Rustic Weddings in Colorado | Tips + Planning

Planning a Rustic Wedding in Colorado

There is something about a rustic wedding in Colorado that pulls you in. Maybe it is the mountains stretching wide under an open sky, the golden light spilling across wildflower fields, or the way a couple’s personality shines through every intentional detail. Rustic weddings in Colorado give you the freedom to celebrate your love exactly how you want, without pressure to follow anyone else’s script.

Some couples dream of a cozy, intimate gathering filled with heartfelt moments and belly laughs. Others crave a rustic-chic affair with cinematic touches, a Southwestern celebration infused with color and texture, or a boho-inspired day that feels wild and free. Every detail, from décor to location, is an opportunity to reflect your story and your style, whether you envision an intricate extravaganza or an intimate gathering that fits comfortably within your budget.

Over the years, photographing rustic weddings across Colorado has shown me how thoughtful planning and intentional choices can transform a day into something truly meaningful. These tips are here to help you design a wedding that feels stress-free, intentional, and unforgettable. By staying present, savoring each mindful moment, and celebrating as your truest selves, you can bring your dream rustic wedding in Colorado to life in a way that is entirely your own.

Where to Have a Rustic Wedding in Colorado

Rustic Wedding Venues in Colorado

If you picture hosting your rustic wedding at a Colorado venue, you’ll be delighted by the sheer amount of amazing and unique locations that can serve as the backdrop for your special day. You can choose to exchange your vows in a charming farmhouse, a rustic barn, or a scenic ranch-style venue. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create an atmosphere that perfectly aligns with your rustic wedding vision. 

While there are countless venue options to consider, I have put together a selection of my favorite local Colorado wedding venues that are sure to bring your rustic wedding ideas to life.

Yetman Farms

Yetman Farms in South Lakewood, just 15 minutes from downtown Denver and close to the scenic Bear Creek Trail, feels like a countryside retreat with a touch of urban convenience. This 4-acre flower and hobby farm is alive with towering cottonwoods, vibrant blooms, and cozy corners, making it a perfect backdrop for a rustic wedding in Colorado. Celebrating here lets you soak in natural beauty while keeping your day intimate and intentional.

The property has multiple outdoor spaces for your ceremony or reception. A 250-square-foot grain bin transforms into a stylish bar, and the 10×30 glass greenhouse seats up to 25 guests, giving your micro wedding a unique and memorable setting. The working horse barn adds a hint of rustic charm, and you can even meet the friendly animals that call this place home. Every corner feels like it was made for capturing authentic moments and heartfelt memories.

Yetman Farms also embraces sustainable practices like composting and integrating livestock into the farm. You can bring in your favorite vendors or choose on-site flowers for bouquets, table arrangements, and even a puppy wreath for your four-legged friend. With its charming atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to Denver, Yetman Farms makes it easy to plan a rustic wedding in Colorado that feels fully yours.

Check out Haley and Cassie’s micro wedding at this venue for inspiration and read more in my full blog post.

Pine Cone Avenue Social

Pine Cone Avenue Social, a family-owned flower farm just 30 minutes from Denver, creates a charming setting for a rustic wedding in Colorado. Surrounded by botanic gardens, mountain views, and even a historic train car, the space feels intimate and personal, giving couples a backdrop that is naturally beautiful and full of character.

The venue has a relaxed, casual energy that lets you celebrate exactly how you want. Whether you dream of a cozy farm-to-table dinner or a more formal gathering with thoughtful details, you can bring in your own caterer and bartender or use prepared food, while the staff handles tables, chairs, and curated touches. Every corner of Pine Cone Avenue Social supports couples in crafting a day that feels intentional, meaningful, and full of authentic moments.

Packages are designed to accommodate both micro weddings and elopements, with flexible event times and thoughtful inclusions like floral arrangements, property access for photos, and an onsite host. The venue is ideal for intimate gatherings, from elopements of up to 10 guests to micro weddings hosting 50 loved ones. The pricing is transparent, and there are discounted rates for weekday celebrations, making it easier to plan a day that fits your needs and your budget.

To see a real micro wedding day at this impressive Colorado wedding venue, check out Katie and Ben’s story.

River Bend

Nestled along the banks of the Saint Vrain River, River Bend is an actual dream venue for rustic weddings. Its towering red cliffs are as Western-chic as it comes. Add in a babbling creek and a spacious green lawn, and you’ve got all of the natural elements you could dream of! Along with many other offerings, this venue even offers a charming, open-air cottage dressing area, adding to its allure.

For a deeper look at what makes River Bend a standout choice for a rustic wedding in Colorado, check out the full blog dedicated to this venue.

Blackstone Rivers Ranch

Blackstone Rivers Ranch is a luxury mountain micro wedding venue located just 35 minutes west of downtown Denver. Set along the banks of a tranquil creek, this Colorado micro wedding venue combines breathtaking natural beauty and refined rustic wedding elegance. With only one event hosted per day, the entire venue is yours for the duration of your reservation.

The venue offers both micro wedding and elopement packages. Both packages include an intimate creekside ceremony, fine dining experience, and the chance to fully enjoy yourself in the beauty of the mountains.

