River Bend Wedding Venue in Lyons, Colorado | A Complete Planning Guide

If you’re planning your dream wedding in Colorado, you’re in for a treat! The Centennial State offers a plethora of breathtaking venues, ranging from rustic barns to chic ballrooms, each one with its own unique atmosphere. Now, let me be honest—I might be a bit biased, but I can’t help but swoon over one particular gem nestled in the heart of Lyons, Colorado: River Bend. But before we go further, a note of full disclosure, all of the credit for these beautiful photos from my own wedding day goes to the fabulous Kaitlyn of Colorado Wedding Productions.

Imagine the St. Vrain River gently flowing, a stunning red cliff wall standing tall in the background, and a sense of tranquility enveloping you as you exchange your vows. Yes, my heart was stolen by River Bend, and I’m thrilled to take you on a journey through this venue that means so much to me.

Having experienced the magic of River Bend firsthand as a bride myself, I couldn’t wait to share my detailed wedding guide with all of you. So, whether you’re envisioning an intimate celebration or a grand affair surrounded by nature’s wonders, River Bend has something truly special to offer for every couple looking to create lasting memories on their wedding day.

Get those wedding planning notebooks ready, because I’m about to reveal my best tips for creating the perfect wedding or elopement experience at River Bend in Lyons, Colorado! From the stunning backdrop to the incredible Colorado vendors, I’ll guide you through all the essentials for a memorable and nature-inspired Rocky Mountain wedding. Let’s make your special day truly unforgettable!

Let’s dive in and discover why River Bend is more than just a venue—it’s a breathtaking experience that will make your heart skip a beat. Shall we?

My Own Wedding Journey

First, let me give you a glimpse of my wedding day and what it could look like if you choose to have your wedding at the enchanting River Bend. It all started with a first look, and I was completely swept off my feet. The moment I laid eyes on River Bend’s jaw-dropping Colorado beauty, I knew deep in my heart that this was the place where my much-awaited wedding dreams would finally come alive. 

It was magic! I was so head over heels for River Bend that I didn’t even bother to tour other venues. It was love at first sight – my heart was set, and I knew without a doubt that this was THE place where Andrew and I were destined to say those precious “I do’s.”

It was a journey filled with twists and turns, thanks to COVID. But you know what? I’m grateful for every detour it took because it brought me to this incredible wedding venue that made our day truly magical.

The morning of our wedding was filled with excitement as we all got ready in the charming cottage. What made it even more special was that I had personally sewed my own wedding dress, making every moment even more authentic to myself.

Hair and makeup by ElePosh made me feel like a true queen, and our ceremony was a simple exchange of self-written vows, which you know are my favorite. The weather played a little mischief with rain and hail, but it created the coolest photos, even though it totally wrecked my dress and hair! The beauty of the moment was accentuated by a double rainbow that graced us with its presence.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the stunning florals that Plume and Furrow prepared for my wedding day. They executed my vision for a grand bouquet with rich texture and vibrant color so perfectly that my jaw dropped when it was brought to me! I also greatly admired their commitment to sustainability and sourcing local florals.

To incorporate my spirituality into our wedding day, my lifelong friend’s mom, Adriana, held an intention-setting candle ceremony, which brought a sense of meaning and blessings to our union.

River Bend’s stunning spots around the property made for breathtaking moments. When the cliff rocks started steaming from the rain, it added quite a unique touch to our photos, even though it meant I needed to change out of my dress and back into my lace robe from getting ready.

After a heartfelt ceremony, we had a wonderful idea to make our day even more unforgettable. Before night descended, we all decided to hop into the river ourselves during golden hour. Later on, as dinner time approached, we originally planned to dine by the riverbanks. However, the rain had different plans, and we had to shift our feast under the tent. But you know what? I loved having that option as a weather backup. It was such a relief to have that flexibility and not let anything dampen the joy of our celebration.

Now, let’s talk about the delicious food! We chose Blackbelly Market for catering, known for its Farmhouse-chic eatery & butcher shop, offering a variety of delectable options, from charcuterie to burgers and steaks, to hand-cut Kennebec fries. The cake, a tres leches delight with fresh strawberry filling from The Makery, was the perfect sweet treat for our special day.

And after dinner, we gathered around the fire and enjoyed the fabulous acoustic jams by ‘Unusual Too.’ It added a cozy and intimate touch to the night.

All these moments were beautifully captured by Colorado Wedding Productions, our chosen photographer and videographer, ensuring that we could cherish these memories forever.

So, if this sounds like the kind of wedding experience you’re dreaming of, then let me take you through all the amazing details of River Bend, the truly enchanting wedding venue that made our day one we’ll treasure forever.

