A Colorado summer Elopement STORY in Winter Park
Private Wedding Vows on Mountain top, followed by intimate Family Ceremony and Celebration
Who says you have to choose between a private elopement and celebrating with your loved ones? This dreamy Winter Park, Colorado elopement is proof that you can totally have both — a peaceful, just-the-two-of-you ceremony in the mountains, followed by a cozy, meaningful gathering with your closest people.
These two pulled off the best of both worlds- and it was an amazing afternoon!
Starting the Day with a Private Hike and Vows in Winter Park
The day kicked off with blue skies and sunshine — classic Colorado magic. We set out on a short hike together to a scenic private mountain area just outside Winter Park along Berthoud Pass. No one else around (Except the gigantic bumblebees….and me lol), and a killer view for some private Vows and champagne celebration!
Side Note: Why Private Elopement Ceremonies Are So Meaningful….
Choosing to start your wedding day with a private ceremony gives you space to focus on each other — no distractions, no stress, just connection. It’s a chance to ground yourselves before the party begins, and create memories that feel completely your own.
Plus, hiking to your ceremony spot adds a sense of adventure and calm you just can’t get from a traditional venue.
Later That Day: Family Celebration at VRBO in Winter Park
After their mountaintop vows and some fun portraits, we headed down (beat the rain!) towards town to their super cool VRBO with killer views and a ceremony area! There, everyeon enjoyed some tacos and snacks, and then had a really cool ceremony with their family too! (including their adorable young son!!) After the ceremony, it was the perfect afternoon of relaxed fun for all the kids to run around, drinks, PIES, Fire pit, and of course more photos ;)
How to Make Your Elopement Day the Best of Both Worlds
If you're torn between eloping and having a celebration, here's the good news: you don't have to choose. Here's how to plan an elopement that gives you everything you want:
Start with a private ceremony: Pick a location that’s meaningful to you — whether it’s a mountain overlook, a forest trail, a jeep ride to a mountain top, or a lakeside spot. This is your time to focus on just the two of you.
Meet up with loved ones afterward: Whether it’s a small dinner, a backyard reception, or a cozy venue like VRBO, your celebration can be intimate and joyful.
Include a few special touches: Bring your dog, pack a picnic, write your own vows, have family send letters to read together, or have your favorite song playing during the hike. These are the details that make it yours.
Whether it’s just the two of you or a small crew of your favorite people, Winter Park (and SO many other Elopement locations in Colorado!) makes it easy to have a day that’s both deeply personal and joyfully shared.
Looking for more Colorado Elopement location inspiration? Check out this Post HERE! then CONTACT me to start dreaming up your day!!
Until the next time- peace out, yo!
