A Rainy, Colorado Mountain Elopement at Brainard Lake
When two insanely talented creatives in the wedding world ask you to photograph their day, it’s equal parts exciting and a little intimidating. Alyssa and Zak are an incredible photo and video duo, and when they reached out for me to capture their mountain elopement at Brainard Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, I was absolutely over the moon.
Not only are they amazing artists, but they’ve also since become wonderful friends and coworkers in this industry, which made the day that much more special. And, let me tell you, their Colorado wilderness elopement was one for the books. The day itself was absolute chaos, in the best way. The weather was wild and unpredictable, but somehow that made everything even more memorable. These two embraced it all, and the result was one of my favorite intimate mountain wedding galleries I’ve ever delivered!
The Perfect Kind of Chaos
There’s something so meaningful about saying “I do” in the middle of the mountains, surrounded by just your favorite people and endless Colorado views. That’s what I love most about Colorado wilderness elopements, they strip away all the noise and let you focus on what really matters.
Alyssa & Zak’s ceremony took place right by the lake with a handful of their closest people (and their two sweet dogs) standing beside them. The clouds rolled in, the wind picked up, and the light changed by the minute, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. After some family portraits, the skies finally opened up.
It started pouring rain during their couple portraits, and instead of running for cover, Alyssa and Zak leaned right into it — laughing, hugging, and embracing the storm together! The weather added this raw, cinematic energy to their photos. Every gust of wind, every drop of rain, and every streak of light across the mountains gave the images so much depth and emotion that only nature can create. Ugh, I was so honored to even witness it!
Embracing the Unpredictable
If there’s one thing I’ve learned photographing mountain elopements in Colorado, it’s that you can’t control the weather, but you can make it part of your story. A bit of wind, some moody skies, or even a passing storm can bring so much mood to your photos. That’s exactly what happened with Alyssa & Zak. The chaos, the laughter, and the little moments of calm between the storm all added to something so surreal and beautiful.
Those imperfect moments often become the ones you love most. These are the real, unfiltered memories that tell the story of your special day. So instead of stressing about the weather, lean into it (as long as it’s safe). Trust that even when things don’t go according to plan, your photos will still be filled with beauty, connection, and that wild Colorado magic.
A Day That Felt Like Them
After their ceremony, these two kept things perfectly “them”, relaxed, spontaneous, and intentional. Before heading into their reception, Alyssa chopped her hair (yes, right before the reception!) and they met up with loved ones at their favorite bar in town for an informal, joy-filled night!
Every part of their day felt so genuine, from the quiet mountain vows to the carefree dance-floor laughs later that night. Exactly the kind of day that reminds me why I love photographing intimate mountain weddings like this.
Planning Your Own Colorado Wilderness Elopement
If there’s one thing Alyssa & Zak’s day proves, it’s that you don’t need perfect weather or a huge guest list for an unforgettable wedding day. You just need a place that feels right, the people who matter most, and the freedom to be yourselves!
Here are a few quick tips for planning your own Colorado wilderness elopement or intimate mountain wedding:
Check the forecast, but don’t obsess over it. The mountains change fast, sometimes the “bad” weather ends up being the most beautiful.
Bring layers. Even in summer, the temperature can drop quickly at higher elevations.
Have a backup plan, but stay flexible — the adventure often lies in the unexpected.
Work with a photographer who thrives in the wild. Someone who can roll with the conditions and still make art out of whatever nature gives you.
Client Love
“Amandha was absolutely 100% amazing throughout every step of the process!! From the early meetings to discuss the timeline of the day, to the engagement session, then to our big day, she was the upmost professional! She also was able to bring out the photogenic side of us that really allowed us to showcase and capture our love! Cannot speak more highly of Amandha and so grateful to have chosen such a talented photographer!”
Ready to Plan Your Own Mountain Elopement?
Remember to go with the flow and do what feels right for you, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate (or anything else for that matter). You’ll still have the most beautiful day ever, because it’s your story, told your way.
If you’re dreaming of your own mountain elopement, I’d love to help you plan and document every bit of it! Rain, shine, or snow, we’ll capture your story exactly as it happens (check out this beautiful winter elopement). And if you need help choosing your Colorado mountain wedding location, I’m here to guide you toward the spots that fit your story best, from quiet alpine lakes to wildflower meadows and moody mountain overlooks.
Reach out today to start planning your Colorado wilderness elopement or intimate mountain wedding. Let’s capture the kind of day that feels real, raw, and completely you.
Love,
Amandha
Amandha Luiza Photography | Colorado Elopement Photographer
