LGBTQ+ Elopement in Breckenridge, Colorado

Sabrina and Ashley’s Breckenridge elopement was truly magical. It was a day filled with every weather that Colorado could muster, showcasing the unpredictable beauty of the Rocky Mountains. As their photographer, I couldn’t have been more grateful to have witnessed this incredible couple tie the knot surrounded by grand views over 11,000 feet above sea level.

A Love Story That Spans a Decade

Sabrina and Ashley are high school sweethearts whose love story spans over a decade. Growing up together and sharing life’s journey became an important part of their narrative, leading them to this significant moment. Based in Ohio, they embarked on an epic road trip to Colorado in their Jeep, bringing along their beloved pup for the adventure of a lifetime. As passionate lovers of the outdoors, Colorado proved to be the perfect setting for their elopement. With the mountains as their witness, they came to the state to create cherished memories while truly stepping into a new chapter of their lives.

The Planning Process and Choosing Where To Elope

Do you know that feeling when you meet someone, and you just click instantly? That’s exactly what happened when I connected with Ashley and Sabrina. A simple Zoom call was all it took, and the wheels were in motion for their incredible journey!

Originally, we scouted elopement locations closer to Colorado Springs. However, it was a TikTok video of Dillon Reservoir (also known as Lake Dillon) that ignited their imagination. Upon seeing the beauty of Dillon Reservoir, they knew it was the perfect starting point. 

I suggested the idea of having a two-location adventure, so we contemplated the picturesque possibilities of Boreas Pass, a favorite for fall foliage, and the serene Loveland Pass Lake as additional options. Once they laid eyes on the towering mountain vistas surrounding Loveland Pass Lake, they were irresistibly drawn to its breathtaking charm.

From Sunshine to Snowfall in Breckenridge

Colorado is renowned for its ever-changing weather, a unique feature to consider when planning an elopement in this beautiful state. I always find it essential to discuss the weather when it comes to Colorado weddings and elopements. It not only provides insights into the area’s climate but also highlights the importance of embracing every aspect of your special day.

In the case of this fall elopement, the weather was nothing short of spectacular and characteristically fickle, as one can expect in the mountainous terrain. Sabrina and Ashley’s elopement day was a breathtaking testament to nature’s whims. We experienced a delightful sequence of conditions, starting with sunshine that transitioned into a moody mist, crafting a stunning rainbow, and then returning to a sunny backdrop. The weather shuffled through those several changes but decided to gift us even more by sprinkling some snow into the mix.

Despite the ever-changing elements, Sabrina and Ashley wholeheartedly embraced the impulses of nature, and their dream wedding day vision came to life in all its extraordinary glory.

Elopement Beginnings at Dillon Reservoir

We set off on their Breckenridge elopement day, capturing stunning portraits at the tranquil Dillon Reservoir. Nestled between Dillon and Frisco, with Silverthorne just below the dam, and a short 20-minute drive to Breckenridge, this location provided a picturesque and easily accessible backdrop for their intimate celebration. With 26 miles of shoreline framed by breathtaking mountain vistas, the reservoir offers opportunities for boating, leisurely walks, biking, picnicking, and, of course, unforgettable elopements!

They both arrived looking absolutely fabulous, and, I must say, I adored Ashley’s choice of a green suit. The color was undeniably perfect for a mountain wedding. Here, in the midst of abundant sunshine, we began our day. As a moody mist rolled in, taking the sunshine with it, it gifted us with the most beautiful rainbow. This created the perfect backdrop for their portraits – a moment we had to seize. It felt as though the earth itself was acknowledging their love and welcoming them to this safe and stunning space.

After capturing some incredible shots with the rainbow backdrop, the Colorado skies decided to open up once again and bathe us in sunshine. I couldn’t have been happier with this turn of events because the aspen trees at Lake Dillon were nothing short of phenomenal. 

This Fall, the aspens peaked a bit later than usual, and Sabrina and Ashley couldn’t have timed their elopement better to take full advantage of the beauty of the season. Not only did we experience the joy of the rainbow at Lake Dillon, but the surrounding aspen trees were also boasting stunning gold foliage.

