Telluride Elopements and Micro-Weddings: Your Complete Guide | Updated for 2024

Updated December 18th, 2023

Elopement couple gazing at each other, standing in the foothills of the Telluride mountains.
 

Updated for the 2024-2025 Wedding Season

Have you considered a Telluride elopement yet?

Eloping in Telluride (or nearby Ouray or Silverton) is a fantastic idea!

Nothing says rugged like the mountain towns of Telluride, Ouray, and Silverton. Picture eloping in Telluride atop the incredible San Juan mountains — just the two of you surrounded by all that’s wild and free. 

Maybe you want a few friends there for a Telluride micro wedding. Or your dream Telluride elopement includes just your faithful dog, who you plan to have sign the marriage license (yes, it’s a thing in Colorado!).

Whether you’re looking for a multi-day backpacking excursion and want someone to document the entire adventure (don’t worry — I’ll pack and carry my own tent!), you’re looking for something more traditional with a small Telluride micro wedding, or you want to say your vows on an epic hot air balloon ride, I’ve got you covered.

 

Table of Contents

 
 
Newlyweds hiking up a rocky hill as they leave the alpine lake in the San Juan Mountains.
 

Photos by Andrea Enger unless otherwise credited.

 

Why You Need an Expert Telluride Elopement Photographer

Hi! I’m Andrea, a Telluride elopement photographer and small wedding expert. I love to help couples dream and plan incredible wedding adventures in one-of-a-kind locations. 

If your dream elopement or microwedding is among the San Juans, I’ve created this guide just for you!

Elopement photographer, Andrea Enger, standing in a hill with the bright blue lake and towering Andes mountains  behind her.

A Chilean native, Colorado has been my home for the last decade. And I’ve spent every year here exploring new corners and visiting tried and true favorites. 

I’m an adventure-seeking photographer who knows the state (and the best places for an epic elopement!) like the back of their hand. So, if an outdoor elopement or microwedding is your plant, let’s talk!

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7 Reasons to Elope in Telluride

 
 

If you want a mountain elopement but are still deciding where to go, consider a Telluride elopement or micro wedding. This area will feed your sense of adventure like no other place.

Many jaw-dropping areas in Telluride, Ouray, and Silverton are more remote and less busy than other population destinations in Colorado.

If you’re on the fence about eloping in Telluride, Ouray, or Silverton, here are seven reasons to experience an elopement in Telluride or a nearby town.

History and Victorian Charm 

In 1875, the discovery of gold in Smuggler Veil and the nearby San Miguel River fueled residents' interest in the area. Settlers came soon after this discovery of gold and founded Telluride, Colorado, in 1878. 

Originally called Columbia, the discovery of the element tellurium in the area gave the city its name. Tellurium forms tellurides, which is an ore that contains gold.

While the city’s name likely comes from the element tellurium, a common myth is that the town earned its name from the phrase “To hell you ride.” People said this phrase when departing to the mining camp in town.

Slow to grow due to its remoteness, Telluride became the site of Butch Cassidy’s first major crime. Cassidy robbed the San Miguel Valley Bank of almost $25,000 in 1889, putting the town on the map. Many historical labor disputes also took place between the underpaid miners and wealthy mine owners in Telluride, further making a name for the town.

Nowadays, Telluride is best known for world-class snow skiing, summer recreation, historic buildings, and a “Wild West” vibe.

Main Street in Telluride during the winter, snow covers the streets and the mountains behind it.

Main Street in Telluride. Image courtesy of Telluride.com

Outdoor Adventures Abound

Offroading, hiking, skiing, rafting — the San Juans have it all. Folks around here live for the outdoors. And once you arrive, the outdoor scene will lure you right in.

The San Juans are an adventurer’s playground. Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind thrill-seeking adventure elopement? I know all the best outfitters in town who can hook you up with equipment and guides. Do you want to say your vows while rock or ice climbing or before jumping off a mountain to hang glide? Let’s make it happen!

Newlyweds kayak on the alpine lake they got married on in the San Juan Mountains.
 
 

Waterfalls

One of my favorite parts about working as a Telluride elopement photographer is the two gorgeous waterfalls on the edge of this scenic frontier town.

