Crested Butte Elopements and Micro-weddings: Your Complete Guide | Updated for 2024
Updated February 19th, 2024
Updated for the 2024-2025 Wedding Season
Thinking of a Crested Butte Elopement?
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As a wildflower capital of the world, Crested Butte sets a perfect scene for a one-of-a-kind elopement or micro-wedding. A rustic mountain town, it is one of my favorite places to work as an elopement photographer. I would be thrilled to be your Crested Butte elopement photographer!
Over the last few years, I’ve cultivated relationships with several small businesses in Crested Butte. Inclusivity is essential with any vendors I recommend. Before recommending them to my couples, I always ensure vendors share the same inclusive values. So you can trust that the venues and vendors listed here are as excited to celebrate your wedding as I am!
I’m thrilled to share this Crested Butte Elopement Guide to provide couples with the resources they need for an incredible Crested Butte elopement or micro-wedding!
From secret waterfalls to golden-hued aspen groves, Crested Butte elopement photography offers endless hidden gems for pictures. Read on to discover all you need to know to make your Crested Butte wedding dreams a reality!
Table of Contents
Photos by Andrea Enger unless otherwise credited.
Elope in Crested Butte: Top 10 Reasons Why
There are many reasons to elope in Crested Butte; it is hard to pick only ten! However, I did my best to narrow down my list and share my top ten with you.
1. Remote charm and a secluded feel
Crested Butte will make you feel like you’re in a Hallmark film. You know, those dreamy, picturesque small towns that feel too good to be true? This is Crested Butte.
While it’s a bit of a trek from Denver International Airport (DIA) to Crested Butte, the remoteness makes it mellower than other ski resort areas. As a result, it’s an ideal destination for a secret elopement with an intimate vibe.
Pro tip: If you have guests coming from the western half of the United States, they can consider flying into Grand Junction, CO, instead of DIA. Depending on road conditions, the drive is shorter by about an hour and a half, passes by scenic areas, and is on Highway 50 the whole way.
2. Bargain-level prices with a dash of luxury
Crested Butte is arguably one of the most affordable places to elope in the US. Despite its beauty, money-minded couples can pull off a somewhat lavish Crested Butte wedding on a modest budget.
3. Jaw-dropping backdrops
Any Crested Butte wedding photographer like myself will tell you there’s something special about this region’s photo ops. The little mountain town is so close to my heart, partially because its natural beauty and rustic charm remind me of my home country, Chile.
Aside from work, I visit Crested Butte multiple times yearly, and I love to camp for weeks with my family each summer. I scout the area by running, hiking, and driving, and I enjoy it more with each visit.
I loved documenting Jamie + Lucas’ elopement day last fall—the autumn colors were so rich! And the photos below are from K+W’s magical fall micro-wedding and Anna + Garrett’s romantic summer elopement.
4. Year-round availability
Whether you’re after an autumn elopement in the woods or a peak summer wildflower wedding, Crested Butte is a four-season resort town offering year-round beauty.However, be aware there are often road closures in the winter (October through July sometimes).
However, an experienced Crested Butte photographer like myself will keep you abreast of any important accessibility info! (P.S. There are always snowmobile rides to get you where you need to go if that sounds like your jam!) J+C’s elopement in the snow just may make you change your mind about a summer ceremony…
5. Unique lodging options
If you imagine wedding-day accommodation with a distinct personality and individual style, Crested Butte’s charming B&Bs and private cabins are ready to steal your heart. If this is the route you want to go, check out these VRBO rentals! I’ve rounded up a few fantastic ones with highly-rated hosts.
6. Stress-free convenience
At 250 miles, it’s worth the drive from Denver International Airport to Crested Butte. And despite the town’s remote location, couples planning a Crested Butte micro-wedding or elopement will find anything they could need at their fingertips.
7. Local vendors galore
Crested Butte has a well-established wedding industry, meaning you’ll have a broad selection of makeup artists, florists, officiants, culinary experts, and Crested Butte wedding photographers like myself within arms’ reach. I’ve listed a few of my favs below!
8. Great dining and catering options
It’s true: Crested Butte is secluded in the best way, but you’ll still have your choice of dining options. From quaint cafes to zesty Mexican joints, you’ll have several tasty options—whether you need a caterer or just a great taco!
9. Authentic outdoor experiences
It’s not just a location—every Crested Butte elopement or micro-wedding is an experience all on its own. After tying the knot, outdoor enthusiasts can keep up the adrenaline with hikes, mountain biking, skiing, kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). I’ve listed a few reputable adventure companies in this guide's “Crested Butte Activities” section, I've listed a few reputable adventure companies.
10. Elopement photos in Crested Butte are second to none!
I can gush for days about this town, and I’ve helped several couples pull off the wedding day of their dreams in Crested Butte. With this scenic wonderland as a backdrop, the elopement photos I capture here are awe-inspiring. Just look at some of my photo galleries for proof!
