Tips to Stay Warm During Your Winter Colorado Elopement

Posted On | March 6, 2018

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When you think of winter in the Colorado Rocky Mountains you get a vision of snow-capped peaks, frosted pine trees and blue-bird sky days. This is all true. But, if you are planning a Colorado mountain elopement during the winter months (November – March), then it’s also very likely that it is going to be cold. We always like to make sure our couples are well prepared for their winter elopement so you can enjoy taking pictures more instead of worrying about freezing your toes off!

Here are our top tips as a Colorado elopement photographer for keeping you a little bit warmer on your wedding day.

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WEAR LAYERS

If you’re wearing a dress, depending on what the shape of your dress is and how your neckline and sleeves are cut, there are a few different options for adding warm layers under your dress. First, we always recommend wearing some sort of thermal layer on your legs. If your dress is not form-fitting, wear a pair of thermal, silk, or fleece-lined leggings underneath your dress (we promise you won’t regret this!). If your dress is more form-fitting, then definitely still consider wearing a thinner silk layer or even just pantyhose (your legs will be thanking us). If you have the ability to wear it under your wedding dress, you can also purchase sleeveless silk tank tops.

If you’re wearing a suit, longjohns can be a lifesaver! Be sure to stay away from cotton though as it can absorb sweat and make you even colder in the long run.

WEAR A FUR WRAP OR JACKET

There’s just something so romantic about wearing a crisp white dress in the winter Colorado landscape with a faux fur jacket or wrap. You don’t have to wear it for all the pictures if you don’t wish to, but you’ll be happy that you have it as an option to put on. We also recommend bringing a warm winter jacket (it doesn’t have to be pretty) to put on in between shots and warm up.

WINTER BOOTS AND SOCKS

We don’t know about you, but our toes are always the first thing to freeze when we’re in the cold. We know you really want to wear those cute booties that you found but please bring a pair of warm socks and snow boots along as well. Many times to get those epic Colorado wedding shots with you and the mountains we often have to tromp through a little bit of snow and snow boots are much more practical for that. So wear your cute booties for the exchange of vows and a few pics, then swap them out for snow boots so we can go on an adventure and get some epic pictures. For extra traction, microspikes can be especially helpful on icy or packed down trails!

HAND AND FOOT WARMERS

We know it sounds cliche, but those little packets that provide hours upon hours of warmth really can save the day! If you can wear foot warmers in your shoes, go for it. We also suggest breaking open a pair of hand warmers before we start and sticking them in the pockets of your coat so you can warm up your fingers in between shots. And, if you are a cold-blooded lizzard and can never seem to be warm enough, open another pack of body warmers and stick those babies somewhere on the inside of your clothes against your back (as close to your spine as possible). If you can keep your back warm, it warms the rest of your core and keeps your temperature up. A cute pair of earmuffs can help keep your ears toasty, as well!

BRING A COZY BLANKET OR QUILT

There’s nothing more romantic after you and your new spouse exchange your vows than exploring the mountains around you, cozying up in a blanket and taking in the view. We are total fan-girls of cute winter blankets and will say yes 100% of the time to bringing them along for pictures – come on, who doesn’t want an excuse to get even warmer with your new spouse?!

Our Favorite Winter Elopement Examples

Snowmobile Elopement

Dogsledding Elopement

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Backcountry Skiing Elopement

Ready to Start Planning Your colorado Elopement?

We’re here to make this process easier than “accidentally” binge-watching the newest season of your favorite show. Every single elopement package includes:

All-Inclusive Planning Support: From a custom location list packed with hidden gems, insider tips, LGBTQ+ affirming vendor/accommodation recs, and a collaborative timeline – we’ll walk you through planning so you feel confident every step of the way. Plus, you get unlimited access to us the whole way – no question too small, no idea too big.
Collaborative, No-Stress Timeline Planning: We’ll co-create a flexible timeline that matches your vision and values – not rushed, not rigid, and definitely not crammed with “be here at exactly 2:17 PM” vibes. You’ll have room to explore, soak it all in, and be fully present.

Colorado Experts, A Trusted Team: We’re your day-of coordinators and Colorado pros ready for anything. From last-minute backup plans to surprise wildlife wedding crashers, we come prepared with local knowledge, emergency snacks, backup gear, and a backup photographer you already trust.
Authentic Storytelling In Digital, Film, Panoramas & GIFS: Your day captured just like it felt – candid, emotional, and real—with a mix of digital, panoramas, GIFS, and dreamy film photos. All final, professionally edited photos are delivered to your inbox and backed-up to an online gallery ready to share with your nearest and dearest.

Everything’s Covered: No need to worry about my travel, lodging, or add-ons. It’s all included, so you can focus on what matters most. You also get a bonus $200 off any wedding album at booking!

If it’s on your elopement to-do list, I’m here to help check it off.

Colorado Elopement + Small Wedding Packages

Meet Larissa and Bailey! We are two born and raised Coloradoans who specialize in planning and capturing epic elopements for our couples that feel authentic to who they are. Loveland Pass is THE spot to elope if you want adventure and stunning scenery. We specialize only in Colorado and can help you plan the perfect just-us day or a celebration with up to 30 of your friends/family.

What’s Included

3+ Hours of Photography Coverage

We intentionally document your day with both digital and film. Includes high-resolution digital images, printing rights, a shareable online gallery, and free album design.

Full Elopement Planning Assistance

When we say we help with it all, we mean it. Location scouting and ideas. Vetted and LGBTQ+ allied vendors who know elopements. Recs for activities to do on your elopement day. Stress-free timeline planning. Planning resources and ideas. Unlimited communication because we never leave you high and dry.

Reach Out For Full Details & Pricing!