Ingram Falls 

Ingram Falls can be seen from Colorado Avenue, Telluride’s main street, where it starts 2,000 feet in the air and then makes three cascading drops. It makes for a spectacular backdrop.

We can capture charming photos on Colorado Avenue with Victorian-style buildings, colorful flower pots in the median, and the mountains at the end of the town. Ingram falls in the background completes this idyllic scene.

A detailed photo of Ingram Falls in Telluride. You have to look closely to see the waterfall amongst bits snow.

Ingram Falls. Image courtesy of The Library of Congress

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls may be more your jam if you’re after a more adventurous waterfall elopement. Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, standing at 365 feet. 

Depending on your fitness level and acclimation to altitude, there’s a moderately challenging hike that starts at 9,000 feet, where Bridal Veil Falls Road ends. Alternatively, you can drive a 4WD to the top and then take the exhilarating descent on Black Bear Pass into Ingram Basin. Whether driving or on foot, the views are phenomenal.

Easy to Get Around

Some speculate the name Telluride came from one of its original nicknames —“To Hell You Ride,” — aptly named because of the treacherous journey into town. 

However, in today’s age, Telluride has excellent free public transportation. Available daily, the Galloping Goose bus system follows a loop every 15-20 minutes, depending on the time of day. Generally, it operates between 7 AM and midnight, but this is subject to change.

One of its stops is the Gondola, which links Telluride to further developments and recreation areas. And no matter where in town you take the Galloping Goose, stunning views are sure to greet you.

A view of the Telluride gondola from atop a mountain, looking down on the town of Telluride. This little town sits in the valley of staggering mountains.

Telluride Gondola. Image courtesy of Telluride.com

You can ride the Gondola with your dog, skis, and bikes. It is also handicap accessible. And the views are incredible! 

Picture your Telluride elopement photographer (oh hey!) capturing your elopement amidst those 365-degree views.

Privacy and Seclusion

Telluride’s stark beauty and remote location make it easy to leave the business of the world behind. You can escape the crowds with a hike or drive and feel you have the trail to yourself.

Envision exchanging your vows in the warm, golden glow of a mountain sunrise with your elopement photographer there to take one-of-a-kind photos of your intimate day. 

Couple share a sweet moment leaning on each other as the lake, trees, and mountains in front of them ignite with the sunrise.

Then, spend the rest of your wedding day hiking, paddle boarding, or enjoying a beer at the Telluride Brewing Company. And since I believe in honoring your full-day (or multi-day) elopement adventure, the photos don’t need to stop after the vows. I can join for whichever parts of the day are most special to you! 

Need some inspiration on where to go or the best places for photo ops? I know where to find the best hideaways and adventures. While I’m a Telluride elopement photographer, I am also a resource for all things mountain micro-weddings and elopements.

Bride and groom share a laugh with the bartender at a bar, the bride is grabbing her amber-colored beer from the counter.

A Four-Season Wonderland

Telluride, Colorado, is accessible all year. Whether you envision a sunny summer ceremony, a spring mountainside picnic, or a cozy Telluride winter elopement, the region never disappoints. 

Winters in Telluride are striking, and the snow-capped peaks create a dramatic backdrop for photos! Just be aware that there may be road closures and airport delays in the winter. However, as an experienced elopement photographer in the area, I’ll be in contact with you to help you navigate any weather-related challenges.

The happy couple share a drink and delicious snacks during a picturesque picnic near a mountain stream.

Easy to Obtain a Wedding License

One of the best things about eloping here is that you can get your license for $30 at the adorable courthouse in town. You don’t need witnesses or a Telluride wedding officiant for the ceremony. However, I have vetted excellent, inclusive officiants if you want one.

Or, you’re welcome to bring your pup(s) to witness and sign for you! As a total dog lover, snapping pictures of your furry friend celebrating your day with you is one of my favorite photos to include.

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How to Get to Your Telluride Elopement

 
 

One option is to fly into Montrose Regional Airport, airport code MTJ, which is 65 miles away. Ground transportation is available to take you to Telluride, Colorado. Reservations are advised, and plenty of operators with fleets of motorcoaches, SUVs, and vans will take you from the Montrose Airport to your accommodations.

