Elope in Colorado : Ultimate Planning Guide (updated 2022)
The Ultimate “How to” Wedding Planning Guide to Elope in Colorado
(complete with pricing, paperwork, and locations)
With luxurious mountain ranches, stunning panoramic views, and scenic trails for hiking, Colorado is considered one of the most perfect destinations for couples who want to elope. There are various reasons why people choose to elope in Colorado out of all the places around the globe.
Wondering why? This state is ideal for lovebirds who dream of having a rocky and adventurous elopement. There are no guidelines or rules that you need to follow while deciding to elope in Colorado.
This article will help you understand why Colorado is the perfect place to elope for couples with an adventurous soul and free spirit. Read below this ultimate guide on how and where you can elope in Colorado!
Why Elope in Colorado?
One of the main reasons why people elope in Colorado is because they don’t have to follow any strict guidelines. The best part about having no rules is that you have the power to marry yourself legally. With a stunning view, an adventurous mindset, and no rules to follow, who wouldn’t want to elope in Colorado?
Besides, it offers a wide variety of things to explore with breathtaking scenic views, amazing hiking trails, open wedding venues, and wild trails to explore.
How to Elope in Colorado – Legal Stuff
Elopement preparation is essential since there are a myriad of factors to be considered while eloping in Colorado.
Having it all organized ensures that everything goes smoothly, especially when your guests arrive! Most importantly, have tabs on wedding-specific information. In addition, Weather, route closures, rock falls, blizzards, and other factors can all disrupt your elopement plans, so carefully get to know about these in advance!
Below are some tips to help you streamline this hectic planning and implementation phase!
What does an elopement ceremony in Colorado look like?
Eloping in Colorado is an all-day elopement if you want to make the most out of it. Elopements may be so much more than simply a few vows and a few minutes of fast photography.
So start by getting dressed into your wedding attire. Pick a spectacular place to say your vows. It could be on the peak of a mountain or inside an ancient church or maybe in the middle of a wildlife century!
Once you have tied the knot, you have an option to go on an incredible trip hiking in a jeep or on a snowmobile or ski slope! Finish the day with a supper prepared by your favorite chef. Most importantly, live in those moments to make your elopement in Colorado one to remember and relish.
Marriage license in Colorado
To legalize your marriage in Colorado, an officiant’s signature is not compulsory to pronounce you and your partner legally married. You can just sign your own marriage license!
A judge, magistrate, pastor, or even one of the parties to the marriage can solemnize the marriage in Colorado. However, there is one catch, and this is you would need permission from a friend or family member, and they should be a witness to your union!
Best Places to Elope in Colorado
Lionscrest Manor
Fee: $8k – $12k (100 guests)
Capacity: 250
Lionscrest Manor is considered to be one of the best Colorado picturesque wedding venues. The mesmerizing view of this scenic Colorado destination will charm all your guests’ hearts! This perfect destination provides a private and luxurious venue with an astounding view of the mountains. The 50-acre estate located in the foothills of the Lyons has got mountains as its backdrop that augments its beauty by hundred folds.
Evergreen Lake House
Fee: $3K – $5k (100 guests)
Capacity: 200
This beautiful destination is the perfect mountain getaway for your elopement. Its surreal log cabin can charm your guests with its tranquil beauty. You can give your vows right on the deck that is surrounded by the foothills and the wooded park and soak in the captivating view of this lake house! This is undoubtedly one of the best Colorado picturesque wedding venues you can choose!
Windsong Estate
Fee: $4K – $6K (100 guests)
Capacity: 300
If you are looking to elope in an indoor venue, then the Windsong Estate is just the destination venue that you were looking for. This place provides you with one of the best views there is to see in North Colorado. The magical views of the rocky mountains with a private venue make this place one of the best Colorado indoor wedding venues.
The Stanley Hotel
Fee: $16K – $23K (100 guests)
Capacity: 250
From an intimate elopement to grand ballrooms, The Stanley Hotel has got about nine different options for various types of wedding venues to choose from! It offers you a chance to witness the gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountain National Park and revel in its natural beauty, which is why it stands as one of the best Colorado Outdoor Wedding Venues.
Telluride Ski Resort
Fee: $5,000
Capacity: 250
What can be more adventurous and beautiful than saying ‘I do’ on top of a 10,000 feet high mountain? The Telluride Ski Resort is unquestionably one of the best and most unique Colorado Scenic Wedding Venues that you can pick. It provides a variety of wedding options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. The best part about this resort is the panoramic views of the mountains that will leave your guests awe-struck!
Garden of the Gods Resort and Club
Fee: $20K – $33K (100 guests)
Capacity: 200
Garden of the Gods is a spellbounding place that can fuel your desire to get married soon! This could probably even be your dream destination that you have always wished for! Wondering what makes this destination so tangible?