Best Places to Elope in Crested Butte
Since Crested Butte is one of the best places to elope in the US, it’s hard to pick favorites in this little mountain town! Here’s a quick run-down of the most popular outdoor spots for a Crested Butte micro-wedding or elopement. And if you’re looking for something not as well known, I maintain secret elopement locations available exclusively to my clients via my Crested Butte elopement packages.
Please note that winter road closures are widespread, but that part of my job is to keep you updated on any potential (literal) roadblocks as we plan your Crested Butte adventure.
Also, be aware that Crested Butte sits at an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, and altitude sickness is real! If you’re traveling from out of state (or even from within Colorado, but at a lower elevation), it may take you and your wedding guests a few days to acclimate!
I also carry extra water and ginger candies when we’re at altitude. However, it’s best to be appropriately acclimated to get the most out of your day!
Gunsight Bridge
A lush, green spot tucked away in Colorado forest, Gunsight Bridge is one of three outdoor ceremony sites owned by the Crested Butte Land Trust.
Nestled into the banks of the scenic Slate River, Gunsight Bridge offers all the beauty of an elopement in the woods without the hike and hassle.
With easy access and stunning views, Gunsight Bridge is a go-to for smaller wedding parties who want to be surrounded by lush forestry on their big day.
See more photos from Jamie + Lucas’ elopement ceremony near this picturesque spot!
Peanut Lake
Peanut Lake is a waterfront Crested Butte wedding site and the second spot that can be rented from the Crested Butte Land Trust. Regarding location and convenience, it doesn’t get much better than Peanut Lake.
Situated just outside of downtown, this outdoor elopement wedding venue is walkable on a warm day.
With a tranquil lake in the foreground and beautiful Crested Butte Mountain in the distance, Peanut Lake is perfect for couples wanting a serene outdoor location that can accommodate a wedding party of up to 100.
Woods Walk
Woods Walk in Crested Butte is the third outdoor elopement wedding venue available for rent from Crested Butte Land Trust for a wedding or elopement. Like Peanut Lake, it’s within walking distance from downtown and offers Crested Butte Mountain as a backdrop.
Woods Walk bursts to life in the summer with stunning wildflowers—in autumn, its aspens warm into rich gold.
Since it’s available year-round, Woods Walk also makes an ideal winter wedding spot for those who don’t want to worry about road closures or inaccessibility after a snowfall.
Emerald Lake
Aptly named for its vibrant blue-green hues and deep turquoise waters, this location is a diamond–er, an emerald–in the rough.
Nestled at the foot of mountains and surrounded by lush alpine trees, Emerald Lake offers a sprinkling of Colorado’s best: a 360-view of a crystalline alpine lake, alpine forestry, and jaw-dropping mountainous backdrops.
Remember that those wishing to have a Crested Butte micro-wedding at Emerald Lake should expect to share the area with hikers and lake users, particularly in the summer.
See more of Osnaeley + Austin’s lakeside ceremony.
Lake Irwin
Are you an avid SUPer or kayaker? Or maybe a classic wooden canoe is more your style? Regardless of your style, Lake Irwin is your spot if you envision your elopement on a picturesque alpine lake.
Located up Kebler Pass Road, a 25-minute drive from Crested Butte, Lake Irwin is a popular summertime destination. So if you are after seclusion, I’ll brainstorm with you and share my favorite off-the-beaten-path spots. For example, Lost Lakes may be more your jam.
But if a picturesque alpine lake that is a little closer to town and doesn’t require a hike with your SUP is what you’re after, consider Lake Irwin.
Spectacular year-round, with abundant and colorful wildflowers in the summer, Lake Irwin is breathtaking for a reason. As a bonus, there’s a campground with lake views right from the campsites.
Gothic Road
Otherwise known as Route 135, Gothic Road is a scenic drive connecting Crested Butte to the former mining town of Gothic. These days, the borough is both a ghost town and the site of a laboratory.
Gothic Road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Elk Mountains. Speckled with vista overlooks, it boasts a seemingly countless assortment of small, picturesque sites.
While unable to accommodate larger parties, these roadside gems are perfect, hassle-free elopement venues. Gothic Road is stunning (and busy!) in the summer when wildflowers transform it into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors.
Julia + Ross enjoyed a lovely post-vows picnic here!
Washington Gulch
Located around 5 miles from Crested Butte via Gothic Road, Washington Gulch is a go-to for adventurous couples willing to tackle a steep hike and a little sweat.
Washington Gulch is one of the best spots for flower spotting in Crested Butte, which is no small feat considering the town is the so-called “Wildflower Capital” of Colorado.
If you imagine a Crested Butte elopement or micro-wedding featuring stunning wildflower displays and snow-covered peaks, set in contrast to crisp blue skies, Washington Gulch in late spring or early summer is your spot.
Stunning Secret Elopement Wedding Venues
For couples craving adventure, Crested Butte boasts a ton of secret elopement sites. As a part of my Crested Butte elopement packages, I’ll help you find the perfect spot.
