Toni and Morgan’s Colorado winter elopement was a truly magical and intimate celebration of their love. From the moment they met in high school and joined the marching band and color guard together, to the fairy-themed proposal in a circle of trees and fairy houses, these two always knew that a traditional wedding wasn’t for them.
So when the time came to tie the knot, they chose to elope in the beautiful mountains of Colorado, surrounded by their closest loved ones. They had visited the state twice before, falling in love with the tall evergreen trees, mountain views, and easy trails that offered breathtaking sunset vistas. Guanella Pass seemed like the perfect location for their fairy/witch-themed elopement, with its tall trees and stunning mountain views.
Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans. A big snow storm was forecasted for the day of their elopement, and as their photographer, I knew we had to take action to ensure the safety and success of their special day. I suggested moving the timeline up a few hours to avoid the worst of the storm, and the couple agreed.
As we set out for the waterfall near the mountain pass, it began to snow. The further up the pass we drove, the harder it snowed, and I knew that the roads would be too dangerous to navigate once the storm really hit. So I pulled over and voiced my concerns to the couple, offering the alternative of a nearby lake at a lower elevation. Toni and Morgan made the decision to go with the lake, and it turned out to be the perfect choice.
The clouds briefly parted during their ceremony, offering glimpses of the beautiful mountains in the distance. Toni’s black wedding dress looked stunning against the snowy backdrop, and the couple incorporated a handfasting ritual into their vows. After signing their wedding license, they were officially married!
But the fun didn’t stop there. Toni, Morgan, and their friends hiked into the forest at a nearby campground and built a small fire to keep warm and enjoy the storm. They also indulged in some of Colorado’s finest marijuana, making for a truly unforgettable elopement experience.
Despite the challenges they faced, Toni and Morgan’s Colorado winter elopement was a beautiful and meaningful celebration of their love. The snow may have thrown them a curveball, but they rolled with it and made the most of their special day. And in the end, they got exactly what they wanted – an intimate and magical celebration surrounded by love and their closest loved ones.