Situated near Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is one of the most stunning and unique landscapes to visit in Colorado. It consists of huge pieces of red rocks that bulge straight up from the ground. Garden of the Gods is considered to be one of the most famous landscapes, where people from all across the globe come especially to visit this place. So what better destination than this resort?
Piney River Ranch
Fee: $23,000 – $33,000 (100 Guests)
Capacity: 220
Surrounded by mountains with a view of the stunning lake, the Piney River Ranch is one of the dreamy wedding venues in Colorado. It offers a huge space for you to have your cultural celebrations the way you always dreamed of! You, your partner, and your guests are bound to have the time of your lives at this breathtaking venue.
The Greenbriar Inn
Fee: $12,000 – $17,000 (100 Guests)
Capacity: 300
If you’re looking for a vintage touch-up to your perfect wedding, then the Greenbriar Inn provides everything you’ve been looking for. Consisting of Italian hand-painted chandeliers, french doors, a fireplace in the dining room, and a majestic view of the mountains, the Greenbriar Inn is one of the best Colorado Indoor Wedding Venues.
The Venue at Crooked Willow Farms
Fee: $6,000 – $9,000 (100 Guests)
Capacity: 225
The Venue at Crooked Willow Farms has a perfect mix of mountain aesthetics with a countryside charm. The perfectly manicured lawns and a carriage ballroom house make it an ideal Colorado indoor and outdoor wedding venue.
Gorrono Ranch
Fee: starting $39,941 (50 guests)
Capacity: 250 guests
Gorrono Ranch is one of the best lodges nestled in the mountainous terrains, and it is a true reflection of pristine scenic beauty. This historic ranch is known for its hiking trails and island vibes. Add a dash of music, and the vibrant vibes of this ranch will become unparalleled! This place is usually open for parties and weddings in the summers and private events in the winters.
Cielo at Castle Pines
Fee: Starting $ 6,900 (50 guests)
Capacity: 500 guests
Cielo at Castle Pines is a luxurious wedding venue, highlighting its fusion of elegance, picturesque backgrounds, and the exceptional facilities and hospitality provided to the guests and the couple themselves. Located near the historic Castle rock, it offers a peaceful and surreal environment.
Thompson, Denver
Fee: Starting $4,725 (50 guests)
Capacity: 150 guests
The hotel’s chill, residential-inspired event areas include deep-hued floor coverings, soft lounge furniture, and romantic lighting centered around the hotel’s towering, two-story fireplace. Famous celebrity chef Ludo Lefebvre, whose delightful French-inspired dishes can also be enjoyed in the in-house restaurant, Chez Maggy, will be responsible for creating your personalized wedding menu. This venue, with its architectural beauty, radiates royal vibes and definitely takes your elopement to the next level!
The Little Nell
Fee: $ 75,000
Capacity: 500 guests
The Little Nell offers your guest a chance to witness the beauty of the Maroon Bells and the Rocky Mountains. Planning your wedding here would mean walking on the dedicated wedding deck and taking a ride up to the Aspen Mountains on the Silver Queen Gondola! You can tie the knots as high as 11,212 feet from sea level in this jaw-dropping scenic elopement venue! The opulent setting of this five-star resort tailored to your needs makes it a plausible wedding venue for you!
Delicacies of Colorado
Food is another way to make your guests happy and another reason to elope to Colorado. Colorado’s cuisine is as diverse as its region, ranging from deep-fried to fresh and organic delicacies.
With some seasonality in goods, you may find the following luscious dishes anywhere from restaurants to farmers’ markets! You can add these delicacies to your wedding menu and savor the flavors after taking the vows and charm your guests too! So go on!
1. Lamb
Colorado is the fourth-largest producer of sheep and lamb in the United States, and it is duly noted for its milder flavor. You may travel the world and yet not find a lamb meal as flavorful as the one served in Colorado. They have a rich flavor and outstanding texture that you will cherish forever!
2. Trout
When it comes to the cuisine of Colorado, trout is one of the most popular fish. Many eateries in the neighborhood serve trout because of their high nutritional value. Nearby states, such as Idaho, frequently export their trout to Colorado, so if you truly want local trout, inquire, or better yet, go fishing!
3. Olathe sweet corn
Olathe corn is a perfect combination of sweetness, flavor, and little tanginess. It is an ingredient that can be served as a soup, or you can simply season boiled corn in butter and salt and savor them!
This ingredient, when prepared by experienced chefs, can do wonders. In fact, Olathe Sweet Corn Festival is held every first Saturday in August, and people from around the globe attend this event.
4. Denver Steak
It is unlike any other steak meal since it is much softer than typical cuts. The steak has a considerable amount of marbling, which gives it a richer flavor.
