From Canceled Plans to Magic Moments

Now I am excited for dreamy lakeside elopement, after feeling panicked. I woke up two days before our engagement session to a last minute cancellation from our photographer. We were so upset to hear this because we were so excited. After telling my friend Kristy about everything she happily stepped up to be our photographer everything was absolutely perfect. My partner – I mean fiancé now love to camp so thought it would be amazing to make this a camping trip experience with stellar views. We arrived a bit before sunset with time to set up camp an then the sun showed up and gave us a beautiful mountain, valley, lake scenery. Seriously, we felt like we were in a different country.

When thinking about where to take our photos Jacob and I discussed exactly what we were looking for in our engagment photos and I got to work location scouting. Among my search I knew just the place I had stored in my back pocket. Twin Lakes in Leadville, Colorado is the perfect place. This location is not only perfect for engagement photos but also one of the most underrated places for a lakeside elopement in Leadville.

Why Choose A Dreamy Lakeside Elopement in Leadville?

The gorgeous alpine lake glistens with the sun, surrounding pine trees, mountain views, quiet serenity. The sunset is stellar and the night sky is equally as beautiful with the mountain silhouettes. The stars are so bright and beautiful and shimmer in the sky like glitter. Leadville is ideal for couples wanting privacy, natural beauty, and romance.

• A few things to consider
  • High-elevation lake views (lovely but beware of altitude sickness here and in many other areas of Colorado)
  • Fewer crowds than other mountain towns
  • Quaint and historic town charm
  • Close to Buena Vista which is also super cute with amazing views and gorgeous sunsets

The Best Time of Year for A Dreamy Lakeside Elopement

Twin Lakes, located in Leadville, Colorado, are two naturally formed glacial lakes with the beautiful backdrop of Colorado’s highest mountain peak, Mount Elbert. Leadville is perfect for a summer elopement most of all. The greens are just so undeniably glorious. The water is cold but refreshing with an average temperature of their water being 65°–75° in the summer months, which allows for a comfortable swim. So jump in after your ceremony? Yes! Please, I am dying to document such a fun elopement like this.

With Mont Elbert near you will want to make sure you are prepared for high-altitude. Please understand that altitude sickness is very real and you will want to allow yourself at least a day or two before your elopement so that your body can acclimate. You can prepare a head of time by staying hydrated before your visit! Pack Advil for potential headaches and try taking beet powder to help with breathing. Though summer is beautiful Fall is arguably another close competitor. The aspen trees turn yellow and the colors are insane.

A Romantic Lakeside Elopement in Leadville: A Day to Remember

It begins with stillness.
The morning air is crisp, and the soft glow of sunrise gently spills through the windows of your cozy Leadville Airbnb. At 6:30 AM, the scent of fresh coffee fills the space as you quietly get ready together — a few stolen glances, a warm smile, and the sense that today will be unlike any other.

At 8:00 AM, you meet for your first look on the lakeshore. The lake is quiet, still mirroring the mountains around it. You turn, eyes meet, and time suspends for a moment. Emotions rise, and the love between you becomes tangible in the golden morning light.

By 9:00 AM, you’re standing at the water’s edge, with only the sound of lapping waves and birdsong in the air. You exchange your private vows — just the two of you. No distractions, no obligations. Just intentional promises spoken from the heart.

After tears and laughter, it’s time to celebrate. At 10:00 AM, a picnic breakfast and a champagne toast bring a joyful energy to the moment. A soft blanket, fresh pastries, fruit, and the sparkle of bubbly — it’s everything simple and sweet, made magical by the love you share.

At 11:00 AM, you take portraits along the shoreline, laughing and dancing in front of the camera as mountain peaks frame your joy. Every photo feels like a piece of art, every step taken with intention.

By 1:00 PM, the sun is high and it’s time for a midday break. You wander through the charming town of Leadville, stopping for coffee or a bite to eat, exploring antique shops, or simply holding hands as you roam.

At 4:00 PM, the adventure continues with a hike or a paddle board session on the lake. You splash, explore, and breathe in the mountain air — the fun and freedom of your elopement day unfolding naturally.

As the light shifts, you head back to the lake for golden hour portraits at 6:00 PM. The soft light bathes the landscape in romance, creating dreamy, cinematic memories as the sun dips behind the peaks.

By 7:00 PM, the celebration continues with a romantic dinner. Whether you’ve invited a private chef to your Airbnb or made reservations at a cozy mountain restaurant, it’s intimate, candlelit, and filled with your favorite food, music, and stories.

The night closes at 9:00 PM under a sky full of stars or soaking in a warm hot tub. You reflect on the day — full of adventure, tenderness, and truth. A day built entirely around your love.

Tips for Planning a A Dreamy Lakeside Elopement in Leadville

As of writing this blog no permit is needed with less than 15 people present and without use of standing structures. It is always best to double check before hand. The location I have is moderately accessible however not exactly handicap accessible. The great news is if you, your, partner, and your dog want to go out and get married your pup can sign your marriage license for you! When it comes to weather I would aways suggest being prepared for anything! As always, promise to follow the 7 Leave No Trace ethics.

From Engagement Session to Elopement Dreams

Though things didn’t work out as we originally intended, everything fell into place perfectly. Everything happened as they were meant to. Now, I am back home excited about the love I will get to document in one of the dreamiest locations in Colorado. Will you elope here? I think this location would make for an unforgettable backdrop to the most important day yet.

Let’s Plan Your Lakeside Elopement in Leadville

Get in touch! Let’s chat about everything on your mind about your elopement. I promise everything will fall into place perfectly. We will plan the authentic elopement experience for you and your partner. As a full service elopement planner and photographer I will help you every step of the way. I will review locations again, find the perfect vendors, find the perfect lodging, and ensure the dreamy experience you’re looking for.