Colorado weddings never go out of style. If you’re a native, it’s an obvious choice. But there’s a reason our state is consistently among the top wedding destinations in the United States, too. The mountain ranges are stunning, the food and activities are second to none, and did I mention we get an average 300 days of sunshine each year? 

It’s true, Colorado weddings are tough to beat. But once you’ve chosen the “Centennial State” for your big day, the vibes are totally up to you! Are you leaning more toward tradition or trend? As a Colorado wedding photographer for more than a decade, I can tell you with confidence that there’s something to be said for both! Traditions are shaped through history and culture, passed down through generations to create a classic “wedding” feel. Trends evolve with the times, driven by new technology, styles and ideas. 

Need to break it down even farther? Let’s take a look at all the trends and traditions for Colorado weddings. 

Style & Decor

Tradition: The mountain theme. With all of Colorado’s gorgeous scenery, a common theme for many weddings is nature-based ceremonies, which influences everything from attire to decor. A traditional Colorado wedding in the winter can focus on the state’s world famous snow-capped mountains, accented by a warm atmosphere inspired by Colorado’s cozy ski lodges and mountain retreats. A traditional Colorado wedding in the summer would let the picturesque landscape serve as the focal point, with rustic details like Rocky Mountain wild flowers that tie the whole event together.

2025-26 Trend: Modern western glam. Colorado is home to plenty of ranches, and this year’s brides are embracing the country-chic vibe. Bold, western-inspired elements pay homage to the state’s cowboy cultural roots, with mixed textures like leather and wood setting the stage for unforgettable Colorado weddings. Think elevated barns, hammered metals, bridal squads in boots and fringe, with bold turquoise and coral accents. 

Ceremony & Rituals

Tradition: Tried and true rituals. The procession, giving away the bride, parent dances, toasts, cake cutting, and speeches. Unity is a common theme, with candle lighting, sand pouring, handfasting and rose exchanges serving as symbolic elements within the ceremony. With a nature-focused backdrop, these traditions allow couples to blend their own unique styles into one union through timeless Colorado wedding details. 

2025-26 Trend: Intimate and personal experiences. Colorado weddings have so much to offer. Single extravagant celebrations are fading in favor of extended experiences for fewer people. Intimate gatherings allow for a higher per-guest spend, creating immersive activities and memorable moments for family and guests alike. 

Colorado Weddings: Blending Trend & Tradition

Maybe the best part of Colorado weddings? You can blend tradition and trend beautifully. Give a nod to the times your love story is part of as you honor the rites of passage that make marriage a sacred union. Wear an elegant white gown as you stand outside beneath a wooden ranch arbor. Hire an officiant for the public pomp and flair, but self-solemnize first for a quiet celebration you’ll cherish forever. The bottom line? Colorado weddings can be whatever you want them to be! Create your own unforgettable experience—one that culminates in stunning, timeless photos that will make your heart swell.

Ready to unpack your vision? I’d love to help you capture it! Let’s talk dates and details soon to create the Colorado wedding of your dreams.

Okay, Denver brides. I may be based in Colorado Springs, but let me tell you—Denver weddings are some of the most stunning events you’ll see. And the most versatile! Some of my favorite venues and vendors are just an hour drive from my front door in Colorado Springs. And, as the largest city in the state, you’ve got a sizable piece of the wedding industry to work with. From sporty to elegant, traditional, funky, or as rustic as the scenic mountains that cover the skyline, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. So whether you’re native to the rocky mountains or you’re planning a gorgeous destination wedding, let’s take a look at some of my favorite “mile-high” details, curated just for all my Denver brides. 

Denver Wedding Locations

When you picture your dream wedding, what do you see? If you’re looking for something more industrial, Moss Denver, Ironworks Denver, Mile High Station, and Skylight all offer unique spaces with exposed brick, high ceilings, and a stylish, modern feel. Looking for more of a historic feel? Union Station, Grant-Humphreys Mansion, and the Oxford Hotel provide elegant settings with classic architecture and timeless charm. If florals are your focus, the Denver Botanic Gardens and Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms offer serene and picturesque settings surrounded by nature, with plenty of colorful blooms. 

Want something totally unique? Try the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Space Gallery, or the Ramble Hotel. These places provide unique and memorable backdrops perfect for Denver brides looking for something a little less traditional. Or, if you want to stay true to the Rocky Mountain State, Brittany Hill by Wedgewood Weddings and The Pines by Wedgewood Weddings offer second-to-none views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains. 

Denver Wedding Vendors

With your location in place, it’s time to start building the vibe. And Denver has something for everyone! Catered receptions can be both personal and elegant with companies like Silver Spoons, Serendipity, or Catering by Design. Or go for the fun factor with food trucks like Farm to Truck, True Love Tacos, Mountain Crust, or The Brutal Poodle. And for dessert? Love Pop, Little Man Ice Cream, and The Treatery all bring their own unique flavor and style to your wedding. 

Denver brides can build their dream days around beautiful details, like gorgeous linens from Event Rents, The Wildflower Denver, or BBJ La Tavola, whose showrooms feature a variety of colors and textures to maximize visual impact. Plum Sage Flowers, Beet & Yarrow Florist or The Perfect Petal can bring even more color to your tables and bouquets, and businesses like A Touch of Bliss, First Look Events or Brindle + Oak can help you plan and pull it all together. 

Denver Wedding Activities

Why stop at a wedding day when Denver can host a perfect wedding weekend? Or week! Plan activities for your guests like visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Art Museum, and Red Rocks Amphitheatre, or catch a Rockies, Nuggets, Broncos, or Avalanche game. Head to the nearby Keystone, Breckenridge or Winter Park resorts to hit the slopes after your nuptials. Or shop and dine your way through the weekend at the 16th Street Mall, Denver Pavilions or Free Market. 

BONUS: Tips and Tricks for Denver Brides

Tip 1: Consider the season. Denver can experience the seasons to their fullest, so choose a wedding date that aligns with your preference for locations and activities. 

Tip 2: Book your venue and vendors well in advance. Denver is a big city with a big wedding industry. It’s why we love a Denver wedding! But that also means people and places are in demand, and you’ll want to get your big day on their calendars while it’s still available. I’m currently booking 2026 weddings, and I’d love to unpack your vision! Click here to start the conversation. I’d love to capture your event with images that make your heart swell.

Tip 3: Make a detailed budget, and prioritize what matters most. With so much to choose from in Denver, it’s easy to want it all! As a couple, sit down and decide what’s important to you on your big day. If venue and photography outweigh floral arrangements and food, then adjust your plans accordingly. 

Tip 4: Enjoy the process! Planning a wedding can feel like a lot, but it’s also the first step in your journey to a long and happy marriage. Try to savor the experience!