Downtown Elopement at the Denver District Court

Iryna + Artem exchanged their tear-studded ‘I do’s’ in the heart of Colorado at the Denver District Court. The two began their love story in Denver and returned to the city where they met to celebrate their union amidst the grandeur of the courthouse architecture.

Hailing from Ukraine and now calling Kansas City home, they flew back to Denver the day before their elopement. The two of them, along with two friends, reserved rooms at The Brown Palace, providing amazing hospitality for their Colorado elopement experience.

Their intimate wedding day was a testament to elegance and beauty, a celebration of love in its purest form, set against the backdrop of where their love story began.

The Elopement Planning Process

From the moment Iryna reached out shortly before their elopement day, the process was swift and easygoing. We wasted no time in getting the details set as quickly as possible, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for both of them. Even with a short time frame leading up to their special day, we were able to bring their vision to life, making their dream elopement a reality.

A Downtown Denver Elopement Day

Originally, Iryna had expressed concerns about the potential chilliness of the day, so she had requested to hold the ceremony indoors at the courthouse. However, to everyone’s delight, we were greeted with the year’s first 70+ degree day in Denver. Mama Nature seemed to be looking out for them, blessing them with exceptional weather for their ceremony.

Both Iryna + Artem looked absolutely stunning during their downtown elopement. Iryna’s shoes and the shoulder detailing on her wedding dress were just gorgeous—perfect for a sunny Colorado day. Keeping things elegant and focused, they brought along their rings, marriage license, and a chic bouquet that had traveled all the way from Kansas City. The schedule for their elopement day was intentional and relaxed, with a 4:30 PM ceremony followed by portraits. The entire experience was sweet, intimate, and filled with joy.

Their decision to hold a late afternoon ceremony turned out to be perfect. As the sun crept behind the courthouse, it cast a shadow over the steps and courtyard area, providing ideal lighting for their photos. Not only does a late afternoon ceremony provide the best lighting at this location, but it also makes for a great starting point to celebrate your elopement with an evening of festivities.

The judge officiating their ceremony went above and beyond to make their day special, demonstrating kindness and flexibility. Not only did he allow them to move their ceremony to the courthouse steps, resulting in fabulous photo opportunities, but he also provided a portable speaker with music for their ceremony. The addition of music truly enhanced the atmosphere. Furthermore, their rockstar judge came to the rescue with a pen for them to sign their marriage license and offered congratulations in their Ukrainian mother tongue—an undoubtedly meaningful gesture for Iryna + Artem.

Following their ceremony, we strolled around the courthouse property capturing wedding portraits. The location provided ample opportunities for beautiful photographs, with its giant columns, grand steps, intricately detailed doors, and cherry blossoms. With the relaxed atmosphere and the laid-back nature of Iryna + Artem, their entire elopement and portrait experience was a fun, stress-free, and memorable one.

Their two friends joined them on the courthouse steps after the elopement, equipped with bubbles and flowers, ready to celebrate with a night on the town.

A Bit About Denver District Court

The Denver District Court was the ideal setting for Iryna + Artem, and it’s easy to see why—it’s a truly beautiful building.

Constructed in the grand Classical Revival style, the courthouse boasts six majestic Corinthian columns and is adorned with stunning marble and granite details. With a combination of Colorado Yule, pink Tennessee, and Italian Botticino marble, the courthouse radiates elegance and charm.

For couples considering an elopement at the Denver District Court, I highly recommend opting for a late afternoon ceremony to take advantage of the best lighting. The courthouse’s website provides the option to contact your judge directly to schedule your elopement, and I cannot recommend the Honorable David Blackett enough. He truly went above and beyond to ensure that Iryna + Artem had a special elopement ceremony.

If you’re considering having your ceremony on the steps of the courthouse (which I highly suggest for its picturesque backdrop), be sure to mention it during the scheduling process. It’s the perfect spot for capturing timeless and enchanting elopement memories.

Things to do around Denver District Court

If you choose to elope at the Denver District Court, there are tons of activities in the area to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in spending time at the Denver Zoo or the Denver Art Museum, or grabbing a drink at Denver Union Station, there’s something for everyone. You could even celebrate with dessert at Sweet Action. Additionally, the area is home to many restaurants, chic bars, and speakeasies offering cocktails, mocktails, and small bites.

Here are a few notable spots to consider:

The Cruise Room: Steeped in history, The Cruise Room is Denver’s longest-standing bar, having opened its doors the day after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. Its retro Art Deco design and layout, reminiscent of the RMS Queen Mary, offer a unique and elegant setting to enjoy your favorite cocktails.

The Family Jones Spirit House: With a commitment to using only the finest ingredients and innovative blending techniques, The Family Jones Spirit House offers a refreshing take on classic cocktails. Be sure to experience their signature creations with a touch of boldness and creativity.

Welton Room: Located in the heart of the city, Welton Room combines the sophistication of a craft cocktail lounge with the warmth of a neighborhood hangout spot. They serve modern American small plates infused with global flavors along with expertly crafted drinks in a chic and inviting ambiance.

54thirty Rooftop: 54thirty offers an elevated dining experience situated atop Le Méridien Denver Downtown. This premier rooftop bar serves handcrafted cocktails and globally inspired bites, surrounded by breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Union Lodge No.1: A tribute to the golden age of American bars, Union Lodge No.1 feels like a step back in time. With its nostalgic charm and meticulously crafted drinks, this establishment offers a one-of-a-kind experience for cocktail enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Alternatively, you could follow in the footsteps of Iryna + Artem and opt for a unique hotel stay. The Brown Palace not only boasts a gorgeous property but also offers world-class service and amenities, including a fabulous daily Afternoon Tea.

If you find yourself stumped on what to do after your elopement, don’t worry—I’ll be there to help you brainstorm during the wedding planning process.

Planning a Courthouse Wedding

When booking any courthouse elopement, it’s essential to inquire whether your officiating judge has any special rules to be aware of—I always check in with them before the ceremony. Additionally, consider if you want to include a second nearby photo location in your elopement photos! For example, three excellent options near the Denver District Court are the Colorado State Capitol, Byron White Courthouse, and Denver Union Station. You can also consider nontraditional locations such as a rooftop parking garage for views of the Denver skyline.

Another thing to consider when planning your courthouse elopement is to make sure to plan fun activities around your elopement ceremony. Including exciting events such as a first look, brunch, or high tea before your ceremony or meeting with friends and family for a celebratory dinner afterward can complete your day!

To see another downtown Denver elopement, this time at the Byron White Courthouse, make sure to check out my other blog post.

Let’s Plan a Denver Elopement

During Iryna + Artem’s courthouse elopement, it was clear that their love story is as genuine and beautiful as they come. From their individual beginnings in Ukraine to their intimate celebration in Denver, their journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Choosing to seal their love amidst the grand architecture of the Denver District Court was a fitting tribute to where it all began.

Their intimate ceremony, filled with warmth, intentional moments, and elegance, shows that love isn’t about grand gestures or elaborate plans but about the genuine love and connection shared between two souls. If you are ready to start planning your Denver elopement, reach out, and I’ll help you create an intimate wedding day that aligns with your vision, and capture it to relive for years to come.