The micro wedding and elopement packages are designed for smaller gatherings and don’t include a reception or after-party. If you’re envisioning a more traditional reception, their full wedding package might be a better fit. Alternatively, consider continuing your intimate celebration at a nearby Airbnb or VRBO. This setup makes it easy to plan a rustic wedding in Colorado that stays intimate and focused on the moments that matter most.

The Barn at Evergreen Memorial Park

The Barn at Evergreen Memorial Park is a Colorado micro wedding venue just 45 minutes from Denver, located in the Evergreen foothills. Built from the timber of five historic local barns, the space combines rustic character with unique architectural features, including stained glass windows that fill the Loft with warm, natural light. The venue gives you multiple levels and an inviting outdoor ceremony space, making it easy to plan a day that feels both intimate and intentional.

The Loft and outdoor spaces accommodate micro weddings of up to 50 guests. From the outdoor ceremony area, you can enjoy views of the nearby Continental Divide, and wildlife such as deer or elk sometimes roam the property, adding a touch of natural beauty to your day. Inside, the Loft and other levels give you cozy spaces for your ceremony or small reception.

Your rental includes access to all three levels, including the Bridal Suite and Groom’s Room, as well as tables, chairs, and setup. Staff are on hand to help your day run smoothly, and you can bring in your preferred vendors and supply your own alcohol, provided it’s served by a licensed bartending service. With its mix of rustic charm, architectural details, and mountain views, The Barn at Evergreen Memorial Park creates the perfect setting for a truly memorable rustic wedding in Colorado.

Rist Canyon Inn

Rist Canyon Inn in Fort Collins, Colorado, gives you a timeless farmhouse setting for a rustic wedding in Colorado. This 120-year-old farmhouse sits among old-growth trees, with golden pastures and a sparkling creek that provide a natural, serene backdrop.

The historic structure and surrounding landscape allow couples to craft a wedding day that feels intimate, intentional, and deeply connected to nature. Every corner of Rist Canyon Inn supports a celebration that reflects your story and your style.

Venue on the Rocks

Venue on the Rocks is an outdoor-only small wedding venue in Estes Park, Colorado. The space operates as a downtown coffee shop during regular hours but closes for private events, giving you exclusive use of the riverfront property for your wedding. Its pond and pavilion provide scenic spots for a ceremony or reception, surrounded by the natural rustic beauty of the area.

The venue accommodates up to 50 guests, making it ideal for an intimate wedding or elopement. Because the entire venue is outdoors, it’s important to plan for potential weather changes. The pavilion offers some coverage, but having a backup plan for spring or fall conditions will help your day stay stress-free.

Fall is a popular time to celebrate here, when the surrounding aspen trees shift into brilliant yellow and orange tones, creating a striking backdrop for your photos. You can reserve the venue for just your ceremony, just your reception, or both, and packages vary depending on your choice. The combination of riverside views, seasonal colors, and intimate spaces makes Venue on the Rocks a standout option for planning a rustic wedding in Colorado that feels genuinely personal.

Colorado is full of incredible venues that can bring your rustic wedding in Colorado to life. If you want a longer list or want to see which other spaces match your rustic aesthetic, check out my full guide to Colorado micro wedding venues for more inspiration.

What About Rustic Elopements in Colorado?

Exploring Colorado’s landscapes can bring a sense of adventure to your rustic wedding. From rugged mountains and sweeping plains to canyons, dunes, and mesas, the state is full of locations that let your celebration feel authentic and personal.

Choosing a location outside a traditional venue gives you the freedom to design your day exactly how you want. Whether it’s a quiet mountaintop, a riverside hideaway, or a hidden desert spot, a rustic wedding in Colorado can be as intimate, yet adventurous, as you imagine.

I love photographing couples in these incredible settings because every location shapes how the day unfolds. On a mountaintop, you might share your first look with the wind in your hair and clouds sweeping across the peaks. By a river, you might toast your vows with the sound of rushing water in the background. These moments (small, honest, and unplanned) are what make a rustic wedding in Colorado feel real and unforgettable.

If you’re interested in adding a little nature or adventure to your rustic wedding in Colorado, I have a guide that breaks down the best places to elope across the state. This is a full resource that covers mountains, lakeside spots, national and state parks, Airbnbs, and other truly rustic outdoor settings. It gives you the details you need to choose the right location, plan logistics, and make your Colorado elopement or micro wedding run smoothly.

Consider an Airbnb or VRBO for Your Rustic Wedding in Colorado

If you want an intimate connection with nature without booking a traditional venue, Airbnb or VRBO can be a great option for your rustic wedding in Colorado. These spaces let you have a small ceremony while also giving you access to nearby landscapes for portraits and outdoor moments.

Smaller spaces make decorating easier and give you more control over the flow of your day. You can pick a property that matches your style or has amenities that matter to you, like a hot tub, a large deck, or a scenic view.

Airbnb and VRBO weddings do require a bit of planning to understand how everything works. If this sounds like your style, I have two guides that can help: a curated list of the most beautiful Airbnbs and VRBOs for weddings in Colorado and a step-by-step guide for planning your Airbnb wedding.

