Planning a wedding in Vail is a dream for many couples. With breathtaking mountain views and luxurious venues, it’s a perfect place to say “I do.” However, hosting a wedding in the mountains comes with unique challenges and logistics to consider. To help you plan with confidence, here are five tips to plan your wedding in Vail.
1. Choose the Right Vail Wedding Venue
Vail offers a variety of stunning venues, each with its own charm. Whether you want a mountaintop ceremony or a cozy lodge reception, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of the top wedding venues in Vail:
- Vail Wedding Deck aka the Holy Cross Event Deck – A mountaintop venue with breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for couples who want a dramatic backdrop. This one is a personal favorite of mine, between the jaw-dropping views and fun gondola ride to the top.
- The Arrabelle at Vail Square – A luxury hotel with European charm, offering elegant ballrooms and a beautiful outdoor plaza. I especially love a Vail Wedding Deck ceremony paired with an Arrabelle cocktail hour and reception. Since both locations are accessible and located by the the Eagle Bahn Gondola, transportation logistics are much simpler for guests.
Images photographed for Jordan Joseph and Andrea Stark
- The 10th – A ski-in, ski-out venue with modern architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the Gore Range.
Second shot for Andrea Stark
- Four Seasons Vail – A refined setting with impeccable service, ideal for an elegant wedding weekend. With Vail’s accessibility, you could consider pairing First Looks and Wedding Party portraits at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola.
Photographed for Andrea Stark
- The Hythe – A stylish, newly renovated venue with a blend of modern and alpine influences.
- Donovan Pavilion – A versatile indoor-outdoor venue with a mountain lodge aesthetic and plenty of space for guests.
- Camp Hale – A remote, historic location surrounded by lakes and rolling mountains, plus fly fishing, for an adventurous wedding. Another personal favorite of mine. While the energy is very peaceful here, there is no cell phone service making it truly a place to unwind.
Photographed for Crystal Leffel
- Piney River Ranch – A rustic lodge on the edge of Piney Lake, offering a secluded, nature-filled celebration. As such, this one is on my bucket list and the views are truly inspiring!
Each venue provides a different experience, so consider your vision before booking.
2. Plan for the Altitude
Vail sits at over 8,000 feet above sea level. That means your guests—and even you—might feel the effects of the altitude. To avoid altitude sickness, remind everyone to:
- Drink plenty of water before and during their stay.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, especially on arrival.
- Give themselves a day or two to acclimate before the big day.
If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, ensure your guests are comfortable. Therefore, consider providing water stations, shaded areas, or even an Oxygen Bar service (such as Peak Oxygen, pictured below) for those who need them.
3. Consider the Weather and Season as one of your Five Tips to Plan Your Wedding in Vail
Vail is beautiful year-round, but the weather can be unpredictable. Each season offers something special:
- Summer (June–August) – Warm days, cool nights, and lush greenery make this a popular season for outdoor weddings (my favorite mountain wedding season).
- Fall (September–October) – Stunning golden aspen trees create a magical backdrop, but temperatures can drop quickly.
- Winter (November–March) – Snowy mountain weddings are incredibly romantic, but travel delays and cold temperatures require extra planning.
- Spring (April–May) – A quieter season with fewer crowds, though melting snow can make some locations muddy.
Always have a backup plan, especially if you’re hosting an outdoor event. That way, unexpected weather won’t ruin your special day.
4. Hire Experienced Local Vendors
Vail has many talented wedding vendors who understand the logistics of mountain weddings. Choosing local experts ensures that your day runs smoothly. So, look for vendors with experience at your venue and who can handle Vail’s unique challenges, such as unpredictable weather and high-altitude conditions.
Your vendor team should include:
- A wedding planner familiar with Vail venues
- A photographer who knows the best scenic locations – contact me here
- A caterer experienced in high-altitude cooking
- A florist who can source blooms that hold up in mountain air
Booking local vendors will make a huge difference in reducing wedding-day stress. As a result, you can focus on enjoying your special day.
5. Plan Transportation for Guests
Navigating Vail can be tricky, especially for out-of-town guests. Many venues are remote or require special access. Because of this, providing transportation options will make travel easier and safer. Consider:
- Shuttle services from hotels to the venue.
- Gondola or chairlift access for mountaintop ceremonies.
- Ride-share coordination for guests who need flexibility.
- Parking details if guests plan to drive.
Make sure to communicate transportation details in your invitations and wedding website. This way, guests know what to expect.
Five Tips to Plan Your Wedding in Vail – Make It Unforgettable
Vail offers an unforgettable setting for your wedding day. By choosing the right venue, preparing for the altitude, considering the seasons, hiring local vendors, and arranging transportation, you’ll create a seamless experience for you and your guests.
No matter the season or setting, your Vail wedding will be a breathtaking celebration surrounded by mountain beauty. So, start planning today, and let the magic of Vail bring your dream wedding to life!
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“I am so grateful for my experience with Mary Ann! The second you meet her you can feel her excitement and passion for her work. Since she knows what she is doing and I would absolutely recommend hiring her for all of your photography needs! The most beautiful wedding photos I could have ever asked for!” – Holly K.
