11 Tips for a Stunning Small Wedding in the Colorado Mountains

Photo Credit: White Buffalo Photography

Small-scale, intimate weddings have become increasingly popular since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many couples are discovering that small weddings (like micro weddings or elopements) can be just as special—if not MORE meaningful and personal—than traditional, 200 to 300-guest celebrations. 

We’ve seen a lot of amazing small Colorado mountain weddings here at Spruce Mountain Ranch. Below are the 11 most important steps you can take to guarantee an unforgettable small wedding in the lush Colorado mountains.

Tip 1: Choose a wedding venue with beautiful indoor AND outdoor spaces.

First and foremost, your wedding venue should feature some pretty remarkable outdoor ceremony spots. I mean, if you’re going to have an intimate Colorado mountain wedding, you’ve got to do it right! What better way to kickstart your new life together than exchanging your vows against a breathtaking scenic Colorado backdrop?

Yet, even if you aren’t planning to take the party inside afterward for the reception, it’s a good idea to book a venue with impressive indoor spaces as well.

That way, you can count on a memorable delightful celebration that flows seamlessly from “I do” to cake and dancing—no matter the weather situation. Not only that, but you’ll also leave with an abundance of gorgeous wedding photos to mark the memory for years to come.

Concerned about accessibility for mobility impaired guests? There’s yet another reason to find a venue with spectacular indoor facilities.

Tip 2: Set a generous photography budget.

You’re getting hitched in the Colorado mountains! Of course, you’ll want to splurge on a good photographer. Make sure you find a photographer with experience shooting mountain weddings. Outline a strategic day-of timeline to ensure you get those extraordinary golden hour captures. And browse your chosen venue to identify must-have photo spots.

Photo Credit: White Buffalo Photography

Tip 3: Take full advantage of the more relaxed timeline.

The smaller your guest list, the more downtime you’ll have to spend connecting with guests and participating in each planned activity. Use this flexibility to your advantage, taking the opportunity to have more meaningful conversations, spend more time taking photos with your better half, and simply enjoy a stress-free celebration.

Photo Credit: Ashlee Crowden Photography

Tip 4: Consider booking a weekday wedding. 

With fewer anticipated guests, it’s easier to find a date during the week that works for all of your closest friends and family. If you’re lucky, booking a weekday wedding may even save you money you could otherwise be using for other breathtaking wedding details.

Tip 5: Select attire & accessories that fit the environment.

What couples (and their guests) wear has a big impact on the overall ambiance of a wedding. When it comes to choosing the dress or crafting a dress code for a mountain wedding, think airy fabrics, natural colors, and practical designs.

And don’t forget to consider mountain weather and terrain! 

Depending on the season and venue, that may mean ditching the stilettos for more comfortable footwear and adding a faux fur stole or elegant shawl.

Tip 6: Incorporate earthy tones & textures.

As you decide on your wedding color palette and plan your florals and decorations, embrace natural mountain-inspired hues: 

• Deep forest greens
• Stunning navy blues
• Rich burgundies
• Warm browns and neutrals

Then, add a little depth to your décor by adding natural or rustic textures like velvet, burlap, rattan, jute, wood, and lace.

Photo Credit: Ashlee Crowden Photography

Tip 7: Pick a Colorado-inspired wedding theme.

Embrace all that makes the state so remarkable with a unique Colorado-inspired décor theme. Select a western-inspired or winter wonderland aesthetic or opt for a country-chic or cozy mountain retreat theme to leave your small guest list with a deeply memorable experience (not to mention, the delightful photos you’ll cherish for years to come).

Tip 8: Splurge on the finer details.

Smaller weddings mean fewer guests, which translates to a bigger budget for other elements you may not have otherwise spent much on. 

Let your creativity soar, elevating your celebration with… 

• Exquisite floral centerpieces & table settings
• Extravagant hanging décor
• Custom party favors
• Quality live music
• Other on-theme entertainment (like whiskey tasting or cigar rolling)

Photo Credit: Shelley Anderson Photography

Tip 9: Craft a scrumptious mountain wedding menu.

Smaller celebrations often mean couples have more money to spend on delicately curated menus, making it easy for you to craft a menu tailored to your personal taste. Really lean into the mountain wedding theme with a carefully curated menu, featuring local specialties like:

• Steelhead Rainbow Trout
• Prime Top Sirloin
• Smoked Trout Cake
• Bison Braciole
• Palisade Peach Salads & Desserts
• Spicy Elk Sausage Skewers
• Buffalo Sliders

Photo Credit: Ashlee Crowden Photography

Tip 10: Prioritize guest comfort & experience.

With a limited guest count, you may have extra time and money to add a more personal touch to various wedding components.

• Send out personalized invitations.
• Orchestrate a memorable dining experience.
• Create thoughtful party favors.
• Book luxurious overnight accommodations.

Tip 11: End the night with dancing under the stars. 

The magic of the Colorado mountains doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Imagine sharing your first dance with your forever partner under the glow of the starry night sky. What could be a more perfect finale to the best day ever?

Bonus Tip: Book your small wedding at Spruce Mountain Ranch!

Located in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Larkspur, CO, Spruce Mountain Ranch merges the coziness of a mountain lodge with the beauty of alpine meadows, forests, and lakeside settings. With a wide selection of gorgeous indoor and outdoor spaces, our venue provides a stunning backdrop for intimate weddings and events. Learn more about weddings at Spruce Mountain Ranch or book a tour today.

Read more:

• What is a Micro Wedding? And How to Plan One
• Unique Wedding Photography Spots at Spruce Mountain Ranch
• Incorporating Local Colorado Traditions Into Your Spruce Mountain Wedding
• Why Larkspur, CO is the Perfect Laid-Back Mountain Wedding Spot
• Selecting the Perfect Menu for Your Colorado Mountain Wedding