a guide to 50 top colorado wedding venues
by Leah Goetzel Photography
How to have an amazing wedding in Colorado! Whether you are local to Colorado or are planning a destination wedding this guide will help you plan your dream wedding!
EXPLORE
Table of Contents
Are you dreaming of a getting married in Colorado? If you are traveling in for a destination wedding, there are so many fun places to explore from iconic bars and restaurants. Colorado has exploded over the past ten years with a phenomenal food scene, more cute shops, and exponential growth while still holding true to what makes Colorado so special.
Keep reading to learn about how to plan a wedding in Colorado and some of my favorite Colorado wedding venues!
+ Colorado Wedding Guide
+ Wedding Venues in Colorado
The Importance of Wedding Photography
At the end of your wedding day, once the cake has been eaten and your flowers have died, the only thing left will be your memories and your photos. That's why wedding photography is one of the most important investments of your day.
For just a few minutes imagine and go on a journey with me.
You are married! You had a beautiful wedding and everything was perfect! The dance floor was packed, the food was delicious. You couldn’t have dreamed of a better day, and best of all you got to marry your best friend.
Fast forward to your first anniversary. You and your fiance are snuggled up on the couch flipping through your gorgeous wedding album and relieving the day.
What do you see?
Do you see your sister braiding your hair like y’all did when you were little? Or your mom fixing your dress? A special moment with your grandparents? The first look with dad? Maybe, the moment where you were given a gift that’s been passed down for generations.
Do you see the first time your soon to be life partner saw you on your wedding day? Tears in their eyes? You see your dad walking you down the aisle.
These are just small samplings of what you would see two, five, ten, twenty years after your wedding. It’s these moments that are so important and why we love what we do.
Now for a minute imagine you don’t have these images. Or they aren't beautiful, timeless photos. You can't see the first looks or witness the raw and genuine love you two have.
This is why we believe wedding photography is worth it. As a Colorado wedding photographer, I cherish and honor the ability to create wedding galleries that allow my couples to relive the most important moments to them.
Colorado wedding venues
As a Colorado Wedding Photographer I have been to a ton of Colorado wedding venues. I know that choosing your venue is a lofty task, that's why I've compiled this list of some of my favorite spots!
If you have any questions about anything, don't hesitate to send me a message! And no matter which venue you choose, I want to be your wedding photographer!
Make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for a special gift!
my favorite
How to Choose the Perfect Colorado Wedding Venue
When choosing your Colorado wedding venue, there are a few things to consider.
1. What kind of backdrop are you looking for? Mountains? Red Rocks? Urban?
When people picture the quintessential Colorado wedding venue, they usually think a mountain backdrop. But Colorado has so much more than just mountain venues, whatever your vibe, Colorado will likely have something you'll love!
2. How far from Denver are you willing to travel?
Colorado's looks can be deceiving! Even if something is only 30 miles away, it can take hours to navigate through the mountains and traffic. Keep that in mind when choosing your venue. If you choose a venue to the west of Denver, traffic, construction and weather delays can be major.
3. What season are you getting married in?
Venues can change drastically depending on the season. I recommend to look at venue galleries from all different seasons to get an accurate depiction of what your venue will look like.
4. What is included with your venue?
Lots of Colorado wedding venues include rentals, either tables and chairs, ceremony seating, etc. This can be a huge cost and energy saver! Make sure to inquire as to what's included.
5. What are the venues noise ordinances?
So many Colorado mountain venues have strict noise ordinances for their neighbors. If you're wanting to have a wild party lasting until 1am, make sure to check that policy before booking.
6. Can you bring in your own vendors?
Most Colorado wedding venues will have a preferred vendor list, but that doesn't always mean you have to choose from them. However, some venues have a strict policy on caterers and bartenders, so if you have a dream vendor, make sure they'll be able to work at your venue!
some of my favorite
Colorado Wedding Venues
As a Colorado wedding photographer, I've been to a lot of Colorado weddings and venues! Colorado has a wide variety of different wedding venues, from hotel ballrooms to grand outdoor barns to industrial warehouses to mountain lodges. Whatever your vision is, Colorado will likely have something you'll love!