Proper steak slicing and trimming is an art that adds to the appeal of the Colorado Denver Steak. The best thing about it is that the meal is grilled to give it its unique flavor!
How to Get to Colorado
There are three main airports throughout Colorado : Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado Springs Airport (COS), and Aspen Airport (ASE) that navigate you throughout the state.
Denver is the largest and only international airport in Colorado, and is 91 miles away from another popular destination – Vail, CO.
Best Times to Elope in Colorado
Conclusion
Eloping in Colorado is one of the top places in the country for outdoor enthusiasts. From summer’s wildflowers to winter’s snowy back bowls, each season brings its own set of thrills in this western state.
The warm season, which spans from June through October, is the greatest time to elope in Colorado! The warmth of the sun causes the snow to melt, presenting you the opportunity to go on adventurous treks to the Rocky Mountain National Park and Mount Elbert, as well as drive through some of the United States’ highest peaks. After all, who said that an elopement wedding in Colorado could not be fun? So, have a wedding in style and elegance at this beautiful destination!
If you would like to discuss your elopement in Colorado or beyond please CONTACT ME to chat!
How to Plan Weddings in Yosemite National Park
How to Plan Weddings in Yosemite National Park The Ultimate Guide for Planning Weddings in Yosemite National Park (complete with pricing and photos) If you are looking for information on planning weddings in Yosemite National Park you have come to the right place! There’s little doubt as to why it is among the most popular national parks in the US, with its granite domes, scenic viewpoints, and towering waterfalls. It is one of the best backdrops to have your wedding photos taken in any season! Read below for information How to Get a Permit for Weddings in Yosemite National Park Every ceremony requires a nonrefundable $150 permit, as well as a separate photo/video permit You can schedule your wedding event for up to a year in advance or at least 21 days before the date. Yosemite is one of most popular National Park Wedding Venues so I highly recommend submitting your application sooner than later to avoid any delays and headaches in sheduling. Locations for Yosemite National Park Weddings and Photos Yosemite has iconic photo backdrops that blend perfectly with the surrounding. If you want the best sunset view, you can check out Taft Point for its daring views of the falls and valley. Glacier Point serves as the must have Yosemite background of Half Dome, followed closely by Tunnel View. If you want waterfalls, Bridalveil Falls is the most accessible and is a short easy hike. And finally on the outskirts of the park, Mariposa Grove serves as a more unexpected Yosemite National Park wedding venue if you want to be dwarfed by these majestic trees. The indoor locations include the central Ahwahnee Hotel, and the nearby Convict Lake Resort and Evergreen Lodge. Check out the more complete list of ceremony specific locations. Check the availability of these locations as some are closed down during certain times, especially in the winter (such as Glacier Point). Best Times for Weddings at Yosemite National Park Choose a date or season that is special to you and will be for years to come. Have other options available because Yosemite tends to get crowded in peak seasons, during the summer and spring, when the waterfalls are gushing. Summer is the most popular time, but doing a winter wedding can also allow for some spectacular and quiet images. Springtime has the most color and most water in the falls, however. If you are real lucky, you can be there during a “snowfall” whereas the trees are colored from the spring change, but there was a fresh coat of snow the day before to have the unique view of Yosemite that I personally have only seen once in my life! Places to Stay There are plenty of places to explore, so a single day wouldn’t be enough for your wedding in Yosemite National Park. To get the whole experience, check out accommodations in camping locations, cabins, and resorts within and outside the park or even Airbnbs. Top places include Yosemite Valley Lodge, Autocamp, and the Ahwahnee Hotel. Groveland is the nearest town right outside Yosemite. Oakhurst is a 30 minute drive outside the Park as well. Most Popular Yosemite Elopement Locations There are plenty of picturesque places for Yosemite National Park weddings. Some of the places for smaller elopements you can consider include Tenaya Lake, Mirror Lake, Cook’s Meadow, and Washburn Point. Each of these places is available all-year-round, but all still require a Yosemite National Park wedding permit. Conclusion Yosemite National Park Weddings offer the most magical outdoor experiences you can imagine. If you have ever been there, you know why it is one of the most popular national parks in the USA…and why it is one of my favorite places in the world to visit! With so much natural beauty, and so much variety all within the Park, it is arguably the best place to elope in the US! If you are thinking of other California elopement locations, see my posts about the Best Places to Elope in San Francisco or the Best Places to Elope in Lake Tahoe for more wedding planning help. If you would like to discuss your Yosemite National Park wedding please CONTACT ME to discuss ideas! Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118
How to Guide : Planning Zion National Park Weddings
