Planning a wedding is undeniably an exciting process, with every aspect symbolizing the love you and your partner share, from the venue to the flowers and everything in between. However, it’s no secret that weddings can be a significant financial investment. Fortunately, when planning your dream Colorado wedding, it’s possible to do so on a budget without compromising on the dreams you have for your big day. 

The following are a few ideas and suggestions on how to plan a beautiful Colorado wedding without breaking the bank.

Prioritize

First, determine what matters most to you and your partner. Is the venue the most important thing? Or do you care more about the food? Be sure to list your priorities in order because this list will guide your budget allocations. 

Pick the Right Venue

One of the key factors of wedding planning is choosing the venue. Colorado is a step ahead with its array of free and inexpensive wedding venues, from panoramic mountain tops and serene lakes to lush gardens and historical structures. Take advantage of having a naturally stunning locale by choosing a picturesque spot that requires little to no decoration. Keep in mind that some outdoor locations such as national parks may require you to acquire a permit for a minimal fee.

Time It Right 

The date and time of your wedding significantly impact the costs. Off-peak seasons warrant lower venue rates, cheaper accommodations, and potentially discounted services from vendors eager to find work during slower times. Similarly, laid-back brunch, lunch, or weekday weddings often cost less than Saturday night events.

DIY When Possible

Making your own wedding decor can save you a significant amount of money. This could range from table centerpieces to signage, invitations, and even bridal accessories. Colorado’s nature vibe lends itself very well to DIY with elements you can find outdoors such as pinecones, wildflowers, or river stones. However, be realistic about your time and abilities. If the thought of making your decorations or invitations is stressing you out, it’s not worth the savings.

Food and Drink

Choosing local, in-season foods and beverages can reduce catering costs. Consider opting for a buffet or family-style meal rather than plated service or have your wedding meal catered from your favorite casual restaurant. Additionally, Colorado’s renowned craft breweries and local wineries offer affordable and delicious alternatives to imported wines and beers.

Leverage Local Talent

Keep your wedding budget-friendly while also supporting local businesses. From photographers to florists, to musicians, Colorado has an abundance of talented professionals who offer reasonable rates for quality services. 

Keep It Small

Managing your guest list can be one of the most challenging aspects of wedding planning, but it’s also one of the most effective ways to cut costs. Each additional invite means another head to feed and seat. An intimate wedding not only costs less but also allows more personal interaction with each of your guests.

Plan the Wedding of Your Dreams at Our Greeley Wedding Venue

The spiraling costs associated with crafting the perfect wedding can oftentimes feel overwhelming. However, it is perfectly doable to plan a dream wedding in Colorado that doesn’t break the bank, particularly at our enchanted wedding venue known as Platte River Fort. 

Located just east of the welcoming town of Greeley, Platte River Fort is the epitome of rustic elegance, offering a backdrop that seamlessly blends natural beauty and historic charm. Our venue provides an array of options to create a memorable experience while keeping costs in check. Here are just a few ways to plan a Colorado wedding on a budget at the Platte River Fort.

Use the Surrounding Natural Beauty

Platte River Fort boasts stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, the meandering Platte River, and serene pastures. Our venue’s picturesque settings eliminate the need for extravagant décor, saving you a considerable amount in the process. A breathtaking Colorado sunset can be the perfect backdrop that no amount of money can buy.

Flexible Space Options

The Platte River Fort offers flexibility with indoor and outdoor spaces that are suitable for both ceremonies and receptions. From the courtyard to their expansive barn, each area lends itself to customization according to your taste, guest count, and budget. This flexibility allows you to control costs by curating a space that suits your exact needs rather than paying for unnecessary space.

Accommodations

Another cost-effective feature of hosting your wedding at Platte River Fort is our onsite accommodations. Our Greeley wedding venue also features a lodge with rustic décor and luxurious amenities that can sleep up to 25 guests. Enjoying your wedding night right at Platte River Fort is not only convenient, but it’s also a great way to cut down on accommodation and transportation costs. 

Weekday Weddings

Weekdays are becoming an increasingly popular choice for budget-conscious couples. Platte River Fort offers affordable rates for weekday weddings that can significantly reduce the overall cost of your wedding, while not compromising on the experience.

Plan an Off-Season Wedding

In Colorado, off-peak wedding season is typically during the winter months. During this time, Platte River Fort offers a gorgeous snow-covered backdrop with lower venue costs, thus enabling you to save more on your budget. 

All-Inclusive Packages

Platte River Fort offers comprehensive wedding packages that include the venue, use of tables and chairs, one night stay in the bridal suite and more, reducing the amount of time you need to spend sourcing individual items and possibly minimizing costs significantly.

Plan Your Wedding on a Budget at Platte River Fort

Planning a Colorado wedding on a budget is all about prioritizing what truly matters to you and your partner. At Platte River Fort, you’ll find a unique and versatile venue that is committed to working with you to achieve your dream wedding without overstretching your finances. In Greeley’s hidden gem, it’s all about celebrating love in its purest form, surrounded by natural beauty and the people you cherish most. For more information or to schedule an in-person tour, contact Platte River Fort.