Skyview
estes park
SkyView is one of Estes Park‘s newest wedding venues and it is absolutely stunning. The venue is about an hour from Denver. The best part is the large wrap around porch off the reception room with mountain views.
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The Manor House
littleton
The manor house is one of the best Colorado wedding venues. It has gorgeous views of the mountains, plenty of reception space and a super unique interior feel that is classy and sophisticated.
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Bonnie Blues
elizabeth
Bonnie Blues is a romantic and modern barn style venue just 40 minutes from downtown Denver. It has tons of space for larger gatherings and a beautiful lawn ceremony site.
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Buena vista
Surf Hotel is a new hotel venue in Buena Vista, about 2.5 hours from Denver. The venue is eclectic and chic with rock details and beautiful vintage touches. It's situated right on a lovely creek.
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Surf Hotel
The Woodlands
Morrison
The Woodlands is only 30 minutes from Denver but feels like you're much further. It is a beautiful white barn venue with high ceilings and gorgeous pine trees and a hillside views.
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Lyons Riverbend
Lyons
River Bend Lyons is a charming wedding venue located only 20 minutes from downtown Boulder! The wedding venue is situated on the banks of the river and features dramatic stone cliffs.
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The Maven Hotel
denver
The Maven is one of my favorite hotel venues. It is right in the middle of the dairy block, which allows for some super fun and colorful wedding day portraits.
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Spruce Mountain Ranch
LARKSPUR
This sprawling mountain ranch is quintessential rustic Colorado, from the leather touches to sweeping mountain views, if you're wanting classic Colorado, this is the place for you.
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The Oaks at Plum Creek
castle rock
The Oaks at Plum Creek is situated on a beautiful golf course. The interior space looks like a luxury resort and it boasts one of my favorite getting ready suites of all time.
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donovan pavillion
vail
Donovan Pavilion is a gorgeous wedding venue in the heart of Vail. It has stunning floor to ceiling windows and is surrounded by a lush garden. It's a perfect spot for a chic and sophisticated mountain wedding.
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upper larimer
denver
Upper Larimer is an industrial venue in the heart of RiNo. It features exposed brick and beams, making it the perfect site for your downtown Denver wedding. There are tons of murals nearby for photo opportunities.
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Limelight hotel
denver
One of Denver's newest hotel venues, Limelight is located right at Union Station. It is a swanky and cool wedding venue with spacious suites and a variety of ceremony locations.
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Colorado Wedding Venues with the Best Mountain Views
Most folks getting married in Colorado are looking for mountain views– here are some of my absolutely favorite wedding venues with mountain views. From Breckenridge to Salida to Steamboat Springs, these wedding venues are spread out all across Colorado. But the trek is worth it for these #views!!
Skyview
estes park
SkyView is one of Estes Park‘s newest wedding venues and it is absolutely stunning. The venue is about an hour from Denver. The best part is the large wrap around porch off the reception room.
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Garden of the Gods
colorado springs
Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in Colorado Springs is one the most gorgeous and unique venues. It is surrounded by the stunning red rocks of Colorado Springs
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Nordic Center
breckenridge
Breckenridge Nordic center is located right in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado. It has a rustic, Colorado ski cabin vibe and gorgeous views of the slopes with tons of pine trees. The perfect quintessential Colorado venue.
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salida
The Barn at Howard Creek is located right outside gorgeous Salida. This venue featured a rustic, red barn and multiple ceremony site options. And the best part? That incredible mountain view.
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Barn at Howard
Crooked willow farms
larkspur
This venue is located in Larkspur, about 45 miles from Denver. It is a vibrant red barn venue that feels upscale and modern. It has gorgeous mountain ceremony views.
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Flagstaff House
boulder
Flagstaff House is located up Flagstaff mountain in Boulder, this venue is a restaurant boasting gorgeous views and delicious food.