What to Wear to Your Rustic Wedding?

When it comes to your rustic wedding attire, the goal is to embrace your true selves and express your unique style as a couple. Your clothing should reflect your authenticity and feel natural for the setting and the day. If you’re looking for a little inspiration to guide your rustic wedding look, here are some ideas to consider:

Boots

Boots can add both style and practicality to your rustic wedding outfit. Whether you choose cowboy boots, hiking boots, or sturdy Western-style work boots, you’ll find a wide selection across Colorado and the Southwest. Shops like Roper in Denver offer a variety of boots and clothing options that fit a rustic aesthetic and will help complete your look.

Hats

Hats are another fun and versatile accessory for a rustic wedding. A well-chosen hat can add personality and dimension to your wedding attire. Brands like Gigi Pip, Sunbody, or Hats by Parker Thomas have stylish options that work beautifully with rustic wedding photos. If traditional hats aren’t your style, a flower crown or other natural headpiece can give a soft, outdoorsy touch to your portraits.

Rustic Wedding Attire Ideas

When planning the rest of your outfit, focus on pieces that feel authentic to you. A rustic wedding gives room for playful details, like subtle lace accents, a touch of denim, or carefully chosen belt buckles. Accessories like turquoise or bold, chunky jewelry can add color and texture while keeping your ensemble grounded in the rustic Colorado setting. Above all, wear what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourselves on your wedding day.

Rustic Wedding Decor Ideas

Fun Florals

In a rustic Western wedding, it’s sometimes the small details that truly shine. When choosing your wedding bouquet or floral arrangements, consider earthy, dried flowers or bold, vibrant wildflowers to achieve that rustic vibe. Bouquets featuring dried palm fans paired with feathery pampas grass, cotton stems, or even succulents can add unique elements to your overall look.

While natural colors often dominate rustic wedding décor, don’t be afraid to incorporate those vibrant and bold hues inspired by wildflowers. Keep the look natural, but have fun with pops of color. Consider incorporating other elements like sunflowers, allowing them to add a playful and eye-catching touch to your wedding décor.

Bring Natural Elements into Your Décor

In a rustic setting, the environment can do a lot of the work for you. Incorporate natural elements like logs, wooden barrels, hay bales, stones, and vintage items to add character and charm. Logs or large stones can serve as an altar, barrels can hold florals or refreshments, and small antique items can add personality.

Budget-friendly options abound. Explore thrift stores, antique shops, or even local farms for pieces that feel authentic and unique. A little creativity goes a long way when integrating natural elements that enhance your Colorado rustic wedding aesthetic.

Textures and Lighting to Set the Mood

Layering textures helps bring warmth and depth to your celebration. Mix lace, wood, leather, and soft fabrics to give your space dimension. Complement textures with thoughtful lighting, such as lanterns, candles, or string lights, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. By letting textures and lighting work together, you can create a rustic wedding in Colorado that feels intimate, intentional, and memorable.

Other Considerations for Your Rustic Wedding

Moody Weather

Colorado might be famous for its 300 days of sunshine, but the weather can still surprise you. Rain, snow, or hail can roll in quickly, even during warmer months, so it’s always smart to plan ahead. Bring umbrellas and blankets to stay comfortable, and think through a plan B in case the forecast turns truly stormy. Whether that means moving your ceremony under a covered area or shifting your timeline slightly, we can plan those backup options together so nothing catches you off guard.

Temperature Changes

The temperature can shift fast here, especially when moving from sun to shade or once the sun dips behind the mountains. Days often start cool, warm up quickly, and drop again after sunset. Packing layers will help you stay comfortable, and your guests will appreciate having options too. Altitude can also make those changes feel more dramatic, so keep that in mind when planning your outfits and timeline.

Altitude

If your venue sits at a higher elevation, give yourself time to adjust…especially if you’re traveling from sea level. Hydrate well before and during your trip, and take breaks if you start feeling lightheaded or tired. It’s also worth noting that alcohol tends to hit harder at altitude, so pace yourself during your celebration and encourage guests to do the same. A little preparation goes a long way toward making sure everyone feels great and can fully enjoy the day.

All of this, of course, changes with the seasons. Weather, lighting, and temperatures can vary wildly depending on the time of year and location. For a deeper look at what to expect (and how to plan around it), check out my guide on when to get married in Colorado. It walks you through each season so you can choose the one that fits your rustic wedding vision best.

Ready to Plan Your Rustic Wedding in Colorado?

Planning a rustic wedding in Colorado means leaning into what feels true to your wild hearts. Whether that’s saying your vows surrounded by aspen trees, celebrating under open skies, or keeping things simple with just a few loved ones, the details should reflect your connection and what matters most.

If you’re drawn to the idea of blending natural beauty with meaningful intention and a rustic vibe, I’d love to help you bring it to life. I’ll walk you through finding the right location, navigating logistics, and capturing every moment in a way that feels real and effortless.

Ready to start planning your Colorado rustic wedding? Let’s make it happen together.