A Snowy Jaunt to Loveland Pass Lake

After capturing some stunning elopement portraits at Lake Dillon, we embarked on a brief 15-minute drive to our second location, Loveland Pass Lake, sometimes referred to as Pass Lake. During our short journey, we couldn’t help but notice the skies shifting to a serene gray, and before long, delicate snowflakes began to fall. It was the first snowfall any of us had witnessed that season, adding an extra layer of magic to the day.

Pass Lake Logistics

When planning an elopement at Loveland Pass Lake, it’s important to be careful, as there are a few vague regulations to consider. However, I always ensure that my couples have the help and guidance they need for a smooth and stress-free experience. 

In this case, I took the initiative to reach out to the National Forest Service, securing clear answers and the necessary permissions for our plans. I was delighted to receive outstanding approval, ensuring that we could proceed without any worries, knowing that we were fully compliant with the regulations.

A Snowy Ceremony + A Forever Ring Exchange

Sabrina and Ashley held their elopement ceremony at Pass Lake, and goodness, it was a sight to behold, especially with the snowfall making it feel like we’d stepped into a real-life snow globe. Amid this winter wonderland, they exchanged heartfelt, self-written vows, enveloped by the dramatic beauty of the mountains. It was truly a vision.

During their elopement ceremony, they wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of torching the wedding rule book. One of my favorite instances of this was when they decided to veer from the traditional path of a ring exchange, choosing a route that was not only extra special but also deeply meaningful. 

Given Ashley’s profession as an electrician, wearing a metal ring wasn’t an option. So, they decided to commemorate their love with matching ring finger tattoos. It was an incredibly authentic and distinctive idea that perfectly captured their essence as a couple.

Seizing Blue Hour Magic

We embraced the snow and the beautiful surroundings for more photos until daylight came to an end. As golden hour gracefully faded away, we couldn’t resist the charm of blue hour – that magical period just before sunrise and just after sunset. It’s a brief interlude when the sun has set, but the night hasn’t fully taken over, leaving the world in a captivating twilight. 

It creates an opportunity for exceptionally distinctive and fun photos, especially when you introduce additional light sources, like lanterns. And for Sabrina and Ashley, their choice was headlights! They had always envisioned capturing memories with their cherished Jeep as part of their Colorado elopement dream. As the snow fell softly during blue hour, we knew it was the perfect moment. Donned in their matching jackets, they illuminated the scene with the warm glow of the headlights, resulting in some delightful and memorable photos.

Fulfilling a Decade-Long Vision

As their Breckenridge elopement day concluded with snowy Jeep photos, I found myself reflecting on the incredible experience and privilege of capturing the union of a couple with a decade of love behind them. Sabrina and Ashley had a vision for their wedding day, and a Colorado elopement aligned flawlessly with that vision. Craving a day filled with breathtaking landscapes, heartfelt intimacy, and a dash of adventure – I believe we truly nailed it.

The Freedom of Elopement Planning

One of the many remarkable aspects of eloping is the freedom to prioritize what matters most to you and your partner, all while preserving the intimacy of your celebration. Elopement planning is an opportunity to let your imagination run wild and create a day that truly reflects your unique journey together.

Whether you envision an epic day filled with diverse locations, a snug and intimate picnic, or a moody downtown elopement, the possibilities are endless. Eloping allows you to effortlessly tailor your wedding day to align with your budget and your distinctive vision.

Crafting Your Perfect Elopement: Your Journey Begins

So, if you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable, profoundly intimate, and authentic wedding experience, an elopement might be your perfect choice. Reach out to me, and together, we’ll embark on the journey of planning your one-of-a-kind elopement day. Envision the authentic and unforgettable moments that await on your special day and leave the intricate logistics to me.

I believe that all love deserves recognition and celebration, and, as your wedding day hype woman, I’ll create an inclusive environment for you to begin your journey as your truest selves. I would be honored to capture the best day of your life.