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Della Terra
estes park
Della Terra is a quintessential Colorado mountain venue. It has beautiful pines, wood finishes and is just 5 minutes from RMNP. And the best park? You can stay on site!!
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Sprague Lake
rocky mountain
Sprague Lake is one of the many ceremony sites you can reserve at Rocky Mountain National Park, this spot has stunning views of Hallett Peak and the lake.
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YMCA rockies
estes park
This venue offers beautiful mountain views of the Rockies and is the perfect rustic venue, whether you’re having an intimate wedding or a large gathering!
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some of my favorite
Affordable Colorado Wedding Venues
Wedding planning, especially in Colorado, can be pricey! Here are some of my favorite affordable Colorado wedding venues that are still a fantastic option for housing your Colorado wedding!
YMCA Rockies
estes park
This venue offers beautiful mountain views of the Rockies and is the perfect rustic venue, whether you’re having an intimate wedding or a large gathering! An added perk? Lodging is available on site!
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Lily Farm Fresh
keeneburg
Lily Farm Fresh is an affordable barn wedding venue located in Keenesburg. The venue has a beautiful red barn with high ceilings and plenty of room to spread out. Plus a lovely meadow filled with flowers.
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Ralston's Crossing
arvada
Ralston’s Crossing is an affordable wedding venue located in Arvada, Colorado. This venue is quaint and full of charm. It’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings and gatherings!
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Wedgewood Black Forest
co springs
This wedding venue situated in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The venue is surrounded by gorgeous pine trees and has massive ceilings, making the space feel airy and spacious.
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Brookside Gardens
berthoud
Brookside Gardens Event Center is a beautiful and affordable wedding venue. It has a botanical gardens feel and even a view of the mountains! My favorite part? The cool ceremony site structure.
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La Foret
co springs
La Foret Wedding and Conference Center is an affordable Colorado wedding venue located just north of Colorado Springs. There is lots of space and tons of trees and even the option to stay on site.
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Cielo at Castle Pines
castle rock
The Cielo at Castle Pines is a gorgeous venue located just 30 minutes outside of Denver. It has a massive open reception space, with sliding glass doors leading to the outdoor ceremony site.
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Lyons Farmette
lyons
One of my favorite affordable venues! This venue located along the Vrain River, it's situated on a working flower farm, yes you can have all your florals come from the Farmette!
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Grant Humphries
denver
This venue is a neoclassical home, turned venue. The mansion was built in the 1900’s and has maintained all its elegant charm. It's situated atop a hill in Denver’s Capital Hill neighborhood.
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some of my favorite
wedding Venues in Denver
As a Denver wedding photographer, I've been to a lot of Denver weddings and venues! Here are some of my favorite venues inside the Denver city center. When choosing a venue inside Denver, expect more industrial finishes and modern touches. Lots of couples choose a venue inside the Denver city center because it is the most accessible for their guests (both those flying in and living in town.)
The Manor House
littleton
The Manor House is a stunning venue located just outside Denver. It has gorgeous white pillars and sweeping views of the mountains. Truly one of my favorite venues in all of Denver!
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Chatfield Farms
littleton
Chatfield Farms at the Denver Botanic Gardens is a quaint and picturesque venue located right outside Denver. It has a gorgeous red barn, beautiful floral landscapes, and rolling fields.
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Ralston's Crossing
arvada
Ralston’s Crossing is an affordable wedding venue located in Arvada, Colorado. This venue is quaint and full of charm. It’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings and gatherings!
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Lyonsgate
lafayette
Lyonsgate is a venue located about 30 minutes north of Denver in Lafayette. There are a few different ceremony sites, all that are lush with tons of character! The reception venue is perfect for large weddings.
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Limelight hotel
denver
Limelight Hotel is one of Denver's newest hotel wedding venues– located right next to Union Station this venue encapsulates the cool, swanky vibe of the area. With spacious suites and multiple ceremony locations.
