Destination weddings have become increasingly popular in the last few years. There is something special about inviting your closest friends and family to a location that is meaningful to you and your partner as you celebrate the beginning of your marriage!
At Pink Diamond Events, we have been planning Colorado destination weddings since 2009 and have extensive experience in working with couples from around the world to create their dream weddings. However, we recognize that they are not for everyone! Read on to discover the pros and cons of having a destination wedding in Colorado to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Photo by Preston Utley Photography
The Pros
1. Mountain views
Colorado is home to the Rocky Mountains and they are on display all across the state! There are countless wedding venues that are designed to showcase these mountain views whether you’re in Vail, Beaver Creek, Winter Park, Steamboat, or Estes Park. These scenic landscapes create a captivating setting for your wedding and wedding photos that you will cherish for years to come.
Photo by One Oak Photography
2. A desirable destination
The beauty that has drawn you to Colorado, will entice your guests as well! Colorado is a sought-after tourist destination, making it an appealing choice for a wedding. Your guests will have a compelling reason to visit and we find that many guests extend their stay to enjoy a vacation alongside your wedding celebration. Additionally, Colorado is easily accessible because of Denver International Airport (DIA). DIA is one of the busiest airports in the US and a major hub for several airlines making it easy to fly in and out of!
3. Beautiful year-round
Colorado has four seasons, but weddings take place year-round because there are benefits to getting married in each of them! The spring and summer are lush and green as the weather warms up and the wildflowers start to bloom in the mountains. In the fall the air becomes crisp as the leaves slowly turn. And in the winter you’ll find snow-capped mountains that make you feel like you’re living in a snow globe! No matter what time of year you get married, you are sure to have a beautiful backdrop in Colorado.
Photo by Sarah Hill Photography
4. Lots of activity options
A major aspect of wedding planning is ensuring your guests have a good experience. Because Colorado has 300 days of sunshine, there are countless outdoor activities to invite your family and friends into. Between hiking, biking, fishing, white water rafting, paddle boarding, horseback riding, skiing, and snowboarding, you can provide an itinerary that extends beyond your wedding day, creating a memorable trip for everyone.
Photo by Preston Utley Photography
The Cons
1. Limited guest attendance
The reality of having a destination wedding is that more of your guests will not be able to make it than if you were planning a local wedding. The cost of the flights, hotels, and rental cars can add up quickly; and the time to travel and potentially take time off from work will not be feasible for all of your guests. Consider these factors carefully when deciding if a destination wedding is the right choice for you.
Photo by Clancey
2. Unpredictable weather
While Colorado is home to the four beautiful seasons we talked about above, it can also be home to some pretty crazy weather. We’ve seen everything from snow in May, to hail storms, to 80-degree days in November! This means that if your wedding is outside, it’s important to have a backup plan. We work with each couple and venue to ensure there is an indoor option in case of rain or snow. The silver lining is that Colorado weather often changes rapidly, as locals say, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes.”
3. High altitude
Colorado has an average altitude of 6,800 feet above sea level – higher than any other US state! For out-of-town guests, adjusting to this higher altitude and drier air may take some time. We consistently remind our destination wedding guests to stay hydrated and be aware that alcohol may affect them more at higher elevations.
Photo by Sarah Porter Photography
If you’re reading this and still interested in planning a Colorado destination wedding, it’s time to enlist the help of a local expert! At Aspen & Ivy, our team is equipped with vendor recommendations, a customized design process, and comprehensive planning guidelines that will allow you to host an unforgettable wedding weekend while still enjoying your engagement season. Fill out our contact form today for a free consultation with one of our wedding planners!
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