I’ve adventured around Crested Butte countless times and love scoping out the best elopement sites! If paved roads and well-marked trails are your comfort zone, I’m happy to work with you in the countless iconic places around Crested Butte.
But if you’re open to adventure on a mountain pass in a 4x4 vehicle, your ceremony location options become limitless! Established campgrounds and sites offer more amenities than dispersed camping (like fire rings, picnic tables, trashcans, and bathrooms), but they also mean more people will be around.
So if you’re comfortable roughing it and wanna get off the grid, imagine waking up–deep in nature–for sunrise photos and feeling like the whole world belongs to you! Or spend the entire day backpacking to a mind-blowing vista just in time for an epic sunset at which to exchange your vows…We can touch up your make-up at the top ;)
For the record, I’m always down to adventure as far and as deep as you are willing! And as a Leave No Trace certified photographer, I’ll ensure we respect the landscape while we capture your jaw-dropping photos. Let’s do this!
Crested Butte Lodging
Below are some of my clients’ and my favorite places to stay in this beautiful town. Many of them have doubled as intimate ceremony or wedding reception locations, too!
Bed + Breakfasts
Bed and Breakfasts are well-loved for their one-of-a-kind historical charm and highly personalized services. No two are alike, making them a popular choice for couples wanting to host an intimate wedding or elope in a way that’s entirely their own. Although weddings might not be their central focus, many B&Bs jump at the chance to host elopements and micro-weddings. Two of Crested Butte’s most well-loved B&Bs include:
This cozy family-run bed and breakfast lodge is perfect for your Crested Butte elopement in summer and winter.
Conveniently located just one block north of Elk Avenue and the main business district, the lodge is a short walk to shops and restaurants and about 50 yards from the free shuttle to Crested Butte Mountain and the Nordic ski center. Hiking and mountain biking trails are also easily accessible. Built in the early 1960s as the first lodge for the new ski area, the Cristiana owes its heritage to the ski lodges of Europe.
Image courtesy of Cristiana Guesthaus
Image courtesy of Cristiana Guesthaus
Purple Mountain Bed & Breakfast
Aptly named for its distinctive color, Purple Mountain B&B is a highly recognizable historic landmark located on Crested Butte’s Gothic Ave. Surrounded by aspen trees and a white picket fence, the five-room (and large-dog-friendly!) B&B offers a hot tub, fireplace, and personal touches like townie bikes and daily craft beer tasting in the living room!
Photo courtesy of Purple Mountain Bed & Breakfast’s website
Photo courtesy of Purple Mountain Bed & Breakfast’s website
Lodges, Inns + Hotels
Lodges, inns, and hotels generally offer well-established event amenities, making them a go-to for couples wanting a low-key, stress-free wedding. Their accommodation offerings also make them a perfect communal venue for wedding parties that plan to host out-of-town visitors. Here are just a few lodges, inns, and hotels that double as Crested Butte wedding venues.
If you’re after carefree elegance and straightforward splendor, a Scarp Ridge Lodge wedding is right up your alley. Offering indoor and outdoor spaces, this venue’s intimate setting and serene property have a soulful, rustic spirit that doesn’t sacrifice luxury.
Scarp Ridge Lodge photo courtesy of Eleven Experience
Interior of Scarp Ridge Lodge. Image courtesy of Eleven Experience.
Owned by the same venture as Scarp Ridge Lodge, Taylor River Lodge is an eight-cabin retreat nestled into the banks of a peaceful river. Surrounded by pine forests and granite cliffs, the lodge offers visitors an intimate, rugged ambiance with a secluded vibe. (Truth be told, Taylor River Lodge is located just outside Crested Butte in Almont, Colorado, reachable in about 25 minutes from downtown.)
Taylor River Lodge photo courtesy of Eleven Experience
Taylor River Lodge photo courtesy of Eleven Experience
Taylor River Lodge photo courtesy of Eleven Experience
Elevation Hotel & Spa is a first-class ski-in/ski/out luxury resort at the base of Crested Butte Mountain. Peaks Ballroom, the hotel’s event space, accommodates groups from 15 to 500. With updated decor and contemporary elegance, Elevation Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice for wedding parties who want an authentic mountain wedding with a modern touch.
Photo courtesy of Elevation Hotel & Spa’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Elevation Hotel & Spa’s Instagram
Private Cabins + Vacation Rentals
Quick note: As an affiliate member of VRBO, this post contains links to recommended services that I use myself and love. If you make a booking after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra charge to you). I promise any latte money earned ☕️ will be used to create even more useful content like this!
When it comes to Crested Butte wedding venues, private cabins are a treasure trove. They’re harder to find but worth it for those seeking a cozy, romantic spot for an intimate event. There are too many to list in the Crested Butte area—as each has a distinct style.
Note that not all rental properties permit ceremonies on their grounds, either. That said, find one you love, and there’s a good chance the owner will allow you to host your micro-wedding or elope onsite.
