Destination Weddings in a Small Town: 5 Things to Consider
Dreaming of a destination wedding in a charming mountain town? The fresh air, stunning scenery, and intimate atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. However, planning a wedding in a smaller, more remote location comes with its own unique set of considerations. Here are five key things to keep in mind to ensure your mountain wedding goes off without a hitch:
1. Late Night Bites: Plan Ahead for Post-Party Hunger
Small towns often have limited options for late-night dining. While this adds to the peaceful charm, it means your guests might find themselves hungry after the reception winds down.
Pro Tip: Encourage guests to stock up on snacks and drinks earlier in the day. Consider arranging a late-night snack bar at your venue with items like mini sandwiches, fruit, and trail mix.
2. Transportation: Getting There is Half the Adventure
Mountain towns are often located a bit off the beaten path, and the nearest airport might be an hour (or more!) away.
Pro Tip: Create a dedicated "Travel" section on your wedding website. Provide detailed directions, information and bus options if available. Clear communication will help your guests navigate the journey with ease. If you’re tying the knot in Ouray or Silverton, CO be sure to let your guests know about the mountain roads they will have to drive to reach their destination in advance too! (Red Mountain Pass, if you know you know!)
3. Big City Amenities: Embrace the Simplicity
While the peace and quiet of a small town are part of its allure, be aware that you'll be trading big-city conveniences for natural beauty. Services like food delivery apps, ride-sharing, and even reliable cell phone service might be limited or non-existent.
Pro Tip: Manage expectations by informing your guests about the availability of these services. Encourage them to download offline maps and consider bringing portable chargers. Embrace the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the slower pace of life!
4. Popular Destinations: Book Early and Often
The western slope of Colorado, like many mountain regions, has become a sought-after tourist destination. This means hotels, restaurants, and activities can book up quickly, especially during peak seasons like summer.
Pro Tip: Send out your save-the-dates and RSVPs a bit earlier than usual to give your guests ample time to secure accommodations. Block book rooms at local hotels and make reservations for any group activities well in advance.
5. Overnight Shipping: Don't Rely on Speedy Deliveries
Forget about last-minute online orders arriving in the nick of time. Overnight shipping to a small mountain town is often unreliable.
Pro Tip: Create a comprehensive packing list and double-check it (and then check it again!). Ensure you bring everything you need for the wedding, from décor to personal items.
Planning a destination wedding in a small mountain town requires a bit of extra foresight, but the breathtaking setting and intimate atmosphere are well worth the effort. By keeping these five points in mind, you can create a truly magical and memorable experience for you and your guests.