How to Guide : Planning Zion National Park Weddings The Ultimate Guide for Planning Zion National Park Weddings (complete with pricing and photos) If you are interested in planning Zion National Park Weddings this guide is for you! Once you walk amongst the red rock you will be in immediate awe and wonder of this magical place, thus making some awesome photos and memories! Amidst the natural beauty and marriage of sandstone cliffs and water are beautiful spots worthy of some awesome wedding photos. Read below for a breakdown of what you need to do before your wedding in Zion National Park. Locations for Weddings at Zion National Park Weddings at Zion National Park must adhere to the park’s regulations. You have to obtain a permit to have your ceremony at one of the six sanctioned Zion National Park wedding venues : the Temple of Sinewava, Menu Falls, Zion Lodge Lawn, Nature Center North Lawn, South Campground Amphitheater, and Timber Creek Overlook. There’s no likelihood of anyone getting permits for locations other than these. You can take photos anywhere else in the park, but wedding ceremonies must be in designated places. After you have decided on the date(s), you can check the availability of the locations, and if they match your plans, you can continue with booking. Weddings at Zion National Park are best during spring when flowers are blooming and trees are budding, and if you’re lucky, the river water level is just about right. Summer is also great with all the greenery, but the crowds are twice as large. Therefore, if you wish to have an intimate wedding, summer might not be the best time to have it. Every other season can still be great. It all depends on what you prefer for your elopement. Permits for Zion National Park Weddings As with all national parks, Zion National Park weddings require a permit for the location chosen. It is always recommended to get permits for weddings in Zion National Park much earlier than you think to avoid any potential headaches. It is a minimum to get it at least 21 days ahead of time, but I highly recommend getting it as soon as you set a date. You will also need to have a marriage license with you during the event, and since it’s only valid for 30 days, get it after everything else is set. The wedding costs here are lower than elsewhere, so you can have your dream wedding at a dreamy cost too! Vendors for Zion National Park Weddings Working with an organized vendor who already knows the park makes things a lot easier. You can get a wedding planner to take care of every detail and choose your favorite photographer (hi!!!) to capture the special moments. The rest of your dream wedding team can have a stylist, florist, caterer, cake designer, officiant, and anyone else you need. Read the reviews on the vendors and get someone who can match your style and unique requirements. Some planners and vendors are available locally, while others may need to fly in. If you are wanting some awesome candid photography for your once in a lifetime wedding celebration, please CONTACT ME to discuss ideas! Suggested Hikes in Zion National Park The beauty of Zion National Park doesn’t just lie in having an elopement, but also the many options to hike! Ones that I have done and personally recommend include Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook. Conclusion After getting married, you have to explore the rest of Zion National Park. Take as many photos on creeks, canyons, and other beautiful spots as you like. Afterward, you can have cocktails at any of the nearby resorts or tacos at the Whiptail Grill. As a side note, you can have your wedding outside of Zion National Park, especially if you have more guests than they’ll allow in the actual ceremony. There are plenty of places you can choose from, which offer the same magical taste of Zion National Park. Some places worth considering include St. George and Springdale, whic are just a short drive from the park. If you would like to have a Zion National Park wedding, please CONTACT ME to discuss ideas! Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118
Carmel Valley Wedding Venues
Carmel Valley Wedding Venues The Ultimate Carmel Valley Wedding Venues Guide (with Pricing + Photos) Carmel Valley wedding venues offer an authentically Californian experience with wineries, rustic landscapes, and golf courses, making it a favorite choice for destination weddings. Just a short drive from the Pacific Ocean, Carmel Valley offers a rustic respite from the busy coastal life. Whether you live nearby or are traveling from around the world, there are plenty of perfect options for your Carmel Valley Wedding. Here are some of the top Carmel Valley wedding venues to consider! Gardner Ranch Rental Fee: $8,000 Gardner Ranch is a great location for wedding large and small alike. The sprawling estate provides many locations including three banquet rooms, a clubhouse, an outdoor patio, and many different lawn locations. The backdrop of the Santa Lucia Mountains makes for a great setting for an outdoor wedding in virtually any season. This is also surprisingly one of the more affordable Carmel Valley wedding venues given its elegance and charm. All weddings include exclusive use of Gardner Ranch, plenty of on-site parking, wine barrel cocktail tables, landscape lighting, wooden chairs, and plenty of other perks. This is one of the more popular Carmel Valley wedding venues around for good reason. Bernardus Lodge & Spa Rental Fee: $5,500 – $13,500 This is one of the larger Carmel Valley wedding venues that offers six different wedding