Car rentals are also available at the airport. However, the entire town of Telluride is walkable, and you don’t need a vehicle while you’re there.

People also like to fly into Grand Junction (GJT), about two-and-a-half hours away. You can rent a car at the airport and drive into Telluride via US 50 E. This road is a main highway that’s kept clear of snow and offers gas stations and dining on your way to Telluride.

If you have a bit more time, consider the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway. This route is famously beautiful. It’s remote, so gas stations and other stopping places are limited, but natural overlooks are plentiful. Plan on at least an extra hour if you take this scenic route.

You can also take a shuttle from Grand Junction just like you would if you landed at Montrose. Reservations are recommended.

Telluride has a small airport and plane service from Denver and other locations. However, the weather can be iffy in the winter, and diversions happen if it’s unsafe to land. So either one of the other airports is recommended.

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Best Places to Elope In and Around Telluride

An action shot of the couple and their friends jumping in their air with their hands in the air. The Telluride mountains are behind them, covered in snow.

Where are the best places to elope in and around Telluride? If you stand anywhere in town and throw a rock, it will land in a great photo-op. The historic vibes of the town and mountains set a spectacular scene. 

But, chances are, you’re looking for something a little more on the adventurous side. And while every square inch of this alpine treasure is extraordinary, knowing where to find the best elopement spots is part of my Telluride elopement packages.

Here are a few of my favorite places to consider tying the knot.

Blue Lakes (Lower, Middle, and Upper)

The Blue Lakes Trail, in the Mount Sneffels Wilderness Area, takes you to these three lakes. An 8.7 mile out and back trail, it’s a challenging but incredibly scenic hike.

Consider renting the Blue Lakes Hut well in advance for a fun overnight stay. Situated on a hill above the trail, this is a great spot to break up the hike and enjoy the area's beauty.

A photo of Woods Lake in the summer, everything is lush and green as the reflection sparkles off of the lake.

Woods Lake. Image courtesy of Telluride.com

Woods Lake

Love groves of aspens? You’ll love Woods Lake, situated in a dense aspen forest. The beauty here in the fall, when the aspens transform into brilliant shades of gold, is second to none. 

And if you want to spend more time exploring the area, there’s a campsite with drinking water and toilets.

Other Alpine Lakes

I’ve mentioned a few popular alpine lakes, but the area is teeming with several more. The bright, clear blues of alpine lakes with the mountains arching over create impressive settings for elopement photos. 

If you’re looking for seclusion, privacy, and a water scene background, let’s talk! I regularly explore Telluride and the surrounding areas and consider finding lesser-known hikes, waterfalls, and lakes a superpower! Check out this elopement on a shimmering lake in the San Juan Mountains.

Freshly married couple pose on a rock on the lake they got married on as the sun comes up and lights up the mountain behind them.

Any of the Several Mountain Passes

If you are looking for an adrenaline-pumping elopement, let’s go to one of the several mountain passes in the area for a 4x4 adventure! Telluride and the surrounding areas are rich in mining history. The intertwined dirt roads, perfect for a Jeep 4x4, are part of the lasting legacy of its mining days.

Imogene Pass, connecting Telluride and Ouray, is one of the most popular mountain passes and is only one of many in the area! Mountain driving experience is recommended to navigate these roads safely. However, if you’d rather let an experienced guide do the driving for you, there are guides and outfitters to choose from!

Bride and groom walk through a beaten path through Telluride as the dramatic mountains brew up a storm.

San Sophia Overlook

San Sophia Overlook is both breathtaking and convenient. Easily accessible by the free Gondola in the town near the top of lift 7, it’s rentable through the Telluride Ski Resort

It may be a great fit if you desire a micro wedding with a more traditional wedding and reception feel.  

Alpino Vino

Also rented through the Telluride Ski Resort, Alpino Vino is a unique wintertime-only venue. As a chalet restaurant with delectable Italian cuisine, Alpino Vino is a luxurious experience for those who crave adventure but with a fine glass of wine in hand. Alpino Vino is an intimate venue and perfect for micro weddings. It can host a group size maximum of 24.

The sun rises on Alpino Vino, a small restaurant on the edge of a mountain. There is an outside patio for a scenic dining experience.

