Elopement Packing List

Eloping in Colorado offers an unforgettable blend of stunning landscapes and adventurous activities. From the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the tranquil alpine lakes and vibrant fall foliage, Colorado provides a breathtaking backdrop for your special day. However, to ensure that your elopement is as magical and stress-free as possible, it's essential to be well-prepared with the right gear.

This comprehensive packing list will guide you through everything you need to bring, tailored to different seasons and activities, along with tips to enhance your elopement experience and create beautiful, meaningful memories. Whether you're hiking to a secluded spot or embracing the winter wonderland, this guide will help you pack efficiently and thoughtfully. If you’re going through this list and wondering how you can make this elopement dream a reality, reach out to us using the contact form below! As a Colorado elopement videographer and Colorado elopement photographer, we’ve done this for nearly a decade and can help walk you through every stage of this process, making it stress free and fun :-)

But enough about us, here’s what you should bring for your elopement day!

General Essentials

1. Documentation

   • Marriage License: One of the most critical items. In Colorado, you can obtain your marriage license from any county clerk's office. There’s no waiting period, and it’s valid immediately, making it convenient for last-minute plans.

   • IDs and Necessary Permits: Ensure you have your identification and any required permits for your chosen location. Permits are often needed for elopements in national and state parks.

2. Clothing and Footwear

   • Wedding Attire: Your dress, suit, or chosen outfit is the centerpiece of your elopement. Ensure it’s suitable for the terrain and weather. Lightweight fabrics are ideal for summer, while layered outfits are better for cooler seasons.

   • Comfortable Shoes: Depending on your elopement location, you might need sturdy hiking boots for rugged trails or comfortable but stylish shoes for a more formal setting. Breaking in new shoes before the big day can prevent discomfort.

   • Layered Clothing: Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Bringing layers allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day. Think jackets, sweaters, and even thermal wear for colder months.

3. Personal Items

   • Toiletries and Makeup: Pack your everyday toiletries and any makeup you plan to wear. Consider long-lasting and weather-resistant makeup to stay fresh throughout the day.

   • Accessories: Don’t forget jewelry, hairpieces, and other accessories that complete your look. Items like hairpins, cufflinks, and belts are easy to overlook but essential.

   • Health and Safety Items: A small first aid kit, any necessary medications, and emergency contact information are crucial. It’s better to be prepared for minor injuries or unexpected health issues.

Seasonal Packing Lists

1. Spring

   • Light Layers: Spring in Colorado can be mild but variable. Bring jackets and sweaters for warmth during chilly mornings and evenings. Layering is key to staying comfortable.

   • Rain Gear: Spring showers can happen at higher elevations, so pack an umbrella, waterproof shoes, and a rain jacket. Staying dry will keep your spirits high and your attire pristine.

   • Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun as spring days can be bright and UV rays strong, especially at higher altitudes.

   Summer

   • Breathable Clothing: Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics to stay cool. Moisture-wicking materials can help keep you comfortable during outdoor activities.

   • Sun Protection: Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential for sunny days. The high elevation means stronger UV exposure, so reapply sunscreen regularly.

   • Hydration Packs: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re hiking. Bring hydration packs or plenty of water bottles to keep you refreshed throughout the day.

   Fall

   • Warm Layers: Fall can be cool, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Pack scarves, gloves, and hats to stay warm while enjoying the crisp autumn air.

   • Fall Foliage Accessories: Incorporate blankets and props that complement the beautiful fall colors. These can add a cozy touch to your photos and provide warmth.

   • Hiking Boots: Comfortable and sturdy boots are a must for navigating trails and uneven terrain. Ensure they are broken in to avoid blisters.

Winter

• Heavy Coats and Thermal Layers: Dressing warmly is essential to stay comfortable in the snowy conditions. Thermal layers, wool socks, and insulated jackets are a must.

• Snow Gear: Waterproof boots, gloves, and hats are necessary to keep you dry and warm. Consider bringing extra pairs in case they get wet.

• Hand Warmers and Hot Beverages: Pack hand warmers and a thermos with hot drinks to keep warm during outdoor activities. These small comforts can make a big difference.

Activity-Specific Items

We’re big fans of tailoring your adventure elopement experience around activities that you enjoy doing. If you love hiking, biking, skiing, cooking, swimming, kayaking, etc. than we encourage you to do one of those activities on your special day to make it even more special. These are just a few examples of activities and things you may need for them…

1. Hiking Elopements

   • Sturdy Hiking Boots: Essential for navigating rocky and uneven trails. Ensure they are well-broken-in to prevent blisters.

   • Trekking Poles: Helpful for balance and support on steep or uneven terrain. They can also reduce strain on your legs and joints.

   • Lightweight Backpack: Carry essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, and a first aid kit. Look for a comfortable and supportive design to avoid discomfort.

2. Skiing/Snowboarding Elopements

   • Skis or Snowboard: Bring your own gear or rent it from a local shop. Ensure it’s suited to your skill level and the conditions.

   • Proper Ski Attire: Jackets, pants, helmets, and goggles are necessary for safety and comfort. Layering is key to regulating body temperature.

   • Lift Passes: Make sure you have your lift passes and any necessary reservations in advance to avoid delays.

3. Rafting/Water-Based Elopements

   • Wetsuits: Essential for staying warm in the chilly waters. A properly fitted wetsuit will allow you to move freely and stay comfortable.

   • Water Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and other underwater hazards. Choose shoes with good grip and drainage.

   • Towels and Dry Bags: Bring plenty of towels for drying off and dry bags to keep your belongings safe and dry. These are essential for comfort and convenience.

