vail, CO WEDDING GUIDE
everything you need to know about getting married in Colorado's most stunning mountain valley
If you’re dreaming up a luxury wedding in Vail, this is the guide for you.
From the best venues, to the best time of year to get married, my favorite hotels, and everything you need to know about getting married in Vail, Colorado — I’m here for you. Scroll for all the details!
I began photographing weddings after experiencing my own wedding. Seeing things through the lens of a bride changes everything. I’m here to hang out while capturing moments candidly with intention. Nothing makes me happier than seeing you two come together and soak in the experience of beginning your life together.
"like having another friend on your wedding day..."
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luxury vail wedding venues
Exchange vows atop Vail Mountain at the Vail Wedding Deck, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Rockies.
the vail wedding deck
The Vail Wedding Deck epitomizes alpine romance and is easily accessible atop Vail Mountain via the scenic gondola ride. This unique venue provides not only breathtaking scenery but also a memorable journey for your guests. As you ascend the mountain, you'll be surrounded by the lush beauty of the Colorado Rockies, creating an anticipation that builds with each passing moment. Once you reach the summit, you'll step out onto the deck with the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Gore Range and the entire Vail Valley sprawling before you. The gondola ride itself becomes a part of your wedding story, making the Vail Wedding Deck an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
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A Rustic Lakeside Venue
camp hale
Camp Hale known for its natural beauty and serene mountain surroundings, features a serene lakeside setting, offering couples the freedom to create their dream wedding in a natural and customizable setting. Set within pine forests and meadows, this venue exudes an authentic mountain ambiance. It's the perfect choice for couples desiring an intimate and nature-inspired wedding in the heart of the Rockies.
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A Picturesque Mountain Valley Within the White River National Forest
piney river ranch
Piney River Ranch, is the ideal wedding venue for couples seeking a rustic mountain backdrop. With Piney Lake's serene waters and the Rockies as your backdrop, your special day will be picture-perfect. With packages offering customizable wedding packages, including options for intimate lakeside ceremonies or grand outdoor receptions. Piney River Ranch offers the ideal mountain wedding setting, embracing the beauty of nature.
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Where Luxury Meets The Mountains
the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
Beaver Creek Bachelor Gulch is a luxurious mountain destination, perfect for those seeking an elegant wedding venue in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Surrounded by alpine scenery and offering world-class amenities, it sets the stage for an unforgettable wedding celebration. Whether you prefer a grand affair or an intimate gathering, Beaver Creek Bachelor Gulch can accommodate your vision with its stunning event spaces, exceptional service, and breathtaking mountain views.
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Mountain Luxury, Riverside Elegance
the westin riverfront
The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa, located in the heart of Avon, Colorado, is a premier luxury wedding destination. Situated along the tranquil Eagle River, it offers a beautiful backdrop for your special day. The resort has elegant event spaces and a truly dedicated team ready to bring your wedding vision to life. Whether you dream of an outdoor ceremony by the river, a grand ballroom reception, or an intimate gathering with close family and friends, The Westin Riverfront can accommodate your desires. With top-notch amenities, spa services, and gourmet dining, your wedding experience here is sure to be both indulgent and memorable.
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Scenic, Elegant, Inclusive, Intimate
beaver creek chapel
Nestled in the scenic Beaver Creek resort of Colorado, Beaver Creek Chapel is a picturesque wedding venue surrounded by natural beauty. The chapel, accommodating up to 200 guests, features a simple yet elegant design with a 45-foot aisle and seasonal decorations. Offering musical options like an organ and grand piano, the venue caters to various faith traditions. Couples can reserve the chapel through member congregations or affiliate pastors, guided by a wedding steward. The Beaver Creek Religious Foundation oversees payment policies, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience for couples seeking a charming and inclusive setting for their special day.
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Enchanting, Culinary Excellence
beano's cabin
Beano's Cabin in Beaver Creek is the epitome of luxury wedding venues. Set in the heart of nature, the expansive private ceremony lawn surrounded by wildflowers sets the stage for an enchanting start to your celebration. Renowned for its award-winning culinary experience, Beano's Cabin offers an intimate dinner around the original fireplace. The festivities conclude with dancing under the stars on the wraparound deck beneath a clear top tent. A wedding at Beano's is an exclusive and unforgettable experience, blending mountain charm with luxury culinary excellence for a lifetime of memories.
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Mountain Elegance Haven
donovan pavilion
In the heart of Vail Valley, Donovan Pavilion seamlessly blends modern elegance with mountain charm. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Colorado Rockies, this venue is a distinctive choice for unforgettable events, including weddings. Its unique architectural design, merging contemporary aesthetics with rustic elements, creates a captivating setting. Versatility of the space cater to both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations, tailored to your vision against the stunning backdrop. Donovan Pavilion stands as a refined and memorable destination in Vail, epitomizing the perfect fusion of style and natural beauty.
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the best time of year to get married in vail
My favorite time of year to photograph weddings in Vail, is from June to September. If you choose to tie the knot during these months, you can expect pleasant, warmer temperatures, occasional afternoon rain showers that usually clear by the evening, and lush green landscapes teeming with wildlife.
summer
For couples planning weddings between December and March, Vail becomes a winter wonderland. Expect abundant snowfall, chilly temperatures, and the need for an indoor venue, whether it's a heated tent, 5-Star Hotel, or a cozy mountain lodge.
winter
I do not recommend weddings in Aspen during the months of April, May, October, and November. These periods fall into the 'shoulder season' category, and the weather is typically wet, muddy, and the natural scenery tends to be less vibrant. While indoor ceremonies and receptions are still an option, if you have your heart set on iconic wedding photos against Vail's beautiful backdrop, it's advisable to choose a different time of year.
avoid shoulder season
KATIE + ANDy
“Haley captured the most beautiful moments, and truly put us at ease in front of the camera. She is amazing!”
love letter
the best photo locations in VAIL
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things to do in VAIL year round
Vail, Colorado offers an array of exciting activities and attractions that ensure there's something for wedding guests to enjoy year-round. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors, indulging in culinary delights, or unwinding in luxurious spas, Vail has it all.
