Dreaming of saying ‘I Do’ with gleaming lakes, gorgeous aspen groves, and magnificent mountain peaks as your scenery? Then the Maroon Bells near Aspen, Colorado, may be the perfect place for you to tie the knot. 

The planning process can be scary. As a Maroon Bells elopement and micro-wedding photographer, I’ll walk with you every step of the way. From reservations, to season recommendations, to reception venues, this guide to getting married at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater is your one-stop shop. 

How to Get Married at the Maroon bells Amphitheater  

Is the Maroon Bells Amphitheater the right location for you?

A Maroon Bells wedding is ideal for the adventurous couple who values a breathtaking, natural masterpiece over a traditional ballroom setting. Planning an elopement or micro-wedding here swaps the traditional wedding stress for a crisp mountain morning where the logistics are simply part of the adventure! It’s perfect for the organized, laid-back pair and provides an unmatched mountain setting that feels both grand and incredibly personal. 


Find more inspiration in a jagged mountain skyline than a ballroom chandelier

Consider "peak golden hour" a non-negotiable part of your wedding day

Are ready to tackle the reservations window to secure your day

Don't mind the cheers of passing hikers

Prefer natural scenery over specifically curated decor

View a shuttle ride with your family and friends as a fun adventure

Are prepared to swap high heels and Oxfords for hiking boots 

Then look no further than the maroon bells ampitheater for your big day!

If you...

If you plan to reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, there is a 50 person guest limit. While this is larger than other popular national park or public outdoor elopement or micro-wedding locations, it means you’ll have to think long and hard about who you want there on your big day.

Try to think about who has made the biggest impact on you as an individual, but also you as a couple. Remember, you don’t have to pack the house. If you can only think of 40 people you truly can’t imagine your day without, leave it at that. The more you expand the list outside of those closest to you, the more feelings may get hurt and stress may bubble up. 

Planning your Maroon Bells Amphitheater Wedding

Who should you invite?

Don't want any guests and just want to Elope?

Thinking of making your big day a more intimate experience? Honestly, that makes it easier! The surrounding Maroon Bells area is open for elopements WITHOUT a permit. Gather your small group along the popular trails, in the back country, or on the banks of the lake. If you want a true elopement (6 people or less), ditch the amphitheater and take on the adventure.


Lots of couples hesitate to consider an elopement or micro-wedding experience because they’re afraid of missing out on classic wedding traditions. I’m here to tell you that you can still incorporate so many fun, special, sacred traditions. Do a first look with your dad surrounded by snow covered peaks. Have your first dance on the banks of a shimmering lake. You will not miss out. If you want to include traditions, all it just takes is a little creativity and commitment. 


Ceremony Traditions

Planning Note: The number 50 includes you, your future spouse, your vendors, and your guests. Keep that in mind when curating your guest list! 

Time of year

Technically, The Maroon Bells area is open during the entire winter season as well. However, The Maroon Creek Road is closed to all vehicles starting in mid November due to dangers of avalanches which means if you want to get there, you’ll have to ski, hike, bike, or take a guided tour. This means that popular choice dates fall somewhere between June and October. Maroon Creek Road typically opens back up around mid May.

Amphitheater reservations are available starting June 7 and close October 4





Best times to get marred at Maroon Bells

June - August

If you’re looking for a scene from a fairytale with vibrant greenery and blooming wildflowers, the summer season may be just what you’re looking for. While you may run into warmer weather, and should expect potential thunderstorms, these months are a great time to host your elopement or micro-wedding. To avoid any potential storms, I highly suggest having your ceremony and portraits taken around sunrise or sunset as storms tend to pass through in the afternoons. 


Reservations from June to August are only available Sunday through Thursday.

September - October

Fall is the most popular time to not only elope in The Maroon Bells, but also to visit in general. The iconic, golden aspen trees, the dazzling reflective Maroon Lake, and majestic snow-covered mountain tops will make up your classic backdrop. Weather can vary greatly day by day between mild fall temperatures, warm and sunny, rainy, or even chances for snowfall.