I’ve created a custom compilation of Crested Butte VRBOs to get you inspired or started on your search! With nearly a decade in the wedding industry, I’ve photographed brides getting ready in numerous private homes–and let me tell you: while they may have been super cute, not all of them were ideal for photos! Read on to learn why…
I researched each property before adding them to this list. I considered the lighting, the space layout, and the overall aesthetic for the potential photography! Families can spread out (and the betrothed can occupy opposite wings if needed), and these types of lodging are also perfect for bringing in a private chef for your wedding day dinner! I’ve included a good mix of budget, luxury, and dog-friendly listings–click the big blue button above and start getting inspired!
When a VRBO listing has caught your eye, scroll down to the “House Rules” to read the hosts’event policy. Some may charge an extra fee and pay attention to the limit on guests. While I’ve vetted these properties for their amenities, ambiance, and elopement potential (have you SEEN some of these backyards?!), you’ll want to disclose your plans with your host to ensure there aren’t any last-minute surprises.
Photo courtesy of VRBO.com
Photo courtesy of VRBO.com
Unique Crested Butte Wedding Venues
Crested Butte offers plenty of breathtaking natural elopement sites for outdoor enthusiasts, but it also has a wealth of beautiful indoor venues. If you imagine a more traditional setting with a distinct personality and individual style, these unique Crested Butte wedding venues will steal your heart.
Private Homes for Crested Butte Elopements + Intimate Weddings
Sopris House by Eleven Experience
This stunning home could be the whole package for your elopement in Crested Butte: rehearsal dinner venue, elopement ceremony site, wedding reception, and lodging for your wedding party—it sleeps eight within three king-bed rooms and a two-twin-bed room.
Check out my blog of Jessica + Nick’s special day on this beautiful and cozy property. It was the perfect place to convene after a romantic mountain micro-wedding.
Chef Tim Egelhoff was on-site and crafted an incredible reception dinner. And guests can enjoy the outdoor copper hot tub, cold plunge pool, and sauna.
Crested Butte Event Venues for Micro-Weddings
There’s a definite convenience to choosing a formal wedding or event venue for your big day. Crested Butte wedding venues cater mainly to precisely that—weddings! They’re an excellent choice for couples wanting a well-established spot to host a micro-wedding or elope. Many of these sites also offer extended space, which is great for those who don’t want to make tough cuts on the guest list.
While the setup at I Bar Ranch is to host larger gatherings, I’d be remiss not to mention this incredible venue. This rustic concert venue is located on a privately owned 12-acre ranch and provides a unique Western heritage experience for weddings. (You can even arrive at your ceremony in a horse-drawn carriage for an extra charge if that’s your thing!)
The facilities include a 7,500-square-foot covered pavilion; a raised, lighted stage with a sound system; and a kitchen prep building with a 15-square-foot BBQ grill (but no on-site food service). Additionally, you can have up to two bars (they have a liquor license and bartenders for hire) along with a massive bonfire pit that they’ll manage for you.
The Bridal Silo is a separate, unique building where brides can prepare for their big event.
Photo courtesy of I Bar Ranch’s website
Photo courtesy of I Bar Ranch’s Instagram
Surrounded by wildflower meadows and panoramic mountain vistas, Ten Peaks is a Crested Butte wedding venue that has achieved iconic status. Its tiered ceremony amphitheater looks out over the picturesque Gothic Valley and accommodates 126 and 200 guests.
However, inquire about a more intimate event if you want to host a smaller wedding celebration. Take it from an experienced Crested Butte wedding photographer like me—the backdrop at Ten Peaks Crested Butte makes for picture-perfect ceremony photos.
Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory
Don’t let the name deceive you! Outside of its scientific pursuits, the Rocky Mountain Bio Lab also offers event spaces for weddings of 30 people or more and may be able to accommodate smaller groups at other times. However, the facilities usually have students and scientists from late June to mid-August.
RMBL is snowed in from mid-November to mid-May with access by ski or snowshoe only, so it’s best to contact them directly to inquire about your event. Since they are a research station, they have some quirky rules (no overnight lodging, guests must be shuttled to the site, no pets allowed, etc.), but for the right couple, they host beautiful events.
Photo courtesy of RMBL’s website
Photo courtesy of RMBL’s website
Mountain Wedding Garden Crested Butte is an outdoor elopement wedding venue offering plenty of amenities (seating, parking, restrooms, banquet tables, and an open-air pavilion). A fantastic rain-or-shine wildflower wedding venue, the grounds of Mountain Wedding Garden Crested Butte are cultivated to showcase the region’s natural flora in a quiet park setting.
Photo courtesy of Mountain Wedding Garden’s website
Art Galleries for Intimate Wedding Ceremonies
Art and artisan crafts are central ingredients in Crested Butte’s unique culture—its local galleries also offer a promising outside-the-box alternative to more traditional Crested Butte wedding venues. The town’s many galleries may not advertise themselves as event spaces but would likely jump at the chance to host a small, tastefully styled ceremony or private dinner event.
