Southwest Colorado Elopements
Why do you love elopements?
I love large weddings for their own reasons. I love the dancing the most! But elopements are a thing of beauty. Just two people, maybe a few friends or a couple dogs and endless possibilities. Elopements are less restrictive in so many ways: no hustle to keep up with the timeline, far less unknowns, incredibly intimate, more spontaneous, more adventurous, and much more scenic.
Is there a guest limit for elopements?
The number of guests may increase the amount of hours I am required to photograph, if the guest number affects the timeline, i.e., more photos, more travel, etc. Also keep in mind that the number of guests you have will affect where you can elope. I don’t recommend taking 20+ people to hard-to-reach locations, for logistical reasons. If you plan on having more than 20 people with you for your adventure, please let me know upfront so I can create a custom package for you.
Where should we elope?
Instead of giving away specific locations here, I want you to consider the possibilities. When you elope you are much less bound to your standard venues. You will find it much easier to pick an amazing location when your guest list is smaller or nonexistent!
If you choose to book a venue for your elopement, there are definite plus sides: planning from the venue, help with any decor set up, easy to find and get to, less cost with fewer guests and time needed, and a sure bet that no one else will be around when the venue blocks it off for you. Bonus: lodging is included with most venues!
When it comes to “off the beaten path” elopements, that’s where my planning assistance really comes in handy. FYI: I do not give away locations until you have booked my services. Why? a) because that is part of the package you are paying for, so I get to work as soon as you have put your deposit down by sending you location options based on what you tell me about your wants and needs, and b) to lesson our impact on the environment. I will ensure we have no impact when we pick your locations.
What do we do about transportation if we want to go on mountain roads?
When you hire me as your elopement photographer, I do more than snap incredible photos (as you may have guessed by now). I am also your personal guide. So get to follow me to some great places.
If you would like to get to high mountain 4x4-only passes, a Jeep is required. You may opt to rent your own Jeep and I will hop in with you or follow behind. I will inform you of locations that would require a Jeep or similar vehicle. For liabiltiy reasons we only drive clients in emergency situations.
If you don’t wan’t to do your own driving, you can always hire a driver with the Jeeping companies. I can help you with that process.
Do we have to drive on rough roads/hike for the good views?
No, not at all. Part of the joys of the Four Corners area and the Southwest USA is that the scenery is pretty easy to come by. If you aren’t feeling super adventurous or if you have certain limitations, I know of lots of areas that are easy to get to by highway or main roads. Lots of towns in our area have public lands that overlook popular vistas. All of our southwest towns have great in-town options; great for old west-style downtown photos, rivers, parks, etc. Durango has one of the best areas for views that is perched right above town.
Many people choose to go a bit more off the common routes for more of an adventure, a bit more privacy, intimacy, the thrill of discovering something new, and lesser photographed areas that make for more unique photos.
Featured Elopement Blogs
Areas of Alexi Hubbell Photography Elopement Coverage
Durango, Colorado
Silverton, Colorado
Moab, Utah
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Aztec, New Mexico
Monument Valley, Arizona
Telluride, Colorado
Ouray, Colorado
Dunton, Colorado
Dolores, Colorado
Pagosa Springs, Colorado
And everywhere in between. Additional travel fees apply for areas beyond your packages allotted travel limit.
Elopement Packages
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Helpful Elopement Advice
Always bring a backup set of clothing and socks
Bring a different pair of shoes so that you can walk around the rugged landscape in our area. Even if you don’t plan on hiking or going far from the road, it will make all the difference! Sandals like Chacos and Tevas are great for waterfalls and streams.
If you want to get into a high-mountain waterfall, stream, river, or lake, be prepared for ice-cold water.
Water, Water, Water! Elevation gains can cause people to become dehydrated without even noticing it until the day after. Stay hydrated!
Snacks, for obvious reasons
Have a plan for lunch or dinner afterwards. You will be hungry! We can recommend great places to eat near where you will be eloping.
Make sure you pick lodging that is most convenient to the area you chose to elope. If you elope in Silverton, don’t stay in Bayfield or Pagosa. While the drives are “doable”, you’ll want to enjoy your time by not having to leave too early or get home too late. Mountain passes can be difficult to nagivate at night.