Have you always dreamed of eloping on skis/snowboard?
This is your reminder to say YES to a winter elopement!
Imagine saying your vows on the top of the mountain, just like Natalie and Christian, with nothing but the sound of the snow. They chose an intimate ceremony at the top of Aspen Mountain, just the two of them and an officiant. In Colorado, you can legally get married without an officiant or witnesses, making it an ideal spot for couples looking to elope on the slopes of their favorite ski resort.
Natalie and Christian are skiing and snowboarding together, enjoying the peaceful and joyful moments of their winter wedding in Aspen, creating memories they’ll cherish forever.
Natalie and Christian are exchanging vows on a snowy mountaintop, surrounded by breathtaking views and the quiet beauty of nature, marking the start of their married life in the heart of Aspen.
After the ceremony, they skied down the mountain, stopping for photos along the way. It was amazing to get to document it all! Their story inspires couples who love adventure, want a wedding as exciting as their relationship and looking for guidance about Aspen Wedding venues.
Aspen/Snowmass: A Ski Resort with Four Distinct Mountain Areas
Aspen Snowmass is a single resort made up of four distinct ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk.
Aspen Mountain
Aspen Mountain caters to intermediate and advanced skiers with its steep, challenging terrain. It is known for its breathtaking views and its close proximity to downtown Aspen.
Aspen Highlands
Home to the famous Highland Bowl, this mountain is a top choice for expert skiers seeking thrilling, backcountry-like slopes. Aspen Highlands also offers a more laid-back, local vibe with fewer crowds than other resorts.
Snowmass
As the largest of the four ski areas, Snowmass provides a wide variety of terrain, accommodating skiers of all levels. Its impressive vertical drop and extensive trails on the Snowmass trail map offer an ideal setting for those looking for long, adventurous runs.
Buttermilk
Best known for its beginner-friendly slopes and hosting the Winter X Games, Buttermilk is also a great spot for new skiers and freestyle enthusiasts alike.
Things to consider before Ski/Snowboard elopement
Eloping on the slopes comes with its own set of considerations. Here are a few tips to help make your Ski & snowboard elopement as enjoyable as possible.
Clothing
Some brides opt for a wedding dress, some for fun ski attire. Whatever you choose, ensure it is comfortable enough to ski in. Also, plan for something waterproof and warm in case it is snowing. You want to look stunning but stay warm. Wear fleece and skin-tone leggings under your dress for warmth. Similarly, a warm ski jacket that’s stylish yet functional will help keep you comfortable.
Ski gear
The weather conditions in Aspen bring an exciting sense of adventure to the snowboard wedding experience similar to an elopement in Antarctica. So, don’t forget essentials like ski gloves, goggles, ski shoes and a cozy hat to keep you warm in extreme weather conditions.
Ski Lessons
If you’re not an experienced skier or snowboarder, consider taking lessons a few days before your elopement. Ski & snowboard lessons from the Aspen/Snowmass Ski School will help ensure you’re in top shape for your big day. You can even have a private instructor as a guide for the day, so they make sure you’re making it safely off the mountain.
Ceremony location and Month
Flexibility is essential when planning your trip, as weather conditions can change quickly, and safety should always come first. December and January tend to be the coldest months, while March brings warmer temperatures and signals the beginning of the après-ski season.
Planning Your Aspen Winter Elopement Timeline
Start in the warmth of lodge of a cozy hotel, where you can prepare for the ceremony.
Head towards the Mountain top for your Aspen Winter Dreamy wedding ceremony with breathtaking views.
After exchanging vows, ski down the mountain together, stopping for stunning photos at different spots.
Enjoy an Après-ski champagne toast after your awesome day on the slopes
Legal Considerations and Permits
A considerable number of ski resorts in Colorado operate on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Depending on your group size, you may need to obtain Commercial Use Authorizations for vendors or Special Use Permits for couples wishing to elope in these areas. To ensure you have the correct permits, you should get in touch with the ski resort directly or consult with the local ranger district. Each resort may have different rules and procedures, so gathering information beforehand will help you avoid surprises. Please remember that this blog post is not a substitute for professional legal advice.
From Natalie & Christian- A Glimpse into Their Hearts
"We chose Aspen Colorado after our first trip there in 2022… we fell in love with Aspen's beautiful scenery, slopes, and the people who live there! Our dream is to own a house on the side of the mountain one day.
In all honesty, we totally winged our elopement! All Christian and I knew for certain was that we wanted to elope in Aspen, Colorado and that we wanted our day captured on video & film. We are so grateful that we were referred to you and your team, or else we would have captured everything ourselves on our iPhone! Lol. We are very lucky that you & your team were available on our special day. "
"Christian and I are still in awe of the beautiful photos you captured, and our friends and family are still watching our elopement video and loving the gallery! I look at our photos every week.
I totally winged my wedding details the morning of… I left the creativity up to you and I absolutely love how the photos came out! "
"There is not a thing I would change about you and your team! You were so kind, and we appreciate everything you did to help our day go smoothly. We love all the photos and videos, and the fact that you captured our photos while snowboarding was the icing on the cake for us! You and your team did an amazing job. Thanks again for making our day so smooth and for the beautiful shots you took of us. I am still obsessing over everything! You are absolutely an amazing Aspen elopement photographer!"
"My advice for couples who want to elope would be to just do it! There was no better feeling than to be with the person you love the most and sharing such a special and intimate moment with each other. "
Final Word on Ski & Snowboard Elopements
A ski & snowboard elopement is more than just a wedding—an experience, an adventure, and a celebration of love and life. Whether you choose the Aspen Ski Slope elopement, Antarctica ski elopement or another iconic ski destination, an adventurous snowboarding wedding can be the perfect way to start your married life together.
Natalie and Christian's Aspen adventure shows that a winter elopement can be thrilling and deeply romantic. It is a day that allows couples to connect not just with each other but also with nature and the sport they love. For those bold enough to embrace it, a ski & snowboard elopement offers memories that will last a lifetime.