Location & Accessibility of the Venue

Nestled in the heart of northern Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, River Bend boasts a prime location that truly embodies the spirit of the area. Situated in the charming town of Lyons, this venue offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility. Only a short, scenic drive away from Denver and just 17 miles from Boulder, it’s an easy destination for you and your guests to gather and celebrate your special day.

As an elopement photographer based in Denver, the importance of inclusive venues and vendors cannot be overstated. It warms my heart to see how River Bend takes pride in being an inclusive and accessible venue. The property has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate all guests, making it a great choice for couples and guests with diverse needs. 

From accessible pathways to facilities that ensure everyone can fully participate in the celebration, River Bend welcomes and embraces all. This commitment to accessibility allows every guest to share in the joy of the wedding day, making it even more meaningful and memorable for everyone involved.

A Moment for the Sister Venue – Lyons Farmette: Where Modern Whimsy Meets Rustic Elegance 

While we delve into the delights of River Bend, we can’t overlook its equally enchanting sister venue, Lyons Farmette. Owned by the same visionary couple, Lyons Farmette captures the essence of modern whimsy amidst rustic elegance. Located nearby, these two venues offer distinct experiences, each with its own allure.

Lyons Farmette, with its organic farm setting, is a picturesque backdrop that brims with charm. The property’s vibrant gardens, lush greenery, and farm animals create a unique and intimate atmosphere for weddings. With a touch of bohemian flair, this venue blends the simplicity of nature with contemporary elements, making it perfect for couples seeking a more laid-back yet eclectic ambiance for their celebration.

Just like River Bend, Lyons Farmette places inclusivity and accessibility at the forefront of its values. Ensuring that all guests can partake in the festivities is a priority, and their team works diligently to create a welcoming space for everyone.

The best part? Couples who choose River Bend or Lyons Farmette are welcome to include endless personalized touches in their wedding day, making each event an authentic reflection of their love story.

Whether you find yourself captivated by the serene riverside beauty of River Bend or charmed by the whimsical floral wonder of Lyons Farmette, both venues are wholeheartedly devoted to creating unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones. So, no matter which one speaks to your heart, you can trust that your special day will be nothing short of magical at either of these extraordinary locations.

About the River Bend Wedding Venue

The venue as a whole is a haven for couples seeking a nature-inspired outdoor wedding with a touch of rustic charm. If you’re among those, like myself, who can’t fathom the idea of being confined indoors on your special day, then River Bend was made for you. 

Backdrops and Charming Spaces: Exploring the Venue

Embracing the breathtaking natural surroundings, River Bend offers an open-air bridal cottage as well as a glamping tent dressing area, where you and your wedding party can get ready while still being amidst the tranquility of the outdoors.

What’s more, the cottage and glamping tent deliver fantastic lighting, making it an ideal setting for capturing stunning getting-ready photos, ensuring your cherished moments leading up to the big day are captured in all their radiant beauty. Getting ready in the charming cottage was one of the highlights of my wedding day. It added a delightful touch to the entire experience and made everything so convenient.

Once you step foot onto the property, you’ll be greeted by the popular red cliff wall that gracefully rises behind the St. Vrain River, creating a stunning backdrop that will undoubtedly steal your heart and also make for phenomenal photos. The venue boasts a large white sail-cloth dinner tent, ensuring that your celebration can unfold comfortably. It offers optional coverage from the elements, while still allowing you to fully embrace the natural beauty and sounds that surround you.

River Bend’s thoughtful design also includes a large flagstone patio right by the river, adorned with lovely string lights casting a warm glow all around. It’s like a fairytale setting, perfect for private moments, photos, or dancing the night away with your loved ones. 

And here’s a unique element: the bar area is unlike anything I’ve seen before. They built it around a massive evergreen tree with lanterns hung from its branches. I mean, talk about a unique and charming setup! And with ample green space throughout the entire property, you and your guests can revel in the great outdoors while savoring every moment of this momentous occasion.

As mentioned before, one of the many things that sets River Bend apart is its accessibility-friendly layout. For couples who yearn for the authentic Rocky Mountain vibe but have guests who may not be able to venture higher in altitude, this venue strikes the perfect balance. Everyone can revel in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains without worries about acclimating to elevation, making it an inclusive haven for all.

So what else is included in the River Bend Wedding Package?

In addition to all the above-mentioned spaces, you actually get a wealth of amenities when you book River Bend as your wedding venue. They go above and beyond to provide you with everything you need to create a truly remarkable and stress-free celebration. Here’s a quick look at all the other incredible inclusions that come with this enchanting venue.

