My personal favorite is the first week in October when all the leaves have this golden hue that works so well with the Rock formations.

Summer is the most lush and vibrant, but is more crowded and higher chance of daily thunderstorms.

Late fall has golden grass that looks great in the sun.

Spring doesn’t really exist in Colorado Springs, but it looks like winter through the end of May, then the leaves start to grow back and grass turns green by June.

Intimate weddings with fewer than 15 guests are ideal. It keeps the vibe peaceful and avoids disruption to the natural landscape. Some spots can have 20+ people, no more than 40. However, since you can’t reserve spots ahead of time, keep in mind that the more people in attendance, you are far less likely to have the ceremony spot you want.

The general rule of thumb is that the more people you have attending your ceremony, the more complicated it’s going to be (parking, location availability, etc). A willingness to be flexible and “go with the flow” is essential.

No decor/tents/arches allowed; chairs only for elderly or disabled. No alcohol or confetti of any kind. Please follow Leave No Trace principles, which means not venturing more than six feet off the trail.

Yes! Garden of the Gods is dog-friendly as long as pups are leashed. And we love when couples bring their furry family along.

Colorado skies can be wild. Sunrise and sunset are magical, but we also keep an eye on wind, clouds, and afternoon storms. There are usually summer thunderstorms in the afternoon, and the winter months are sunnier but windier. We’ll help plan around it all.

If it helps, some of the most dramatic skies happen just before or after a storm — we’ll watch the forecast and pivot as needed.

Plan for it—it’s public land. The park is far more crowded with tourists on weekends — and you have a higher chance of seeing multiple elopements or engagement shoots at popular spots. Once again, remember that it’s first come, first serve — there’s no reserving spots at Garden of the Gods.

I recommend choosing a sunrise weekdays to minimize crowds with a brunch or later-afternoon reception.
That being said, everyone (so far) that has walked by has either been to focus on their workout or has smiled/cheer on the people, so positive vibes only!

Colorado allows self-solemnized ceremonies—no officiant or witnesses required. Licenses are picked up from El Paso County courthouse (around $30)

Currently, there are no permits required (wohoo!) but there are guest maximums to abide by. Ideally, no more than 25 guests, and I can advise you on locations that can fit two people or 40 standing guests.

Bring shoes you can walk over rocks and loose gravel in! The terrain is rocky in spots, but totally doable, but I still don’t recommend heels. Cute closed toe shoes would be my go to, or fun boots!