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Denver Botanic
denver
One of my favorite venues in Denver is the Denver Botanic Gardens. There is so much color and diversity in backdrops. My favorite ceremony site? The Woodland Mosaic, perfect for smaller weddings.
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The Maven
denver
The Maven is one of my favorite hotel ballroom venues. It's situated right in the heart of the Dairy Block, which creates a super fun unique energy and backdrop. There's a really cool speakeasy vibe.
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JW Marriott
denver
The JW is a beautiful and luxurious ballroom style hotel venue. It's situated downtown Cherry Creek so super accessible. I love the multiuse reception space and indoor and outdoor ceremony locations.
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The Oxford Hotel
denver
The Oxford Hotel is Denver's oldest hotel and maintains all it's gorgeous old world charm. All the finishings at this lavish hotel transport you back in time. A perfect spot for portraits around Downtown, like Union Station.
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some of my favorite
Boulder Wedding Venues
As a Boulder wedding photographer, I've been to a lot of Boulder venues! Boulder has a wide variety of different wedding venues, from hotel ballrooms to grand outdoor barns to industrial warehouses to mountain lodges. Whatever your vision is, Boulder will likely have something you'll love!
Flagstaff House
boulder
If you are looking for a culinary experience, look no further than the Flagstaff House! This venue is a restaurant on a mountain, with beautiful views of the Flatirons. The perfect spot for all mountain loving foodies!
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Boulder Creek
boulder
Boulder Creek by Wedgewood is an all inclusive venue situated on a river. This venue have several ceremony and reception spaces and has a lovely backyard feel. It's especially beautiful in the Spring.
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Lyons Farmette
lyons
Lyons Farmette is a charming wedding venue located only 20 minutes from downtown Boulder! The wedding venue is situated on a working flower farm and has a grassy, backyard feel.
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some of my favorite
Colorado Springs Wedding Venues
As a Colorado Springs Wedding Photographer, I've been to a lot of Colorado Springs venues! Colorado Springs is a gorgeous place to get married, most spots have stunning mountain views while still being a short drive away from Denver. Whether you're wanting a barn style venue like Spruce Mountain Ranch or an upscale hotel venue like Garden of the Gods Resort, Colorado Springs might be the perfect place for your upcoming wedding day!
Garden of the Gods
Co springs
Garden of the Gods Resort is truly a one of a kind venue. The main ceremony space looks out over the park and has views of Pikes Peak. The venue is resort style, so super accessible for guests.
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Black Forest
co springs
This affordable and all inclusive wedding venue is situated right in the Springs. It has a beautiful pine forest and a great indoor outdoor ceremony option. This venue has a 300 person capacity.
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Spruce Mountain
larkspur
This sprawling mountain ranch is quintessential rustic Colorado, from the leather touches to sweeping mountain views, if you're wanting classic Colorado, this is the place for you.
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some of my favorite
Colorado Elopement Locations
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I've been to a lot of elopement locations! Colorado has so much diversity in it's landscapes, whether you picture yourself eloping on a mountain top or beside a lake, Colorado likely has an elopement location for you! Keep in mind permit fees, privacy and guest count when deciding on your Colorado elopement location. I you haven't chosen your location yet, consider one of these spots! But with all elopements, I am happy to scout and find the perfect spot for you!
3M Curve
Rocky mountain park
The 3M curve has some gorgeous mountains views. It is a little tricky getting there, but once you park you can walk right up. There is a 15 person max. A $300 permit and $25 entry fee are required.
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Sapphire Point
breckinridge
Sapphire Point is a beautiful overlook that is incredibly accessible. The only downside is it's a hugely popular hiking area so there's very little privacy. There is a $120 permit and can fit 30 people.
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Twin Lakes
Twin lakes
Twin Lakes Colorado is a gorgeous mountain town about 2.5 hours outside Denver. The town gets its name from the two stunning lakes that sit at the base of mountains. This spot is a bit more secluded and private.