Alpino Vino. Image courtesy of ExploreTock.com

This venue includes a Sommelier team to pair fine wines with each course and a snowcat-drawn coach to take you to the chalet. Sitting at 12,200 feet, you’ll feel on top of the world as you say your vows.

Last Dollar Road

A hidden gem, Last Dollar Road is an excellent option for those who want an adventure but aren’t quite sure they’re up for the thrill of a 4x4 mountain pass adventure. This road is considered beginner to intermediate level — under dry conditions, a 4WD vehicle is not required. However, a capable vehicle is recommended, and you’re likely better off renting an ATV or Jeep to navigate Last Dollar Road.

San Miguel River

While Telluride and the surrounding areas offer several calm alpine lakes, if rushing water is what you’re after, the San Miguel River in town offers several excellent photo-ops. Or we could travel to places along the river outside of town. Several other creeks dot the area, too, for flowing water pics.

San Miguel River. Image courtesy of Telluride.com

Via Ferrata

For thrillseekers, consider one of the Via Ferrata in the area to exchange your vows. Two options are the Kroger Via Ferrata near Telluride and the Ouray Via Ferrata. Equipment rentals are available.

Via Ferrata. Photo courtesy of MountainTrip.com

Ouray

Also known as “The Switzerland of America,” the mountain town of Ouray is about an hour away from Telluride. It offers many brewpubs and cute shops. But what Ouray is famous for is its off-roading adventures on the Alpine Loop National Back Country Byway.

For a unique Ouray elopement in late summer or early fall, drive this scenic byway to where you want to exchange your vows (I can help you pinpoint an exact spot!). Then pop something bubbly and celebrate!

Silverton

Another adventure for eloping couples is to head to the National Historic Landmark town of Silverton. 

Silverton and the surrounding San Juan Mountains offer many unique spots for an elopement. Since the town is off the beaten path in the middle of the range, you won’t need to worry about privacy.

A highlight of the rugged countryside is the unique formations. The jagged summit of Mount Sneffels and the raw beauty of Cimarron Ridge are unlike anywhere else in the world. 

If you love bright blue alpine lakes, you’ll be amazed at the lakes in this part of the San Juan Mountains. They make a beautiful place for a wedding.

The entire countryside here stands at 9,300 feet and comes alive with color—from the ice-blue lakes to the spectacular orange sunsets. The area is brimming with incredible drives, and another nearby famous drive is the Million Dollar Highway.

The highway runs between Ouray and Silverton and is renowned for its views. It can also be a bit of a thrill as it twists and turns through the granite peaks.

Come to Silverton for an elopement in the summer, and you’ll enjoy river rafting, backcountry hiking, Jeep rentals, biking, fishing, horseback riding, and camping. The town stays active year-round, and the winters are amazing, too. Winter visitors have access to recreation involving snow and ice. 

Whether you visit during a warm or chilly season, any time of year is perfect for exploring Silverton’s legendary gold mining history and sampling craft beer at several breweries.

Bridal Veil Falls

Can we talk again about how dang beautiful getting married by a waterfall is? Bridal Veil Falls is just outside Telluride. It’s best viewed in the late spring and early summer because the water is at full cascade. 

We can hike the two miles or drive to it by 4WD. Either way, the photography is incredible.

Bridal Veil Falls. Image by Jason Hatfield on TheOutbound.com

My Super Secret Spots

Looking for a spot not listed on all of Google’s top searches? Let’s grab a 4x4, and I’ll take you to one of my off-the-beaten-path places — the places you just need to know about that you won’t easily find on Google.

We can hike or drive in. The choice is entirely up to you. But whichever way you reach your special elopement spot, I’ll document every sweet moment — from pink sunrise to golden sunset. I’ll also know about any permits that are needed ahead of time so you’ll be prepared.

Where to Stay for Your Telluride Elopement

From rustic to luxury, Telluride and the surrounding areas have it all. Here are a few of my favorite places to stay in Telluride. 

Don’t see an option on this list that fits your needs? Reach out and let me know! I’m happy to help scout out additional lodging options

Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection

If luxury is what you’re after, the Madeline Hotel is the place to stay. This 5-star property is a ski-in/ski-out resort with onsite restaurants, a spa, an outdoor pool, and ski valet. They offer curated guest experiences like dog sledding adventures, private fishing trips with a picnic provided, and foraging with their executive chef!

