Is your dream to get married in a snowy, winter wonderland?
Colorado and other snowy 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.
Winter weddings 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 a snowy, winter wedding, here are a few tips to make it even more perfect!
Winter in the mountains brings in all sorts of weather from powder days to bright, sunny, bluebird days. Sometimes that means the views 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, we’re ready for it! It always brings something magical!
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.
The obvious. Layers on layers. Winter *slip resistant* boots, long johns under layers, hand warmers, foot warmers, heated gloves. I find the warmer I dress, the happier I am if I’m spending lots of time outside.
Most will opt for having either a coat or faux fur shawl. 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.
Winter brings early sunsets so be sure to Google what time the sunset will be in your location. This can affect pictures and dinner start times with the sun setting before 5PM.
Pro tip: you can look at what time the sun will be setting in your location on Google Earth Pro (on desktop)
Give yourself a little wiggle room just in case there’s wild weather. I-70 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 in 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!
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.
Greenery or dried florals will help with the cost of flowers during the winter season! Or consider muffs in lieu of bridal bouquets.
Always dreamed of a Christmas wedding 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.
Looking for a little winter wedding inspiration? Check out this gorgeous winter wedding in Vail!
Don’t forget about 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.
Having the right shoes will give you more flexibility to move freely in your photos and look and feel confident. You don’t want to look super stiff if can only stand still in one spot because you’re slipping.
Alli and Jake (pictured above) had their destination winter wedding at The Lodge at Breckenridge in January. She wrote up a few tips to keep in mind if you’re traveling in for your wedding.
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Hi! I'm Kelsey!
My photography journey started in 2009 when I fell in love with documenting moments and capturing people in their element.
10 years ago, I moved to the amazing little mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado from in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Wild to say I've photographed over 300 weddings and portrait sessions all over. I started this small but mighty team of local mountain photographers to capture whatever season of life you're in.
photojournalistic photographer capturing whatever season of life you're in
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By Kelsey Booth Photography
est 2010