Center for the Arts Crested Butte
Fellow art lovers: Consider this! The Western Slope's premier visual and performing arts venue is the Center for the Arts. Its iconic modern architecture, 31,000 square feet of multi-use spaces, and prime location in downtown Crested Butte make the Center ideal for all kinds of celebrations. In addition, the building is entirely ADA accessible, with elevator access to all three floors.
Photo courtesy of CFTA’s website
Photo courtesy of CFTA’s website
Crested Butte Mtn. Heritage Museum
Museums probably aren’t the first thing you think of when it comes to wedding venues, but Crested Butte Mtn. Heritage Museum is undoubtedly something special. Known fondly by locals as “Tony’s Conoco,” the museum’s old-timey facade, mountainous backdrop, authentic wood floors, and rich historical ambiance set it apart as a one-of-a-kind spot for intimate wedding ceremonies.
The Museum space has room for a buffet-style or served dinner, and the onsite kitchen is available for catering needs. Hourly rental rates are affordable, and your patronage helps an important Gunnison Valley nonprofit.
Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum photo by Andrea Enger
Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum photo by Andrea Enger
Restaurants for Your Crested Butte
Rehearsal Dinner or Elopement Reception
You could have your wedding dinner catered or take your party straight to the restaurant! After all, they’re already set up to host your guests and serve a top-notch meal. These Crested Butte restaurants have great vibes, fantastic food, and excellent customer service.
Tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and tequila! If this is speaking your language, then Bonez might be the perfect place for your after-party. The Dia de los Muertos-inspired decor is colorful and festive, and the food and drinks are bangin’. I’ve heard from many folks that it’s always a fiesta at Bonez.
Photo courtesy of Bonez’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Bonez’s website
Garlic Mike’s offers a private space for your micro-wedding reception or rehearsal dinner, perfect for 25 to 60 guests. The recently renovated property sits on the banks of the Gunnison River. Their Float and Dine package is popular for rehearsal dinners or as an event during the wedding week as guests arrive.
Garlic Mike will also cater to your location if you’re looking for award-winning Italian food, provided an on-site kitchen facility is available.
Photo courtesy of Garlic Mike’s website
The Slogar Bar & Restaurant has been offering family-style dinners and has been known as a top restaurant in Crested Butte since its inception in 1989. Their specialty skillet-fried chicken is created from a world-famous recipe dating back to 1915!
The historic building was the first tavern frequented by Crested Butte's miners on their way home from a day’s work at the Big Mine on the Bench. Husband-and-wife team Ian and Ayla Scott, house chef and mixologist, respectively, are proud to host family dinners for special occasions.
Image courtesy of Slogar’s website
Image courtesy of the Slogar’s Instagram
Tully's is a family-oriented restaurant serving all-American fare, specializing in BBQ. They source local ingredients when possible and have a great atmosphere. The awesome patio at Tully’s would be a great place to host your rehearsal dinner if you’re looking for an outdoor space to catch the sunset over the mountains. Alternatively, for something more intimate, the upstairs is also available and has a capacity of 35.
Photo courtesy of Tully’s Instagram
A popular wedding venue, Uley’s Cabin can hold up to 200 guests, making it a venue for couples seeking a more traditional wedding. However, while it is a wedding venue, it also doubles as a reception site.
So Uley’s Cabin can be a great spot for those who desire a private, intimate elopement in the mountains or other unique location, followed by a celebration with close friends and family in a more traditional venue setting.
The Wedding Spot provides several key details about Uley’s Cabin. They note that the pros of this site include the following:
Plenty of parking
Many essentials are covered, such as linens, chairs, drinkware, plates, and silverware
Food and beverages are handled on-site
A dance floor and sound system are included to get your groove on
Extras like votive candles and outdoor lighting are also included
And many more…
Stunning views and abounding wildflowers are given during the late spring and summer months. However, if you’re up for a one-of-a-kind winter elopement, this venue offers an ice bar in the winter and a snow-cat-driven sleigh ride to a romantic dinner.
Crested Butte Wedding Vendors
Whether you want a simplistic day of unplanned joy or a more elaborate ceremony, wedding vendors (and Crested Butte photographers like myself) are the do-ers who will make your dream day a reality.
The good news? Despite Crested Butte’s size and remote location, its expansive wedding industry offers plenty of vendors to match your distinct needs.
A word of caution? This small town (and its businesses) get busy. Especially during peak seasons! So booking well in advance is essential to guarantee the wedding cake, musician, or other day-of vendors of your dreams.
Of course, my Crested Butte elopement packages include a little help on this front—after locking me in as your photographer, I’ll help you find the ones that fit you best.
This vendor list is by no means exhaustive. If you’re serious about planning a Crested Butte elopement or micro-wedding, I’ll share more of my vetted vendors! These are just a few of my favorites to get you inspired!