September and October reservations are only available Monday through Thursday.

Planning Note: The park is not closed to other visitors during your elopement or micro-wedding. While you have the amphitheater reserved, there may be tourists passing by. For your formal portraits I recommend prime time for lighting and less crowds for sunrise on a Tuesday or Wednesday, though any day at sunrise or sunset will be stunning.


Time of Day

Your amphitheater reservation gives you private use of the space from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can start your ceremony later in the day, however, as soon as 4:00 PM rolls around, the amphitheater becomes first come first serve and anyone is permitted to the area. For that reason, I usually recommend leaning into an earlier ceremony time. Maroon Bells is famous for its sunrise views, and getting there early often means beautiful light, fewer crowds, and a more intimate experience.

You’re more than welcome to head into the park before your amphitheater reservation and stay later for photos. I highly recommend getting either sunrise or sunset shots. Sunrise is typically between 5-6 AM during the summer and closer to 7:00 AM in the fall. Depending on the time of year, sunset falls anywhere from about 5:00 PM to 8:40 PM, giving you plenty of time to soak in those golden mountain views.

The Maroon Bells amphitheater

Surrounded by the iconic mountains, the sparkling waters, and the lush wildlife, an elopement or micro-wedding at The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is sure to be unforgettable. It’s the only location within the scenic area where you can host a structured, semi private ceremony. With seating for 50 guests and a required permit that gives you full access to the area, the amphitheater is a great place to replicate a more traditional ceremony, but with a stunning backdrop.


The open trails

If you’re going full adventure mode, don’t want to have anyone in attendance (or maybe only a couple of your favorite people), and are okay with a bit less structure, the trails at the Maroon Bells are open to you! You don’t need to obtain a permit or pay any extra fees to self-solemnize or elope. The two of you can settle on the side of the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail or the Crater Lake Trail and tie the knot right there. 

There is no permit or fee to elope on one of the open trails. While you aren’t allowed to shut down or block the trail, this is a great option for couples who want to spend the day with only each other and a few vendors to document the day.  

Where can you get married at maroon Bells

Maroon Peak

West Maroon Pass

For couples who truly want to earn their views, West Maroon Pass offers an epic, high-altitude wedding experience. This is a strenuous 11-to-13-mile trek that will likely take 6-8 hours and climbs all the way up to a breathtaking 12,500 feet. It is perfect for brave hearts who want to exchange vows surrounded by massive 14,000-foot peaks, sweeping valleys, and endless summer wildflower fields. You will need a full day for this challenging expedition, so make sure to pack your hiking boots and be ready for unpredictable mountain weather! See trail info here!


Maroon Lake Scenic Trail

Nestled at the base of the Maroon Bells not far from the amphitheater, Maroon Lake combines glassy water reflections, towering mountain peaks, and easy shoreline access in one of Colorado’s most scenic locations. Roughly a 2-mile round trip loop with little to no hiking required, it’s perfect for even non-adventurous couples wanting iconic mountain views, convenient access, and a peaceful lakeside setting surrounded by aspen groves and alpine beauty. This trail is a must for any Maroon Bells visitor, even kids and elders. You'll only need about 1 hour or less to complete: See trail info here!




Crater Lake

Tucked farther into the valley beyond Maroon Lake, Crater Lake offers a more secluded alpine experience with aspen groves, wildflower meadows, rocky shorelines, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This is a moderate 3.8-mile roundtrip hike, it’s a beautiful option for couples who want a quieter location with a balance of adventure, mountain scenery, and intimate wilderness views. You'll need about 2-3 hours for this hike and keep in mind that in mid to late summer, the lake can dry up! See trail info here!





Check out this interactive map of Maroon Bells!

The green pin is where the amphitheater is located and is the only location permitted for a ceremony with more than 6 guests. The brown pins are all the photo-only locations (or elopement only locations if it’s just the two of you or you have fewer than 6 guests!)






