How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Colorado?
- Bobak Radbin
- Feb 22
- 4 min read
If you are wondering how much does it cost to elope in colorado, the honest answer is this:
It depends on the experience you want.
When couples ask how much does it cost to elope in Colorado, what they are really asking is what kind of experience they want.
Let’s break it down clearly so you can plan with confidence.
The Average Cost to Elope in Colorado
Most couples spend anywhere between $2,000 and $15,000 on their Colorado elopement.
Here is what typically makes up that number:
Photography
Permit fees
Officiant
Florals
Hair and makeup
Travel and lodging
Optional extras like videography or private dinners
If you keep it simple, you can elope for under $3,000.
If you want a fully curated mountain experience with multiple vendors, it can land closer to $10,000 to $15,000.
Neither is right or wrong. It just depends on your priorities.
Colorado Elopement Photography Cost
Photography is usually the largest investment.
Most experienced Colorado elopement photographers range from:
$3,500 to $8,000 for half day or full day coverage
That often includes:
Planning assistance
Timeline creation
Location guidance
Permit help
Edited high resolution images
If you are looking at options, you can see my full Colorado Elopement Packages for a transparent breakdown.
Good photography is not just coverage. It is guidance.
Permit Fees and Rules for Eloping in Colorado
Permit rules in Colorado depend entirely on where you choose to elope. Some locations are free and first come, first served. Others require a Special Use Permit and have specific ceremony guidelines.
City Parks
Some popular spots, like Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, allow wedding ceremonies at no cost. They are first come, first served and must follow park rules. That means no large setups, no blocking trails, and keeping things simple.
National Parks
National Parks require a Special Use Permit for ceremonies.
For example:
Rocky Mountain National Park requires a permit with a $300 application fee and designated ceremony locations.
Great Sand Dunes National Park requires a permit with a $200 administrative fee and has specific ceremony areas.
National Parks also have group size limits and seasonal access rules.
State Parks and Other Public Land
Colorado State Parks and other managed lands may require a permit depending on group size and whether vendors are involved. Each location has its own rules, so it is important to check before choosing your date.
The Simple Way to Think About It
Before you lock anything in, ask:
Who manages this land
Is a ceremony permit required
Are there group size or setup restrictions
Once you choose the right location, the rest becomes much easier to plan.
Marriage License Cost
A Colorado marriage license typically costs around $30 and can be obtained at any county clerk’s office. No officiant is legally required due to Colorado’s self-solemnization laws.
That makes the post feel complete.
Travel and Lodging Costs
Many of my couples travel from out of state.
Typical costs include:
Flights: $300 to $800 per person
Airbnb or hotel: $200 to $600 per night depending on season
Rental car if needed
Mountain towns like Breckenridge or Estes Park cost more during peak seasons.
If you are traveling in, you may find my guide helpful:
Optional Vendor Costs
Not every elopement needs vendors beyond photography. But here is what couples often include:
Officiant: $300 to $800
Florals: $200 to $1,000
Hair and makeup: $250 to $600
Videography: $2,000 to $6,000
Some couples also plan a private dinner afterward or book a scenic Airbnb.
If you are still deciding on locations, this guide may help:
A Realistic Example Budget
Here is a simple mid range example:
Photography: $5,000
Permit: $300
Florals: $500
Hair and makeup: $400
Lodging for 2 nights: $800
Travel: $1,000
Estimated total: $8,000
That gives you a full experience without the pressure of a traditional wedding.
Is Eloping in Colorado Cheaper Than a Traditional Wedding?
Yes.
The average traditional U.S. wedding now exceeds $30,000.
Eloping in Colorado allows you to:
Invest in experience instead of guest count
Spend intentionally
Focus on the two of you
Many couples choose elopements because they want something meaningful and low stress.
If you are still deciding between wedding sizes, you may find my Wedding Planning Guide helpful.
What Impacts the Cost the Most?
The biggest cost factors are:
Location
Season
Vendor team size
Photography coverage hours
A sunrise elopement at Garden of the Gods is very different from a winter alpine ceremony in Breckenridge.
Experience changes price.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping in Colorado
Can you legally marry yourselves in Colorado?
Yes. Colorado allows self solemnization. That means you do not legally need an officiant.
What is the cheapest way to elope in Colorado?
Pick a location without a permit requirement, limit vendors, and keep it simple. You can realistically elope for under $3,000.
What is the best month to elope in Colorado?
June through October offers the most accessibility. Winter elopements are beautiful but require more flexibility.
You can also explore real stories on my blog for inspiration, including:
Final Thoughts
So how much does it cost to elope in Colorado?
It costs whatever aligns with your vision.
You can keep it simple and intentional.
Or you can create a fully curated mountain experience.
Either way, Colorado gives you one of the most stunning backdrops in the country.
If you are planning and want help building a realistic budget and timeline, you can reach out to me directly through my contact page.
If you want help building a realistic elopement budget and choosing the right location for your vision, reach out through my contact page. I’ll help you plan it clearly from the beginning. 📩