- Backcountry Exploration (Year-Round): Embark on thrilling backcountry adventures, from snowshoeing through pristine winter landscapes to hiking scenic trails in the warmer months.
- Vail Mountain - With a selection of nine diverse hiking trails, with various levels of difficulty, you're bound to discover the perfect path to elevate your mountain experience. And the best part? After an hike immersed in Vail's stunning landscapes, you can seamlessly return to town by taking the gondola for both a serene and peaceful ride down.
- Gore Lake Trail - This highly rated, challenging 12 miles hike out and back trail has stunning lake and mountainous views. This popular hiking, backpacking, and camping location is located just a short 5 minute drive from the center of town.
- Lost Lake Trail - Enjoy a less vigorous hike, 28 minutes outside of vail. Lost Lake Trail is a seven mile out and back trail with clear lakes and picturesque forrest views.
- Rock Climbing and Bouldering (Spring, Summer, Fall): Challenge yourself on Vail's rock faces and boulders, with routes suitable for all skill levels.
- Whitewater Rafting (Spring, Summer): Experience the rush of adrenaline as you navigate the exhilarating rapids of nearby rivers like the Eagle and Colorado.
- Zip-lining and Canopy Tours (Spring, Summer, Fall): Soar through the treetops on zip-lines and traverse aerial bridges for an exhilarating perspective of Vail's forests.
- Mountain Biking (Spring, Summer, Fall): Hit the trails on two wheels and explore Vail's extensive network of mountain biking routes, ranging from scenic paths to challenging downhill descents.
outdoor adventures
- Hot Cocoa at the Four Seasons: Immerse yourself in Vail's vibrant arts scene by visiting local galleries and studios showcasing a diverse range of artwork, from paintings to sculptures.
- Ice Skating: Attend outdoor concerts and music festivals held throughout the year, featuring a variety of genres from classical to contemporary.
- Sleigh Ride dinner at Beano’s Cabin: Discover Vail's rich history and heritage through guided tours of historic sites, including the Colorado Snowsports Museum and the Vail Village Walking Tour.
winter experiences
- Cooking Classes: Learn the art of gourmet cooking with hands-on culinary classes led by local chefs, where you can master the techniques behind Vail's delicious cuisine.
- Wine Tasting: Sample wines from local vineyards and beyond at Vail's wine bars and tasting rooms, accompanied by expert guidance and insights into the world of wine.
- Escape Rooms: Test your wits and teamwork skills by tackling the challenges of Vail's escape rooms, where you'll solve puzzles and unravel mysteries in immersive themed environments.
indoor attractions
- Hot Springs Relaxation (Year-Round): Soak away your cares in nearby natural hot springs, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
- Horseback Riding: Explore Vail's picturesque landscapes on horseback with guided trail rides that offer a unique perspective of the area.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for Vail's diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and even the occasional bear, while hiking or exploring the surrounding wilderness.
unique experiences
“Haley managed everything leading up to wedding day with ease and she did an outstanding job of getting to know us and understand what would be important to us on wedding day and it showed up in our photos.”
taylor + sam
the best hotels & resorts in VAIL
Our luxurious alpine haven invites you to indulge in a rarified collection of the mountain’s most exquisite gifts. Set amid the majestic Rocky Mountains, The Hythe is where old and new legends come to life.
The Hythe
When you experience the Arrabelle, you will truly understand the lap of luxury. Opulent, yet inviting, no other hotel combines the same level of comfort with old-world, European charm that inspired Vail's timeless character. Savor lavish accommodations while enjoying the genuine authenticity of one of America’s most iconic ski resorts.
The Arrabelle
Consistently recognized as one of North Americas top hotels and Colorado’s premier luxury ski resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is nestled among the majestic Rocky Mountains. The year-round destination resort offers limitless outdoor adventure and amenities featuring ski-in, ski-out access in winter and summer mountain concierge services, as well as an array of sophisticated dining options.
Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch
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With sweeping views from the base of Beaver Creek Mountain, our resort hotel and spa offers guests a luxurious year-round escape near Vail Valley, Colorado. Whether you’re planning an outdoor adventure or a rejuvenating getaway, our ski resort has something for everyone to enjoy.
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek
Named one of the 50 Best Resorts in the World by Conde Nast Traveler, our hotel is located near Beaver Creek, CO, and theREMOVE scenic Vail, offering convenient ski access via the Riverfront Express Gondola. Whether you are seeking an active Vail Valley outdoor adventure or looking for a more leisurely pace, our hotel has something for everyone.
Westin Riverfront Beaver Creek
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Steeped in rich history and the ski culture of the American West, Vail, Colorado continues to be one of the most iconic mountain destinations in the United States. After a day of skiing or hiking, retreat into an oasis of relaxation at our Vail Village luxury hotel and resort. Boasting 300 days of sunshine every year, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail is widely recognized as the mountain resort of choice for travellers and the crown jewel of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
