deal. If you come elope in Colorado, I know some amazing tattoo artists who will even come to you!

Share a first dance

Maybe this shouldn’t be on a list of non-traditional wedding ideas, but just because you’re not having a traditional wedding doesn’t mean it can’t have traditional elements. Pack up a portable speaker (or you can even use your phone) and queue up your favorite song for a memorable moment.

Customize your wedding outfits

This could be as simple as embroidery on a dress or suit, or as wild as personalizing your undies. I’ve even seen custom Vans, which are SICK.

Hire a private chef

After a long and emotional day, let someone else pamper you with a delicious meal. Private chefs are super popular with my couples staying at an Airbnb or VRBO as a unique way to end their day. If you’re interested, hit me up for my favorite recs!

Get ready together

Instead of spending the morning apart like tradition says, why not wake up and start the day together with your favorite breakfast? Share some alone time by helping each other get dressed for the day and put the finishing touches on your vows.

Do an activity you really love

This could legit be anything that makes you, you. There are so many experiences in Colorado, like white water rafting, hiking, climbing, paddle boarding, breweries, museums, concerts, skiing. It’s a long list – how much time do you have?

Explore Colorado’s hot springs

Hot springs are amazing, and everyone who makes the trip to Colorado needs to check them out ASAP. There are plenty of options across the state, so wherever you’re eloping, it won’t be difficult to find a spot. Picture it – you and bae, soaking in a relaxing hot spring, reminiscing on your beautiful elopement. A dream.

Decorate your hiking gear

If you’re picturing the getaway car that whisks couples away after their traditional wedding, that’s exactly what I’m talking about. If you and bae want to hike for your wedding, strap a “Just Married” sign on your pack and dangle some soup cans off the bottom to have some fun on your way back down the mountain.

Wear whatever you want to

This is YOUR day. If you want to be comfy, I’m here for a custom denim jacket and Vans. If glam is more your thing, I’ll help hold your train on the hike to your special spot. Give me a black dress or a red suit – I love it if you love it!