McKliney and Blake eloped at one of the most iconic locations in Colorado – Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This park is famous for its stunning red rock formations and a gorgeous place to elope.

McKinley and Blake are from Florida, but chose Colorado for their elopement because it was the first place that they vacationed together. I love destination elopements (and weddings) for many reasons, but one of my favorite things is that if the couple chooses to bring family or friends, it’s like everyone gets to vacation together. The couple gets the opportunity to bring together their favorite people to experience a new place together. In this case, everyone got to experience the magic of Garden of the Gods. I may live in Colorado now, but seeing people experience my favorite spots in Colorado on their wedding day is really special.

Their Story and Why They Chose to Elope

How they met in McKinley’s words:

“One of the guys I was living with at the time met Blake at the supply store that he was working at and told him to add me on Facebook! Three days later I finally replied to Blake and a week later we went on our first date!”

Why they decided on a small, intimate wedding in McKinley’s words:

“My dad graciously offered to pay for our wedding. As a dad of 3 girls, he had to set an equal budget for each of us. After starting to plan a wedding in Florida where we live, we realized we would be spending all of the money on a 4-hour party. I came home one day panicked because that just didn’t sound like us! We had vacationed to Colorado 6 months prior and LOVED it. We realized we could have a 3-day celebration with our closest family and friends for the same price as a 4-hour party with people we rarely talk to. We’re not big flashy people, and we love Colorado, so why not!”

Garden of the Gods Elopement

Did you know… Garden of the Gods doesn’t require a permit or reservation to get married in the park! Which makes it a really easy (and stunning) location to elope.

McKinley and Bake got ready in a nearby Airbnb and then held their ceremony at one of the overlooks in the park. After taking some photos with their friends and family, McKinley and Blake headed out to explore the park and take more photos. We had a perfect summer day, and we explored until late in the afternoon.

Then, everyone went to celebrate at a nearby restaurant. It was a super fun day filled with lots of laughs and time together.

Vendors

Reception: Pike’s Peak Lager House at COATI

Hair and Makeup: Royal Makeup & Hair

Videography: Dylan Crossley

Photography: Abby Shepard Photography

Favorites from McKinley and Blake’s Garden of the Gods Elopement