It’s hard to believe that this sunrise elopement in Breckenridge was a plan B for Maria and Ben. Originally, they were going to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park, but COVID had other plans. So we re-scheduled to fall, picked a new location, and shortened the guest list to just immediate friends and family. We all met for sunrise at this gorgeous and secret spot outside Breckenridge, along with their dog Juniper. We adventured around the lake and the aspen trees, which were just starting to turn yellow. I couldn’t imagine this sunrise elopement going any other way. Sometimes the Plan B’s are meant to be, I think.
And now some Q&A from the lovely Maria…
How did you and your significant other meet?
Ben and I met rock climbing. He was impressed by how hard I could climb, and I fell for his kind nature.
What is your proposal story?
Ben and I had a really great conversation and decided we wanted to get married while visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park. He must really loved me because I was wearing ski goggles to protect my eyes and looked like a dork all weekend, and he still wanted to spend our lives together!
What are your favorite things to do together?
We love to rock climb … it is our main hobby. We also love hiking, oogling and playing with dogs (both our own dog Juniper and other people’s dogs), eating great food, and drinking IPAs.
Why did you decide to elope?
We talked about all of the options and having a really small ceremony suited us best- it allowed us to really focus on that moment instead of worrying about all of the extra stuff. We aren’t religious and felt like an outdoor setting was best for us. Also, it was a very intimate moment and not something we were comfortable doing in front of a large audience! We also felt like we got the best of both worlds by eloping and then having a small celebration after…of course if it weren’t for the pandemic, we could have had a few more people there to celebrate, but it was still great to have that piece as well.
What was your favorite thing about your elopement day?
When we said our vows to each other. It was so sweet and meaningful…what the whole day was about! Also getting to see all of our friends later in the evening and introduce Ben as my husband.
What advice do you have to other couples that are thinking about eloping?
If you are interested in having the ceremony be really focused on your feelings, I highly recommend it. Tradition might tell you not to, your parents might be a little sad…but it is such a beautiful way to share that moment. I can’t imagine having done it in front of a big group. Also…its a way to really do things the way you want to and not worry about other people’s demands. Also also…it can be a huge savings over traditional weddings!
Congratulations Maria and Ben! I’m so glad this Plan B worked out. I couldn’t have imagined it any other way.
If you are interested in eloping in Breckenridge, feel free to contact me or check out my blog post, How to Elope in Colorado.
