Sunrise Poudre Canyon Elopement | Derek & Jess

Some love stories take years to plan, but Derek and Jess’s Poudre Canyon elopement came together in just three weeks—and it couldn’t have been more perfect. No venue search, no strict schedule, no expectations. Just two people ready to start forever in their own way: simple, meaningful, and surrounded by the quiet beauty of Colorado’s mountains.

The morning of their elopement, Poudre Canyon was still and peaceful. The river moved slowly beside them, deer wandered along the banks, and the only other souls around were a couple of early-morning fly fishers casting in the soft light. Derek and Jess arrived just before sunrise and walked hand in hand to their ceremony spot—a small, secluded clearing by the water that felt like it had been waiting just for them.

Their officiant and friend led the ceremony as the first blush of alpenglow spread across the canyon walls. That pink, golden light wrapped around them as they shared vows, exchanged rings, and signed their marriage license on a flat rock beside the river. It was quiet, intentional, and filled with that kind of magic you can’t plan—it just happens.

Their friends joined in to celebrate, cheering them on and popping a bottle of champagne to mark the moment. Afterward, they kicked off their shoes, stepped into the cool water, and spent the rest of the morning fly fishing together—because of course they did.

That’s what made this Poudre Canyon elopement so special. It wasn’t about perfection or tradition. It was about joy, connection, and creating something that truly felt like them. By the time the rest of the world was waking up, Derek and Jess were already celebrating their first morning as a married couple—barefoot in the river, surrounded by sunshine, and completely at peace.

NEED A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR Poudre Canyon Elopement?

Meet Larissa + Bailey! As two born and raised Coloradans who have photographed 300+ couples in 100+ locations across Colorado, we specialize in creating a different kind of wedding day that is just as adventurous as you are. We use our experience and knowledge to craft a different kind of wedding day that feels completely authentic to you. Want to hike to a high alpine lake? We can give you trail options for that! Want to canoe along the banks of a mountain lake? We can tell you the best lakes to do it on! Want to watch the sunset from the top of the world? We’ll lead you to our favorite spots for sunset! Book your Poudre Canyon elopement photographer today!