Locations outside the Maroon Bells Amphitheater to consider

For couples who want an adventurous backdrop without risking life and limb, Maroon Peak offers a dramatic setting. While hiking to the summit is highly discouraged as it is a dangerous climb reserved only for expert mountaineers, the lower trail is a hidden gem. By hiking just past Crater Lake, you can escape the main crowds to find intimate spots with sweeping Bell views. Maroon Peak offers some of the most iconic mountain views in Colorado. They are actually one of the most photographed peaks in North America. If you wanted to hike to the base of Maroon Peak, it is a roughly 8-mile round trip experience perfect for brave hearts who want a touch of rugged wilderness to earn their vows, without the extreme danger. See trail info here!

Frequently asked questions about getting married in Maroon Bells

Are there bathrooms near the ampitheater?

Yes! Restrooms are located nearby, making it easy for you and your guests to stay comfortable throughout your ceremony and photos.

Are Decorations Permitted at the Ampitheater?

Decorations are very limited in order to protect the natural environment. Items like arches or large structures, flower petals, rice, confetti, floating lanterns, fireworks, hanging decorations from trees, releasing animals such as doves, PA systems, loud music, and even aluminum cans attached to vehicles are not permitted. The good news? With scenery this beautiful, you won’t need much to make your ceremony feel special.



What happens if the weather is bad?

Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to have a backup plan. Rain, snow, or lightning may require adjusting your timeline or location, but flexibility goes a long way in creating a stress-free experience.





is drone photography allowed?

No, drones are not permitted. This rule helps protect wildlife, preserve the visitor experience, and maintain the peaceful atmosphere that makes the area so special.







How many guests can I have if I don't have a reservation for the amphitheater?

A reservation at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater allows you 50 guests. If you decide to elope or self-solemnize on one of the open trails, you typically can have no more than 6 guests (including vendors).









Are Dogs allowed?

Yes! Your pup is welcome to join you on your wedding day so long as you follow the guidelines and are respectful of other guests!











When can I get married at Maroon Bells?

Amphitheater reservations are open starting June 7 and close October 4.













Can I hold my ceremony in the Amphitheater after 4:00 pm?

Yes, your ceremony can take place after 4:00 PM. However, your official venue reservation ends at 4:00 PM, at which point the Amphitheater opens back up to the public as a first come first serve and anyone is permitted to the area.

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Permit Note: Don’t get discouraged! You may have to try a handful of times for different dates. You can also set up availability alerts for three different dates in the chance someone cancels and the date becomes available again.



Things to Keep in mind about attaining a permit for the ampitheater

  • Open a year in advance
  • Cost a non-refundable $200
  • Maximum of 50 people
  • Includes 5 vehicles
  • Your location will not be closed to the public

For more info, visit Recreation or the Aspen Chamber. 

Rules and regulations can always change, so if you have questions or want to confirm any additional questions, I recommend calling the Aspen Ranger Station at
970-963-2266.

Besides the specific Maroon Bells permit, the only other legal document you need to getting married or elope is a standard Colorado marriage license. You must apply and use your marriage license within 30 days of your wedding. You can obtain the marriage license at any Colorado county clerk for around $30. The closest county clerk to Maroon Bells is the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder. 

Don't Forget Your Marriage license!

Parking can be a big hurdle if you are planning to have a guest count closer to the 50 person maximum. You only get five vehicle passes with your permit (keep your vendors in mind for this as well). The passes can be picked up at the Welcome Station up to five days before your event and they request you pick them up at the latest the day before your reservation. You need to have them with you when arriving at the Maroon Bells. 

If you think you’re going to have more than five vehicles, there are a few options for you.

Parking and shuttle tips & tricks for maroon Bells

Your guests can purchase a day-use vehicle pass. 

It’s important to note that if your guests purchase a day pass, traffic on Maroon Creek Road is restricted between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm between May 23rd and October 19th, so this means they must arrive before 8:00 am. If you’ve planned your ceremony later in the day and your guests don’t want to be there all day, this might not be the best option. 