• Tables and Chairs to Seat Your Guests: River Bend provides 8′ plastic tables and beautiful honeywood folding chairs, ensuring your guests are comfortably seated during the ceremony and reception.

• Another Wedding Day Ally: The Venue Manager: Say hello to your organization guru on the big day – the venue manager! Dahlia Events & Designs is the venue’s in-house coordination service. They’ll be by your side, making sure everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. Although I never envisioned hiring a coordinator, I thought they were fabulous and couldn’t imagine having my big day without their help!

• Sound with the PA System: At River Bend, ensuring sound compliance with the venue’s ordinance is a breeze. They provide a PA system, including a portable amplifier and both corded and cordless microphones, along with two mic stands, to be used specifically for the ceremony and toasts. Your guests will have no trouble hearing your heartfelt vows or that hilarious best-man speech, all while staying within the sound limits set by the county.

• Comfortable Restrooms: Wave goodbye to porta-potties! River Bend spoils you and your guests with plumbed-in restrooms, adding a touch of luxury to your outdoor celebration.

• A Picture-Perfect Ceremony Site: Fall in love with the dedicated ceremony site at River Bend, where you’ll exchange your vows against the backdrop of nature’s finest beauty. This idyllic spot sets the stage for an unforgettable wedding ceremony that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape.

• Cozy Up by the Fire Pit: As the sun sets, the fire pit comes to life, adding a warm and inviting glow to your celebration. And don’t worry about lighting it – your venue manager will take care of that!

• Catering Convenience: When hosting your wedding at River Bend, you’ll have the convenience of choosing from their carefully curated list of approved caterers. While they require you to select from this preferred list, fear not, as you’ll find an abundant variety of options to cater to your unique tastes and preferences. With 23 companies and 8 food trucks to choose from, you’ll have a wide array of culinary delights at your fingertips, ensuring you and your guests’ taste buds are treated to a delightful feast. 

• Parking Made Easy: With a parking lot attendant and ample guest parking, you won’t have to stress about your loved ones finding a spot to celebrate your love.

Guest size

No matter the size of your guest list, River Bend has you covered. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the venue can accommodate up to 200 of your closest friends and family, making it an ideal choice for any wedding party. 

As someone who experienced an intimate wedding myself with just 7 guests, I can attest to their ability to cater to any size event. Whether you envision a small, intimate gathering like mine or a grand affair, River Bend’s versatility will ensure your wedding dreams come true. So, don’t hesitate to bring your vision to life at this magical venue.

Important Reminders and Fresh Considerations 

Alright, let’s take a moment to revisit some key points we’ve already talked about and add a tad more to the mix. These are the must-know essentials that will make sure your special day goes off without a hitch, leaving you with wonderful and unforgettable memories and a photo gallery to treasure for a lifetime.

• Sound Ordinance: It’s essential to keep in mind that Riverbend is an acoustic-only venue, so loud amplification won’t be allowed. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with the music! We loved having our acoustic duo play fireside sing-along songs for us, creating an intimate and soulful atmosphere. Silent discos are also highly encouraged, and they add a unique touch of excitement to your wedding. There are 10 DJs on the vendor list, and if you have other professional DJs in mind, they’re open to it as long as they come with great references. Remember, you can use their provided PA system, but amplification is only allowed at certain times and for certain purposes.

• Alcohol Policy: When it comes to beverages, you have the flexibility to bring your own alcohol if you wish, but a professional bartender must serve it. This can be a great way to save on costs, especially for larger weddings. Just make sure to have a licensed pro handling the drinks for your guests’ enjoyment.

• On-Site Tiny Home Lodging – Wee Casa: Treat yourself and your guests to a unique experience with on-site lodging at Wee Casa, a tiny house resort situated right on the River Bend property. Wee Casa believes in the balance of freedom and sustainability, providing high-end accommodations that celebrate the beautiful setting and offer a respite for you and your guests. The tiny houses are perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors and a cozy retreat while celebrating with the people they love the most. Be sure to book it early, as it can fill up quickly due to its popularity

Seamless and Memorable: Your Rocky Mountain Wedding at River Bend 

With these important points in mind, your wedding at River Bend is sure to be a memorable and magical experience, surrounded by nature’s beauty and the love of your closest family and friends. As someone who had their own dream wedding at this enchanting venue, I can vouch for the incredible memories it can create and the wonderful staff who will ensure your day goes off without a hitch. 

So, if you’re seeking a nature-inspired and inclusive Rocky Mountain wedding, River Bend is undoubtedly a top choice that won’t disappoint. If you’re currently planning your own special wedding day and have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help! Happy planning!