A Dream Elopement Experience

When Marissa from Forbis Fotography asked me if I could join her for her upcoming elopement shoot in Colorado my response was an immediate:


"Hell Yeah!"


The couple, who flew in all the way from Florida, were just as excited and ready for adventure. Their elopement would take place after a mile-long hike up to Crater Lake, and while the trek was a bit challenging, the breathtaking views at the top made every step worthwhile.

Elegance and Adventure Going Hand in Hand.

The bride made a beautiful statement with her soft pink skirt and white top, paired with hiking boots (Iconic).


The groom, dressed in a suit and hiking boots, was just as prepared.


Hand-in-hand, they set off along the trail, with the majestic Maroon Bells towering above and the crisp mountain air adding to the magic of the moment.

Person in pink dress lying on forest ground surrounded by natural debris.

An Intimate Ceremony Enveloped in Nature


Once we reached Crater Lake, the calm, reflective waters and rugged mountain peaks created an unforgettable backdrop for their vows. The intimate ceremony felt incredibly personal, as if the landscape itself was a witness to their love.


Afterward, we took our time hiking back down, basking in the warm glow of an incredible sunset. The golden light illuminated the rocky terrain and cast a romantic glow over the couple, making their celebration even more special.

Couple standing by mountain lake with dramatic cliffs in the background.
Playful couple in formal wear dancing by a mountain lake with pink flowing dress.

Newlyweds taking a stroll on the lake shore

One of the highlights of this trip, as a photographer, was capturing some photos of the local pika darting around near the trail. I love photographing wildlife whenever I get the chance, so being able to shoot such a cute, lively animal while documenting a beautiful love story was the perfect blend of everything I enjoy.


Every moment of this elopement was a perfect example of how love and adventure go hand in hand. It was an absolute honor to capture their story in such a magical place. Colorado never fails to amaze, and this Maroon Bells elopement was an unforgettable experience.


If you’re dreaming of an adventurous elopement, don’t hesitate to chase those wild, beautiful places—they’re always worth it!

A scenic mountain lake surrounded by towering peaks and forest with people walking along the shoreline path.
A romantic moment between a couple in formal attire among lush forest greenery.
A tender embrace between two people in formal wear on a forest path surrounded by aspen trees.
A couple in formal attire sharing a moment by a mountain lake during what appears to be a ceremony.
A couple sharing an animated moment by a lake with mountains in the background.
Close-up detail of a pink flowing dress with lace sleeve detail.
A couple in formal wear standing by a mountain lake with dramatic cliffs in the background.
A playful moment between two people in formal wear against a backdrop of mountain cliffs.
A couple in formal attire dancing by a mountain lake surrounded by evergreen forest.
A joyful interaction between two people in formal wear by a serene mountain lake.
A couple embraces during an intimate outdoor wedding ceremony in a mountainous forest setting.
A rocky mountain trail winds through evergreen trees and natural terrain.
A tender moment between newlyweds wearing white and lace against a natural outdoor backdrop.
A romantic mountain elopement with evergreen trees and rugged peaks in the background.
A forest path through dense evergreen trees leads to a mountain vista.
A couple shares playful moments on a rocky mountain trail surrounded by greenery.