How to Prepare for a High-Altitude Wedding in Colorado

How to Prepare for High Altitude at Your Colorado Wedding

If you’re planning to say “I do” in the beautiful Colorado mountains, you are in for quite the treat! Not only is Colorado known for its stunning backdrops, majestic peaks, and verdant valleys, Colorado weddings offer some of the most picturesque settings you can imagine. But while the views are incredible, the high altitude can bring some unique challenges that every couple should consider when planning their big day.

My partner and I have both been living and adventuring in Colorado for almost 10 years now, and have truly learned how to navigate the altitude to adventure safely.

High-altitude weddings in Colorado can be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. But if you and your wedding party aren’t properly prepared, the thin mountain air might leave you feeling winded, dehydrated, or just plain uncomfortable. No one wants to be worrying about altitude sickness on their wedding day! To help you prepare for a seamless celebration, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on how to get ready for your high-altitude Colorado wedding.

1. Understand High Altitude Effects on the Body

The first step in preparing for your Colorado wedding is understanding how high altitude can affect your body. At sea level, air pressure is about 14.7 psi (pounds per square inch). As you go higher, the air pressure decreases and the amount of oxygen in the air drops. In Colorado, many wedding venues are located above 5,000 feet, and the higher the elevation, the lower the oxygen levels.

Common symptoms of altitude sickness include:

Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Fatigue
Nausea or headaches

At elevations above 8,000 feet, people who are not acclimated can start feeling the effects of the thin air, and this can be especially impactful if you’re planning to hold your wedding at a higher altitude location, like Aspen, Breckenridge, or Telluride.

Check out these 11 Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness !

Understanding these symptoms is the first step in ensuring that you and your guests stay comfortable and healthy during your wedding.

2. Choose the Right Venue (And Ask the Right Questions)

When selecting your venue, make sure to choose one that suits your guest list and preferences, but also take into account how high the venue is located. Venues at lower altitudes (below 5,000 feet) are generally more comfortable for guests who may not be acclimated to higher elevations. If you’re set on a mountain venue, such as a lodge in the Rockies, you’ll want to consider locations that are between 5,000 to 7,000 feet above sea level for a balance of beauty and comfort.

Be sure to ask your venue these important questions:

Do you have experience hosting weddings at this elevation?
Do you provide accommodations for guests who may need to rest or acclimate?
Do you have indoor areas in case of bad weather?
Are there any accommodations for guests with mobility challenges, especially due to altitude?

Venues like Sunshine Mountain Lodge, Della Terra Mountain Chateau, or The Pines at Genesee are all excellent options for high-altitude weddings in Colorado. Just be mindful of how high the elevation goes and plan accordingly.

3. Help Your Guests Acclimate for High-Altitude Wedding

If you’re planning a high-altitude wedding, especially above 7,000 feet, you’ll want to help your guests acclimate. Ideally, everyone should arrive in Colorado a few days before the wedding to give their bodies time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. While some guests may adjust quickly, others could need extra time. The more time they have, the better!

Here are a few tips for helping guests acclimate:

Stay hydrated: Encourage guests to drink plenty of water before and during the wedding. Staying hydrated is key in preventing altitude sickness. This is especially true if they’re planning outdoor activities like hiking or sightseeing before the big day.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body, so it’s best to encourage guests to minimize their consumption in the days leading up to the wedding.
Take it easy: Encourage a slower pace for activities leading up to the wedding. Overexerting themselves at high altitudes can make symptoms of altitude sickness worse. If guests are planning outdoor adventures, like hiking, suggest a light and easy stroll at first.
Rest up: Be sure your guests get plenty of sleep. Altitude sickness can be exacerbated by lack of rest, so a well-rested body is better prepared to deal with the thinner air.

If any guests are feeling symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, nausea, shortness of breath), advise them to take it easy and, if necessary, to descend to a lower elevation to feel better.

4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

At high altitudes, dehydration can happen faster than you might think. The air is drier and you’re at risk of losing more fluids, so it’s crucial to keep yourself—and your guests—hydrated throughout the day.

Water stations: Make sure there are ample water stations throughout the wedding venue. Consider placing water stations near the ceremony, reception area, and near high-traffic areas like bathrooms and photo booths.
Pre-wedding hydration: In the days leading up to your wedding, make hydration a priority. Drink plenty of water yourself, and encourage your wedding party and guests to do the same.
Water-friendly wedding favors: Consider gifting reusable water bottles as wedding favors. This can remind guests to stay hydrated and also adds a practical, eco-friendly touch to your celebration.

5. Plan for Appropriate Attire

Planning what to wear at your Colorado wedding can make all the difference when it comes to dealing with the unpredictable mountain weather. While Colorado is known for its sunny days, the temperatures can fluctuate dramatically in the mountains, especially in the fall or spring. Consider the following attire tips:

Brides: Opt for layers that can be added or removed throughout the day. A light shawl or cozy jacket is perfect for colder moments.
Grooms: Consider a light suit jacket or vest for the ceremony that can easily be removed during the reception if things warm up.
Shoes: If your ceremony is taking place on uneven terrain, make sure your bridal party is comfortable. Choose shoes that are sturdy yet elegant—think wedge heels for brides or flat shoes for the bridal party.
Guests: Recommend that your guests dress in layers and bring a light jacket or sweater. This way, no one will feel too hot or too cold when temperatures fluctuate.

We loved this guide from Wedding Frontier on What to Wear to a Mountain Wedding?

6. Colorado Wedding Weather Tips- Always Consider the Weather

Even in the warmer months, Colorado wedding weather tips are something that MUST be considered! These high-altitude regions can see drastic weather changes, sometimes even during the same day. When planning a wedding in the mountains, be prepared for the possibility of rain, snow, or wind, especially if your ceremony is outdoors. A well-thought-out backup plan is essential for keeping everything smooth.

Tips for dealing with Colorado wedding weather:

Have an indoor backup plan in case of inclement weather.
Provide umbrellas for your guests in case of rain.
Ensure your ceremony space is sheltered from wind, or provide fans or heaters as necessary.

7. Hire Vendors with High-Altitude Experience

When choosing vendors for your Colorado wedding, it’s helpful to choose those who are familiar with high-altitude events. From photographers to caterers, make sure your vendors know how to work in mountain settings and have experience dealing with the unique challenges that high-altitude weddings present.

Photographers who have worked in the mountains will know how to account for lighting, altitude, and unpredictable weather to capture the best moments. Caterers experienced in high-altitude weddings will understand the importance of meal planning, hydration, and adjusting cooking methods for the altitude.

A high-altitude Colorado wedding can be absolutely magical—there’s no denying that. With a little preparation, you can ensure that everyone, including you and your guests, will feel comfortable and ready to celebrate. From selecting the right venue and helping guests acclimate to staying hydrated and dressing appropriately, these tips will help make your mountain wedding day stress-free and unforgettable.

Enchanted Visuals Photography