Columbine Lake Elopement

Sydney and Spencer wanted a Colorado elopement that gave them plenty of time alone in the mountains, while still having their families there to celebrate with them. So we split their day into two very different parts.

We started before sunrise with a hike up to Columbine Lake outside of Ouray. The early morning light, calm water, and mountain reflections made the perfect backdrop as they explored around the lake.

Once we reached the lake, Sydney changed into her wedding dress and finished getting ready with the hair and makeup artist they booked through their Colorado elopement package. Spencer got his first look at her surrounded by the mountains, and they shared private vows before we spent some time exploring the area. This is one of the things I love about a hiking elopement. The hike isn’t just transportation to your ceremony. It’s part of the wedding day.

After hiking back down, we met their families at Molas Campground for a family ceremony. Their families shared some really meaningful words, giving them a completely different kind of moment after their quiet morning in the mountains. It ended up being the best of both worlds: a private sunrise adventure for the two of them, followed by a meaningful celebration with the people they love.

If you’re considering your own San Juan Mountains elopement, Sydney and Spencer’s day is a pretty damn good example of how much you can fit into one wedding without making it feel like a traditional wedding day.