locations that range from vineyard views to rose gardens. For intimate ceremonies or elopements of 10 people or less, the Vintner’s Suite is a favorite or can be used as a bridal suite. Of all the locations, the Wedding Garden is possibly the most beautiful with immaculate landscaping, over 100 varieties of roses, and the chef’s own vegetable garden. Wedding packages include luxury accommodations for the couple and an open bar with Bernardus’s own wines. Los Laureles Lodge Rental Fee: $2,500 – $3,300 One of the more unique Carmel Valley wedding venues, Los Laureles Lodge is a ten-acre ranch with three different options for settings. The largest is the Terrace Garden, a stunning area beneath cascading oak trees where guests watch from wooden pews. This holds up to 200 people. Intimate weddings of up to 30 guests can celebrate at Hill House, a beautifully adorned home with a hillside deck. The Hill House has a full kitchen and, true to its namesake, supports sweeping views of Carmel Valley. Finally, the Terrace Garden Banquet Room can hold a small reception or rehearsal dinner. Quail Lodge & Golf Club (Carmel by the Sea) Contact for pricing Quail Lodge Golf Club provides six different options for your ceremony. Quail Meadows is likely the favorite for outdoor weddings, which features a lush meadow on the banks of a stream, creating a perfect location for wedding photos. The Peninsula Ballroom in the Clubhouse is a great choice for a reception whether opting for buffet style or a sit-down dinner. This venue specializes in weddings from small groups to up to 200 guests. This is one of the more affordable Carmel Valley wedding venues for the budget-conscious bride and groom, providing beauty at a lower price than many local venues. Stonepine Estate Resort Rental Fee: starts at $9,000 As you approach through a road lined with oak trees, you will soon catch a glimpse of Chateau Noel, an architectural experience that will have you thinking you have somehow landed in Tuscany. Guests can opt for a California Country package which includes use of the Paddock Lawns or a Chateau Exclusive which involves use of Chateau Noel. Can’t decide? Book the entire estate to have one of the most regal wedding venues in Carmel Valley all to yourself! For a more Old West style feel, try the Blacksmith Bar where guests can practice archery and horseshoes while drinking beer. Needless to say, this is one of the most varied Carmel Valley wedding venues on this list. Holman Ranch Packages: $18,000 – $35,500 Holman Ranch is one of the few Carmel Valley wedding venues that can accommodate a larger number of guests with a capacity of 500. With 400 acres of land, Holman Ranch provides several wedding location options, but most couples choose the recently restored 1928 stone hacienda, an iconic building with an intimate courtyard. Others opt for a stone terrace adorned with flowers with the Santa Lucia Mountains serving as a great backdrop. Combine your ceremony with an elegant reception at the Carriage House, allowing guests to dine beneath twinkling lights. This huge estate offers something for everyone! The Holly Farm Rental Fee: starts at $28,000 One of the most beautiful Carmel Valley wedding venues, The Holly Farm is filled with winding gravel paths, towering bamboo and banana trees, and rustic cottages. The unique design of the grounds presents a variety of options for photos, ensuring you will have plenty of mementos of your wedding. In addition to no corkage or cake cutting fees, you’ll also find a number of other perks including hundreds of island orchids for décor. CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS CARMEL VALLEY WEDDING VENUES Best Wedding Venues in Carmel Valley for Elopements Joullian Vineyards Rental Fee: starts at $6,500 Located high above Carmel Valley, Joullian Vineyards’ Venue in the Vines is a premier wedding location. This is a place for weddings of many sizes, able to accompany as few as 50 guests or as many as 250. Smaller parties may instead be interested in The Overlook, which allows couples to exchange nuptials in front of a wood and floral arch with the entire Carmel Valley as the backdrop. With 20 to 50 guests, this is one of the more popular Carmel Valley wedding venues that caters to smaller weddings. Best Outdoor Carmel Valley Wedding Venues Chateu Carmel Ranch Contact for pricing Holman Ranch is one of the few Carmel Valley wedding venues that can accommodate a larger number of guests with a capacity of 500. With 400 acres of land, Holman Ranch provides several wedding location options, but most couples choose the recently
How to Plan a Wedding in Big Sur
How to Plan a Wedding in Big Sur The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding in Big Sur (complete with tips and venue information) There are few places on the west coast as stunning as having a wedding in Big Sur. Known for state parks and coastal scenery, countless couples have planned their wedding in Big Sur and it is becoming one of the more popular locations to exchange vows and take wedding photos. Below is the ultimate guide for all your planning needs for a wedding in Big Sur. 1 Simple Method to Having a Wedding in Big Sur All you really need to plan your elopement or wedding in Big Sur is an officiant, a marriage license, and one witness. And of course, CONTACTING a photographer like me! Getting the Marriage License Your wedding in Big Sur can’t be official without a marriage license. In California, a marriage license can be obtained in any county for a ceremony held in the state, even if the marriage