Handicapped individuals and any vehicles with children 2 and under in a car seat are exempt from the road restrictions and do not need to make prior reservations, but they are not guaranteed a parking space and may have to turn around if the lot is full

Parking passes sell out months in advance as parking is limited in the trailhead area, so your guest must plan accordingly if they choose this route. It costs $10 plus a $2.40 service to purchase the pass and you can do so here: purchase a day-use vehicle pass.

Parking pass Reservation Info:

Parking Note: Keep in mind if you do not get an amphitheater reservation with the 5 vehicle passes but still want to elope at Maroon bells, you must either get the day pass and arrive before 8 am and leave before 4:30 pm. Or get the evening pass and arrive after 5 pm and leave before midnight. 

The rule requiring arrival prior to 8:00 am applies to all visitors except those holding an amphitheater reservation. Reservation holders may use their 5 designated parking permits to gain access anytime from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Although this does not guarantee you will get a parking spot.



 Or your guests can purchase and reserve a seat on the shuttle bus. 

The shuttle runs from the Maroon Bells welcome center, located at Aspen Highlands Ski Area, and will drop you off at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, which is about 25 yards from the amphitheater, which makes it a super convenient option for most guests. 

The shuttle is about a 15 minute ride each direction and runs from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, you must make a reservation, choose a departure time from a list of pre-determined options at the time of booking, and the return shuttles are first come first served. 

If your guests choose this route, I highly suggest that they choose the shuttle time at least an hour before your ceremony start time just to be safe! It costs $16 for adults, $10 for children 12 years or younger, and $10 for seniors 65 years or older. The shuttles are handicap accessible. 

You can make your shuttle reservation here: reserve a spot on the Maroon Bells shuttle.


Shuttle info:

Shuttle Note: There are parking fees at Aspen Highlands. It is typically $35 for up to 4 hours and $40 for 4 or more hours, rates increase for the weekend. 




To get to Maroon Bells without paying parking fees, you can utilize the free Brush Creek Park and Ride. From there, you can take a free RFTA bus to Aspen Highlands, where you would then have to transfer to the mandatory paid Maroon Bells shuttle to reach the scenic area.


Park and Ride Info:

If you don’t have a limited budget and want to give your guests a stress free experience, the only shuttle option outside the Maroon Bells Shuttle is Blazing Adventure. You can rent private shuttles to pick up and drop your guests off at your convenience. You can find out more information at Blazing Adventure here: more info.



Private Shuttle info:

Not sure where to start with permits and legalities?

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Honestly, Aspen can be an expensive location. If budget isn’t an issue, check out these local places to stay and eat listed below. If you want alternative options, consider Carbondale, Basalt, or Snowmass, Colorado.


Planning your Maroon Bells visit

The best part about getting married in the Maroon Bells? You can customize your entire experience however feels right to you! From where you stay, to what activities you do, to where you host your reception (if you choose to have one). 


Something you should know!

Places to Stay

Viewline Resort Snowmass - A modern mountain resort with comfortable hotel accommodations, located about 30 minutes from Maroon Bells.

Crestwood - Spacious condo-style accommodations in Snowmass Village, approximately 30 minutes from Maroon Bells.

Pokolodi Lodge - A cozy, family-friendly lodge in Snowmass Village, about 30 minutes from Maroon Bells.

Limelight Hotel - A stylish, modern hotel in downtown Aspen, approximately 20 minutes from Maroon Bells.

The Little Nell - A luxury five-star hotel in the heart of Aspen, about 20 minutes from Maroon Bells.

Tyrolean Lodge - A charming, intimate Alpine-style lodge in Aspen, approximately 20 minutes from Maroon Bells.











