When you think of Colorado, you think of snow capped mountains and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. You think of dense forests and crystal clear alpine lakes. But in the heart of Colorado Springs, there is a unique place that holds a sense of mystery and adventure. Garden of the Gods is a place unlike anything else in Colorado. A place that offers miles of hiking trails and stunning views of the red rocks and snowy mountain peaks. So when Maddy & David asked me to photograph their Garden of the Gods elopement, I was ecstatic!!

Getting Ready At The Air Bnb

On the day of their elopement, Maddy and David shared the three story air bnb with their closest friends and family. Everyone was rushing around getting ready and putting the final details on the decorations and their respective outfits. When I got to the house, Maddy was finishing up her hair and makeup. Her dress was hung in the dining room area in front of the beautiful glass doors. She chose to wear her cowboy boots, a unique hint at her personal style. Maddy then had her mom help her into her wedding dress.

A First Look Before Their Garden of The Gods Elopement

After stepping into her beautiful lace wedding dress, Maddy walked out to the loft area to have a first look with her sisters and other family members. There was not a dry eye around. Maddy fixed up her make up and then headed downstairs to the balcony that overlooked the mountains where she shared a first look with David. They shared a few hugs and kisses and from inside the air bnb, you could hear all their family laughing and clapping!! It was time to finally get these two married!

Garden of The Gods Elopement Ceremony

Everyone met at the parking lot at High Point Overlook. Once everyone had arrived, we all walked down a short dirt trail to their ceremony location. They chose to have a family friend officiate the ceremony which made everything so special and intimate. (check out these tips and tricks on how to create an elopement ceremony that is personal and custom to you and your partner). They both exchanged vows and wedding rings and as the sun peak through the clouds, the two were announced as “husband and wife”. It was at this moment that everyone clapped and Maddy and David shared their first kiss. As they walked down the aisle as a newly wed couple, everyone showered them with love and flower petals (check out these guidelines on how to be “Leave No Trace” conscious to help protect the wilderness areas).

Exploring the Rocks After Their Garden of The Gods Elopement

After celebrating the start of their new life together, Maddy and David gathered their family and friends to capture some family portraits to document this special day! When we were done with family pictures, all of Maddy and David’s guests returned to the air bnb to help set up for their reception. Maddy, David and I enjoyed a few hours exploring the park and relishing in those “newly wed feels”. We climbed on all the rocks and enjoyed the breathtaking views of the park.

Sunset Over The Mountains

As the sun began to set, we all made our way back over to High Point Overlook to take advantage of the burning sun. The sky was laced with purples, pinks and yellows. It truly was a magical spectacle. At this point, the sun had set and they both curled up on a rock to enjoy the last few moments of their special day. Today was the most beautiful and perfect day. Once could not have asked for a more beautiful Garden of the Gods Elopement!

Having a Colorado wedding or elopement? Let’s chat! I’d love to see if I can help you through this exciting time in your life!! Looking for more inspiration from other Garden of the Gods elopements, check out these resources.

Leah & Colin- Garden of the Gods Elopement

Mariana & Jose Garden of the Gods Engagement