Susan + Todd: a fall micro-wedding story at a vacation house in Winter Park

Their Story:  ​"Todd and I met in Atlanta (we're both from the South) and have always wanted to move to Colorado,  We like to camp, hike, and mountain bike, and have a little rescue dog and a cat named Fred. We have access to a free vacation house near Winter Park.  I could probably plan the wedding myself, but I work full-time and its sooner soon, and on the wedding day, I don't want to be responsible for setting everything up and managing all the vendors."

Colorado Micro-Wedding Package

© Kathryn Kim Photography

Wedding Planning:  Susan and Todd decided to marry at a friend's vacation house in Winter Park, Colorado.  So, the venue was taken care of when she contacted us at about two months out.  Though we have benches that couples can add-on for guest seating, they decided to have a small intimate standing wedding among the trees with 20 guests.

Colorado Micro-Wedding Package

© Kathryn Kim Photography

Micro-Wedding Day: Initially, Susan and Todd were thinking of hiring a personal chef to cook at the vacation house.  But after giving it some thought, they realized that going to a nearby restaurant would be an easier option.  So, We developed timing and sequencing to include: 

• Having hair and makeup appoints at the house followed by getting ready with mom
• Meeting the groom and his parents for pinning of the boutonniere
• A private first-look with the couple
• Playing some background music as the guests were arriving.  Idea: set-out a self service beverage station.  
• Getting situated for the ceremony and choreographing a bride’s entrance
• Cheer, celebrating, signing of the marriage license and group photos.  Idea: set-out a charcuterie board along with a self-service beverage station and play some music.
• Guests went ahead to the restaurant for more tasty hors d’oeuvres
• Couple only photos with the photographer
• Couple’s arrival at the restaurant and their cutting-of-the-cake before being seated for dinner. 

Of course, I’m biased, but I think our small wedding packages in the mountains are picturesque (honestly, we specialize in finding small wedding sites with a view)!  And, with our small intimate wedding package, you get an onsite coordinator who not only assists with pickup & deliveries of cake and flowers, but she also brings a Bluetooth speaker to play ceremony music and is with you throughout the service working behind-the-scenes for the couple, their wedding party and guests to ensure the day flows smoothly. ⬇️ 🎉 

Colorado Micro-Wedding Package

© Kathryn Kim Photography

Tips and Ideas: Picture this: a gentle breeze rustling through the palm trees, the soft sound of waves crashing in the distance, and the love of your life waiting for you at an idyllic vacation house overlooking the ocean. Planning a dream wedding at your very own vacation house is more than just a possibility – it's a truly magical experience. In this ultimate guide, we will show you how to turn your vacation home into the wedding venue of your dreams. From unique ideas to unforgettable experiences, get ready to say "I Do" in paradise with these five tips for planning the perfect vacation house wedding.

• Know the seasons:  Colorado's weather can be different along the Front Range (Colorado Springs, Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins) which sits at a lower destination versus the higher elevation locations in the mountains (Breckenridge, Estes Park, Vail).  So, become familiar with weather patterns. A summer or fall wedding can take advantage of the state's glorious outdoor scenery, while a winter wedding might provide a gorgeous snow-capped backdrop.
• Keep your group size small.  Consider whether the property has sufficient space for the ceremony and reception or if you'll need to rent additional equipment.  Know that many vacation homes will limit their group sizes to 20, 25, 35 or 40.  There are very few that will allow for lager events over 40 and very rarely will you find one that will allow for over 60 people. 
• Location scouting: Start searching for property management companies and on VRBO.com.  Ask local vendors such as planners that specialize in small intimate weddings and personal chefs.  Narrow down the options to ensure that your vacation house is in proximity to local amenities and is accessible to guests.

Colorado Micro-Wedding Package

© Kathryn Kim Photography

If you're dreaming of a magical, intimate wedding celebration that captures the essence of your love and personality, consider renting a vacation home as your wedding venue. Colorado vacation homes come in all shapes and sizes and offer a unique and personal alternative to traditional wedding venues. But before you book your dream vacation home for your special day, there are several factors to consider. To help you plan your perfect vacation house micro-wedding, reach out to Wendee to keep it simple and easy.  

Remember that not all vacation homes are suitable for a complete wedding experience. Some vacation homes may offer more flexibility, allowing for the entire wedding to be held on the property. Others might offer indoor space for the ceremony and only outdoor space for the reception. Be realistic about what your vacation home can offer and work with your planner to create the most magical experience.

Planning your wedding in a vacation home is an exciting and unique way to celebrate your special day. With careful planning, a clear vision and the right team, you can create a magical and intimate wedding that you and your guests will cherish for a lifetime. The possibilities are endless. So go ahead, make your dreams come true!

Colorado Micro-Wedding Package

Colorado Micro-Wedding Package

• Intimate Wedding Package:  www.CustomWeddingsoColorado.com, inclusive of planning, florals, cake, photography and onsite coordination.  Contact Wendee to get started. 
• Package inclusions:  Photographer:  Kathryn Kim Photography |  Florals:  Stefanie Hofmeister  |  Baker: La Patisserie Francaise  |  Officiant: Rev. Chris Mohr
• Items to budget outside of the package:  Hair & Makeup: Tiffani Lundquist  |  Dinner:  Tabernash Tavern  |   Lodging: vacation home owned by a friend   |  Couples also need to budget for travel expenses, attire, rings and marriage license. 

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