A lot of people wonder; what’s the difference between an elopement and a micro wedding? Well, it depends on who you ask! The term “elopement” has evolved since the days of running away to marry without no one around. Nowadays, it’s more commonly used for a very intimate, non traditional wedding.
While I wouldn’t get too hung up on verbiage and words, it could make a difference when seeking out venues and best describing your gathering to people! Personally, I consider an elopement to include less than ten total attendees-including the couple. Often with a micro wedding, it’s best to look at reservable venues as it will be harder to adjust plans with more people in case of a weather or other emergency!
Caroline+Aaron reserved the iconic Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado for their mid June wedding of 25 people. This is an accessible location that frequented by tourists and a permit to get married is required. The permit allows your ceremony to take place, however it does not grant exclusivity which can be especially tricky during busy season! The point to get married is beside a public walking trail, and this path cannot be obstructed for your event. While often, people are respectful, other times it can be challenging to ward off on-lookers!
This spot is especially loved as it is one of the few places of this nature that allows chairs and arch set up! Of course, I require all my clients to abide by Leave No Trace laws, ensuring that the grounds we use are just as good or better than how we arrived to it!
Dogs: Yes, On Leash
Fee: Yes, a permit and fee are required to get married at Sapphire Point. This can be obtained 6 months in advance here. This is an extremely popular spot and slots go fast, especially in peak season. Keep in mind that Sunrise is your best bet to limit passerby’s. Additionally, off season and weekday permits are going to be easier to obtain.
Accessibility: Dirt trail, wheel chair accessible most often. Trail can become snow-packed or icy. About a 5 minute walk from parking lot. Roughly 20 parking spots in small lot, fill up extremely fast during peak season (May-October). Limiting cars/Carpooling strongly advised.
Where to stay: Frisco, Breckenridge, , Dillon, Silverthorne,
Best Season: Due to the extremely high volume of visitors, I recommend Sapphire Point most in the Winter months, when the ground and mountains are covered in snow! It’s beautiful year round.
Where to host reception:
-An airbnb that is comfortable with your guest count! The rentals in Breckenridge are absolutely stunning! Many couples opt to hire a private chef instead of reserving a place to eat.
–Bistro North 80+ Capacity for Event
–Vue Rooftop Restaurant 75 Max Capacity for Event
Things to do:
Hiking and snow sports are a huge attraction in this area!
Visit AllTrails app to find a hike best suited for your visit.
Visit the Breckenridge Troll
Grab coffee at House of Vibes
Kayak at Dillon Lake
Walk around and shop on Main Street in Breckenridge