Getting Married in Colorado: Tips and Tricks for Brides Who Want to Say “I Do” in the Centennial State

Getting married in Colorado

Getting Married in Colorado

Colorado is the kind of place that makes you fall in love over and over again. From the bustling city streets of Denver to the calm, picturesque views of the plains and foothills, Colorado offers everything from vibrant city vibes to serene, wide-open spaces. No matter what kind of wedding you’re dreaming of, this state has something to offer. But before you take the plunge, here are some fun and practical tips to help make sure your Colorado wedding goes off without a hitch.

1. Colorado Weather: Always Be Prepared

One thing you’ll quickly learn about Colorado is that the weather can change on a dime. One minute it’s sunny, and the next, you’re in the middle of a thunderstorm — even in the summer. Whether you’re in the mountains or the plains, weather can play a big part in your wedding day plans.

Pro Tip: Always have a backup plan if you’re going for an outdoor ceremony, whether you’re in the city, the foothills, or somewhere in between. Keep blankets, umbrellas, and heaters on hand just in case. And don’t forget to remind guests to dress in layers, as temperatures can drop quickly in the evenings, especially in the spring and fall.

For winter weddings, lean into the season! Think hot cocoa bars, fire pits, and cozy vibes to keep everyone warm.

2. Pick Your Season, Pick Your Vibe

Colorado is the kind of place that shines in every season, and each one brings something special to your wedding day. So when you’re deciding when to tie the knot, think about the vibe you’re going for.

  • Spring: Think wildflowers, blooming gardens, and soft pastel colors. Spring is ideal if you’re dreaming of a lush, floral setting.
  • Summer: The days are long, and the sun is shining, making it the perfect time for an outdoor wedding. Whether it’s a garden in the city or a scenic venue by a lake, summer weddings are a fan favorite.
  • Fall: Imagine golden aspen trees and cooler weather — fall weddings in Colorado are like something out of a storybook. It’s perfect for outdoor ceremonies with stunning natural backdrops.
  • Winter: Whether you want to get married in the snow-covered mountains or at a cozy indoor venue, Colorado’s winter wonderland vibe is perfect for those dreaming of a festive, cozy celebration.

Pro Tip: Peak wedding season in Colorado is fall and summer, so if you’re aiming for a specific venue, make sure to book early. Colorado is a popular wedding destination!

3. Altitude: A Real Thing (But Don’t Stress)

While we’re not going to lie and say you’ll be at sea level when getting married in Colorado, don’t let the altitude freak you out. If you’re planning a wedding in the foothills, plains, or mountains, the higher you go, the thinner the air — which means it could be a little harder to breathe, especially for guests who aren’t used to it.

Pro Tip: Give your guests time to adjust to the altitude if you’re getting married at a higher elevation. Keep them hydrated and remind them to take it easy on the alcohol before the ceremony. Make sure your wedding venue provides enough water stations and signs to keep people comfortable.

And if your ceremony is at a lower elevation (think the city or the plains), altitude isn’t an issue! So feel free to relax and enjoy those gorgeous views.

4. Logistics: Plan Ahead for Easy Access

When you’re tying the knot in Colorado, it’s important to think about how easy it is for your guests to get to and from your wedding. Colorado is a big state, with venues in cities, suburban towns, rural areas, and even on ranches. Some places can be a bit remote, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing your venue.

Pro Tip: Make sure you consider transportation and parking. If your venue is far out or in a remote area, think about arranging shuttles or charter buses for your guests. This will take the stress out of getting lost and make sure everyone arrives on time.

Also, some areas (especially rural ones) may have spotty cell service, so be sure to communicate the exact details about your venue ahead of time and make sure everyone knows how to get there.

5. Incorporate Colorado’s Unique Charm

One of the best things about getting married in Colorado is how easy it is to add local flair to your celebration. Whether it’s local food, drinks, or activities, Colorado is known for its unique offerings.

  • Food & Drink: Colorado is home to a thriving craft beer scene and amazing local wineries, distilleries, and farms. Serve up some locally brewed beer or Colorado wine at your reception to give your guests a taste of the state. And for your wedding meal, consider farm-to-table catering, using locally sourced produce and meats. You could even get creative with fun Colorado-inspired wedding favors like local honey or custom whiskey bottles.
  • Outdoor Fun: Colorado offers tons of activities for your guests to enjoy before or after the wedding. Depending on where you’re getting married, you could offer a group hike, a mountain bike ride, or even a rafting adventure if you’re near rivers. If you’re tying the knot in a city like Denver, there are tons of cool cultural things to do too, like visiting museums, checking out food tours, or hanging out in the funky neighborhoods like RiNo or LoDo.

Pro Tip: Ask your venue about catering options and local vendors. Local providers can give you that Colorado touch that makes your wedding feel extra special.

6. Hire Local Vendors Who Know the State

Local vendors in Colorado know the state inside and out. From the best venues to secret photo spots, they have all the tips and tricks to make sure your wedding is smooth and stunning. Whether you’re in the city or the country, local wedding planners, florists, and photographers will make your wedding feel unique to Colorado.

Pro Tip: Look for vendors who have experience in the area where you’re getting married. They’ll help you navigate any challenges like weather, permitting for outdoor venues, and even finding hidden gems for your photos.

7. Get Your Marriage License

Colorado keeps it simple when it comes to marriage licenses. You don’t have to be a resident of the state to marry here, and there’s no waiting period. You just need to head to any county clerk’s office in Colorado, fill out a quick form, and you’re good to go.

Pro Tip: Make sure both you and your partner are present when applying, and bring a valid ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.). The marriage license costs between $30 and $50, and you can use it right away. Just double-check your county’s office hours before heading over!

8. Picture-Perfect Colorado

Colorado is pretty much the best place for wedding photos, hands down. Whether you’re in a downtown urban setting or surrounded by farms, lakes, or forests, the natural beauty here makes every shot look like a scene from a movie.

Pro Tip: Set aside time in your schedule for photos. Trust your photographer to capture all the stunning Colorado backdrops, whether it’s a field of wildflowers, the city skyline, or the golden fall leaves.

Final Thoughts

Getting married in Colorado is all about embracing the diverse beauty of the state — from the hustle and bustle of Denver to the peaceful serenity of the plains and foothills. Whether you want a sleek city wedding or a rustic barn celebration, Colorado has something to offer every couple. So, take a deep breath, soak in the scenery, and let these tips guide you toward the wedding of your dreams.

Planning your Colorado wedding? Reach out through the link below — we’d love to be a part of the wedding you’re imagining in this beautiful state!

Bride and Groom portraits with scenic mountain views
Stunning bride standing in front of lake with mountain views behind her
Couple cooling at each other smiling next to a lake with mountain views

Colorado Marriage License Information
Top 5 Wedding Venues:
The Broadmoore
Spruce Mountain Ranch
Della Terra by Wedgewood
Brookside Weddings & Events
Garden of the Gods Resort & Club
Find Your Vendors
Zola
Weather Resources
9News
Things to do in Colorado
Colorado.com

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    Savannah T Photography
    Colorado Wedding Photographer
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