A perfect summer day for this Crested Butte wildflower elopement with an alpine lake ceremony and an incredible sunset! | Emily and Devan
Emily and Devan wanted an intimate ceremony with just their closest family somewhere beautiful and peaceful in Colorado. When Emily mentioned possibly a location with a lake and wildflowers, I immediately knew that a Crested Butte wildflower elopement was the perfect idea for them! Their day included a ceremony at Emerald Lake, one of Crested Butte’s most gorgeous alpine lakes. Then, dinner on Elk Street, followed by sunset photos at a stunning wildflower-filled trail right near town!
Eloping in Colorado’s Wildflower Capital!
Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital of Colorado. So, if you are looking for an elopement location with tons of wildflowers, look no further than Crested Butte! There are two time periods that are best for wildflower season in Crested Butte. If you want to experience the incredible lupines at some of the lower elevations, then late June into early July is perfect for that! Keep in mind, if you want to explore some of the higher alpine environments while you are out there, late June could still have snow and harder access in some areas. But, if you want to stay close to town and witness the meadows covered in stunning purple flowers, then I definitely recommend considering that last week of June when the lupines are typically peaking!
If you want to witness colorful wildflowers at some of the higher elevations, then mid July is perfect for that! The Crested Butte wildflower festival is typically during that mid-July timeframe as well. For example, next year it will be held July 10-19, 2026. Note that it can get pretty busy in town during the week of the festival. But, it is certainly worth it for the flowers! And don’t worry, I can take you to some lesser known spots where you can still have some private moments among the wildflowers.
If you need help planning a summer elopement in Crested Butte, let’s chat!
Getting Ready
Emily and Devan started their day getting ready in a cute mountain-side condo, along with their daughter. Emily had her makeup done by the wonderful, Glammed Up Designs. Devan got into his suit with the help of his brother. Then, Emily put their daughter into the cutest little dress, before her mom helped her into her wedding dress. Such sweet moments before we headed out for their journey to Emerald Lake!
First Look and Emerald Lake Ceremony
Emily and Devan chose Emerald Lake as the location for their Crested Butte ceremony. It is very important to note that you need a high clearance, 4WD vehicle to reach this spot. Their family all rented capable cars to make it to Emerald Lake. Since it was still a bit earlier in the season, there were definitely many large ruts on the dirt road. If you are up for a little adventure on your elopement day, this is a great spot, but only do it if you are prepared! Emily and Devan had an emotional first look by the lake before their ceremony with their family. After a beautiful ceremony and family photos, we went for a little hike to the other side of the lake for their private vows and some couples photos!
Emerald Lake Photos and Private Vows
Emily and Devan’s private vows and couples photos at the other side of Emerald Lake was my favorite part of the day. The wildflowers were popping and we hiked up a trail to get a better view of the lake from above. It was so serene and beautiful and the looming clouds must have scared everyone off, because we had the whole place to ourselves. Simply magical!
Dinner at the Gourmet Noodle
After some exploring, we made our way back to Elk Ave in Crested Butte for dinner at the Gourmet Noodle. A delicious Italian meal, celebratory drinks, and cake cutting, made for the perfect little reception for their intimate wedding day!
Sunset and Blue Hour Crested Butte Wildflower Elopement Photos
Finally, after dinner, we headed back out for sunset photos at Snodgrass Trail. Snodgrass Mountain Trail is known for its wildflowers. We were also lucky enough to see some horses! Emily and Devan’s perfect Crested Butte elopement day ended with lantern and blue hour photos with views of Mount Crested Butte and grazing horses. It was like a fairytale!
Congrats, Emily and Devan!
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