The Fort Collins Elopement Guide
Everything you need to know about eloping in Fort Collins, Colorado
Welcome to Fort Collins, where your dream elopement becomes a reality, and I am your dedicated Fort Collins elopement photographer. With over a decade of calling this city home, I bring a wealth of local expertise to ensure your special day is nothing short of extraordinary.
Fort Collins, nestled in the foothills of Northern Colorado, offers a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal backdrop for an elopement or intimate wedding.
Imagine exchanging vows by the serene Horsetooth Reservoir or along the majestic Cache la Poudre River. With my in-depth knowledge, I will help you curate an elopement experience that seamlessly blends the city’s cultural allure with the awe-inspiring beauty of its outdoor spaces.
Committed to Leave No Trace principles, I prioritize preserving the pristine natural surroundings. As your Fort Collins elopement photographer, I ensure your celebration leaves minimal impact, allowing your love story and the stunning scenery to take center stage.
Navigating the logistics of elopement planning can be overwhelming, but with my experience in the Fort Collins special event and wedding permit process, I handle every detail seamlessly. Your focus remains on the joyous moments, while I capture the essence of your love in this remarkable city.
How do I obtain a marriage license in Fort Collins?
To get a marriage license in Fort Collins, both you and your partner will need to apply in person at one of the three Larimer County Clerk & Recorder offices and bring valid ID. You may also apply online, but you must still arrive in person with your ID to finalize your application.
Your license must be used in Colorado within 35 days, and the fee is $30.
For more information visit: Larimer County Clerk & Recorder
Do I need an officiant to get married in fort collins?
Nope! Colorado is a self-solemnizing state, so an officiant is not required nor are witnesses required. Your dog can sign your license for all Colorado cares. (And I highly recommend this because it’s sweet as heck.)
How much does it cost to elope in Fort Collins?
This is really dependent on what you want your elopement to look like. Consider what activities do you want to do, where you want to say your vows, what you want to eat, where you want to stay, what vendors do you want to include (such as an officiant, florist, planner, or baker), etc.
At the end of the day, the only thing you legally need is $30 for to obtain a Colorado marriage license. A typical range is $3000 – $15,000 for a single day elopement.
When is the best time of year to elope in Fort Collins?
There’s really not a bad time to elope in Fort Collins! Spring boasts colorful wild flowers. Fall brings fiery orange and gold leaves. Summer can bring dramatic stormy skies or sunny days with cloudless skies. Winter becomes a snowy wonderland.
Because of Fort Collins’s mix of urban settings and its proximity to the foothills and Poudre canyon, most elopement locations are accessible year round.
Fort Collins Elopement Locations
Poudre Canyon
The Poudre Canyon has many beautiful spots along the river where you can say your vows, enjoy a hike or a picnic, and immerse yourself in nature. It’s a short 20 minutes from town and includes locations along the river, in the forest, and with mountain and canyon views.
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is located on the western side of Fort Collins and the eastern side of Horsetooth Reservoir. It offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, paddle boarding, boating, picnicking, and camping. There are several rentable pavilions for larger groups. For groups under 20 people (including vendors) you only need a photography permit which I typically provide for my couples. For larger groups, you’ll need a Special Event Permit in order to get married at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.
Lory State Park
Lory State Park is located on the western side of Horsetooth Reservoir. There are three locations within the park that can be rented for weddings: Soldier Canyon (100+ people), Timber (50 people), and Eltuck (40 people). The rental price ranges from $75 – $300 depending on which location you choose and which day of the week you get married.
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a photographer and you connect with my work, I would love to hear from you!