INCLUSION IN ELOPEMENTS

CREATING SPACE FOR EVERY LOVE STORY

As a Denver-based elopement and wedding photographer, I’ve seen the magic that happens when couples choose to ditch the traditional wedding mold and get married on their own terms. But I’ve also noticed something that breaks my heart: elopements, especially in Colorado, are often portrayed through a very narrow lens. White. Outdoorsy. Thin. Hikers in neutral-toned linen.

Let’s be honest: the mainstream “Colorado elopement” aesthetic is dominated by couples who just finished a 14er and decided to tie the knot on the summit. That’s beautiful for them, but it’s not the only version of beauty.

ELOPEMENTS SHOULD BE FOR EVERYONE

Every couple deserves to see themselves reflected in wedding inspiration. Whether you’re BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled, fat, neurodivergent, religious, spiritual-but-not-religious, or just don’t vibe with the “mountain elopement in a flowy white dress” aesthetic, you belong here.

Eloping should be about creating a space where your story, values, and culture are centered. Your elopement can be as joyful, sacred, silly, or spontaneous as you want it to be. There are no rules. Only possibilities.

WHAT DOES AN INCLUSIVE ELOPEMENT LOOK LIKE?

That’s the beauty of elopements: they’re one of the most accessible, customizable, and affirming ways to celebrate your love. When we work together, I’ll help you craft a day that’s true to you, not just Pinterest-perfect.

Have a budget? Spend money only on what you care about.

Want to include just a few people (or no one)? You get to choose who shows up.

Don’t want to wear white? Wear what makes you feel confident and safe.

Want to elope at the concert venue where you had your first date? Let’s do it.

Want to say your vows in a public park that holds meaning for your family? Absolutely.

Whether it’s in your backyard, a quiet corner of the city, or a cultural or religious space, your elopement can (and should) reflect your life, your story, and your values.

RECLAIMING ELOPEMENTS FOR BIPOC, LGBTQ+, AND MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES

Let’s be real: many BIPOC and LGBTQ+ couples are told directly or indirectly that their traditions, cultures, or religious practices don’t “fit” into the elopement world. That’s a lie.

Many couples feel pressure to choose between a meaningful cultural or religious ceremony or an elopement. But you don’t have to. We can co-create a day that honors your identity and heritage and feels deeply intimate and personalized.

Want to bring your grandma to say a blessing in her native language? Want to include a prayer, ritual, or spiritual moment? Want to wear traditional attire that honors your ancestors? Yes. Yes. Yes.

Let’s Expand the Narrative

Elopements aren’t just for white, non-religious, nature-lovers. They’re for you! Whoever you are, however you love, and whatever makes you feel at home in your skin.

You deserve to see yourself in wedding photos.

You deserve a photographer who sees you.

You deserve a wedding day that’s radically yours.

Let’s dream big. Let’s build something sacred. Let’s create an elopement experience where you feel truly seen, celebrated, and safe.

READY TO PLAN YOUR INCLUSIVE ELOPEMENT IN COLORADO OR BEYOND?

I’M ASH, A QUEER WEDDING AND ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN DENVER, COLORADO.

I specialize in documenting love stories that fall outside the mold and celebrating all the beauty that comes with them. Whether you’re dreaming of a city hall elopement, a cultural ceremony in your family’s backyard, or something totally unconventional, I’m here to help bring it to life.