Cheap Colorado Weddings: The Ultimate Guide

May 19

Planning cheap Colorado weddings can be a hectic experience. From venue fees to vendor expenses, the costs of tying the knot in the Centennial State can quickly add up. However, with the right strategies and resources, couples can still have their dream wedding without breaking the bank.

In this post, we'll provide tips and advice on planning a budget-friendly wedding in Colorado without sacrificing quality or style. Whether you're looking to save on venue fees, catering costs, or photographer expenses, we've got you covered. So, let's get started!

Tips to Plan a Cheap Colorado Wedding

With some careful budgeting and creative planning, it's possible to have a beautiful and memorable wedding in Colorado without spending a fortune. In this post, we'll share some tips and ideas for planning a cheap Colorado wedding, including ways to save on venues, vendors, and other wedding expenses.

Avoiding an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue
When it comes to wedding venues, many couples may be tempted to choose an "all-inclusive" option, which promises to provide everything you need for your big day. While these venues may offer convenience and peace of mind, they often come with a hefty price tag. All-inclusive venues typically charge a high fee that includes catering, decorations, and other services, which can add up quickly.

However, there is an alternative option that can help you save money on your wedding by choosing a venue that lets you bring your own food, alcohol, and vendors. These cheap wedding venues are often more affordable because they don't include extra services that you may not need or want. Plus, they allow you to have more control over your cheap personalized wedding.

One example of such a cheap wedding venue in Colorado is Chief Hosa Lodge, a venue that allows couples to bring in their own catering and alcohol. Another option is the Breckenridge Pavilion, a scenic venue that lets you choose your own vendors for catering, flowers, and music.

Choosing the Right Date, Time, and Season
Choosing the right date, time, and season for your wedding can significantly impact your budget. While it may be tempting to choose a popular date in the middle of peak season, doing so can come at a high cost. If you're looking to save money on your Colorado wedding, one of the best ways to do so is by choosing an off-peak date, time, or season.

Peak season in Colorado typically runs from May through October, with the highest prices falling on weekends during this period. However, you can find significant savings if you're willing to consider other options. For example, consider hosting your wedding during the off-season, which runs from November through April. Venues and vendors are often more willing to offer discounts during this time, as wedding demand is less.

Another alternative is to consider hosting your wedding on a weekday. Many couples overlook this option, but it can be a great way to save money. If you're set on hosting your wedding on the weekend, consider a Friday or Sunday instead of a Saturday. Additionally, hosting a morning or early afternoon wedding can be more affordable than an evening event.

Benefits of Having a Friend or Family Member Officiate
Having a friend or family member officiate a wedding is becoming an increasingly popular option and a cost cutting wedding idea for couples who want a more personalized and intimate ceremony. Having someone you know and trust to lead the ceremony can make it feel more special and meaningful.

In Colorado, it is legal for couples to have a friend or family member officiate their wedding ceremony as long as a religious organization ordains the person or obtains a one-day designation from the Colorado Secretary of State's office. So this can be considered as one of the best cost cutting wedding ideas in Colorado

One of the biggest benefits of having a friend or family member officiate your wedding is the cost savings. Professional officiants can charge several hundred dollars for their services, while having a friend or family member do it for free can save you significant money.

Save Money on Alcohol - Recommended for a Cheap Colorado Wedding
Alcohol can be a significant expense for weddings, especially if you choose a venue that requires you to use their in-house bar service. These venues often charge high prices per drink, which can add up quickly. One of the best ways to save money on alcohol is to choose a venue that allows you to bring in your own licensed bartender and alcohol.

By bringing in your own alcohol, you can buy it in bulk at a wholesale retailer or liquor store, which is often significantly cheaper than purchasing it by the drink. Plus, you'll have more control over the selection and quantity of alcohol, which can help you avoid overpaying for items you don't need or want.

When buying alcohol in bulk, be sure to consider your guest list and their preferences. Consider providing a variety of beer, wine, and spirits to accommodate everyone's tastes. Additionally, consider purchasing bulk mixers, ice, and other necessary bar supplies to save even more money.

Incorporating DIY Elements into Your Wedding - Know the Benefits
DIY elements can be a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding while also saving money. You can create unique and customized elements that reflect your personality and style by doing things yourself. However, knowing your limits and taking on only a little is important, as

DIY projects can quickly become overwhelming.

When it comes to DIY elements, there are plenty of options to consider. For example, you could create your own centerpieces using flowers from a local farmers market or thrift store vases.

You could also design and print your own invitations, save-the-dates, and other paper goods using online templates and DIY tutorials. Another idea is to make your own wedding favors, such as homemade jams or personalized candles.

However, it's important to remember that not everything needs to be DIY. Certain elements of a wedding, such as photography, catering, and music, are best left to the professionals. Trying to take on too much can lead to stress and potentially subpar results.

Don't Settle for the Top Hits
When planning a wedding, it's easy to turn to popular websites and choose the first vendors in your search results. However, this can lead to potential drawbacks, including higher prices and a need for more personalization. Instead, consider scrolling further to find hidden gems that can provide both affordability and unique offerings.

One benefit of searching further is that you may find vendors who are just starting out or are less well-known but still provide high-quality services at a lower cost. Additionally, these vendors may be more willing to work with you to create a personalized experience that fits your vision and budget.

To find affordable vendors, start by asking for recommendations from friends and family. You can also search for local wedding groups on social media and ask for recommendations there.

Once you have a list of potential vendors, be sure to compare prices and ask for detailed quotes to avoid any surprises later on.

Don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to finding vendors. For example, consider contacting a local catering company or a florist willing to provide additional event planning services. This can help you save money on multiple vendors while still getting the services you need.

Choose Smaller Packages Instead of Discounts
When planning a budget-friendly wedding, it can be tempting to ask for discounts from vendors to save money. However, this approach may only sometimes work in your favor, as vendors may hesitate to reduce their prices or compromise on quality. A better strategy is to ask for smaller packages that fit within your budget rather than asking for discounts.

Many vendors, such as photographers and florists, offer smaller packages that include fewer hours or services but still provide high-quality work. For example, instead of asking a photographer for a discount, you could ask for a smaller package with fewer hours of coverage or fewer edited photos. This can help you save money without compromising on the quality of the final product.

One example of a smaller package vendor is the floral company Farmette Flowers in Colorado. They offer a "DIY Package" that provides couples with a variety of flowers and foliage to create their own arrangements at a lower cost. Another example is the photography company, From the Hip Photo, which offers smaller packages for elopements and intimate weddings.

Final words
To plan a budget-friendly wedding in Colorado, take your time and be creative. Opt for DIY elements, find affordable vendors, and consider alternatives to traditional practices. It's essential to research and compare prices while being mindful of your limits. For more tips and resources to plan cheap Colorado weddings, visit Smart Weddings Colorado's website to make the most of your budget and create a memorable day.