Kaitlyn + Doug | Sand Dunes Colorado Elopement | Adventure Photography

Here it is, my second share from the awesome photographers shootout at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Kaitlyn and Doug are a sweet couple that modeled for us during this shoot. Several of us traveled all the way to southern Colorado and it turns out these two actually live very close to me, in Firestone. Such a small world 🙂 I hope these photos provide some great sand dunes Colorado elopement inspiration. Couples definitely don’t have to have a 200 guest wedding to have an epic, and memorable day! In fact, in Colorado you can even self-solemnize, so it could literally be just the two of you. Although, you really should bring me along with you on your incredible adventure!

Prior to this shoot, I had not been to the sand dunes since I was in elementary school. All I really remember about it was how insanely windy it was! I still made my dad go with me at least a little ways towards the dunes, so I could get my pictures taken. I still have this in my photo album today. Fortunately it wasn’t as insanely windy for this elopement styled shoot, but the wind was still blowing. This place just gets a lot of wind! So if you are looking to have every hair in place for your elopement photos, this probably wouldn’t be the best location to select. The clouds were worrisome at times as well. We did get some rain, but overall the weather played pretty nice…and those rain clouds and dramatic dark skies photographed amazingly beautifully!

Is a self-solemnizing elopement for you?

Pros:
1) It is very intimate and romantic! If you want, it can just be you and your spouse. (However, hopefully you will bring me along to photograph it too!)

2) Your ceremony can be exactly as you want it to be. You can recite a cheesy line from your favorite romantic comedy, write a poem or song for your partner, or read your favorite passage from the bible. If you are like me and dread public speaking, this is a great option because you don’t have to worry about how nervous you may sound. It’s just you, and the person you love the most in this world!

3) You can save money! No need to hire an officiant. While I have worked with MANY awesome officiants, there have been a couple cringe-worthy experiences too. From pronouncing the couple’s names wrong, completely fumbling over their words, going off on a very religious tangent, when the couple didn’t want a religious ceremony, and on and on. Some officiants also require pre-wedding meetings/counseling for them to get to know you. Those can cost you time and money too.

4) You can have your ceremony just about anywhere you would like! Just be cognizant about rules and laws pertaining to wedding ceremonies. For example, there are designated spots in Rocky Mountain National Park where ceremonies can occur (even if it’s just the two of you!).

5) Perfect for those individuals that dread being the center-of-attention.

Cons:
1) It could cause drama, especially with family members that may be upset they don’t get to celebrate with you.

2) You could potentially regret the lost opportunity to connect with friends and family.

3) Your wedding may not feel like as momentous of an occasion to you and your partner

Now that I have shared my opinions regarding eloping in Colorado. As well as some inspirational photos thanks to Kaitlyn and Doug. I want to share a few more “engagement style” portraits with you as well 🙂 Typically people do their engagement photos first, before their wedding photos. This was a styled shoot though, and there were no rules, so we started in the wedding attire! Then finished in their own, dressy clothes.

I hope you enjoyed these photos, as much as I enjoyed capturing them! If you missed my first post from this epic day, click HERE. Coming to the blog next, one of my favorite couples, Katrina and Brian. We captured their maternity photos in Rocky Mountain National Park, and it was a gorgeous afternoon 🙂

 

 

 

 

A big thank you to all of the vendors that made this Sand Dunes Colorado elopement shoot possible!

Makeup: Magnifica Bella
Hair: Shear Elegance by Tawny 
Florals: Lauren at Quintessential Weddings & Events
Wedding dress: Something New Boutique