Wedding
Destination Wedding In Aspen
A destination wedding is a unique and exciting way for couples to celebrate their love and commitment in a stunning location away from home. Unlike traditional weddings, destination weddings allow couples to combine their ceremony and honeymoon into one unforgettable experience. By choosing a picturesque setting, couples can create a truly magical atmosphere for themselves and their guests.
Destination weddings offer numerous benefits, including the opportunity to create lasting memories in a beautiful location, spend quality time with loved ones, and often save money compared to hosting a large wedding at home. They also provide a sense of intimacy and adventure, as couples and their guests can explore a new destination together.
Some popular destinations for weddings include tropical beaches, scenic mountain resorts, and charming European cities. Couples often favor these locations for their natural beauty, romantic ambiance, and range of activities and attractions. One such destination that has gained popularity among couples seeking a luxurious and picturesque setting is Aspen, Colorado.
Top 10 Wedding Venues
When selecting a wedding venue, couples should consider factors such as the venue’s capacity, style, amenities, and proximity to accommodations and attractions. Here are the top 10 wedding venues in Aspen:
The Little Nell: This luxurious hotel offers stunning mountain views and elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions. The Little Nell is known for its exceptional service and gourmet cuisine.
Address: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-4600
Aspen Mountain Wedding Deck: Located at the top of Aspen Mountain, this venue provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Couples can exchange vows at an elevation of 11,212 feet and celebrate with their guests in the adjacent Sundeck restaurant.
Address: 601 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-0755
The St. Regis Aspen Resort: This five-star hotel offers a variety of elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, including the Astor Ballroom and the outdoor courtyard. The St. Regis is known for its luxurious accommodations and attentive service.
Address: 315 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-3300
Aspen Meadows Resort: Surrounded by 40 acres of pristine meadows and stunning mountain views, this venue offers a serene and picturesque setting for weddings. The resort features a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, including the Doerr-Hosier Center and the Anderson Park.
Address: 845 Meadows Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-4240
T-Lazy-7 Ranch: This historic ranch offers a rustic and romantic setting for weddings, with stunning views of the Maroon Bells and the surrounding mountains. Couples can exchange vows in the outdoor ceremony site and celebrate in the spacious reception barn.
Address: 3129 Maroon Creek Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-4614
Hotel Jerome: This historic hotel, built in 1889, offers a blend of classic elegance and modern luxury. Couples can choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, including the Grand Ballroom and the courtyard garden.
Address: 330 E Main St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 429-7634
The Gant: This condominium resort offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, including the Molly Campbell Conference Center and the outdoor pavilion. The Gant is known for its spacious accommodations and convenient location near downtown Aspen.
Address: 610 S West End St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-5000
Aspen Art Museum: For couples seeking a unique and modern setting, the Aspen Art Museum offers a stunning rooftop sculpture garden with views of Ajax Mountain. The museum’s event spaces can accommodate both ceremonies and receptions.
Address: 637 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-8050
Wheeler/Stallard Museum: This historic Victorian mansion, built in 1888, offers a charming and intimate setting for weddings. Couples can exchange vows in the outdoor garden and celebrate in the elegant interior spaces.
Address: 620 W Bleeker St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-3721
Maroon Bells Amphitheater: Located in the stunning Maroon Bells Scenic Area, this outdoor amphitheater offers a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies. Couples can exchange vows surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness.
Address: Maroon Creek Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 945-3319
Top 10 Caterers
When choosing a caterer for your destination wedding, consider their experience, reputation, and ability to accommodate your specific dietary needs and preferences. Here are the top 10 caterers in Aspen:
The Little Nell: Known for its exceptional cuisine and service, The Little Nell offers a range of catering options for weddings, from elegant plated dinners to casual buffets.
Address: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-4600
Caribou Club: This private club offers a range of catering services for weddings, including gourmet plated dinners, buffets, and cocktail receptions. The Caribou Club is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail.
Address: 411 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-2929
Aspen Catering: This full-service catering company offers a range of options for weddings, including plated dinners, buffets, and cocktail receptions. Aspen Catering is known for its creative menus and use of local, seasonal ingredients.
Address: 204 S Galena St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 544-4860
Mawa’s Kitchen: This boutique catering company offers a range of international and fusion cuisine options for weddings. Mawa’s Kitchen is known for its innovative menus and use of high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
Address: 305 Airport Business Center, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 710-7096
Epicure Catering: This full-service catering company offers a range of options for weddings, including plated dinners, buffets, and cocktail receptions. Epicure Catering is known for its elegant presentations and exceptional service.
Address: 401 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 544-0966
Aspen Chef: This private chef service offers custom menus for weddings, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Aspen Chef is known for its personalized service and attention to detail.
Address: 555 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-8021
European Caterers: This full-service catering company offers a range of options for weddings, including plated dinners, buffets, and cocktail receptions. European Caterers is known for its classic European cuisine and elegant presentations.
