When the Winds Changed, So Did Their Elopement Plans | Gwenanne + Cody

Cody and Gwenanne’s winter wonderland elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park was a perfect blend of cozy moments, quiet beauty, and a dash of adventure. Over five inches of fresh snow that fell overnight created a pristine winter landscape that set the tone for their intimate celebration. While the snow was a welcome sight, the high winds that followed made it clear that we’d need to adjust our plans for the day a bit!

The couple began their day slowly getting ready at their Airbnb. After a relaxed morning, Cody and Gwenanne shared their first look on the front porch – a quiet, meaningful moment before heading out for the day. Both coffee lovers, we grabbed a cup of joe in downtown Estes Park, taking a moment to savor the calm before the excitement of their ceremony.

By the time we made our way to Sprague Lake, the snow had started falling once again, adding a delicate touch to the already stunning surroundings. In the quiet of the park, Cody and Gwenanne exchanged vows with the snow gently falling around them. They signed their marriage license and took a polaroid for their anniversary capsule that they plan ot open on their 10th anniversary!

As the wind started to pick up after their ceremony, we decided to ditch our hiking plans and instead explore other locations in the park that were a bit closer to the warmth of the car (and shelter from the frigid breeze!). Despite the change of plans, the day’s beauty was matched by the couple’s joy as they embraced the elements, taking in the peacefulness of the park even as the winds whipped around us.

After our fingers were officially frozen, we ventured to Snowy Peaks Winery to warm up with a glass of wine, where Cody and Gwenanne relaxed and FaceTimed with friends and family, sharing their joy with loved ones from afar. They played cards and savored the moment, grateful for the opportunity to relax for a while.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back into the park for blue hour and star photos, capturing the final moments of their elopement under the darkening sky. The stars twinkled above as the couple held each other close, marking the end of a perfect day in the heart of the Rockies.

Despite the cold winds and unplanned changes, Cody and Gwenanne’s elopement was a true reflection of their love—full of joy, adventure, and the peaceful beauty of a winter day in the mountains!

What I want to emphasize the most is the amazing experience we had on our wedding day.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The weather threw us a curve ball and caused last-minute changes to our original plans as well as our backup plans. It snowed almost a foot the night before, was COLD COLD, and the wind was whipping.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
But Bailey was a trooper from start to finish and had great alternative suggestions. I’m so glad we trusted her because it was more magical than we ever could have imagined.
Getting to experience this day with Bailey was like spending the day with someone we have been friends with forever.
She genuinely cared about making sure we had the best wedding day possible. The pictures turned out unbelievable. We were literally speechless when we saw them.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
If you are on the fence about eloping or who to use for your special day, the choice is clear…..We the Light is the way to go.

Cody & Gwenanne

NEED A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR WINTER ELOPEMENT IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK?

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 Estes Park elopement photographer today!

In the meantime, be sure to check out our list of Best Places to Elope in Colorado, and our guide for How to Plan a Colorado Elopement!