Crested Butte wedding photographer, Rebecca Ofstedahl with Third Eye Photography is the go-to when it comes to tips on planning your Crested Butte wedding! Whether you envision an outdoor ceremony with majestic mountains in the backdrop, a rustic barn wedding, or a cozy indoor reception surrounded by charming decor, Crested Butte wedding photography studio Third Eye Photography can help you make your dream wedding come true. In this guide, we’ll explore why Crested Butte should be at the top of your list for your wedding destination.

1. Wedding Location Suggestions From Your Crested Butte Wedding Photographer

Crested Butte Mountain Resort is a perfect location for your Crested Butte wedding! With the endless 360 degree views the Ten Peaks location is a primer outdoor wedding location.

There are many other locations to have a ceremony and/or reception in our quaint little town. The Mountain Wedding Garden is a beautiful location, especially in the height of the flower season. This spot lends itself to amazing views of the mountains as well as a flowery garden for your ceremony and a covered pavilion of your reception.

There are dozens of outdoor locations for a Crested Butte wedding near downtown. These locations may be rented from the Crested Butte Land Trust or the Town of Crested Butte and are perfect for your outdoor mountain wedding. Downtown Crested Butte has several restaurants perfect for indoor receptions or small wedding dinners. Visit the Gunnison Crested Butte Wedding Guide for a list of these locations.

And if you like the beauty of the mountain ranges and the ease of an all-inclusive indoor locations, the Club at Crested Butte is perfect. Sitting atop a pristine golf course, the Club offers the ease of an indoor Crested Butte wedding with the beauty of the surrounding mountain backdrop.

Be sure to book early, these locations are very popular during the Crested Butte wedding season and can book over a year in advance!

2. Tips for Your Guests From a Local Crested Butte Wedding Photographer

We are at 9000ft

That means the sun rays are harsher, the air is thinner and there is less oxygen. Be sure to let your guests know of these issues and help them prepare properly. Remind them to bring hats and sunscreen, and re-apply regularly during the day. Drink lots of water! And I mean LOTS! Driving from a lower altitude can help so guests can fly into Denver CO and stay overnight and drive the beautiful 4-hour drive to Crested Butte the next day. Other close-by airports include Montrose and Grand Junction.

Transportation for Your Crested Butte Wedding

There is a local bus that drives around town and up the mountain throughout the summer and the winter. This bus runs every 15 minutes in the summer and 20 minutes in the winter and is a great, free way to get around. There is the National Forest, which can accommodate large parties and is typically used to shuttle guests from Crested Butte Mountain Resort locations. You can also rent townie bikes to easily cruise around downtown Crested Butte or venture out on some of the easy bike trails like the Recreation Path.

Lodging for You and Your Guests

There are a variety of lodging options in a variety of price ranges and locations in the Crested Butte valley. Guests tend to enjoy staying on the mountain during the winter and in town during the summer, although both is readily accessible with the free local bus. But keep in mind the smaller, more private lodging options will book up fast during our busiest months; December, July and September.

Attire for Your Crested Butte Wedding

We are “Colorado-casual” here. We are a laid-back town with a high-end edge. On any given summer weekend you can find people in jeans and sweatshirts or heels and dresses. All fashion is acceptable, but many of the locals enjoy a more casual look.

3. An Intimate, Romantic Atmosphere in Crested Butte

Crested Butte’s small-town charm creates an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for couples looking to get away from the stress and crowds of bigger cities. With a population of just over 1,500, the town offers a peaceful environment where you and your guests can focus on what matters most—celebrating your love.

Personalized Weddings in a Relaxed Setting

Unlike big wedding destinations, Crested Butte offers a slower pace and a sense of calm that helps you truly enjoy every moment of your wedding day. The town’s cozy atmosphere ensures that your wedding feels like an intimate celebration, allowing you to connect with your guests in a meaningful way. The personal touch provided by local vendors like Crested Butte wedding photographer’s Third Eye Photography and planners will help you create the wedding of your dreams without the stress and hassle.

A Supportive Local Community

One of the most charming aspects of getting married in Crested Butte is the sense of community. The town’s locals are incredibly supportive and welcoming, and the town has a strong tradition of hosting weddings. You’ll feel like part of the community as local vendors work with you to create a personalized and unforgettable wedding experience.

4. An Adventurous Wedding Destination Captured by Crested Butte Wedding Photography Studio, Third Eye Photography

Crested Butte is known for its outdoor adventure offerings, making it the perfect place for couples who enjoy outdoor activities and want their wedding weekend to be filled with adventure.

