5 Benefits of a Mountain Wedding

If your wedding day dreams involve incredible views, ample fresh air, and the sounds of nature surrounding you, then a mountain wedding might be the right choice. There’s something alluring and romantic about the mountains that attract couples to celebrate their big day in the woods, but there might be a few added benefits you’ve never considered. Here are just a few of the amazing treats mountain weddings have to offer and tips for planning the perfect mountain wedding day!

1. Breathtaking Mountain Views

The most obvious benefit of a mountain wedding and the reason why so many people select the peaks for their venue is the view of course! Whether you’re in the Great Smoky Mountains out east or the stunning Rocky Mountains of Colorado, you and your guests will be floored by the backdrop that nature has to offer. From trees bursting with colors in the fall to snowcapped peaks in the winter, every single season has its own unique aesthetic to match whatever atmosphere you want to capture. 

M&C’s Telluride wedding. Captured by Jason and Daris

M&C’s Telluride wedding. Captured by Jason and Daris

2. Amazing Wedding Photos

Indoor wedding venues are great for having controlled lighting for portrait sessions, but you just can’t beat natural light. In a mountain setting, you’ll have endless opportunities for breathtaking couples’ photos with expansive vistas in the background, especially if you’re willing to walk around a little bit. Just be sure to consider the weather and have a backup prop like a cute umbrella so you can still take dreamy, romantic photos, even if you and your partner get caught in one of the mountain’s infamous summer downpours!

3. Mountain Weddings are Budget-Friendly 

The natural beauty of the landscape often means that you can forgo the cost of decorating since the entire scene will already be set. You can keep flowers and other decor to a minimum, which will help out your budget significantly. Additionally, many people who opt to have a mountain wedding are looking for a more intimate experience so the guest list is usually much smaller. This means less money spent on food, drinks, and seating. 

L&B at Camp Hale. Captured by Doug Treiber Photography.

L&B at Camp Hale. Captured by Doug Treiber Photography.

4. Perfect for the Natural Bride or the Glam Bride

With mountains come dirt. If you’re the kind of bride who doesn’t mind a little dust swirling around her wedding gown, then an outdoor mountain wedding will be a dream come true. Rustic elements like handmade wood altars, natural linen tablecloths, and local hand-picked flowers can give your day the perfect down-to-earth feeling. One of the best parts of planning your mountain wedding will be finding the perfect wedding gown to complement the outdoor venue. 

J La Plante Photography captures a walk up the mountain for bridal photos.

J La Plante Photography captures a walk up the mountain for bridal photos.

However, there are also plenty of ski resorts and upscale venues in the mountains that cater to those couples who dream of the breathtaking mountain backdrop, with a less rustic experience. Many offer both outdoor and indoor venues for both ceremony and reception. 

5. Create a Unique Experience 

Above all else, weddings are about celebrating your commitment to your partner with the people who matter most to you. Couples who host their wedding in the heart of the mountains can rest assured knowing that their guests will walk away with a truly unforgettable experience. Saying “I do” on a mountaintop, surrounded by friends, family, and nature is truly a once in a lifetime experience. 

If you’re looking for an intimate, picturesque, or romantic setting for your special day, you just can’t beat a mountain wedding. As an experienced Colorado wedding planner, I can help you find the perfect location to celebrate your love, exactly the way you’ve always dreamed!