Colorado Air BnB elopement in winter with backyard celebration

Part One: An Evergreen, Colorado Air BnB elopement in the snow

Todd and Evan are another couple who felt pulled in two different directions. They had a dream of exchanging vows in the secluded mountains of Colorado while snow fell around them. That would be difficult for some of the guests they wanted to include- her grandmother and several young nephews. So what did they do? They rented a cabin that was set far apart from anyone else. They would be officially married in a Colorado Air BnB elopement ceremony.

Fun fact: this is the ONLY time my car has gotten stuck. The snow was falling fast and we were in a rural enough area that the plows were definitely not out. Luckily, I always carry tow straps and have a hitch for this exact reason… though I’m usually the one GIVING the help. Crisis was averted and we were definitely getting the weather they had hoped for. Before exchanging vows, Evan was able to do a video chat with a few close family members and they were thrilled the two were having the day they dreamed of.

A bride holds up a phone as she chats with family members who will not be joining her elopement

Evan and Todd were able to do a first look, read vows to each other, and frolic in the snow. I am still impressed how long she was able to stay outside without sleeves! I think the sheer happiness of the day helped her forget we were in the middle of a legitimate blizzard. The summer months are often the most popular for weddings, but come on. Look at this magical winter wonderland!

The first look between a couple in the snow outside their Colorado AirBnB elopement cabin.

An couple hold hands as they exchange vows in the snow during their Colorado AirBnB elopement. A couple laughs and then embraces as they conclude their Colorado AirBnB elopement ceremony in the snow.

Part Two: A (much warmer) backyard celebration with family after their winter Colorado AirBnB elopement

After that beautiful (but chilly) elopement day, Todd and Evan wanted to do something to celebrate with their immediate family. They were fortunate enough to have a family member whose backyard was huge and private… perfect for an informal ceremony. Granted, not all of us will be this fortunate. However, it would be easy to duplicate a similar feeling by utilizing another AirBnB or seeing if there are any friends of the family willing to rent out their yard.

In this case, Evan and Todd were able to celebrate with a handful of family in a place that felt comfortable to them. The ceremony was not “official” – remember, they already got married- but the emotions of the day weren’t diminished one bit. Multiple generations of family gathered to witness their love for each other and dance barefoot in the grass. It was a perfect combination of the things that mattered the most to this couple.