LGBTQ+ Elopements in Colorado
How to Plan an Inclusive, Intentional Day (Plus Jonathan & Jordan’s Garden of the Gods Elopement)
Colorado has been a longstanding haven for couples who want freedom, natural beauty, and authenticity on their wedding day. For LGBTQ+ couples, Colorado offers something even more powerful: a space to celebrate your love openly, safely, and in your own way. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate urban elopement in Denver (or another city) or a quiet, nature‑centered ceremony among red rocks and alpine views, Colorado is one of the best–and easiest–places in the United States to elope.
In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about planning an LGBTQ+ elopement in Colorado—from inclusive vendors and legal logistics to choosing between urban and outdoor locations. I’ll also share the real elopement story of Jonathan and Jordan, who said their wedding ceremony vows surrounded by the iconic red rock formations at Garden of the Gods.
Why Colorado Is Perfect for LGBTQ+ Elopements
Colorado consistently ranks as one of the most LGBTQ‑friendly states in the U.S., making it an ideal place to elope without compromising your comfort or safety.
A few reasons why LGBTQ couples love eloping in Colorado:
- Marriage equality has been legally protected for years
- Self‑solemnization allows couples to marry without an officiant or witnesses
- Diverse elopement locations: mountains, deserts, forests, and cities
- Strong community of LGBTQ‑affirming vendors (This should be a non-negotiable for you! Don’t settle because there are plenty of vendors in this state that want to make your wedding day dreams come true.)
Whether you’re envisioning a non-traditional or not gender-specific wedding outfit, writing deeply personal vows, or skipping traditions altogether, Colorado gives you the freedom to do just about whatever you want on your elopement day.
Planning an LGBTQ+ Elopement in Colorado
Elopement planning can feel overwhelming—especially if you don’t see yourself reflected in traditional wedding content online. The good news? Eloping allows you to rewrite the rules completely.
Choose a Location That Feels Like You
One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether you want a city elopement or a nature elopement—or a blend of both, which is totally doable in front range cities like Colorado Springs or Denver. I will definitely be here to help you through the process of choosing a location that resonates.
City LGBTQ Elopements in Colorado
Urban elopements are perfect for couples who love architecture, walkable neighborhoods, or modern aesthetics and, to put it frankly, vibes. Urban elopements offer easier accessibility for guests, lots of things to do and places to eat and stay nearby, and a more polished or editorial feel.
Popular urban elopement locations:
- Denver (RiNo, Capitol Hill, Byron White Courthouse, downtown rooftops)
- Boulder (Pearl Street, courthouse elopements)
- Colorado Springs (historic downtown area)
They’re especially great for couples who want a low‑stress, stylish LGBTQ elopement with celebratory drinks afterward…or before the ceremony for a bit of liquid courage.
Nature‑Based LGBTQ Elopements in Colorado
If wide‑open landscapes and quiet moments feel more aligned, Colorado’s outdoor locations are unmatched.
Popular nature elopement spots:
- Garden of the Gods
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Summit & Park Counties
- San Juan Mountains
Nature elopements are ideal for couples who want:
- A deeply intimate ceremony
- Epic scenery with a small guest list (I only take 12 or less people into most nature locations)
- A sense of grounding and connection
- Photos that feel timeless and expansive
The key to planning your LGBTQ elopement is choosing a location that feels safe, affirming, and aligned with your comfort level. The easier the location is to access, the more people we’re likely to see.
Find LGBTQ‑Affirming Colorado Elopement Vendors
One of the most important parts of planning an LGBTQ elopement is surrounding yourself with vendors who actively affirm and celebrate queer love. We want you to feel safe, comfortable and relaxed on your wedding day.
When searching for elopement vendors, look for:
- Explicit LGBTQ+ inclusion on their website
- Real same‑sex or queer couples in their portfolio
- Gender‑neutral language in contracts and communication
- Experience navigating permits and elopements
Your photographer (that’s me!) often plays a huge role—not just documenting your day, but helping you plan timelines, locations, and logistics in a way that feels supportive and stress‑free. Other vendors you might want to consider for your elopement could include florists, picnic vendors, a baker, an officiant (totally not necessary) or a personal chef.
Understand Colorado Elopement Laws
One of the biggest reasons couples choose Colorado is its self‑solemnization law.
In Colorado, you can marry yourselves without an officiant and sign your own marriage license with or without witnesses—that’s up to you! Basically the only two people that must be present for this event are you and your partner. This is especially meaningful for LGBTQ couples who want a private ceremony without external pressure or outdated traditions.
Jordan + Jonathan’s Red Rocks Elopement
Jordan + Jonathan knew they didn’t want a traditional wedding. What they wanted instead was something intentional, quiet, and rooted in nature—without sacrificing the emotional weight of the moment.
Before heading to their elopement spot, Jonathan and Jordan made a stop that felt unmistakably them. Tucked into Colorado Springs, Ivywild School—a former elementary school transformed into a vibrant marketplace—offered the perfect pause to settle their thoughts. Inside, they slipped into The Principal’s Office, a cozy bar filled with character, where they shared drinks and a few deep breaths together. It wasn’t about nerves as much as grounding—laughing, clinking glasses, and letting the weight of the moment settle in. That brief stop for liquid courage became one of the most memorable parts of the day: a reminder that their elopement didn’t need to be rushed or rigid or even follow a timeline. It could unfold slowly, intentionally, and with space for joy before the vows that would change everything.
Jordan + Jonathan chose a popular elopement spot in Colorado Springs for its dramatic red rock formations and accessibility. Nestled among the foothills, this location offers sweeping views of Pikes Peak and towering sandstone spires, all without a long hike—unless that’s what you want, of course.
On the afternoon of their October elopement, the park was calm and sunny, with golden light spilling across the rocks. Jonathan and Jordan exchanged vows tucked away from the main trails, allowing them to be fully present with one another and not get distracted by onlookers.
Before the ceremony began, they took a moment to help each other put on matching leather bracelets. The bracelets had survived a house fire, making them a deeply meaningful symbol of everything they’ve already overcome—and everything they’ll face side by side. Their ceremony was simple and quiet. I usually stand back quite a ways during elopement ceremonies so they can say whatever they want without feeling uncomfortable. The moment felt so peaceful. No rigid timeline. No expectations. Just two people promising their lives to each other in a place that felt grounding and expansive all at once.
Afterward, we wandered the trails, as they laughed, held hands and took in the amazing views—letting the day unfold naturally. Their elopement wasn’t about performance. It was about connection.
Ready to Plan Your Colorado LGBTQ Elopement?
Whether you’re dreaming of a city elopement in Denver or a nature‑filled ceremony, your wedding day should feel affirming, intentional, and true to your relationship.
Eloping in Colorado gives you the freedom to create a day that celebrates your love exactly as it is—without compromise.
If you’re ready to start planning, working with an experienced LGBTQ‑affirming elopement photographer can make all the difference.
Inquire with Taylor Hassebroek Photo
