Some days just stick with you, not because everything went exactly as planned, but because of the way they felt. This Telluride elopement was one of those.
When these two first reached out, they knew Colorado was where they wanted to elope, but hadn’t pinned down the exact spot. Then they stumbled across a photo of Telluride, and that was it. The mountains, the waterfall, the charm of the little downtown, it all just felt right. Colorado already had a chapter in their love story; years ago, they road-tripped through the state, and somewhere between the winding roads and the kind of sunsets that make you pull over just to stare, they realized this was the real thing. Aspen was their first stop back then, but this time, Telluride would be where they made it official.
Why a Telluride elopement?
Telluride has a way of sticking with you. Tucked into a box canyon and surrounded by the jagged San Juan peaks, it’s all waterfalls tumbling down cliffs, alpine air, and a downtown that feels like it’s from another time. And then there’s Colorado’s only free gondola, a ride I could honestly take over and over again (and, not going to lie, I pretty much did).When we started dreaming up their Telluride elopement, they knew they wanted mountain views and a short hike. I walked them through a few options, and we landed on Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall and one of the most jaw-dropping spots in the state! When they saw it for the first time, they just paused, looked at each other, and took a quiet minute to really take it in.
Building an Intentional Elopement
From the beginning, the goal was simple, make the day feel like them. That’s my favorite thing about elopements, you can skip the rulebook and create something that actually fits who you are, start to finish.
When I’m helping couples plan, I’m not just rattling off location names. I want to know:
- Are you picturing mountains, forests, deserts, or waterfalls?
- Do you want a little challenge with a hike, or something you can walk right up to?
- Is it just you two, or are you bringing a few people along?
- And what’s the vibe, laid-back and quiet, or full of movement and energy?
Once we’ve got a feel for what you want, I’ll handle the logistics, permits, timelines, and yes, even walking you through signing your marriage license (because that’s part of the story, too, and it’s SO fun!).For these two, it was a mix of exploring and slowing down, hiking to Bridal Veil Falls, soaking in the views, and giving themselves room to actually enjoy the day instead of rushing through it.
Destiny + Isaac’s Telluride Elopement Story
The morning of their Telluride elopement felt like a reset after the chaos of travel, lost luggage, delayed flights, the whole nine yards. By the time we met, all that stress had faded, and the day felt calm.
We kicked off the day with a short hike up to Bridal Veil Falls. The wind picked up, tossing mist from the waterfall around us, and they just kept grinning at each other like the whole world had disappeared. Seeing them like that honestly made me grin too, it was one of those moments that fills you with pure happiness just being there. After the hike, they pulled out letters from friends and family. Reading those genuine, heartfelt words made the moment feel even more real and grounded. I remember thinking, this right here, that connection, that love, is exactly why I love what I do.
From there, we wandered into downtown for a picnic. Walking through Telluride in wedding clothes meant getting nonstop “Congratulations!” from strangers, which honestly made me smile just as much as it did them. At one point, a random guy even asked if they wanted to take pictures in his jeep! They grabbed Chicago-style hot dogs as a cheeky nod to their Midwest roots, explored the side streets, and fully soaked up that charming small-town mountain vibe.
We wrapped up the day with a gondola ride, which is hands down my favorite part of Telluride. Floating above the valley with peaks stretching in every direction felt almost surreal. Having the whole thing to ourselves made it even better. We took our time, laughed way more than we probably should have, and honestly, I could’ve stayed on that gondola all afternoon, no complaints here!
The Day Felt Effortless
They kept talking about how easy the whole day felt, no rushing, no weird pressure, just letting things unfold naturally. If they wanted to stay in a moment, we did. If I suggested a new spot or tweak in timing, they were totally up for it. That kind of trust makes everything flow.
As a Colorado elopement photographer, that’s exactly what I love to see. The best elopements aren’t about squeezing in a hundred things; they’re about choosing the moments that matter most. For them, it was the awe of seeing Bridal Veil Falls for the first time, a laid-back gondola ride with the valley stretched out below, and quiet pockets to just take it all in. Every choice felt intentional, and that’s what made the day so good.
What to Know If You’re Planning a Telluride Elopement
This day wasn’t just beautiful, it was a great example of how a little intention can make space for the kind of moments you actually want to remember.. If you’re dreaming of a Telluride elopement, here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Find a Location That Feels Like You
Whether it’s a waterfall hike like Bridal Veil Falls, a quiet alpine lake, or an overlook you can drive right up to, the right spot should feel personal. Telluride has a range of options, from adventurous trails to easy-access views that still pack a punch.
2. Build a Flexible Timeline
Weather, lighting, and energy all play a role. I like to keep timelines loose enough that you can linger where it feels right, but structured enough that we catch the best light (golden hour here is unreal).
3. Layer Your Outfits
The mountains have a mind of their own when it comes to weather. Bring a jacket or wrap you love, wear comfortable shoes for any hiking, and choose fabrics that move well in the wind.
4. Make Space for Connection
Reading letters from loved ones, sharing a picnic, or even grabbing a hot dog together, these are the little things that make your day unforgettable.
“I would give Rachel more than 5 stars if possible! Highly recommend and would totally work with her again! She does it all- help choosing an elopement destination, researching permits & marriage license requirements, vendor recommendations, connecting with vendors, scoping out amazing spots, helping to develop a schedule for the day, offering to help with whatever else is needed and ordaining. We eloped alone and she helped me with getting into my dress, helping with a stain, bringing additional items (Bobbi pins, safety pins, bug spray, picnic basket, etc) and helped to carry our extra items while we hiked. She genuinely wants to get to know you as individuals and as a couple. Rachel is so kind, personable, organized, knowledgeable and prompt. Rachel does so much more than take beautiful pictures- she ensures your day is everything you envision! If you’re looking for elopement photos, you need to reach out to her asap!”
Ready to Plan Your Telluride Elopement?
If you’re dreaming of a Telluride elopement that’s equal parts adventure, intention, and heart, I’m all in. I’ll help you find the spot that feels just right, walk you through permits and timelines, and take care of all those little in-between details so you can just show up and enjoy it. Think of me as your built-in guide, cheerleader, and photographer, making sure the whole experience feels just as good as the views look.
Let’s create your day. Reach out here to start planning!
Want to save this inspo? Follow along on Pinterest!
If you’re planning a Colorado elopement check out my blogs, The Best Time to Elope in Colorado: A Seasonal Guide for Adventurous Couples, The 6 Best Colorado Elopement Locations, 5 Reasons to Elope with a Travel Elopement Photographer, and Elopement Outfits for Adventurous Couples
Vendors
Videographer: @jbrooks_films
Cake: Fig & Bloom Cakes
Florals: Flowers by Ella
Make-up: Donna Pace- Telluride Beauty Co.
Hair: Linda Peterson
