17 Unique Ways to Host a Mountain Wedding

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect place to make your marriage official, look no further than the mountains. Can you imagine being surrounded by a dreamy mountainous terrain while saying “I do” to your favorite person? Or, better yet, swapping vows at the summit while the rest of the world stretches out below you. 

Besides the jaw-dropping views, hosting your special day in the mountains has so much to offer. By immersing yourself in the elevated region, you’ll retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and seek solace in nature. For active or outdoorsy couples, mountainous nuptials provide plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy, whether it’s hiking, biking, skiing, or fishing. Not to mention, if you grew up near the mountains or frequently vacationed there, you can share that experience with your loved ones during your vow exchange.

From Washington to Montana to Colorado to the Swiss Alps, there are so many spots that showcase stunning sights of the mountains for your big day. Whether you’re overlooking snow-capped peaks or ones covered in lush greenery, mountain weddings present a striking scene, no matter the time of year.

If you’re thinking about throwing a wedding in the mountains, there are a few things to keep in mind, according to Heather Dwight of Calluna Events. For one, mountain weddings tend to be pricey, especially during certain seasons and holidays, so it’s important to factor that into your budget. “Mid-summer will be the most sought-after, and therefore, more expensive,” the planner explains. “Winter weddings in the mountains can also be very costly because you are competing with the ski season. Holiday weekends, such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, will also be more expensive and busy for weddings in the mountains, so plan in advance for budget, hotel rates, and travel.”

When considering your wedding date, it’s also essential to familiarize yourself with the weather, so you and your guests can prepare for the conditions. “June to September will be your most popular months for the best weather, but still plan for an afternoon shower in the forecast,” Dwight notes. “Temperatures can fluctuate during the day and can dip drastically in the evening, so make sure your guests are comfortable for hot ceremonies and chilly receptions by providing water and shade. In the evenings, encourage wraps and layers, and add heaters if needed.” 

To plan for extreme weather, Chikeeh Talker of One Love at a Time Events recommends having an indoor or tented backup plan for your ceremony and reception. For any other unforeseen circumstances, she urges couples to find a planner who is familiar with the area. “Hiring a wedding planner versed in these types of weddings will save you time and stress,” she elaborates.

After taking care of the logistics, you can move onto the fun part–the décor! In order to decorate a mountain wedding that builds upon the location while representing your love story, ask yourself a few questions. Dwight encourages couples to reflect on the following: “What is your reason for wanting to bring your friends and family to the area? What are the other priorities for the weekend? Do you love the views and want an epic backdrop for their ceremony?” Answering these questions will give you a better idea of the elements you want to highlight and incorporate into your design.

When in doubt, a minimalist approach always reigns supreme. “The best part about a mountain wedding is that you don’t have to do too much,” Talker remarks. “The nature itself speaks loudly enough.”

From your stationery suite to your wedding bar setup, there are countless ways to include a nod to Mother Nature through your wedding décor while capitalizing on the surroundings. For more inspiration, here’s a roundup of our favorite ways to decorate a dreamy wedding in the mountains.