General Tips for a Beautiful Elopement Experience

1. Stay Comfortable

   • Comfort is key to enjoying your elopement. Choose attire and footwear that allow you to move freely and feel at ease. Remember that your comfort will be reflected in your photos and videos, so prioritize items that let you relax and enjoy the moment.

2. Embrace the Environment

   • Incorporate natural elements into your elopement. Use local flowers, foliage, and the landscape to enhance the beauty of your day. These natural touches not only add to the aesthetic but also create a deeper connection to your surroundings.

   • Utilize the stunning landscapes for a magical backdrop. Whether it’s the mountains, lakes, or forests, let the natural beauty of Colorado shine through in your photos and videos.

3. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

   • Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan for different weather scenarios, such as an indoor venue option or flexible scheduling to accommodate sudden changes.

   • Pack extra essentials like umbrellas, blankets, and warm layers. Being prepared for all eventualities will help keep stress at bay and allow you to focus on enjoying your day.

Miscellaneous Items for Fun and Meaningful Photos and Videos

1. Personal Touches

   • Family Heirlooms or Sentimental Items: Including items that have personal significance, such as family jewelry or a special keepsake, can add emotional depth to your elopement.

   • Personalized Vows and Vow Books: Write your vows on beautiful paper or in a special book for a keepsake. These can be cherished mementos and add a personal touch to your ceremony.

2. Special Elements

   • Props Related to Hobbies: Bring items that reflect your interests, such as ski poles, climbing gear, or musical instruments. These props can make your photos and videos more personal and fun.

   • Fun Accessories: Hats, scarves, or unique blankets can add character to your photos. These items can also provide comfort and warmth during your adventure.

Detailed Packing Checklists

1. Checklist (Version 1)

   • Wedding Dress: Ensure it’s suitable for the location and weather.

   • Shoes: Comfortable and suitable for the terrain.

   • Accessories: Jewelry, hairpieces, veil, and other accessories.

   • Makeup and Touch-Up Kit: Long-lasting and weather-resistant makeup.

   • Personal Items: Perfume, mirror, and any other personal essentials.

2. Checklist (Version 2)

   • Suit: Choose a suit that is comfortable and appropriate for the weather.

   • Shoes: Comfortable and suitable for the terrain.

   • Accessories: Watch, cufflinks, tie, and other accessories.

   • Grooming Kit: Include items for touch-ups throughout the day.

   • Personal Items: Cologne, mirror, and any other personal essentials.

3. General Essentials Checklist

   • Snacks and Water: Stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.

   • Phones and Chargers: Essential for communication and capturing moments.

   • Maps and Itinerary: Keep track of locations and schedule.

   • Emergency Contact Information: Important in case of any unexpected situations.

Eloping in Colorado is a magical experience, filled with stunning landscapes and endless possibilities for adventure. By following this comprehensive packing list and tips, you can ensure your special day is everything you've dreamed of. Remember to stay flexible, embrace the moment, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty around you. If you found these tips helpful, feel free to reach out for more information or to connect about how to elope in Colorado…

Need a Colorado elopement planner, photographer and videographer? Hit us up!

We’re here to support you in your journey. Whether it’s just the two of you eloping at the top of the run or with your family out on a backcountry skiing elopement experience, we’re here to help make it happen. To provide truly authentic experiences and the highest quality elopement films, we only accept a very limited number of intimate weddings and elopements each year.

THIS ISN’T JUST AN CONTACT FORM, IT’S THE POTENTIAL START TO AN AWESOME FRIENDSHIP.

For that reason, we read every inquiry and respond within 24-48 hours to get started as soon as possible on making your dream skiing elopement a reality. The more information you give us here provides us with an opportunity to craft a more meaningful film, personalized experience, and overall awesome relationship with you and your partner :)

The Entire Checklist That You Can Copy and Paste:

General Essentials

• Marriage License

• IDs and Necessary Permits

• Wedding Attire (Dress/Suit)

• Comfortable Shoes

• Layered Clothing

• Toiletries and Makeup

• Accessories (Jewelry, Hairpieces)

• Health and Safety Items (Medications, First Aid Kit)

Spring Packing List

• Light Layers (Jackets, Sweaters)

• Rain Gear (Umbrella, Waterproof Shoes)

• Sunglasses and Sunscreen

Summer Packing List

• Breathable Clothing

• Sun Protection (Hats, Sunscreen, Sunglasses)

• Hydration Packs

Fall Packing List

• Warm Layers (Scarves, Gloves, Hats)

• Fall Foliage Accessories (Blankets, Props)

• Hiking Boots

Winter Packing List

• Heavy Coats and Thermal Layers

• Snow Gear (Boots, Gloves, Hats)

• Hand Warmers and Hot Beverages

Hiking Elopement Items

• Sturdy Hiking Boots

• Trekking Poles

• Lightweight Backpack

Skiing/Snowboarding Elopement Items

• Skis or Snowboard

• Proper Ski Attire (Jackets, Pants, Helmets)

• Lift Passes

Water-Based Elopement Items

• Wetsuits

• Water Shoes

• Towels and Dry Bags

Fun and Meaningful Photo/Video Items

• Family Heirlooms or Sentimental Items

• Personalized Vows (Vow Books)

• Props Related to Hobbies (Musical instruments, journals, yoga mats)

• Fun Accessories (Hats, Scarves, Blankets)

Wedding Dress Checklist

• Wedding Dress

• Shoes

• Accessories (Jewelry, Hairpieces, Veil)

• Makeup and Touch-Up Kit

• Personal Items (Perfume, Mirror)

Wedding Suit Checklist

• Suit

• Shoes

• Accessories (Watch, Cufflinks, Tie)

• Grooming Kit

• Personal Items (Cologne, Mirror)

General Essentials Checklist

• Snacks and Water

• Phones and Chargers

• Maps and Itinerary

• Emergency Contact Information