Places to Eat

Pine Creek Cookhouse - A rustic, upscale mountain restaurant known for seasonal American cuisine and a scenic, tucked-away setting. A great choice for a memorable post-wedding meal with classic Colorado charm.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro - An iconic on-mountain spot serving hearty Alpine-inspired cuisine, including fondue and European favorites. Known for its lively atmosphere and spectacular mountain views.

The Stew Pot - A casual, cozy spot in Snowmass Village specializing in homemade soups, stews, and hearty comfort food. Perfect for a quick and relaxed meal between wedding activities.

Meat & Cheese - A lively downtown Aspen restaurant featuring thoughtfully sourced meats, cheeses, sandwiches, and shareable plates. Ideal for a casual lunch, après-wedding bite, or drinks with friends.

The White House Tavern - A laid-back Aspen favorite serving elevated American comfort food in a cozy, historic setting. A great option for a casual group meal or easy night out.










Places to Fly Into

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) - The closest airport to Maroon Bells, located about 30 minutes from the Amphitheater. Ticket prices are typically higher to fly into Aspen. Rental cars are available directly at the airport, along with taxis, rideshares, and private transportation.

Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) - A convenient alternative to Aspen, located approximately 1.5 hours from Maroon Bells. Ticket prices are typically higher to fly into Eagle County. On-site rental cars are available, with several major rental companies serving the airport.

Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) - Located roughly 2.5–3 hours from Maroon Bells, Montrose is a good option for guests looking for additional flight options. Tickets prices can range from moderate to high for this ariport. Multiple rental car agencies are available directly at the airport.

Denver International Airport (DEN) - The largest and most accessible airport option with flexible ticket prices, located about 3.5 hours from Maroon Bells by car. DEN has more than 10 major rental car companies, making it an easy choice for guests planning to explore Colorado by car.








Travel note: While Aspen Airport is closest, flights can be unpredictable and often get delayed. So I would highly suggest flying into Denver and making the 3.5 hour drive to the Aspen area. 

Vendors to consider for your maroon bells wedding

Florals

Hair & Makeup

Cake & dessert

Catering

On site receptions are not permitted at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater. You can however rent the East Maroon Portal Picnic site to host a small reception. Located 4 miles from the amphitheater, the site can accommodate 70 guests and has 3 large picnic tables. Similar to the amphitheater you must make a reservation and pay a $75 fee. But don’t worry, this is not nearly as competitive to reserve as the amphitheater is.

To book the picnic site and learn more about its rules and regulations visit Recreation.gov.

Other reception locations to consider in the nearby area:

The Little Nell

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro

Limelight Hotel

Sky Valley Chateau

T-Lazy-7 Ranch

For a longer list of reception venues, visit The Knot.

Reception Spaces

While you only have access to the Maroon Bells Amphitheater from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, the rest of the park is yours to explore the rest of the day!

Hiking: The Maroon Bells is renowned for their beautiful landscape and incredible hiking trails. Take an easier stroll around the Maroon Lake Scenic Loop. Put on your hiking boots and take the moderate trail to Crater Lake. Or get your adventure pants on and take a full-day to do some backcountry trekking. 

Biking & E-Biking: Take in the beauty of the Maroon Bells on two wheels! Ride along scenic mountain roads, explore nearby trails, or rent an e-bike for a more leisurely way to experience the incredible scenery.

Camping: Stay a little longer and wake up surrounded by the beauty of the Rockies. From established campgrounds to more adventurous backcountry camping, there are plenty of ways to make your Maroon Bells experience an overnight adventure.

Winter Recreation: When the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, the Maroon Bells offer a whole new kind of adventure. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking while taking in the peaceful, snow-covered peaks.

There are so many ways to spend your day, and the best part, no matter what you do you’ll be surrounded by the gorgeous creation that is the iconic Maroon Bells. 

Things to do in Maroon Bells

Wedding Weekend

Full Day Elopement

half day Wedding

Maroon Bells wedding & Elopement Timeline Examples

8:00 AM — Start the morning with your closest people while capturing the little details, candid moments, and excitement of the day while you get hair and makeup done.