They also have creative designers to assist with weddings of any size. 

Image courtesy of Auberge Resorts

Photo courtesy of Telluride.com

Hotel Columbia

The Hotel Columbia Telluride is an upscale, modern property near the free Gondola and is dog-friendly. Each guest room is uniquely appointed, with some featuring fireplaces, balconies, and kitchenettes. 

All rooms offer king-sized beds with pillow-top mattresses and down comforters, WiFi, Keurigs, soft robes, walk-in showers, and signature toiletries in travertine-tiled bathrooms. The hotel even provides ski lockers and boot warmers. Breakfast in the COSMOpolitan, their fine dining restaurant, is included in the room rate.

The Columbia Hotel. Image courtesy of Hotel Columbia

hot-columbia-telluride.com.png

Photo courtesy of Telluride.com

The Hotel Telluride

The Hotel Telluride is an elegant lodge with onsite dining and relaxing outdoor whirlpools. It’s in the middle of town and convenient to restaurants and shopping. They offer fun experience packages (based on availability) such as:

  • An organized hike to the top of the instantly recognizable Coors Beer mountain, also known as Wilson’s Peak, for a cold Coors and a picnic. After the strenuous hike, choose between a facial and a massage in the hotel spa.

  • Enhancing your rock-climbing skills with a two-day Ropes and Rungs package. A rock-climbing guide will help you explore the high cliff walls of Ophir Valley one of the days. The other day, you’ll conquer the Ophir Wall on a Via Ferrata ladder and cable system. All ages and experience levels are welcome.

  • Making your dog part of the wedding when you book a Best in Show package. Upon check-in, your furry best friend will get a special chalkboard welcome, tasty treats, toys, and a luxurious bed. Dogs are welcome anywhere on the property except the restaurant. The hotel even donates to the local humane society for every Best in Show package booked.

champagne-hoteltelluride.com.jpeg

Photo courtesy of TheHotelTelluride.com

Photo courtesy of TheHotelTelluride.com

Dunton Hot Springs

Rent an entire ghost town! Dunton Hot Springs is a restored, romantic ghost town located across the mountain from Telluride. Rates include all meals, most beverages, and access to several other amenities, including mountain bikes, the library, wifi, and hot springs.

You can certainly book a cabin just for yourselves. However, for reservations of 14 or more guests, you’ll need to rent the entire property. If you want to do a private elopement or micro wedding and then host a reception party afterward, this is a unique way to do it! The grounds can accommodate up to 60 overnight guests between the Hot Springs and the River Camp.

Forge Cabin. Photo courtesy of DuntonDestinations.com

Hot Springs. Photo courtesy of DuntonDestinations.com

The Observatory at Alta Lakes

Located 13 miles outside Telluride, the Observatory at Alta Lakes prides itself on effortless backcountry access while providing highly comfortable accommodations. Accessible down a 5-mile dirt road via a 2WD vehicle during the summer, you’ll need a snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes to access The Observatory during the winter. It’s a true winter wonderland!

Photo courtesy of AltaLakes.com

Photo courtesy of Telluride.com

VRBOs and Private Rentals

Telluride and the surrounding areas host several private rentals if you want more private accommodations. You can choose from options closer to town or more removed from the activity.

Photo courtesy of MountainTrip.com

Campsites or Backcountry

For experienced backcountry skiers and cyclists, the San Juan Huts provide opportunities for biking between huts or skiing between huts. 

Several options for camping and backpacking exist as well, including in town. Town Park offers campsites in town and welcomes RVs, provided the RV and vehicle are a max length of 30 feet. 

The sky's the limit for those looking for a backpacking adventure in the backcountry. If you dream of escaping the hustle of town and feeling like the only couple for miles, I’m happy to join in on a backpacking elopement. I’ll bring my own tent and gear, and we can plan the photo sessions ahead so you have all the time you need for the photos and the two of you.

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What to Do During Your Telluride Elopement

Telluride and the surrounding areas provide fantastic opportunities for adventure and fun year-round. One of the neat parts about elopements is that couples often choose a destination to both elope to and honeymoon. Here’s a short list of just a few of the incredible activities in the area you can try out while you’re here.