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Sunrise Amphitheater
Boulder
A beautiful location overlooking Boulder. It is $400 depending on time of year. There isn't much shade at this location, so I highly recommend a sunrise or sunset ceremony. But you really cannot go wrong.
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Point Park
Grand Lake
Point Park is a free elopement venue right on the lake with beautiful views of the Rockies. This spot features a small dock with plenty of room for around 15 guests. Because it's first come first serve, I recommend a weekday.
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Garden of the Gods
colorado springs
The Garden of the Gods is one of the most unique locations, it is a stunning spot with the gorgeous red rocks in the background. This location is free and first come first serve, so I highly recommend a weekday elopement.
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Looking for a specific type of wedding venue?
Filter by Vibe
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I've been to a lot of elopement locations! Colorado has so much diversity in it's landscapes, whether you picture yourself eloping on a mountain top or beside a lake, Colorado likely has an elopement location for you! Keep in mind permit fees, privacy and guest count when deciding on your Colorado elopement location. I you haven't chosen your location yet, consider one of these spots! But with all elopements, I am happy to scout and find the perfect spot for you!
Barn Venues
Rustic vibes
Looking for a barn wedding venue? Luckily there's quite a few in Colorado. From more rustic barns to modern and airy barns, there's something for every type of taste. Most barns will have more property to spread out as well.
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Ballroom Venues
Hotels & Banquet Halls
If you're having a large wedding and need ample space for dancing and events, consider a wedding venue with a Ballroom reception space. Most of these are found in hotels and event centers.
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Golf Course Venues
Always lush
Golf Course venues are a great option for winter weddings because the grounds will always be manicured and lush, even in the dead of winter. These venues usually have upscale clubhouses for receptions.
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Unique Venues
Break away from tradition
There are so many unique options for wedding venues in Colorado– from arcades to restaurants, show off you and your partner's personality with a unique wedding venue for your wedding day!
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Lodging on Site
Hotels & Airbnbs
One of my favorite types of wedding venue is one with lodging on site. From Airbnb's to Hotel venues, having your wedding at a location with lodging makes the day so stress free and relaxing. Highly recommend!
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Upscale Venues
luxury awaits
Looking for a luxurious experience for your wedding day? Consider one of these upscale wedding venues, from high-end finishes to a 5-star staff, these venues will have you experiencing the royal treatment.
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Wedding & Elopement Portfolio
Colorado wedding vendors
If you're getting married in Colorado, you'll want the dream team of wedding vendors! Here are some of my favorite hair and makeup artists, videographers, officiants and florists. But still make sure to fully vet each vendor, just because I enjoyed working with them doesn't mean they'll be the right fit for you!
WEDDING PLANNERS
Mountain Magnolia
Right as Rayne
West & Anchored
Brooks Bridal Events
Carver Coordination
VIDEOGRAPHERS
KP Visuals
Dizzy Lizzy Digital
JR Films
Dylan Crossley
RENTALS
CO Party Rentals
Event Rents
INVITES & DESIGN
Gates Paper Co
Minted
The Lettery Co.
Colorado Wedding Planners
Wedding Planners are so important to the wedding day. I absolutely love working with so many talented planners in the Colorado area! So, I compiled a list of my favorite wedding planners, many of these planners I have worked with in the past, but their reputation far exceeds them! If you have any questions about any of these planners just reach out to us!
WEST & ANCHORED
West and Anchored, owned by Leah Weston is a luxury wedding planner based in the mountains. Leah has an attention to detail and professional demeanor that is so welcome on a wedding day.
Right as rayne
Right as Rayne is a full service event planning team serving Colorado, Texas and New Mexico. Owner, Kinsey Rayne has been planning events for the past 8 years. They are a company with an eye for detail, specializing in bringing all aspects of your event together in a stunning way. I have worked with several folks from RARE and Quincy was my planner for my own wedding!
mountain magnolia
Mountain Magnolia was started in North Carolina and aims to bring the charm of the South to the beauty of Colorado! They take your vision of your wedding day and turn it into the beautiful, stress-free day every couple deserves.