Catering Companies in Crested Butte
You want your big day to be unforgettable—food and drink included. Thankfully, Crested Butte’s culinary scene boasts various world-class catering establishments.
The Horsefeather is the total event bar experience brought right to you, whether you are getting married at established venues like Crested Butte’s Mountain Wedding Garden or simply in your VRBO’s backyard.
This fantastic pizzeria will deliver to the top of the mountain if that’s where your elopement or micro-wedding occurs! It’s an outside-the-box option (pun intended) for feeding your wedding guests gourmet pies that cater to all diets.
The Secret Stash is happy to help with wedding events (welcome parties, rehearsals, or receptions), whether onsite at their downtown location or in the beautiful surrounding Crested Butte area.
Not only is the food coming out of their ovens mouthwatering, but this company also takes care of their community. During the coronavirus lockdown, Stash owner Kyleena turned the pizza parlor into a free farmers’ market to help feed the town. Talk about a great business to support!
This local wine producer uses 100% Colorado grapes made locally in the Gunnison Valley. Being part of a couple's special wedding day is the experience this family-owned business wants to be part of. And you can feel good about keeping your wedding budget in the local economy.
Photo courtesy of Buckel Family Wine’s website
Photo courtesy of Buckel Family Wine’s website
Situated in historic Crested Butte in an old miner's cabin, Tin Cup Pasty Co. is a British pasty shop slinging piping hot meat or veggie-filled pastry dough pockets. They are sure to satisfy your wedding party!
Husband and wife team Matthew and Lydia Price are re-introducing the “original miner’s meal” to the Gunnison Valley (home to many generations of miners). They also offer loaded Belgian waffles, sweet and savory baked goods, soups and salads, and adult beverages. Inquire about their catering options!
Photo courtesy of Tin Cup Pasty Co.’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Tin Cup Pasty Co.’s Instagram
Sustainable Crested Butte offers 100% post-consumer reusable plasticware made by Preserve and secondhand goods donated or collected from thrift stores that are available for rent with washing service at affordable rates. They currently have enough materials (including specialty items like champagne flutes, mugs, and wine glasses) to equip even the largest of micro-weddings ;)
Photos courtesy of Sustainable CB’s website
Photos courtesy of Sustainable CB’s website
Private Chefs for Hire in Crested Butte
Crested Butte micro-weddings and elopements are all about distinctive taste and individual style. Private chefs offer the perfect solution for couples who want a more luxurious, personalized touch to their wedding day meal.
Crested Butte’s Personal Chefs
This team of talented chefs uses local and organic ingredients and will set up shop in the mountain cabin VRBO you’ve rented or anywhere else you plan to feed your wedding party! Packages include up to 5-course dinners and even breakfast the following day!
Timberline Chef Services + Catering
Chef Tim Egelhoff collaborates with clients to accommodate preferences, dietary needs, and even children’s menus. A dinner may vary from a home-style buffet to a multi-course plated and formally staffed event, all using fresh, local ingredients whenever available. Chef Tim was hired to craft an incredible reception dinner for my clients Jessica and Nick at the fabulous Sopris House, a private home they rented for their elopement reception.
Crested Butte Florists
Next to the dress, many consider bridal bouquets the central element of a ceremony’s aesthetic. Less of a prop and more of a cherished art piece, your bouquet (and hair pieces/corsages/boutonnieres, if you choose to have them) should reflect your style. Here are a few of my favorite Crested Butte-based floral artists.
Bramble & Bloom Floral is a woman-owned and operated small business that my clients consistently love using for their bouquets! In addition, they offer custom floral designs for events, weddings, and homes. They are open year-round and have a great assortment of dried arrangements, pots, and a unique variety of plants.
Bramble & Bloom was started by local artist Sarah Hausdoerffer, who began as a mural and faux-finish artist and added florals to her medium. Also on the floral design team is her identical twin sister, Stephanie Fischer.
Bouquet by Bramble & Bloom Floral. Photo by Andrea Enger.
Bouquet by Bramble & Bloom Floral. Photo by Andrea Enger.
FIN+ALLY is a full-service boutique floral design studio owned by Heather Allyn Seekatz. Her custom arrangements and bouquets utilize local blooms with an environmentally friendly approach. Whether you are looking for something tailored or completely wild and free, Heather's careful consideration and attention to detail shine through all of FIN + ALLY's creations.
Photo courtesy of Fin + Ally
Photo courtesy of Fin + Ally
If you decide to eschew fresh florals, definitely consider the stunning faux (silk) flowers in the handmade arrangements from Our Blessed Woods on Etsy. A recent bride used these and we were both obsessed with how they turned out and looked in photos! (The bouquet and boutonnieres are also keepsakes that’ll never wilt!)
Crested Butte Hair + Makeup Artists
When it comes to wedding-day vendors, hair and makeup artists are arguably the most important (and most difficult) vendors to decide on. Thankfully, Crested Butte has plenty of highly skilled professionals to choose from.
