Planning a snowy Colorado winter wedding

Is your dream to have a winter wonderland wedding ceremony? Colorado and other mountain destinations already make the perfect place to tie the knot, but add a fresh foot of white powdery snow, and it’s even more magical.

Outdoor winter weddings ceremonies in the snow aren’t for everyone, but as a wedding photographer in the mountains of Colorado, I think they’re pretty dang special. If you’re planning an indoor or outdoor winter wedding, here are a few tips to make it even more perfect!

Tips for a winter wedding

1. Incorporate a winter activity you love

Want to take a few laps with your partner after you get married? Schedule it in! Consider getting married at a ski resort like Copper Mountain where you could take a lap from your venue.

Mulled wine by the fire? Splurge on an amazing dinner or private breakfast? Make time for what you love and make it memorable. Maybe try something new like dogsledding, a snowmobiling tour, tubing, extreme sledding, or a private sleigh ride.

2. Have an earlier ceremony time

Winter brings early sunsets so be sure to Google what time the sunset will be in your location when planning your timeline. This usually means having an earlier dinner time and having all of your outdoor pictures done since the sun sets before 5PM. Pro tip: you can look at what time the sun will be setting in your location on Google Earth Pro (on desktop.)

3. Embrace the winter weather

Winter in the mountains brings in all sorts of weather from snowy powder days to bright, sunny, bluebird days. Sometimes the views will go out of range, freezing temperatures, or wild driving conditions. Regardless of what the weather may bring, you won’t be disappointed!

Go with the flow and give yourself plenty of time to transition as needed! We may move from doing pictures with mountain views to a setting with snowy trees. Whatever the weather, Colorado and the snow always makes it magical.

4. Dress warm and cozy

Layers are your best friend for winter days! Winter *slip resistant* boots, long johns under your dress or pants, hand warmers, foot warmers, and gloves (bonus points for heated.) I find the warmer I dress, the happier I am if I’m spending lots of time outside.

Many will opt for having a coat, a faux-fur shawl or some type of extra layer. You can always remove it for a portion of photos if you’re unsure! It will typically snow in the mountains October-May so be sure to plan accordingly.

5. Plan extra time for travel

Give yourself a little wiggle room just in case there’s wild weather. I-70 in the mountains of Colorado is notorious for closing if it snows with accidents. Not to worry, they are always quick to clear it and snow doesn’t stop anyone here.

Don’t plan much on your travel days and just take some time to settle in! Find vendors that are in the town you’re in rather than having to drive in from a distance. Is there a drive from your ceremony to the reception? Are people driving from out of state? These are all things to consider adding a little extra time for!

6. Provide Heaters & Blankets

How can you make it a better experience for your guests? A bar with hot chocolate or warm cocktails? A basket with hand warmers, outdoor heaters, or maybe have blankets as your wedding favor.

7. Find seasonal flowers

Greenery or dried florals will help with the cost of flowers during the winter season! Or consider muffs in lieu of bridal bouquets.

8. Capitalize on the holidays or do the opposite

Always dreamed of a Christmas wedding in December with holiday lights and decor around town? It makes the perfect backdrop! Consider your guests and guest count. Holidays may be busier and more expensive for all of your guests.

Best Colorado winter wedding venues

• The Lodge at Breckenridge
• Sapphire Point Overlook
• Devil’s Thumb Ranch
• The Little Nell
• San Sophia Overlook
• Gorrono Ranch

Packing list for a winter mountain wedding

1. Slip-resistant boots

Don’t forget about your footwear. Most mountain or ski towns at higher elevations are going to be snow-covered for most of winter. Be sure to have boots or shoes that will keep you warm and cozy! You’ll also want some traction on the bottom so you don’t slip.

If you want additional traction, Yaktrax on the bottom of your shoes are amazing! Yaktrax are better for more mellow walks and Microspikes or snowshoes for longer, steeper hikes. One of the most popular elopement locations, Sapphire Point can be SO icy in the winter.

2. Men’s shoes *with traction*

Mens dress shoes are notorious for being slick with no traction. Find a pair of slip resistant boots that work well with your suit.

3. Faux Fur or an extra layer

4. Cute & cozy gloves

My hands are always the first thing to get cold! Have a pair of cute gloves that you like and can wear during your ceremony. I would also have a thick pair of waterproof gloves that you can wear during the rest of your trip!

5. Cute warm hat

Keeping your head and ears warm with a hat or earmuffs is essential for a winter day. You don’t have to wear it during the ceremony (unless it’s your vibe), but having something nearby for portraits or downtime is a smart move. Don’t want to mess up your hair? Try earmuffs for the wedding day, but be sure to still pack a hat for your trip!

Are winter weddings cheaper?

I think this will depend on your location! In Colorado, it’s likely not as winter is a prime time for ski vacations and Christmas and holiday trips. Often, you might find the prices to be more expensive. You may be able to find some winter discounts in certain areas or try planning outside December or January which can be popular times for winter weddings.

You need to add in additional costs like extra gear and renting an SUV with 4-wheel drive VS. the cheapest sedan.

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