Brooks Bridal
Kayli is a teacher turned wedding planner, a skillset that is reflective in her planning efforts. She is organized and caring and really loves being a party of the tiny details on a wedding day.
carver coordination
Carver Coordination is a team of highly organized folks. They are detail oriented and focus on everything from day of coordination to pre-wedding budgeting and planning. They are proudly LGBTQ+ friendly.
When is the best time for a Colorado wedding?
Colorado temperatures vary greatly from season to season (and even day to day!!) Here are some weather related tips for your Colorado wedding.
Summer is one of my favorite times to photograph in Colorado because the weather is so predictable. Temperatures are relatively mild (especially comparing it to Texas, my home state!)
Spring can be colder than you might think! Especially if you're wanting to go into the mountains. And there might not be as many flowers and fauna since it takes longer for the winter ice to melt.
Fall has the most gorgeous colors, but it comes and goes quickly! Fall is my favorite season in Colorado. The orange and yellow leaves are absolutely magical. But Fall can come and go quickly. Sometimes those gorgeous leaves only last a week. But if you plan it right (and with a little luck) your wedding would be stunning.
Winter can be freezing or mild. Winter in Colorado is always a toss up. It can be frigid or mild. Always plan for it being cold. (Layers, proper transportation, etc.)
my take...
When would I plan a Colorado wedding? Go with Summer or Fall! If you're wanting those gorgeous fall colors, aim for late September. Luckily though, Colorado is beautiful all year round– you really can't go wrong!
getting around in Colorado
Denver International Airport is the 4th busiest airport in the US, meaning finding flights in and out is super easy. And because Colorado is so centrally located, it'll be a breeze for your guests to come from all over. The airport is located 25 miles from downtown Denver. Depending on traffic it can take 30 minutes to over an hour. There is a train, the Denver Airport Train (Or A Line) that will take you right to the airport. From Union Station it will take 37 minutes and they run every 15 minutes.
The main highways in Colorado are I25 which runs North to South and goes through Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Denver and Fort Collins. And I70 which runs East to West and connects Denver to the main mountain towns such as Idaho Springs, Vail and Avon. I70 is notorious for being prone to traffic and bad accidents. I once witnessed an accident so bad that traffic was fully stopped for 6 hours. If you're taking I70 make sure to give yourself lots of wiggle room. Here is an awesome article by the Know Outdoors about navigating I70 traffic.
If you're staying in a larger town or city such as Denver, Boulder or Colorado Springs popular ride sharing apps such as Lyft and Uber are prevalent. There is also an AMTRAK line that goes throughout the state and each city has their own public transit. Depending on the area that you and your guests are staying, walking and biking can definitely be an option! Denver has lots of parks and sidewalks throughout their neighborhoods that make it safe and easy.
What to do in Colorado
Looking for some fun activities to do before or after your Colorado wedding? Here are a few favorite spots you can't miss in while in Colorado!
HOT SPRINGS: There are so many gorgeous hot springs throughout Colorado. A few of my favs is Charlotte Hot spring in Buena Vista and Strawberry Hot Springs in Steamboat.
SKI OR SNOWBOARDING: Some of the best skiing in the country is in Colorado, whether you're a beginner or a novice, there are so many gorgeous ski resorts in Colorado. Now I'm not a skiier (shame) but my husband's favorite spot is A-basin, about 1.5 hours from Denver outside of Dillon.
GARDEN OF THE GODS: Truly a crazy location. This spot has out of this world rock formations. Go on a weekday and just walk around. It's so worth it.
SMALLER MOUNTAIN TOWNS: I love taking little day trips to smaller Colorado towns. Most have cute main streets where you can just walk around looking at all the different shops. I love Manitou Springs, Louisville and Lyons.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK: You can't take a trip to Colorado without going on some epic hikes and seeing some epic views. The classic? Of course Rocky Mountain National Park.