This self-professed “beauty junkie” is highly recommended by many happy brides. She focuses on enhancing one’s natural beauty, which I love!
Photo courtesy of Natalie Duke’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Natalie Duke’s Instagram
Amethyst, a colorful Colorado native, combines her love for art, travel, and beauty through her work as a wedding hair and makeup artist. She has a contagious personality and loves making others feel beautiful. You can see her latest work on my Captivating Crested Butte Micro-Wedding blog.
Decor + Specialty Rentals
SAGE provides everything from arches and backdrops to stemware and tabletop decor, entire furniture suites and accessories down to the smallest details. Their professionals are artists and designers thrilled to be putting together one-of-a-kind packages catered just for you. There’s no minimum, which works great for micro-weddings and elopements!
Photo courtesy of Sage
Crested Butte Wedding Officiants
Marriages in Colorado can be self-solemnized, meaning there’s technically no need to hire a wedding officiant. That said, many couples choose to hire an officiant for the polished element they add to a ceremony. So when it comes to professional wedding officiants in Crested Butte, there are plenty to choose from.
Reverend Tim Clark (pictured below) has lovingly performed many elopement ceremonies for couples I've worked with. All have had glowing praises for his work.
He performs individually crafted wedding ceremonies for couples from all traditions and in locations ranging from the tops of 14,000 ft. peaks to wildflower filled meadows and forest grottos. Rev. Tim has performed more than 900 weddings in Crested Butte to date.
Two others that I recommend are Chad Reich (who doubles as a DJ—see Star Mountain Sound below!) and Kat Hassebroek, who is just a lovely human all-around. You can contact Chad through his Star Mountain website and Kat by emailing kat.hassebroek@gmail.com.
Music: Crested Butte DJs + Musicians
Chad is a client-focused DJ with 15 years of on-air radio experience and ten years of helping clients plan and orchestrate their events from the music and amplified music side of the production. He's all about bringing your vision to life.
Photo by Kasala Photography
Lizzy Plotkin’s place-based songwriting and fiddling are exuberant yet graceful. With reverence for the natural world and a humble yet wise human perspective, Lizzy shares her joy and connection with listeners through original story, melody, and voice. The sounds of Appalachian fiddles and banjos enliven Lizzy’s music, while she is equally drawn to the groove of old jazz, blues, and swing.
Image courtesy of Lizzy Plotkin.
Things to Do in Crested Butte During Your Destination Wedding Week
Wheelies & Waves Adventure Co.
Whether you’re achin’ to try SUP’ing, kayak over rapids, or leisurely float on an inner tube, the husband-and-wife team at Wheelies & Waves knows their stuff! They’re knowledgeable about the area's lakes and rivers and will set you up for an afternoon of adventurous water sports you won’t forget.
Photo courtesy of Wheelies & Waves’ Instagram
Photo courtesy of Wheelies & Waves’ Instagram
Action Adventures Snowmobile & ATV Rentals
Snowmobiling has become very popular (2nd only to skiing), and Crested Butte has some of the most spectacular backcountry scenery in the Rocky Mountains. The knowledgeable and friendly guides at Action Adventures can connect you with a leisurely, family-friendly tour or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, depending on what you're looking for.
Photo courtesy of Action Adventures’ website
Photo courtesy of Action Adventures’ website
Alpenglow offers a variety of specialized JEEPS, rescue beacons (in case you get lost!), and video camera rentals (to document your adventures!). They have you covered if you really wanna see what the Crested Butte back-country is all about. Alpenglow’s off-road expertise will assist you in choosing an adventure, provide maps for designated trails, and give you instructions, insurance, and safety equipment.
Photo courtesy of Alpenglow Rentals’ website
A Crested Butte activity guide would only be complete by mentioning cycling! Mountain biking is a religion in this region. Townie cruising and fat bike snow cycling are also super popular.
Whether you’ve brought your bicycle, want to purchase one, or need a rental, swing through Big Al’s Bicycle Heaven to get geared up to hit the trails. This woman-owned community bike shop (that’s right–Big Al is owner Alison Fuchs) is worth checking out.
Photo courtesy of Big Al’s Instagram
Photo courtesy of Big Al’s Instagram
Scenic Chairlift Rides in the Summer
I LOVE any “ride” that brings me to incredible vistas (gondolas, trams, chairlifts). The Silver Queen Express or Red Lady Express at Ski Crested Butte is no exception. Experience a round-trip ride or depart at the top to hike the mountain's trails, including Crested Butte's iconic peak.
Image courtesy of SkiCB.com
If your dream elopement takes you to Crested Butte during the winter and you’re looking for a splurge, enjoy an adventure and a meal at The Magic Meadows Yurt. Your evening starts with a guided snowshoe or hike into the Magic Meadows Yurt. A private chef prepares delicious food, and drinks are served. Then, belly’s full, you head back under a star-swept sky.