is held in a different county. Big Sur is in Monterey County, so you can get the license from San Francisco County, for example. However, you must return the license to the county that issued it, along with the signature of the officiant and at least one witness. For out of town couples, it’s popular to stay in San Francisco while having your wedding in Big Sur. If this is the case with you, read up on how to get your marriage license in my San Francisco City Hall Weddings Planning Guide And if you are flexible with locations, take a look at the Best Places to Have an Elopement in San Francisco Big Sur Wedding Permit Best Times of the Year for a Wedding in Big Sur There are more ideal times to have your wedding at Big Sur. Perhaps the safest is Fall for its warmer weather, color, and clear skies. However, anytime between March and October is suitable while the winter months may be a bit too cold and overcast. Rain does tend to occur in early Spring so plan accordingly. If you plan it right, you can time your wedding in Big Sur with the warmest time of the year around September and October and if you’re lucky, can make a stop to see the visiting monarch butterflies nearby in Pacific Grove Photo Locations for a Wedding in Big Sur Regardless of where you host your wedding at Big Sur, you will have many breathtaking locations for photos nearby. The Bixby Bridge on Highway 1 provides a unique backdrop and is probably the most popular. Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a majestic location, particularly near sunset. Rocky Point Restaurant provides a scenic overlook set aside rugged coastal cliffs. Finally, Garrapata Trail is a perfect backdrop filled with wildflowers during spring and summer. Bixby Bridge Iconic Big Sur Coastline Big Sur Elopement Packages Big Sur elopement packages are typically customized to fit your needs, but start at $2000 for 3 hours. A sample elopement in Big Sur consists of getting ready/details, the wedding ceremony, group photos, couples portraits, and a reception. For the more adventurous couples, doing multiple photo locations around gorgeous Big Sur is highly recommended to take advantage of the stunning coastline and scenic views Best Wedding Venues in Big Sur CA Big Sur is popular for elopements and marrying on cliffs overlooking the ocean, but for those who want an actual venue that’s no problem either! Let’s take a look at some of my favorite wedding venues in Big Sur CA. Big Sur Lodge Rental Fee: $599 – $1,199 This is one of the most classic Big Sur wedding venues around the area. Big Sur Lodge is located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park with indoor and outdoor seating. Most popular is the Redwood Patio, located next to a flowing stream. There is also an option for a picnic style rehearsal dinner in the state park. This is easily the most popular place to have a wedding at Big Sur. Ventana Contact for pricing Ventana is a resort that prides itself on a wide variety of options for your wedding in Big Sur. The blending of the ocean, forests, and mountains at this Big Sur wedding venue will leave you in awe. With over 12,000 feet of event space, there is a setting for a wedding of any size. Sur Visa is an outdoor overlook adorned with picnic tables and elegant landscaping. Redwood Cathedral provides a space surrounded by towering trees. The Loft blends natural woods with modern décor to create an intimate indoor setting. This is definitely one of the most diverse wedding venues in Big Sur CA to fit your needs. Check out my Ventana Big Sur Wedding Guide for more details Loma Vista Gardens Rental Fee: $5,400 – $18,400 depending on size and day Loma Vista was named for the its beautiful views, making this one of my favorite wedding venues in Big Sur CA. The location is backdropped by mountains and has elegantly manicured landscaping including cactus gardens. With packages for traditional and elopement weddings, Loma Vista Gardens can customize the perfect ceremony for any types of wedding in Big Sur. This locale is a great choice for couples wanting a rustic feel for an outdoor ceremony. Point 16 Contact for pricing Located about half an hour outside of downtown, Point 16 is an area off of Highway 1 that is frequently used for planning a wedding in Big Sur. There is perhaps no better view in the area as Point 16 overlooks the beauty of the Pacific Ocean from a lush hillside meadow. There is no bad time for a wedding here as any time of day will provide an excellent view for your wedding at Big Sur. Post Ranch Inn Rental Fee: $6,000Small weddings: $5,500 – $6,600Elopements: $3,900 You haven’t seen Big Sur until you’ve seen a sunset from the Post Ranch Inn’s view of the Pacific Ocean. Couples will find a variety of packages
Elope to Tennessee – Where and How to Elope