9:30 AM — Share a private first look before taking a few portraits at your hotel or Airbnb.

10:30 AM — Make your way to the Bells with time for scenic stops and photos along the way.

11:30 AM — Maroon Bells Amphitheater ceremony. Exchange vows surrounded by your family and friends with the Bells towering behind you.

12:00 PM — Family & group portraits. Gather everyone for portraits before taking some time to celebrate together.

Half Day Wedding

1:00 PM — Picnic & newlywed portraits
Pop some champagne, enjoy a picnic at the East Maroon Portal Picnic site, and spend time exploring the area for more intimate portraits.

2:30 PM — Travel to reception. Head back toward Aspen or Snowmass for your evening celebration.

3:30 PM — Cocktail hour & reception. Enjoy dinner, drinks, toasts, cake, and time with the people who made the trip to celebrate you.

4:30 PM — Golden hour portraits & dancing. Sneak away for a few final portraits before returning to the party for the rest of the evening.

Full day elopement

4:00 AM — Breakfast & getting ready. Start the day early with coffee and breakfast together. Start professional hair & makeup

6:00 AM — Sunrise at Maroon Bells scenic trail.
Intimate sunrise experience at the Bells with portraits while mountains glow in the morning light. 

8:00 AM — Hike to Crater Lake for a more personal and intimate spot for vow and ring exchange.

10:00 AM — Mountain adventure
Spend the day exploring the Maroon Bells area—hike the Maroon peak trail to venture farther into the backcountry. 

1:30 PM — Picnic lunch in the mountains
Take a break for a private picnic surrounded by the Colorado landscape.

2:30 PM — Explore & portraits
Keep wandering, exploring, and documenting the day as it naturally unfolds. Stop whenever the view is too good not to photograph.

4:30 PM — Return & refresh
Head back to your accommodations to relax, freshen up, and celebrate with dinner.

6:00 PM — Intimate dinner
Enjoy a private dinner at a favorite Aspen restaurant or a beautiful private dining space.

7:30 PM — Sunset portraits
End the day with golden-hour portraits and a quiet moment together as newlyweds.

8:30 PM — Champagne & stargazing
Finish your elopement with champagne, a campfire, or stargazing beneath the Colorado night sky.

Wedding Weekend

DAY ONE — WELCOME & ADVENTURE
4:00 PM — Welcome gathering
Host a casual welcome party with cocktails, lawn games, or a mountain-inspired dinner.

6:00 PM — Welcome dinner
Gather everyone around the table for dinner, drinks, and a chance to spend time together before the wedding day.

8:00 PM — Sunset & evening together
Enjoy a final sunset or fireside gathering before everyone heads off to rest for the big day.

DAY TWO — THE WEDDING
12:00 PM — Getting ready. Start the morning with your closest people while capturing details, candid moments, and the excitement of the day.

2:00 PM — Travel to Maroon Bells. Make your way to the Bells with time for scenic stops along the way.

3:30 PM — Maroon Bells Amphitheater ceremony. Exchange vows with your closest family and friends surrounded by one of Colorado's most iconic landscapes.

4:30 PM — Family & group portraits. Capture the people who traveled to celebrate with you before taking some time to enjoy the Bells together.



5:00 PM - Sunset bride & groom portraits on the open trails. Intimate sunset experience at the Bells with portraits while mountains glow in the golden light. 

6:00 PM — Cocktail hour for guests at reception location. Enjoy drinks, appetizers, music, while bride and groom finish portraits and travel back to Aspen or Snowmass area for the party.

6:30 PM — Travel to reception. Head to your reception location in Aspen or Snowmass.

7:00 PM — Dinner & toasts. Gather around the table for dinner, heartfelt speeches, and plenty of celebration.

8:30 PM — First dance & dancing. Open up the dance floor and celebrate into the evening.

9:00 PM — Cake cutting. Enjoy a playful moment of cutting the cake together. 