What to do in Denver
Since Denver is such a massive city, there's tons of things to do! From museums to restaurants to bars, you'll definitely find something fun! Here are some of my favorite things to do as a Colorado wedding photographer!
RESTAURANTS: Tavernetta (fine Italian dining), Denver Biscuit Company (delicious biscuits, not just for breakfast!), Linger (worldwide fusion), Bar Dough (neighborhood Italian), Uncle (ramen- order to go to skip the wait!), Sweet Cow & Little Man (ice cream), Sassafras (brunch), Work n Class (Latin American)
BARS: William and Graham (incredible speakeasy type bar, a must visit), Seven Grande (whiskey bar, over 700 types!) Hidden Idol (tiki drinks with amazing island style comfort food), Death & Co (An NYC bar, with gorgeous outdoor terrace) Altitude Brewery (breweries in Denver are endless, but I like this one. Lots of options and seating, low maintenance and boards games).
PARKS: Confluence Park (connects the Highland with Downtown, has a river and bridges), Sloans Lake (the biggest city lake, you can rent jetskis!), Cheesman (large park built on a graveyard so probably haunted), Washington (massive park with volleyball courts)
SHOPPING: Larimer Square (a small block in between 15th and 14th, super cute at Christmas), 16th Street Mall (a massive block of shopping with everything from bookstores to restaurants. There's a free shuttle that runs the length of the mall), Cherry creek (16 blocks of shopping and restaurants)
HIKING: Lair O Bear (An easy 1.6 mile hike running alongside a river), Clear Creek (1.8 miles along a gorgeous river, watch for the kayakers!) Flat Irons (1.9 to 3.3 miles depending on the route, such a gorgeous view of Boulder)
View my weeklong Denver itinerary here!
Where to stay in Colorado?
The choice of where to stay in Colorado is largely dependent on your venue, you'll likely want to stay somewhere close. But if you're planning on exploring Colorado a bit after your wedding day or want to give guests some day trip ideas, here are a few of my favorite mountain towns and locations.
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS:
Steamboat is one of my favorite Colorado mountain towns. It has epic mountain views, incredible restaurants and a slightly less touristy vibe. It's about 3 hours from Denver, but it bypasses i70 (a highway notorious for it's difficult traffic.)
SALIDA:
Salida is a smaller mountain town about 2 hours from Denver. Nearby is Monarch Mountain, one of the last independent ski resorts in Colorado. This town has a small town feel with incredible pizza and breweries.
OURAY:
If you're willing to venture further away from Denver, consider Ouray, named "America's Switzerland" due to it's truly stunning mountains. If you can swing wildflower season, you are in for a treat!
Where to stay in Denver
While there are lots of cities in Colorado, if you're having a Colorado wedding, you'll probably at least fly into Denver. Denver has lots of different neighborhoods that all have their own personality. If you are stopping in Denver or having your Colorado wedding in or around Denver, here are some of my favorite places to stay!
THE HIGHLANDS:
The Highland area is my favorite place in Denver and where I would stay during all my vacations. It is located just a 5 minute drive or 30 minute walk from downtown and has tons of shops, bars and restaurants. I love that it feels like a cozy neighborhood, but still super walkable.
CHERRY CREEK:
Cherry creek is an upscale neighborhood with hundreds of shops and bars. The area overlooks the creek and is about a 10 minute drive to downtown Denver. If you're looking for something upscale and with lots to do, Cherry Creek might be your spot!
LODO:
If you want to be close to all the action, LoDo (or Lower Downtown) might be the place for you! There is beautiful Victorian architecture and lots of delicious restaurants for you to try out!
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DO YOU OFFER PORTRAIT SESSIONS
Yes! I offer Denver based senior/graduation photos and engagement sessions as well as a few limited family sessions. You can find more info on portrait sessions here.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE COLORADO VENUES?
I have so many that I actually made a blog post specifically for this question, view a few of my favorite Colorado wedding venues here.
WE ARE SUPER AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA, ANY ADVICE?
