How to Have a Stunning Colorado Wedding for Under $10,000

(Yes, seriously — and no, it doesn’t have to scream “budget.”)

Let’s be real: weddings can feel like financial quicksand. But you don’t have to spend a down payment on a single day to make it feel magical. Whether you’re planning something chill in the mountains or quirky and creative in your hometown, a beautiful Colorado wedding can happen on a $10K budget — and still look like a million bucks.

Here's how to pull it off without cutting out the joy (or the beer):

The $10,000 Colorado Wedding Budget Breakdown

Category	Estimated Cost
Venue(s)	$1,500 – Bishop’s Castle ($500 donation) + Reception at Beulah Wildlife Nature Center ($600–$1,200 avg)
Photography	$2,000 – $2,500 (worth every damn penny)
Catering	$1,500 – Local food truck, BBQ, or buffet-style (50–75 guests)
Dress	$100 – $400 (rent, thrift, or buy secondhand)
Fake Florals & Decor	$200 – $400 (Michaels, Facebook Marketplace, and creative hacks)
Makeup	$100 – $150 (Bride only – keep it simple and glowing)
Cake	$60 – $150 (Yes, Sam’s Club does tiered wedding cakes now!)
Invitations	$0 – $50 (DIY or digital via Canva or Zola)
Music	$0 – $800 (Budget DJ or trusted friend + curated playlist)
Misc. Extras & Permits	$200 – Cushion for things like restrooms, permits, or last-minute surprises
Total	≈ $9,900 – and yes, this includes actual food, florals, and fun 🎉

Budget Tips That Actually Work

Hot Take: No Plus-Ones, No Kids

It’s not cold-hearted — it’s just practical. Keeping the guest list tight = fewer mouths to feed, fewer chairs to rent, and more time to actually hang with the people you love most. Plus, fewer crying kids during the vows? Win-win.

Rethink the Rings

You don’t need a giant diamond to symbolize your forever. Think alternative stones (moissanite, sapphire, black onyx) or simple, elegant bands from Etsy. Custom doesn’t have to mean expensive.

Guys Can Rent or Thrift

Grooms and groomsmen can easily rent suits, buy off-the-rack at Target, or thrift something killer. Nobody’s going to notice the label — they will notice if you’re comfortable and confident.

DIY Invitations

Canva is your best friend. Make something gorgeous and either send it digitally or print it at home or through a cheap online print shop. Bonus: no licking envelopes.

Fake It Beautifully

Faux florals have come so far. Michaels has tons of options, and you can mix in dried elements or greenery to keep it natural. Bonus points for reusing bouquets or repurposing ceremony flowers at the reception.

Focus on the Bride

You do not need a full glam team unless it feels right for you. Keeping makeup pro-level for the bride and letting everyone else do their own thing keeps costs down and mornings less chaotic. (And hey, less people in the getting-ready space = more calm.)

Where to Splurge (Because Some Things Actually Matter)

The Food

People may forget your seating chart — they won’t forget if they left hungry. Invest in a solid meal, whether it’s a taco truck, BBQ buffet, or even family-style pasta bowls. Feed people well = good vibes all night.

The DJ

A great DJ does more than just play music — they guide the flow, read the room, and turn awkward silence into dance floor gold. If you can swing it, a pro is worth it. If not, pick a music-savvy friend and plan your playlist with care.

The Photographer (yep — that’s me 👋)

Photography is one of the few things that lasts beyond the day. And guess what? Your photographer is with you more than just about anyone else that day. Make sure it’s someone who sees you, hypes you up, and captures the in-between moments that matter most. (Psst — I travel, I plan, I bring snacks. Just saying.)

Final Thoughts

Weddings don’t have to be giant productions. You don’t need fireworks or gold foil menus to have a day that feels sacred, stylish, and totally you. You just need some creativity, a little planning, and vendors who actually give a damn.

Want help pulling it off? I’ve photographed couples in castles, mountain trails, backyard gardens, and brewery patios — and every one of them was beautiful in its own way.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s big on heart, easy on the budget, and full of real, raw moments — let’s talk.

xo Rachel