Hiking, Biking, and Outdoor Exploration

Crested Butte is renowned for its hiking and mountain biking trails, which offer both scenic beauty and a range of difficulty levels. From leisurely walks to more challenging hikes, your wedding guests can enjoy the surrounding wilderness before or after your ceremony. The town is also famous for its mountain biking trails, with routes suitable for all skill levels.

Skiing and Snowboarding in the Winter

Crested Butte is home to one of the top ski resorts in Colorado. If you’re having a winter wedding, guests can enjoy the world-class skiing and snowboarding that the Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers. A winter wedding in Crested Butte can be followed by a day on the slopes or a cozy evening by the fire.

Fly Fishing, Boating, and More

For a more relaxing experience, guests can enjoy activities such as fly fishing on the Gunnison River, paddleboarding on the Blue Mesa Reservoir, or simply exploring the area’s wildlife. With so much to do, your wedding guests can have the ultimate adventure weekend in Crested Butte.

5. Convenient Yet Secluded Location

While Crested Butte offers all the peace and privacy of a mountain destination, it is still relatively easy to get to. The Crested Butte Airport and the Montrose Regional Airport offers daily flights from Denver, making travel to the area simple and convenient. For guests driving in, the town is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient yet remote destination.

Affordable Yet Exclusive Destination

Compared to other luxury wedding destinations in Colorado, Crested Butte is an affordable option that still offers an exclusive and intimate experience. The cost of wedding venues and accommodations is often more budget-friendly than places like Aspen or Vail, which makes Crested Butte a great option for couples who want a high-end wedding experience without the sky-high price tag.

6. A Historic Town with Modern Amenities

Crested Butte blends its historic charm with modern amenities, making it the perfect place to host a wedding with both rustic appeal and modern comfort. The town’s Victorian architecture adds to the picturesque charm, and there’s a variety of local shops, restaurants, and bars where you and your guests can enjoy the town’s unique culture.

7. A Natural Canvas for Every Season Captured by Crested Butte Wedding Photographer Rebecca Ofstedahl

Crested Butte offers incredible beauty in every season, allowing you to choose a wedding season that perfectly matches your style and vision. Whether you prefer the vibrant colors of summer, the golden leaves of fall, or the serene snow-covered landscapes of winter, Crested Butte has something special to offer.

• Summer: Crested Butte is known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” and during the summer months, the area is covered in vibrant wildflowers. The meadows bloom with every shade of color, from yellows and reds to purples and blues. A summer wedding in Crested Butte provides a beautiful, natural setting full of life and color.
• Fall: Fall in Crested Butte is nothing short of magical. As the leaves change, the landscape transforms into a sea of golden aspens and fiery orange and red foliage. The cool crisp air, combined with the warm colors of the trees, creates a romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for a wedding. The fall months in Crested Butte are truly one of the most picturesque times to say “I do.”
• Winter: For couples who love snow and winter landscapes, Crested Butte offers a snowy wonderland during the winter months. With snow-covered peaks and frosted trees, a winter wedding in Crested Butte feels like something out of a fairy tale. Imagine cozy indoor receptions with roaring fires or outdoor ceremonies surrounded by glistening snow—winter weddings here are truly special.

8. Local Vendors with Expertise like Crested Butte Wedding Photography Studio Third Eye Photography

Crested Butte, Colorado, offers a variety of wedding vendors to assist in planning your special day. Here are some local options:​

Third Eye Photography: As a Crested Butte wedding photographer for the last two decades, Rebecca is here to capture your special day and create your first family heirlooms. Bringing the fun, adventure, laughter and heart Rebecca will handle everything- bringing you the ease, comfort, joy and beauty you, your images and day deserve!

Creative Catering: Led by master cater Josephine Kellett, offering over 20 years of experience in restaurant and event catering to bring your culinary visions to life. 

Alpenglow Events: Provides personalized event planning and rental services throughout the Gunnison Valley and Western Slope regions of Colorado. 

Firefly Entertainment LLC: Offers DJ services, ensuring your wedding music is tailored to your preferences and keeps the dance floor lively. 

Bramble and Bloom Floral: Specializes in custom floral designs with an organic, non-traditional style for weddings and special occasions. 

For a comprehensive list of wedding vendors, you can visit the Gunnison-Crested Butte Wedding Council’s directory. ​Additionally, the Crested Butte Chamber of Commerce provides a list of wedding and event services, including planners, photographers, caterers, and more. These resources should help you find the perfect vendors to make your wedding in Crested Butte unforgettable.

Not looking for a Crested Butte wedding photographer? Please be sure to consider us for your family and children photography needs in the Crested Butte area. Visit Third Eye Photography!

We are located conveniently in Crested Butte. Please call or email us for more information.