Address: 407 S Hunter St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-3841
Taste Aspen: This catering company offers a range of options for weddings, including plated dinners, buffets, and cocktail receptions. Taste Aspen is known for its creative menus and use of local, seasonal ingredients.
Address: 219 S Monarch St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-7800
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro: This on-mountain restaurant offers catering services for weddings, with a focus on Alpine-inspired cuisine. Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is known for its stunning views and cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Address: 76 Boomerang Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 923-8715
The Sundeck: Located at the top of Aspen Mountain, The Sundeck offers catering services for weddings, with a focus on classic American cuisine. The Sundeck is known for its stunning views and rustic, mountain atmosphere.
Address: 601 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-0755
Top 10 Photographers
When selecting a wedding photographer, consider their style, experience, and ability to capture the unique essence of your destination wedding. Here are the top 10 wedding photographers in Aspen:
Robin Proctor Photography: Robin Proctor is known for her romantic, fine art style and ability to capture the natural beauty of Aspen’s landscapes.
Address: 19 Sunnyside Ln, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 618-0187
James Christianson Photography: James Christianson is known for his photojournalistic style and ability to capture candid, emotional moments.
Address: 1247 Snowbunny Ln, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 948-1193
Aspen Wedding Deck: Aspen Wedding Deck is known for their stunning aerial and mountain photography.
Address: 601 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-0755
Michele Cardamone Photography: Michele Cardamone is known for her elegant, timeless style and attention to detail.
Address: 620 S Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-7868
Jason Burns Photography: Jason Burns is known for his adventurous, creative style and willingness to explore unique locations.
Address: 625 E Main St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-9091
Ann Bauer Photography: Ann Bauer is known for her romantic, light-filled style and ability to capture the natural beauty of her subjects.
Address: 124 W Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-7879
Tess Weaver Photography: Tess Weaver is known for her photojournalistic style and ability to capture authentic, candid moments.
Address: 620 S Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 618-1010
Rebecca Cerasani Photography: Rebecca Cerasani is known for her artistic, moody style and ability to capture the unique essence of each couple.
Address: 555 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-9092
Ashley Sawtelle Photography: Ashley Sawtelle is known for her soft, romantic style and ability to capture the natural beauty of Aspen’s landscapes.
Address: 406 S Monarch St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 989-0655
Winnie Dora Photography: Winnie Dora is known for her vibrant, joyful style and ability to capture the energy and excitement of each wedding.
Address: 205 S Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 618-5120
Top 10 Florists
When choosing a florist for your destination wedding, consider their experience, creativity, and ability to incorporate local, seasonal blooms. Here are the top 10 florists in Aspen:
The Aspen Branch: The Aspen Branch is known for their lush, romantic arrangements and ability to capture the natural beauty of Aspen’s landscapes.
Address: 555 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-7783
Harrington Smith Floral: Harrington Smith Floral is known for their elegant, timeless arrangements and attention to detail.
Address: 465 N Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-2555
Mountain Flowers of Aspen: Mountain Flowers of Aspen is known for their creative, whimsical arrangements and use of local, seasonal blooms.
Address: 100 S Spring St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-7807
Eclectic Images Floral: Eclectic Images Floral is known for their artistic, avant-garde arrangements and ability to capture the unique essence of each couple.
Address: 420 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-9159
Aspen Floral & Event Design: Aspen Floral & Event Design is known for their luxurious, opulent arrangements and ability to transform any space.
Address: 416 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 544-5050
Bloom Aspen: Bloom Aspen is known for their romantic, garden-inspired arrangements and use of fragrant, seasonal blooms.
Address: 533 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-5122
Aspen Flower Shop: Aspen Flower Shop is known for their classic, timeless arrangements and exceptional customer service.
Address: 731 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-5022
Carolyn’s Flowers: Carolyn’s Flowers is known for their creative, colorful arrangements and ability to capture the joy and energy of each wedding.
Address: 307 S Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-9246
Aspen Signature Floral: Aspen Signature Floral is known for their elegant, sophisticated arrangements and attention to detail.
Address: 730 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 544-5020
The Cottage Aspen: The Cottage Aspen is known for their rustic, organic arrangements and use of local, wildflowers and greenery.
Address: 525 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-1993
Top 10 Wedding Planners
When selecting a wedding planner for your destination wedding, consider their experience, reputation, and ability to handle the unique logistics and challenges of planning a wedding from afar. Here are the top 10 wedding planners in Aspen:
Bluebird Productions: Bluebird Productions is known for their exceptional attention to detail, creative vision, and ability to create unforgettable experiences.
Address: 601 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 429-4187
EKS Events: EKS Events is known for their elegant, sophisticated style and ability to handle every aspect of the planning process.
Address: 411 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-8579
Gold Leaf Event Design & Production: Gold Leaf Event Design & Production is known for their luxurious, opulent style and ability to transform any space.
