WEDDINGS: A ROCKY DESTINATION WEDDING

A Rocky Destination Wedding

By Cristina Carter

As we settle back into the mix of things in these postpandemic days, more and more couples are choosing to celebrate their special day in a big way – a destination wedding. Many couples had to postpone their original wedding plans and have been planning on ways to make up for the long-awaited wedding for almost two years.

When Farrell and Michael invited me to their destination wedding in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Estes Park, Colorado, I was thrilled. It had been ages since I left Tally, let alone been on a plane, and I was ready! Here are some tips from a destination wedding guest you might want to consider if you’re planning a one this holiday season (or beyond):

1. Your website is your first impression - and last.

I still can’t get over how cute it is that “Farrell and Michael had chemistry when they first met, literally. They met in chemistry class." I also learned much more from their site. Be sure to include where to stay, how to get there, things to do, etc. Remind your guests to check the website the day of the event for any last-minute changes.

2. Provide lodging for guests and stay with them – no, seriously.

The more and more destination weddings I attend, the more I realize it’s not so much about the couple and more about the family and friends that surround them as a couple. This means instead of going on a honeymoon consider hanging out with your besties that flew in from around the country.

3. Take a day trip with your guests

As if lodging with them wasn’t enough, some couples go the extra mile and plan a special day aimed just for the guest’s pleasure. Farrell and Michael took us on a tour bus across the Rockies where we even encountered an elk or two (pictured).

4. Splurge

You’ve had plenty of time to plan this wedding, and then some. Know what you want and go for it. It’s all in the details. Whether it’s having a national top-ranked photographer or featuring your best friend's craft beer - it’s all about the experience.