Annual Events
Crested Butte is home to several annual festivals and events. As a wildflower capital of the world, it is likely most well-known for its annual wildflower festival. Typically hosted the second week of July, there is an entire webpage dedicated to this event, where you’ll find the ins and outs on all the events, field guides and maps, and more!
Crested Butte’s Chainless World Championships Bike Race
If removing your bike chain, donning a costume, then racing down Kebler Pass into downtown Crested Butte sounds fun, you might enjoy participating in this event—or if you’re more like me, watching safely from the sidelines! Downtown Crested Butte offers the scoop on this adrenaline-bursting adventure.
An annual winter event, Travel Crested Butte provides the low-down on this yearly race. Participants fuel the fun in unique costumes and complete the course to qualify for the American Birkebeiner race (AKA the Birkie).
Image of Alley Loops Nordic Marathon from TravelCrestedButte.com
Looking for More Crested Butte Event Resources?
This list only touches the surface of everything happening in Crested Butte. Crested Butte offers an impressive array of activities, from the Maker’s Market, where you can sample locally made brews, to wine classes, live music, and art festivals.
Check out Travel Crested Butte’s event page for the most up-to-date information on local happenings.
Marriage Licenses, Permits, and the Nitty Gritty Details of a Crested Butte Elopement
So we’ve covered all the fun parts, and I hope I’ve sent your mind daydreaming about all the fantastic possibilities Crested Butte offers for elopement and adventure. However, some technicalities are involved with eloping in these pristine wild places, and I want you to feel prepared to handle the more technical aspects of eloping.
While this information isn’t as exciting as dreaming up elopement photos set against a backdrop of wildflowers and aspen groves, it’s important!
Marriage Licenses: To simplify what is involved in obtaining a marriage license in Colorado, here is the quick version of the most common questions I’m asked. This information was pulled from the Gunnison County website and is current at the time of publishing.
However, it’s a good idea to double check this info with the county you plan to obtain your marriage license from.
If it seems daunting, don’t worry. I’m here to help. And for now, here’s the quick and easy version of what you should know:
The license just needs to be purchased in Colorado and does not need to be purchased in the county you intend to get married in.
Currently, the fee is $30 for a marriage license.
The license must be used within 35 days.
You can be residents of a different state and still get a Colorado marriage license.
If you are obtaining a marriage license in Gunnison County, they are closed on major holidays and require an appointment to apply for a marriage license during their normal business hours.
There are other details involved in obtaining a marriage license. However, these are the main ones. If in doubt or if you have any questions, please ask!
Permits, Reservations, and Contracts: Several spots, like the Crested Butte Land Trust locations (Gunsight Bridge, Peanut Lake, and Wood’s Walk), require additional paperwork prior to eloping. For example, the Crested Butte Land Trust Sites require reservations, a deposit, and a contract.
I’ll help ensure your elopement plans are magical and legal so you don’t run into any unpleasant surprises as your date approaches!
Witnesses and Self-Solemnizing: Ok, so I know I said this section wasn’t as exciting. However, here is one of my favorite parts about capturing elopements in Colorado—your beloved pooch (or adventure cat) can sign your marriage license!
The reason why your pup can sign off on your license is that, technically, in the state of Colorado, no witnesses are required in order to marry.
The fancy term for this that you may hear is “self-solemnization”. It means that couples can self-solemnize their marriage. So, if you’d like your furry friend to sign, it’s cool and one of my favorite images to photograph.
Remember to “Leave No Trace!”
Sustainability can’t just be a niche market for photographers. It must be the new normal! As a nature lover, I am dedicated to helping our earth flourish. This is why I practice “Leave No Trace” principles at each and every one of my sessions.
What exactly is Leave No Trace?
It is:
🌿 A set of ethics & best practices we should follow to enjoy and protect the outdoors at the same time
🌿 An access tool to help enjoy public lands responsibly and leave less impact
It isn’t:
🌿 Something to shame other people about or make them feel bad for not knowing
🌿 Something to use to gatekeep and keep others from enjoying the outdoors
Once you’ve booked me as your Crested Butte elopement photographer, you’ll receive my full Leave No Trade guide for couples! It’s an easy-breezy workbook designed to help you plan your dream elopement, while being mindful of the beautiful lands upon which you’ve chosen to exchange your vows.
Crested Butte Elopement Packages
I’m now booking 2024 + 2025 Crested Butte elopements and micro-weddings. Bookings are limited. View my rates and see what’s included in my Elopement Packages within Colorado. Then reach out to secure your date ASAP!
If you have questions, we can always start with a low-key, no-commitment phone call. I love to help couples begin to realize their adventure elopement dreams!
Ready to Celebrate Your Day Your Way?
Find out how I can help make that happen!
If you’re ready to get the ball rolling to secure your photographer (slash elopement planning expert!) that’s great! You can do that by filling out the form below, by emailing me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or by calling or texting me at (720) 739-0784. I look forward to hearing from you!
If you’re still in the research phase, I hear ya! Here are some more resources that my couples have found helpful. I hope you do, too!