Elope to Tennessee – Ultimate Planning Guide (updated 2025) The Ultimate “How to” Wedding Planning Guide to Elope to Tennessee(complete with pricing, paperwork, and locations) Many couples choose to elope in Tennessee because of its spectacular natural beauty, diverse culture, art, cuisine, and, most importantly, its picturesque wedding venues. You will find a wide range of destinations – it doesn’t matter whether you’re eloping to a town or headed for the mountains. Why Elope to Tennessee Tennessee is among my favorite elopement destinations, with its southern charm and a great party and music scene in the music capital of the world in Nashville. The following is an ultimate wedding planning guide that should help answer any and all questions you may have if you decide to elope to Tennessee. How to Elope in Tennessee – Legal Stuff Eloping is exciting and enjoyable, and what makes it even better is if its in an ideal location. So, if you’ve set your heart to elope to Tennessee and decide to marry in one of the breathtaking wedding venues in Tennessee, you’ll need to look into some laws as well. The legal age to get married is 18 years old. Also, you have to go to the county office. Only after that, you will be able to apply for your marriage certificate. You and your partner must present valid identity proof and your SSN- social security number. There is no waiting period as the marriage certificate is issued immediately. Your marriage must be ordained by a legally ordained officiant. The State of Tennessee does not accept weddings that have been officiated by a person ordained online. If you decide to elope in TN, there is no requirement of any witness, and only the legal officiant is sufficient. How to Get to Tennessee If you want to elope to Tennessee, you should fly into the Nashville International Airport or Memphis International Airport. Both are not far away from the city. You could also rent a car to visit nearby towns. Best Time of the Year to Elope to Tennessee Because Tennessee has such a diverse culture, it hosts various events and festivals. So, first and foremost, you must examine the calendar for significant events. The weather here varies slightly from east to west, but it has a mild climate. All the four seasons have their advantages. Most couples prefer the fall to get married here. So September, October, and November are the best months to elope in Tennessee. The weather is beautiful, and the temperature is just beginning to drop. The trees are aesthetic then and it makes the perfect backdrop for your beautiful wedding photos. Best Places to Elope in Tennessee Elope in Gatlinburg Tennessee If you’re a fan of beautiful mountain scenery and love a mix of adventure, Gatlinburg has it all. Known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg sits near the border with North Carolina. Visitors will enjoy beautiful mountain views and miles of hiking trails. A variety of museums, restaurants, and attractions also await. If you’re a couple that love to ski or snowboard, Gatlinburg sports several ski resorts. This is a beautiful location and one of the best places to elope in Tennessee. Elope in Nashville Tennessee If you haven’t visited the Music City lately, you may be surprised to find that Nashville is much more than just country music. For those wanting a more urban environment for their wedding, you can choose to elope in Nashville Tennessee. There are many beautiful venues such as the Hermitage, Belmont Mansion, and Marathon Music Works as well as plenty of sites for an extensive honeymoon. With fine dining, outdoor attractions, a vibrant nightlife along Lower Broadway, and classics like the Grand Ole Opry, Nashville is an incredibly popular destination to elope in TN. Elope in Memphis TN Memphis is to the blues what Nashville is for country music; however, this city offers much more than Graceland and B.B. King’s. With many gorgeous wedding venues such as the Atrium at Overton Square, Memphis Botanic Garden, or even Graceland’s Chapel in the Woods, there is something for every couple’s taste. After you elope to Tennessee, enjoy the nightlife of world-famous Beale Street or take in local food in the Pinch District. If you’re staying for the honeymoon, top sights include Sun Studios, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Memphis Zoo. Of course, no trip to Memphis is complete without a paddleboat cruise of the Mississippi or a visit to see the Peabody ducks. Cummins Falls State Park (Cookeville) If you want to combine a rural escape with a beautiful backdrop, Cummins Falls State Park may be the location of your dreams. Located just northwest of the small town of Cookeville, Cummins Falls State Park is home to 282 acres of hilly forests and gorges. The park’s iconic waterfall which plunges into a large swimming hole is not the largest in Tennessee but may very well be the most impressive and accessible. Visitors can easily climb and walk amongst the fall’s many drops. The park even offers periodic evening tours with just a few people for a more intimate experience in the gorge. The Ruskin (Dickson) Fee: $6500Capacity: 1000 Located a short distance west of the Nashville suburbs, The Ruskin is a fantastic and varied wedding venue in rural Tennessee. Do you dream about getting married in a cave? They have one! The property itself is over a century old with lots of history and features 160 acres of carefully cultivated gardens and landscaping. An elopement at this property features many beautiful locations for a ceremony including the famous Ruskin Cave, a regal garden, several waterfalls, or a restored home from the 1890s. If you are planning to combine your elopement with a honeymoon, you’re a short drive from Nashville’s many attractions, allowing for the pairing of vibrant days with intimate evenings. Butterfly Hollow Bed & Breakfast (Gordonsville) Fee: $2,999–5,149/eventCapacity: 30 There are many beautiful venues in Tennessee; however, Butterfly Hollow Bed & Breakfast may be the favorite. Located just
Elope in Georgia : Ultimate Planning Guide (pricing, locations, paperwork)
