What You Need to Elope in Colorado

If you’re getting married out here, part of the planning process should be making sure you have everything you need to elope in Colorado.

Lucky for you, it’s not a very long list! If you’re not sure what you need to elope in Colorado, I’m here for you. I take on the planning for all my couples, so I’m a pro at this point.

The Only Things You Need to Elope in Colorado

Marriage license

The most important thing you need to elope in Colorado is a marriage license. It’s required for any kind of marriage ceremony, even an elopement. Most counties will let you complete part of the process online, but when you schedule your trip out to Colorado, make sure you include time to visit a County Clerk’s office. You can find specific details here, but here’s the TLDR: Schedule your appointment, show up with bae to pick up the license (bring your IDs and $30), sign it after you say “I do,” and drop it off or mail it back to the county you got it from.

A location

It can be overwhelming to pick an elopement spot. Some are completely free, while others you have to reserve and pay for. I’ve also had more and more couples decide to use a VRBO as their elopement location! Wherever you choose, make sure you do your research so you’re prepared when you get there. If you’re not sure where to start, check out my fave free Colorado elopement locations. There’s even more ideas in my free guide to eloping in Colorado.

That’s it besties!

Eloping in Colorado is SO easy. It can be as simple as finding a spot and signing your license. If you want an elopement day that is a little more elaborate, here are some optional things you may want to elope in Colorado.

Optional Things You Need to Elope in Colorado

Photographer

To remember your elopement day forever, I HIGHLY suggest hiring a photographer. You’ll want photos to look back on, and if you’re eloping alone, photos are a great way to share special moments with your family.

Officiant

Yep, hiring an officiant for your elopement in Colorado is completely optional. We have something called self-solemnization, which means you can marry yourself without an officiant or witnesses. I’ve had a lot of couples still choose to hire an officiant though. They can help make the day run smoother and take some of the pressure off you and bae.

Other vendors

I have couples that decide to do a totally DIY elopement, BUT the majority are hiring at least two or three other vendors to create their perfect Colorado elopement. Whatever you choose – florists, hair and makeup, sweet treats, or rentals – just don’t wait too long to book. Need some recs? Check out my list of favorite vendors.

Family

Your wedding day can look however you want it to. That includes how much or how little you decide to include your family and loved ones, if at all. Only you and bae can make those decisions. When my couples work out how to elope with family, some have asked them be part of getting ready, and others choose to celebrate with an intimate dinner. More ideas on how to elope with family here.

Fur babies

I always encourage my couples to bring their doggos if it’s a priority to include them. Your pet can even make it official for you and bae by signing your marriage license! Only certain counties allow it though, so if this is important to you, do NOT get your marriage license from Arapahoe or Denver county. Anywhere else and you’ll be fine!

More resources for planning your elopement on my blog.