And, if you can’t decide what to include for your photography footage, know that all of my packages are fully customizable! So, if you want to document additional adventures, I’d love to chat and see how we can create the best experience for you and your partner!

Gondola Ride

No trip to Telluride is complete without a trip on the free Gondola. Go for an entire ride, or hop off at one of the stops to enjoy hiking, dining, and spectacular views!

Festivals

Twenty-one festivals call Telluride home. One of the most famous is the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, which sees over 12,000 visitors a day. 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of this iconic festival. 

There are also several other festivals, including a yoga festival, hot air balloon festival, and film festival.

Hot air balloons over Main Street. Photo courtesy of Telluride.com

Fly Fishing

There are several rivers to choose from in Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, and the surrounding areas. Consider hiring a guide to help you scope out some of the best spots. 

As a fun bonus, if your partner is into fly fishing, consider crafting a fly fishing lure yourself and gifting it to your significant other on your wedding day.

Explore One of the Hundreds of Trails

Hundreds of trails exist to explore between Telluride and the nearby towns. So whether you want a calm, relaxing stroll around an alpine lake or a heart-pumping incline with serious elevation gain, there’s a trail for you!

Take an Art Class

Creatives flock to Telluride and the surrounding areas — and for good reason! The region's breathtaking scenery fuels inspiration.

Ah Haa School for the Arts offers a wide variety of classes you and your partner can enjoy. They offer multi-day intensives, classes that explain how various wine glasses affect the taste of wines, how to make clay mugs, how to do a self-portrait, family cooking, and more. You are sure to find a fun class to fit your needs. While sessions run year-round, this is a cozy add-on experience if your elopement brings you here during the winter.

Backcountry Ski Adventure

If your elopement brings you to the area during ski season, backcountry ski adventures abound! If you’re an experienced skier, there are 100s of trails to explore. And if you want to get your adrenaline pumping, consider a helicopter tour to get out in the backcountry. 

There are also options for backcountry huts or backcountry ski camps. Bridal Veil Backcountry Ski Camps offer guided trips with sleeping accommodations in heated backcountry tents.

Hot Springs

The area has several hot springs, including Dunton Hot Springs, Durango Hot Springs, and Orvis Hot Springs. You can enjoy the hot springs year-round. However, there is something wildly exhilarating about stepping into an outdoor hot spring on a snowy winter day.

Photo courtesy of OrvisHotSprings.com

Bath house at Dunton Hot Springs. Image courtesy of DuntonDestinations.com

Ice and Rock Climbing

Several rock climbing options abound if your elopement brings you to the Telluride, Ouray, or Silverton area during the warmer months. 

However, if snow and ice are more your style, these towns stay active during winter. You’ll find plenty of ice climbing opportunities here, too. If you’re an experienced ice climber, try your hand at Bridal Veil Falls. The tallest freestanding waterfall in Colorado is also one of the most difficult ice climbs in the United States.

If you’re looking for an adventure elopement beyond a classic hike or off-road adventure, consider a climbing elopement! While I enjoy capturing any elopement in the outdoors, I especially love the opportunity to get creative! So, if you envision saying your “I do’s” amid the ice or rocks, let’s talk!

Horseback Rides, Carriage and Sleigh Rides, and Dog Sledding

Love horses or want to include sled dogs in your Telluride elopement? If you’re craving an animal adventure, there are options year-round! Horseback riding is available even after the snow falls. As fall turns to winter and snow begins to fall, there are opportunities for sleigh rides and dog-sledding adventures.

If you’re hosting a reception, consider a horse-drawn carriage through Telluride Horseback Adventures to get you there. For a unique private event that includes horses and food, Telluride Sleighs and Wagons offers private wagon or sleigh rides (depending on the time of year), with exquisite meals prepared by Chef Graeme Charles

And So Much More…

This list only touches the surface of the incredible opportunities waiting for you during your Telluride elopement. 

There’s ice skating, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, paragliding, four-wheeling, and more! If there’s an outdoor activity you’d like to include in your elopement, chances are we can find a way to make it happen!

For even more adventurous activities, check out my "101 Unique Elopement Ideas for Your Dream Adventure Elopement" blog!