I'd say about 90% of my couples say some variation of this. Firstly, my posing is very natural and organic, with enough direction that you'll know exactly what to do with your hands. But to help my couples feel even more at ease on wedding day I try to learn everything I can about y'all through consultation calls and pre-wedding questionnaires. This way on wedding day I can photograph y'all in an authentic and genuine way. And if you're still feeling nervous, I recommend booking an engagement session so we can have a little practice run!
WHEN AND HOW ARE OUR PHOTOS DELIVERED?
You'll receive a sneak peek of a few images on social media within 72 hours because I know how eager couples are to see their images! A highlight blog post will go live two weeks after your event. And then your final gorgeous images will be ready in 6-8 weeks, delivered in a private online gallery, available for all your friends and family to view and download.
WHY SHOULD WE PICK YOU OVER ANOTHER COLORADO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
A great question! There are so many incredibly talented Colorado wedding photographers out there and being forthright, some might be a better fit for you than me. I truly believe that you should not only love a photographers work, but also their personality and experience that they'll give you. Most of my couples are working with me for over a year and then come wedding day, I will probably be the person you see the most! I pride myself on creating the best experience for my couples, I want to be an easy going and fun presence on your wedding day, but also able to keep the day running smoothly and efficiently. I'm able to accomplish this by providing lots of pre-wedding planning and communication. But don't take my word for it, check out some reviews from past clients!
The short answer: I do everything in my power for you to have a fun and stress-free wedding. My two main priorities are 1. a top notch experience and 2. beautiful photos.
WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED? DO YOU TRAVEL?
I am located in Denver, Colorado. But am always up for travel. Travel and lodging fees do apply if your event is further than 150 miles from 80020.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A COLORADO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
I've been photographing weddings professionally for 8 years now, but picked up my first camera way back in 2009. I started my business photographing senior and family sessions.
WHAT IS YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE?
My style is a mix of photojournalistic and traditional. I love capturing candid moments, the authentic smiles, the natural tears, the goofy glances— all the things that make your wedding authentically you. But I also want to make sure that you get the shots you've been dreaming of. I want you to have the classic images of you and your partner seeing each other for the first time, or your first dance, or just a big family photo that your mom will display in her home.
DO YOU OFFER SMALL WEDDINGS & ELOPEMENTS?
Yes! Absolutely! Small intimate weddings (less than 20 guests) and elopements (less than 5 guests) are some of my favorite things to photograph! I typically only book these on weekdays.
HOW DO WE BOOK?
I will send over a proposal that allows you to choose your perfect wedding package. A $1500 deposit will be due upon booking. You'll then sign a contract and be officially booked!
DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?
Yes! In fact, my payment structure is already broken up into installments to make my services more accessible. Your payments will be broken up into 5 payments throughout your journey with me.
DO YOU OFFER ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS?
Yes! And I offer a 50% discount on them for wedding clients! Engagement sessions are a great way to see how my couples interact on their wedding day. We can chat about which poses you find most flattering and natural. I can see if you are more touchy and intimate or more reserved and traditional, all which will create a more seamless and streamlined wedding day experience. I only book these sessions on weekdays to save my weekends for weddings or quality time with my husband/friends.
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Hey hey! I am so happy you're here. A few things about me, my last name's pronounced (GATE-zell) but I respond to anything and I'm a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Denver, Colorado. I graduated from the University of Texas in Austin (hook 'em) with a History and French degree, but I've know for the past 10+ years that my true passion was always photography.
The first photo I ever took was in 2008 on my dad's point and shoot. It was of a temple in Greece reflected in a puddle. Lemme tell ya, I was so convinced that I was a photographer protegee that I purchased my first camera (a nikon d3000) the day after I got home. I haven't been able to put down a camera since.
I love listening to history podcasts, making homemade pasta, collecting records, and drinking jalapeno margaritas.
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I'm so excited to hear more about your vision! Send me a message and I'll get back to you within 24-48 hours!
