When Brianna and Mike told me about their elopement plans, I just couldn’t wait to capture their big day! This couple was all about that “just us” experience and they both LOVE going off the beaten path for their adventures – my kind of people! The couple stayed in The Silver Lake Lodge, Colorado, a remote lodge near Saint Mary’s glacier, which is where they got ready, had their first look and cozy post elopement celebration. For their mountain-view elopement ceremony and adventurous pics, we headed over to a secret location near Idaho Springs.

It was a day full of love, excitement and adventure and it was really one for the books!

Getting Ready at the Silver Lake Lodge Colorado

Brianna and Mike had planned a whole road trip for their elopement. Their actual elopement day was just a pit stop in a much bigger adventure as they explored other parts of the West. Upon arriving in Colorado, they settled down in the lodge a bit early the night before their elopement day. This is always a good idea, to make sure you avoid unnecessary stresser and delays, especially if you are traveling from other areas.

The following morning, the two of them got ready in separate areas of the lodge. They wanted to share a sweet, emotional first look on the balcony of the lodge.

Brianna chose an absolutely stunning dress! It was a masterpiece with 30 buttons on the bustle, which took us a good half hour to button up. One thing you must know about me as your Colorado elopement photographer – I will be your right hand gal’ throughout the day! I come prepared and after all these years, I’m an expert at buttoning dresses (and many more things, of course!)

The First Look at the Silver Lake Lodge Colorado

Once we got Brianna’s dress all buttoned up, she was ready to head out and meet Mike on the balcony. The Silver Lake Lodge had the most incredible mountain views for this moment! But as breathtaking as the views were, nothing compared to the moment when Mike turned around and saw his beautiful bride in that gorgeous dress.

We took some photos on the balcony, and then decided to go in for a moment. The couple wanted to capture some moments in the rustic lodge. The photos came out beautiful and so cozy! I loved the rustic stone fireplace and all the wooden walls, ceilings and floors. It was such a beautiful setting for their big day.

The Ceremony at a Secret Location

For their elopement ceremony, I took Brianna and Mike to a secret, off the beaten path location, so they could truly enjoy a private, intimate elopement experience. The spot was about an hour’s drive away from Denver, and had a stunning scenery of mountains and green forests below. Here you’ll also find a plethora of lodging options, as well as a handful of backup locations in case this spot gets busy or the weather changes. I also definitely recommend bringing layers, because it can get cold and windy in this part of Colorado.

Often times, couples find that the best places to elope in Colorado are the little less known locations. I have a list full of epic locations for those bold and adventurous couples to explore. So if you are looking for something more; or maybe something a little different, please reach out to me here!

After they exchanged their vows and signed the marriage license, we stayed there a little while longer to capture their adventure elopement photos. We finished the day with them popping a bottle of bubbly. We made our way down the mountain back to the parking area before going our separate ways. They returned to the cozy mountain lodge to celebrate their marriage before they continuing on with their road trip out west

I absolutely loved capturing Mike & Brianna’s elopement day. Their love was contagious! And their photos are filled with raw, candid emotion in a beautiful Colorado setting.

Planning an Adventure Elopement in Colorado?

If you’re planning an adventure elopement in Colorado or want a Silver Lake Lodge Colorado elopement like Brianna and Mike, or anywhere else, I’d love to be there to capture your big day and help you celebrate your love your way. Just contact me here! I’d LOVE to meet you!

And if you’re looking for more resources on how to elope, Colorado elopement planning guides and inspiration, check out the rest of my blog!

Thank you to: Weddings by Dan and Colorado Microweddings who helped to make this day happen.