Address: 439 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-4594
Jane Floyd & Associates: Jane Floyd & Associates is known for their personalized, attentive service and ability to create unique, customized experiences.
Address: 465 N Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 544-5000
Aspen Signature Events: Aspen Signature Events is known for their creative, innovative style and ability to handle every aspect of the planning process.
Address: 605 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-4114
Love This Day Events: Love This Day Events is known for their romantic, whimsical style and ability to capture the unique essence of each couple.
Address: 414 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 236-8930
Sweetly Paired: Sweetly Paired is known
for their elegant, timeless style and ability to create seamless, stress-free experiences.
Address: 555 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-9500
Kelly Karli Weddings & Events: Kelly Karli Weddings & Events is known for their personalized, attentive service and ability to handle every aspect of the planning process.
Address: 604 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 429-4187
Aspen Wedding Guide: Aspen Wedding Guide is known for their extensive knowledge of local vendors and ability to create unique, customized experiences.
Address: 419 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-9500
Aspen Alpine Guides: Aspen Alpine Guides is known for their adventurous, outdoor-focused style and ability to create unforgettable experiences in Aspen’s natural beauty.
Address: 210 S Galena St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-6618
Where to Host the Welcome Reception
When selecting a venue for your welcome reception, consider the atmosphere, capacity, and proximity to guest accommodations. Here are some top locations in Aspen:
The Little Nell: The Little Nell offers a range of elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for welcome receptions, including the Sundeck and the Aspen Mountain Club.
Address: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-4600
Hotel Jerome: Hotel Jerome offers a variety of historic and stylish spaces for welcome receptions, including the Antler Bar and the Garden Terrace.
Address: 330 E Main St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 429-7625
The St. Regis Aspen Resort: The St. Regis offers a range of luxurious spaces for welcome receptions, including the Fountain Courtyard and the Mountain Plaza.
Address: 315 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-3300
Wheeler/Stallard Museum: The Wheeler/Stallard Museum offers a unique and historic setting for welcome receptions, with both indoor and outdoor spaces available.
Address: 620 W Bleeker St, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-3721
Aspen Meadows Resort: Aspen Meadows Resort offers a variety of scenic outdoor spaces for welcome receptions, including the Bren Family Terrace and the Paepcke Patio.
Address: 845 Meadows Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 925-4240
Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
Aspen offers a range of activities for memorable bachelor and bachelorette parties, from outdoor adventures to luxurious spa experiences. Here are some ideas:
- Skiing or snowboarding on Aspen’s four mountains (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass)
- Hiking or mountain biking in the surrounding wilderness areas
- White water rafting or kayaking on the Roaring Fork River
- Golfing at the Aspen Golf Club or the Snowmass Club
- Spa treatments at the St. Regis Aspen Resort or the Remède Spa at The Little Nell
- Wine tasting at The Little Nell or the Eleven Madison Park Winter House
- Nightlife and dancing at the Belly Up Aspen or the Caribou Club
Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules
To obtain a marriage license in Aspen, couples must visit the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. Here are the key requirements and considerations:
- Both parties must be present and provide valid identification (driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate).
- The legal age to marry in Colorado is 18. If either party is under 18, parental consent and judicial approval are required.
- There is no waiting period to get married after obtaining a license.
- The license fee is $30.
- The license is valid for 35 days after issuance.
- Couples must have their ceremony performed by an officiant registered with the county.
Address: 530 E Main St #101, Aspen, CO 81611
Contact: (970) 920-5180
Additional Considerations
When planning your destination wedding in Aspen, consider the following additional factors:
Transportation: Aspen is served by the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, which offers direct flights from several major cities. Shuttle services and rental cars are available for transportation to and from the airport and around town.
Accommodations: Aspen offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to condominiums and vacation rentals. Some top options include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, The St. Regis Aspen Resort, and the Aspen Square Hotel.
Group Activities: In addition to bachelor and bachelorette parties, consider planning group activities for your guests, such as scenic drives, hot air balloon rides, or visits to local attractions like the Aspen Art Museum or the Maroon Bells.
Vendor Communication: When working with local vendors from a distance, be sure to establish clear communication channels and expectations. Consider hiring a local wedding planner to help coordinate logistics and serve as a point of contact.
Conclusion
Planning a destination wedding in Aspen offers couples the opportunity to create an unforgettable celebration in one of the most beautiful and luxurious settings in the world. By carefully selecting venues, vendors, and activities, couples can craft a personalized and seamless experience for themselves and their guests.
From stunning mountain views to world-class dining and accommodations, Aspen has everything you need to make your dream wedding a reality. By following these tips and recommendations, you can plan a wedding that is both stress-free and truly unforgettable.
Remember to embrace the unique charm and character of Aspen, and don’t be afraid to incorporate personal touches and creative ideas to make your wedding truly your own. With the right planning and preparation, your Aspen destination wedding will be a celebration you and your guests will cherish for a lifetime.