I almost NEVER turn down an opportunity to spend the Summer in Crested Butte. When I learned about Kaitlyn and Corey’s shared dream of a whimsical wildflower elopement in Crested Butte, I just HAD to say yes to photographing their celebration! If getting married in Crested Butte during the Summer isn’t on your bucket list, it should be! Apart from colorful wildflowers and breathtaking views, Crested Butte is home to one of Colorado’s most unique and fun accommodations — Harmels On The Taylor. The rustic resort and venue offers stunning Rocky Mountains and Taylor River views. Not to mention, the staff is incredibly kind and welcoming. Just wait until you see and read all about Kaitlyn and Corey’s Crested Butte Summer Elopement At Harmels On The Taylor. I guarantee it will want to make you plan your very own Crested Butte elopement!

All About Harmels On The Taylor

Harmels on the Taylor is a rustic Colorado ranch resort that allows guests to enjoy all the best Colorado offers in one central location. I like to think of it as an elevated summer camp for adults! With several private cabins that sit along the Taylor River, guests staying on the property can access various adventurous activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, off-roading, hiking, and whitewater rafting. If you and your partner are interested in a more rustic sleeping experience, Harmels also offers well-maintained campgrounds on the property! My favorite part of this resort is its amenities: a delicious restaurant, full bar, cozy outdoor firepit, fun recreation room, and quaint coffee shop. 

Last but certainly not least, Harmels offers three different wedding ceremony and reception areas. Each location is unique in its own right, allowing you and your partner to select between The Meadow, Cookout Grounds, or Cabin #100, depending on your ceremony vision and guest count.

Kaitlyn and Corey’s Crested Butte Summer Elopement At Harmels On The Taylor

Kaitlyn and Corey were so fun to photograph and hang out with! They were laughing and joking with each other throughout the entire experience. Kaitlyn and Corey are in the wedding industry, so both knew the exact vision and style they wanted for their elopement: a wildflower micro wedding in the mountains! 

Apart from their shared passion for working in the wedding industry, the couple loves exploring new places while doing activities like camping and hiking. It was no surprise when Kaityln decided to change into her hiking boots to explore Peanut Lake midway through the elopement! I loved that the couple incorporated their hobbies into the ceremony day.

Kaitlyn and Corey’s elopement took place at 4 in the afternoon at Harmels, right on the banks of the Taylor River. The weather was perfect — a storybook Summer day in Colorado. Since the ceremony was right next to the river, the cool breeze off the water helped ensure the temperature in the area wasn’t too hot. 

We took time taking photos at the ceremony location as the couple said their vows and celebrated their love. Afterward, we went to Peanut Lake, about a 30-minute drive from Harmels, to take portraits of the couple. After we arrived at Peanut Lake, Kaitlyn and Corey explored the beautiful alpine area, stopping to admire wildflowers, the incredible mountain landscape, and nearby wildlife!

Tips For Planning A Harmels On The Taylor Elopement

Tip #1: Stay At Harmels On The Taylor During Non-Peak Months

Harmels On The Taylor is a very popular accommodation and wedding venue. I recommend booking your stay and elopement at least a year out to ensure you get your desired date and room preference. Non-peak months in Crested Butte tend to be April-May and October-November. Planning for your elopement in a non-peak month also ensures a lower crowd level, increasing your chances of a more private and quiet elopement experience. 

Tip #2: Pack Bug Spray!

If you’re planning a Crested Butte Summer elopement, pack bug spray! Since the area, including the Harmels On The Taylor, is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and streams, it can get pretty buggy in the Summer. There’s nothing worse than an itchy mosquito bite!

Tip #3: Visit Crested Butte During Wildflower Season

Wildflower season can start as early as May in Crested Butte but usually peaks around late June/July. The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival is a must-do if you’re planning a Summer elopement in Crested Butte! With over 200 festival events, you and your partner won’t want to miss this unique July festivity!

Ready To Plan A Crested Butte Elopement At Harmels On The Taylor?!

If you’re ready to celebrate your love with an elopement or intimate wedding at Harmel’s On The Taylor, like Kaitlyn and Corey, I’m here to help bring your mountain adventure elopement dreams to life! As your photographer, I’ll help make your ceremony as stress-free as possible. I assist couples with location scouting, permits, timelines, and more! You can check out my photography packages here, and tell me all about your vision for your special day by filling out my contact form! If you want to learn more about Crested Butte, read my blog, Getting Married In Colorado | Crested Butte Elopement Tips!

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Vendors

Venues: @hitched_onthetaylor 

Floral: @hosanna.floral

Coordination: @gatheredevents.co

Planning: @knottedevents.co

Stationery: @mauvestationery

Dress: @luv_bridal

Models (Wildflower Elopement): @lghthntr x @kmkrist