10:00 PM - Grand exit. End the night as your guests bid the newlyweds farewell with a bubble or other grand exit to finish the night.

How you spend your wedding day is entirely up to you! Whether you want a slow-paced, go-with-the-flow day or a planned-out, organized timetable, there is a perfect timeline for every couple. Check out these timeline examples to help you visualize what your day could look like and choose a schedule that feels just right for you. Of course your timeline can always be flexible!



8 + Hours of Elopement or micro-wedding Coverage by Shea

Maroon Bells Wedding & Elopement Photography Packages

Here’s a little peek at what’s typically included in ALL my Maroon Bells elopement or micro-wedding photography packages! Each package comes with different options and extras, so if you’re curious about full package breakdowns, just send over an inquiry and receive a full pricing & info guide with all the details laid out for you.



A Fully curated Experience

Exclusive Planning Resources

Your own elopement consultant

A Stress Free Photography Experience 

Sneak Peeks of your wedding photos within 72 hours!

No Hidden Travel Fees!

Starting investment begins at: $4,300

I'll help create space for the moments and photos that matter most while offering natural guidance and gentle posing so nothing ever feels stiff or stressful. Along with documenting your day authentically, you'll receive a cinematic highlight slideshow of photos before your final gallery, beautifully hand-edited high-resolution images, and a private online gallery with easy sharing, cloud storage, and print shop access with discounts.  

15-minute risk-free consultation, optional 1-hour location selection call, 30-minute timeline and shot list call, and any additional planning calls as needed. I am here to help you in any way I can! 

An exclusive 80 page elopement planning guide designed to support you through the process. Along with helping you find the perfect elopement location and ensuring every detail comes together seamlessly with permit assistance if needed. 

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Packing for your maroon bells elopement

My biggest advice when packing for your big day, is to bring anything you can think of. It’s better to feel like you over packed than be in the middle of the Maroon Bells and need something. Think about all the wedding essentials: make up, deodorant, a stain stick, etc. But also the outdoor essentials: water, a flashlight or headlamp, warm clothing, etc. 

Depending on the activities you choose, it may also be a good idea to bring a change of clothes. Wear that big bridal gown that has lived on your pinterest board since you were ten, just make sure that if you plan on any hiking, you may need to change into something a little more accessible.  


1. Follow Leave no trace principles

One of the best ways to protect this incredible landscape is by following Leave No Trace principles. Stay on designated trails, pack out everything you bring in, and leave the area exactly as you found it so future couples can enjoy it too.



2. consider the elevation

The Maroon Bells sit at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, and the elevation can affect visitors who aren’t used to it. Drink plenty of water, take it easy the first day or two, and give yourself time to adjust before your ceremony.




3. Considering brining your dog along!

Your wedding day is about celebrating with the people (and pups!) you love most. Dogs are allowed on the shuttle, at the amphitheater, and along the first path of the scenic trail. It is not advised you take them further into the trails due to potential wildlife. As long as you be mindful of other guests, pick up after your pup, and stay to the designated areas, the Maroon Bells is a perfect place to bring your four-legged friend!

Curious how you can include your dog on your wedding day? Check out my blog post for a few ideas!



4. There is no cellphone reception

Don’t count on having reliable cell service during your time at the Maroon Bells. Download maps, directions, permits, and any important information ahead of time so you’re prepared once you arrive. If communication is something you’re worried about, bring along a few walkie talkies to keep in touch and add a little fun to your big day!






Maroon bells wedding & elopement planning tips

It’s finally here! The day you have dreamed of, planned for, and potentially stressed over! But now it’s arrived and there’s only one thing you have to do: enjoy. 

Don’t dwell on the details, let the day unfold how it will. There are always going to be things out of your control, but you’ll end the day married to the love of your life, and that’s what it’s all been about. This sacred, monumental commitment that you’re making with your spouse. In a few years, you won’t even remember the small mishaps. Only the moments that meant the most to you. 


Day of your maroon bells wedding!

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