Garden of the Gods Summer Elopement Guide

If you are dreaming about a summer elopement in Colorado, it is hard to beat Garden of the Gods. Towering red rock formations, wide open views, and that golden Colorado light make this place feel cinematic without ever feeling overdone.

This garden of the gods summer elopement guide is built to help you plan with clarity and confidence. No fluff. No guesswork. Just real advice from someone who has photographed elopements here in every season.

John and Deborah’s summer elopement is a perfect example of how magical and relaxed this place can be. They exchanged vows surrounded by red rock spires, laughed their way through portraits, and later celebrated with two close friends and their dog joining in. It was intimate, joyful, and exactly what a summer elopement should feel like.

Why summer is perfect for a Garden of the Gods elopement

Summer at Garden of the Gods means long days, warm evenings, and vibrant color everywhere you look. The reds in the rocks pop, the greens come alive, and the sky feels bigger somehow.

Here is why summer works so well here:

• Earlier sunrises and later sunsets give us flexibility

• Wild grasses and greenery soften the landscape

• Comfortable temperatures for most of the day

• Easy access for guests, friends, and pups

John and Deborah chose summer specifically because they wanted their friends and dog to be part of the experience without worrying about snow, ice, or cold weather layers. It made everything feel relaxed and playful.

If you are comparing seasons, I also break this down in more detail inside my ➜ Colorado elopement guide.

Garden of the Gods summer elopement guide: permits and rules

Garden of the Gods is a protected public park, which means elopements do require a permit.

A few key things to know:

• A special use permit is required for ceremonies

• Group sizes are limited

• Certain locations are ceremony-approved

• Decorations and arches are not allowed

This might sound restrictive, but honestly, it keeps the park beautiful and intimate. Most couples realize quickly that the landscape itself is more than enough.

I help every couple navigate permits and location choices as part of my ➜ elopement packages, so you never feel stuck figuring it out alone.

Best ceremony spots in Garden of the Gods for summer

Some locations shine more than others in summer, especially when it comes to light, crowds, and heat.

A few favorites I often recommend:

• High viewpoints with airflow and space

• Quieter formations tucked away from main paths

• Areas with balanced sun and shade

John and Deborah wanted something scenic but private, so we chose a spot that allowed them to focus fully on each other without distractions. That choice made the entire day feel intentional.

If you are still deciding on locations across the state, my ➜ best places to elope in Colorado guide is a great companion resource.

Timing your summer elopement at Garden of the Gods

Timing is everything in summer.

Here is the honest truth:

• Sunrise and early morning are the quietest

• Late afternoon can be hot and crowded

• Golden hour and sunset create incredible light

John and Deborah leaned into a later afternoon timeline, knowing we would move efficiently and intentionally. That gave them warm light, softer crowds, and a relaxed pace.

If you are planning further ahead or visiting from out of state, this planning approach is also covered inside my ➜ Colorado elopement planning resources.

What to wear for a Garden of the Gods summer elopement

Summer elopements are all about balance. You want to look amazing without overheating.

A few quick tips:

• Lightweight fabrics photograph beautifully

• Breathable suits and dresses matter more than you think

• Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable

Deborah’s dress moved effortlessly in the breeze, and John’s lighter suit choice kept things comfortable without sacrificing style.

I go deeper into this inside ➜ what to wear for your Colorado elopement.

Including friends and dogs in your elopement

One of my favorite parts of this day was how naturally it expanded.

After the ceremony and portraits, John and Deborah’s two friends and their dog joined them. No pressure. No performance. Just genuine connection.

Garden of the Gods is a great place for this kind of flexible celebration, especially in summer when access is easier and conditions are predictable.

If you are envisioning something intimate but shared, this is one of the biggest advantages of choosing this location.

Photography that feels natural and unforced

A summer elopement should feel like an experience, not a photoshoot.

My approach is calm, guided, and flexible. I help you move through the park, find the best light, and stay present the entire time.

You can explore coverage options inside my ➜ investment packages and learn how this fits into your overall plan through the ➜ Colorado elopement guide.

Is Garden of the Gods right for your summer elopement?

If you want:

• Iconic Colorado scenery

• Easy access for friends or family

• A stress-free planning experience

• A place that feels wild but approachable

Then Garden of the Gods is absolutely worth considering.

And if summer is not your season, I also share seasonal insight inside the ➜ Colorado winter elopement guide.

Final thoughts on planning a Garden of the Gods summer elopement

John and Deborah’s elopement was joyful, relaxed, and deeply personal. That is exactly what summer elopements here do best.

This garden of the gods summer elopement guide is meant to give you clarity, confidence, and excitement as you plan your own day.

If you are ready to start planning or just want to talk things through, you can ➜ reach out to me anytime. I am always happy to help you figure out what makes the most sense for you 📩