Elope in Georgia : Ultimate Planning Guide (updated 2022) The Ultimate “How to” Wedding Planning Guide to Elope in Georgia(complete with pricing, paperwork, and locations) Whether you live in Georgia or are looking to travel there, below is a list of the best places to elope in Georgia to help you decide. The most fun part about getting to elope (after, of course, being married to your life partner) is picking the perfect spot for your ceremony. Beautiful mountains, exquisite trails, sunny beaches, quaint and historical spots in town – there are so many different options for where to hold your ceremony. Why Elope in Georgia? Your marriage is a day when your partner and you hold each other’s hands and commit your lives to each other. Thus, this day has to be special with memories to cherish for a lifetime. With varied climatic conditions, Georgia provides you with gorgeous scenery no matter the season and will never fail to surprise you. It will be a wonderful and romantic experience to elope in Georgia. How to Elope in Georgia – Legal Stuff To have a memorable wedding in Georgia, all you and your partner need are the following things. A valid ID, you can use your state ID, passport, or driver’s license as ID proof. You will have to remunerate a fee of $56 to get a legal marriage license. Though it has become easy and simple to elope in Georgia, it will be even more seamless if you seek help from some event organizers. Best Times to Elope in Georgia Georgia is a place where you will witness hot and humid weather, during the summers, and you can feel the cold and moisture-filled breeze during the winters. During the spring season, you can’t predict the weather here, as rain pours down as an uninvited guest sometimes! But overall, it is quite pleasant and in spring the surroundings will be blooming with colorful flowers. So, if you ask me when the perfect time to have your wedding in Georgia is, my answer will be now! Yes, you can elope in Georgia at any time as each season will be a treat. Best Places to Elope in Georgia Tallulah Gorge Capacity: On-demand.Fee: No permit fee and the other expenses vary based on the crowd. Tallulah Gorge and Tallulah River are iconic spots in Georgia. It’s a state park that is famous for trees towering over the canopies of the park, the full and flowing river that creates beautiful cascades of waterfalls as they travel across the rocks, and earthy and texture rocks that line the walls of the gorge. It’s extremely picturesque, and even if you’ve never been to Georgia, you’re likely to fall in love with this location and all its beautiful scenery. If you’re into the outdoors and being in nature or if you simply want to have exquisite photographs, this is one of the best places to elope in Georgia. Tybee Island Capacity: No limits Fee: $15,000 approx., and $25 to get a permit for having your wedding on a beach and the prices differed for the other spots. Tybee Island is essentially a small vacation island that is a 30 minute drive from Savannah. It takes about three hours and five hours to get to this island from Augusta and Atlanta respectively, so it is super accessible. It’s kind of like Georgia’s version of Hilton Head Island. There are beaches, activities, events, hotels, and plenty of things to do and see after eloping in Georgia. If you are looking to marry and have an entire honeymoon at the same location, Tybee Island is a great spot to consider. Sweetwater Creek State Park As its name suggests, Sweetwater Creek is not only a state park, but its main feature is the creek that runs through it. The creek is stunningly picturesque and makes for beautiful poses and powerful imagery for your elopement in Georgia. An added element to its unique aesthetic is the ruined building of an old textile mill. As with any state park, you’ll want to do some research to make sure you apply for any needed permits to have an elopement there. Jekyll Island Similar to Tybee Island, Jekyll Island is a beautiful coastal location for a beachy place to elope in Georgia. It’s calm, relaxing, and resort-like, so if you want to stay around for a honeymoon vacation, this is the perfect spot. The island has golfing, kayaking, horseback riding, water sport rentals, and more to keep you both entertained for your stay. You can take things easy and relax on the beach or get active. Driftwood Beach in particular is an incredible spot, noted, as its name suggests, for miles of exquisitely shape driftwood. Have an intimate ceremony right along the beach at sunset and enjoy the privacy and romance of the island. Like what you see? I’d love to be your wedding photographer for your elopement in Georgia CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS WEDDING VENUES IN UPSTATE NY Cumberland Island Capacity: Up to 50 guestsFee: A $50 non-refundable fee for a special permit. A photography permit needs another $50 fee. One of the state’s most spectacular sea islands, this will be an ideal place to elope in Georgia. With the verdant, mossy trees and the presence of wild horses, you will get one of the best scenic venues for weddings in Georgia on this island! It will truly be a one-of-a-kind experience. Cloudland Canyon Capacity: No limitsFee: $45000 and the permit is free As the name suggests, Cloudland Canyon is filled with glorious views in all directions. You can view the 1000-foot deep canyons in every nook and cranny of the park. The wooded areas and stunning waterfalls make this location one of the topmost scenic venues for weddings in Georgia. You can enjoy the cute little yurts by renting them; your guests will have a fun-filled experience! The amazing part is that you don’t need any permits to have a memorable wedding at this canyon. Cavender Castle Cavender Castle is a unique wedding
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