Expert Advice for a Beautiful Destination Wedding in the Rocky Mountains
Planning a destination wedding in the Rocky Mountains can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. The Rockies offer a stunning backdrop for any wedding, and there are plenty of venues and activities to make your special day truly memorable.
This post-ceremony image of Susie and Damian was captured by Elevate Photography.
Here is some expert advice from a Colorado wedding planner to help you plan a beautiful destination wedding in the Rocky Mountains:
Choose the right venue for you: When it comes to the Rockies, there are plenty of options for wedding venues: a cozy moutain lodge, ski resort, or a scenic outdoor venue with breathtaking mountain views. Look for venues that offer on-site catering, event planning services, and lodging for your guests. To help guide your decision on a venue you need to do some other things first like get a general idea of the guest count, the time of year, and decide if you are open to a weekday wedding.
Consider the weather: The Rocky Mountains can have unpredictable weather any time of the year, especially at higher elevations. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather patterns, and plan accordingly. Consider renting tents or heaters or providing blankets for the guests if you're planning an outdoor wedding, and have a backup plan in case of inclement weather.
Get the right permits: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, be sure to get the necessary permits from the local authorities. This is especially important if you plan to have your wedding in a national park or other protected area. The National Park website is a good place to get information on requirements.
Plan activities for your guests: The Rocky Mountains offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Consider organizing group activities for your guests, such as a guided hike or a ski day. This can help your guests make the most of their trip and create memorable experiences.
Hire local vendors: When planning a destination wedding, it's important to work with vendors who are familiar with the area. Consider hiring local vendors for catering, flowers, and photography. They will have a better understanding of the local terrain and weather patterns, and can help you plan a wedding that is both beautiful and functional.
Consider transportation: The Rocky Mountains can be difficult to navigate, especially for out-of-town guests. Consider arranging transportation for your guests, such as shuttle buses or rental cars. This can help ensure that everyone arrives at your wedding venue on time and safely.
Embrace the natural beauty: The Rocky Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Don't be afraid to let the natural beauty of the area be a part of your wedding decor. Use local flowers and foliage, and incorporate natural elements such as wood and stone into your wedding theme.
Last but definitely not least:
Hire a wedding planner: The best piece of advice I can share with you is to hire an experienced wedding planner that is familiar with the Rocky Mountains and will have extensive knowledge of the area, including the best venues, vendors, and activities. Hiring a wedding planner is a big decision we understand and for some it feels like losing control of the wedding details. However, there are a lot of moving parts to planning a destination wedding. Having someone in the area and experienced with local vendors and venues is invaluable for making informed decisions that will allow you to plan the pieces most important to you as well as help you implement them so you can enjoy your special day.
With these expert tips, you can plan a beautiful and unforgettable destination wedding in the Rocky Mountains. If you’re thinking about a Rocky Mountain destination wedding for your special day, we would be honored to help you find the perfect location to celebrate your love, exactly the way you’ve always dreamed!