Twin Lakes Elopement in the Colorado Mountains | Forrest & Julia

There’s something magical about eloping in the heart of Colorado’s mountains—especially when your love story is so tied to them as Forrest and Julia’s. Their Twin Lakes elopement was a celebration of intimacy, nostalgia, and whimsy, inspired by the impeccable vibe of snails getting married atop a mushroom. As a Colorado elopement photographer, I live for these non-traditional, heartfelt celebrations. Let me take you behind the scenes of Forrest and Julia’s Twin Lakes elopement, where every detail was like a woodland fairy dream.

Setting the Scene—Why Twin Lakes?

Forrest and Julia’s connection to Twin Lakes runs deep. This picturesque spot, surrounded by towering peaks and tranquil waters, was where they first fell in love with camping and traveling together. It’s not just a location—it’s a touchstone for their relationship, a place that holds the echoes of laughter, late-night campfires, and the thrill of new adventures. Choosing Twin Lakes for their elopement wasn’t just about the views (though the views are spectacular); it was about weaving their story into the landscape that means so much to them. For couples seeking a meaningful, scenic, and peaceful setting, Twin Lakes is a dream come true.

A First Look That Felt Like Home

The morning of their elopement was slow and intentional, just as Forrest and Julia wanted. Instead of rushing, they shared a sweet first look on the porch of their cozy vacation rental cabin. The soft mountain light, the crisp air, and the quiet anticipation set the tone for the day. This moment—just the two of them, wrapped in each other’s arms—was a gentle reminder that elopements can be as intimate and personal as you dream. As a photographer, capturing these candid, unguarded moments is always my favorite part. It’s not about the perfect pose, but the perfect feeling.

Julia had a surprise for Forrest at their First Look — the pair enjoy handicrafts (for instance Forrest embroidered his outfit for the day!) and she had created a handsewn pouch with images of their Maine trip (on which he’d proposed) to hold their rings during the ring warming at the ceremony. Both the pouch and his wedding ring were a fun surprise shared before we left for the ceremony.

Lakeside Ceremony with Loved Ones

When it came time for the ceremony, Forrest and Julia were joined by their close family members and friends-that-are-family at the lakeshore. The ceremony space was simple yet meaningful, with an ceremonial macrame rug adorned with dried flowers to match Julia’s bouquet, bookended with rosemary plants and the lake’s shimmering surface as their backdrop. In a beautiful, symbolic gesture, their loved ones snipped bits from a lucky shrub to wear, creating a sense of unity and connection for the ceremony. The air was filled with laughter, happy tears, and the unmistakable sense that this was exactly where everyone was meant to be. They passed their rings around the loved ones in the pouch Julia made for a ring warming ceremony, where each individual “warmed” the rings with well-wishes and love before the couple exchanged them on their fingers and shared a first kiss. Their lakeside ceremony was a testament to the power of gathering your people in a place that feels like home.

Meaningful Rituals and Personal Touches

What made Forrest and Julia’s Twin Lakes elopement truly unforgettable were the little rituals and personal touches woven throughout the day. From the rosemary at the arbor—a nod to enduring love, remembrance, and fidelity—to the Czech Wedding March that ended their lakeside time, every detail was intentional. These traditions, both old and new, reflected their shared values and the blending of their lives. As someone who believes that your wedding should be a reflection of your story, I loved seeing how Forrest and Julia made their day their own. It’s a reminder that your elopement can (and should!) be as unique as you are.

Mountain Magic at Independence Pass

After the ceremony, we set off for Independence Pass—a place where the mountains feel endless and the sky stretches on forever. Here, Forrest and Julia reveled in the wild beauty of Colorado, taking in the sweeping vistas and breathing in the crisp alpine air (and a tiny hint of hail haha.) These moments, standing hand-in-hand on the edge of the world, are what mountain elopements are all about. The photos from Independence Pass capture not just the landscape, but the spirit of adventure and togetherness that defines Forrest and Julia’s relationship. For couples who crave a sense of freedom and awe on their wedding day, there’s nothing quite like the high country.

Brunch, Toasts, and Cozy Cabin Vibes

The celebration didn’t end with the ceremony or the mountaintop photos. Back at the cabin, Forrest and Julia gathered with their loved ones for a cozy brunch and heartfelt toasts. There’s something so special about ending your elopement day surrounded by the people who matter most, sharing stories, laughter, and good food. It’s a chance to slow down, soak it all in, and savor the beginning of your new adventure together. For couples considering a micro wedding or intimate elopement, this kind of relaxed, meaningful gathering is pure magic.

Inspiration for Your Own Twin Lakes Elopement

Forrest and Julia’s day is proof that your elopement can be whatever you want it to be—quirky, heartfelt, adventurous, or all of the above. If you’re dreaming of a Twin Lakes elopement or a non-traditional wedding in Colorado, let their story inspire you to embrace what feels true to you. Whether it’s a lakeside ceremony, a mountaintop adventure, or brunch in a cozy cabin, your day should reflect your love and your story. As your photographer, I’m here to help you create and capture those moments, so you can look back and remember exactly how it felt.

Forrest and Julia’s Twin Lakes elopement was a celebration of love, adventure, and authenticity—a day that was truly their own. If you’re drawn to the idea of a unique, genuine, and stress-free wedding day in the Colorado mountains, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Your story deserves to be told in a way that feels natural and true to you. Let’s make some magic together in the mountains!