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Telluride Wedding Vendors

Quick Links:
Caterers + Private Chefs
Hair + Make-Up Artists
Florists

Catering + Private Chefs

Planning a Telluride micro-wedding? Or just want a private bespoke culinary experience? See these true professionals for an unforgettable time no matter how many guests are on your list.

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.

Chef Graeme Charles

Chef Charles of The Telluride Chef is a top-rated Telluride chef with a passion for the power of food. He believes food should not only taste good, but also be good for you, so they use locally sourced and organic ingredients when possible. His team of experienced chefs is passionate about creating delicious, beautiful, and memorable dining experiences, whether it’s for a cozy dinner for two or a grand feast for a group.

He also works with Telluride Sleighs, providing unique dinner sleighs and private catering to those living in and visiting Telluride.

Chef Bud

Chef Bud brings exciting, enticing, and honest food that is prepared with care and served with flair. He is a first generation chef who has traveled the world and found his home in the mountains of Telluride. His dishes are familiar and wholesome, the perfect way to celebrate after a cozy micro-wedding in the snow. You may catch him teaching a class at the Ah Haa School for the Arts or serving up delicious treats at the Telluride Blues & Brews festival.

chef-bud-steak.jpeg

Photo courtesy of ChefBud.com

Wedding Hair + Make Up Artists in Telluride, Co.

Here is who I trust to make you look absolutely gorgeous for your elopement.

Moxie Loft LLC

226 West Colorado Avenue
Telluride, CO 81435
(720) 292-3177

Highly talented and ready to listen to your wishes, this team will stop at nothing to make you look and feel stunning.

Wild Brides Backcountry

For an on-site glam experience for your Telluride elopement, you can’t miss when some of the most talented beauty professionals in Denver will travel in an Airstream just to transform you into a gorgeous bride wherever you are. 

Salon Envy Ouray

Their award-winning staff will come to you to make you picture-perfect. They provide services for hair, nails, makeup, and even teeth whitening! I love the diversity of their clientele and how they make every look & feel beautiful.

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Florists

Check out these excellent floral vendors for uniquely beautiful wedding bouquets in Telluride.

Blessed Woods

Online at Etsy.com

If you decide against fresh florals, I recommend the stunning faux (silk) flowers in these handmade arrangements by Blessed Woods. 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!)

Nested Telluride

Located in Telluride, Colorado, Nested is a purveyor of uniquely cultivated florals for all occasions. The artists at Nested make delicately curated floral arrangements to suit all of your wedding needs and are known for their bright colors & beautiful shapes.

Flowers by Ella

Fresh meets fun at Flowers by Ella! I love her unique eye for color, she has a special talent for making bright colors pop that much more. She’s also the perfect source for making a gorgeous bouquet with a matching flower collar for your pup!

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Telluride Elopement Packages + Pricing

Are you intrigued about a Telluride elopement or micro-wedding? You should be! I love helping engaged couples plan elopements in this magical space. Together we can put together a plan that honors your passion for the outdoors and each other. Your wedding day will be special—and definitely on your terms.

Contact me either through my website, 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!

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Let’s Do This!

Do I have you daydreaming about your Telluride elopement yet?! I could go on for days about how incredible Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, and the surrounding areas are. 

Few places possess the ruggedness and wonder of the area amid the San Juan Mountains. There are adventures at every turn. But, despite its remoteness, there is no shortage of delicious food, wines, and finer things for you to splurge on during your elopement, too. 

I realize picking the right photographer for your wedding day is a big deal. So, whether you have questions or are ready to book, let’s chat about your dream Telluride mountain wedding with a no-pressure call.

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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 Telluride elopement photographer, you’ll receive my full Leave No Trace 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.

Photo courtesy of Big Al’s Instagram

Save Your Date!

Elopement photographer Andrea Enger (photo by Realm Studios)

Ready to Celebrate Your Day Your Way?

Find out how I can help make that happen!

Reach out and schedule a time to chat! If you’re ready to check availability for your date and reserve your Telluride elopement photographer, you can fill out the form below, email me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or call/text me at (720) 739-0784. I’d love to hear 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!

Colorado Elopement Guide

Elopement Planning Toolkit (free download)

More Resources: