Telluride Wedding
An elevated wedding guide to create your dream
Where rugged mountain grandeur meets refined celebration for a wedding that’s both elevated and unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of a Telluride wedding that blends the untamed beauty of the San Juan Mountains with the elegance of a luxury celebration, this iconic Colorado destination delivers in every season. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, golden aspen groves, and a storied Old West charm, Telluride offers a setting that feels both adventurous and refined. From intimate mountaintop elopements reached by gondola to lavish soirées in historic venues with sweeping alpine views, every detail here feels elevated by nature’s grandeur. A Telluride wedding is more than an event—it’s an experience where western spirit meets sophisticated design, creating memories as timeless as the mountains themselves.
This guide covers:
As a Colorado-based destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing love stories in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring places—and Telluride is truly one of the most extraordinary. With its dramatic mountain peaks, charming alpine streets, and untamed western spirit, it offers an unforgettable backdrop for couples who value intentional design, intimacy, and soul-stirring celebration. This guide is here to help you plan your dream Telluride wedding, while ensuring every golden-hued, windswept moment is documented with artistry and care.
1. What Makes Telluride, CO Special
2. When to Get Married in Telluride
4. Luxurious Experiences to Elevate Your Telluride Wedding
5. How to Get to Telluride
6. Western Welcome Gift Inspiration
7. Example Timeline for a Long Weekend Wedding
8. Finding Your Telluride Wedding Vendors
3. Telluride Wedding Venues
9. Finding Your Telluride Wedding Photographer
Hi, I'm Jayla!
I’m a luxury destination wedding photographer specializing in intimate, high-end celebrations—crafted with intention, captured with heart. Having grown up in the mountains of Colorado, Telluride holds a special place in my soul. With its soaring peaks, alpine meadows, and rich western charm, this iconic mountain town offers a wedding experience unlike anywhere else.
From the alpenglow spilling across rugged ridgelines to intimate ceremonies framed by endless alpine vistas, Telluride weddings are the perfect blend of elevated elegance and untamed natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a chic mountaintop celebration or a quiet, soulful gathering in a historic venue, I’m here to document your day with an editorial eye and a deep appreciation for the emotion and beauty that make it uniquely yours.
As your photographer, I bring a calm presence, a love for intentional details, and a passion for storytelling. My goal is to create imagery that feels as luxurious and effortless as your Telluride wedding—capturing every refined detail and every unscripted moment in between.
Where luxury meets adventure
about me
"You have really outdone yourself - these pictures are incredible. There are so many shots that captured this feeling of intimacy and, wow, they really took my breath away. Devin and I literally gasped, “wooow,” out loud a few times. Anyways, you’re a genius - just had to tell you."
- Katie & Devin
Devin and I literally gasped...
Unmatched Alpine Scenery
Nestled in a box canyon and surrounded by the jagged San Juan Mountains, Telluride offers some of the most dramatic mountain views in North America, perfect for jaw-dropping ceremony backdrops and golden-hour portraits.
01.
what makes
Telluride Special
Western Charm Meets Elevated Luxury
The historic mining-town streets, Victorian architecture, and rustic details blend seamlessly with world-class resorts, fine dining, and bespoke wedding experiences—giving couples a celebration that feels both authentic and indulgent.
02.
Unique Experiences for You & Guests
From arriving at your ceremony via gondola to exploring wildflower-covered trails, skiing powdery slopes, or horseback riding into alpine meadows, Telluride transforms a wedding into an unforgettable adventure.
03.
when to get married at Telluride
Choosing the perfect season for your Telluride wedding is essential to creating the atmosphere and experience you’ve been dreaming of. Each time of year transforms this mountain town in its own breathtaking way—from the wildflower-filled meadows and long, golden days of summer to the crisp, golden aspen glow of fall, the snow-dusted romance of winter, and the fresh, alpine energy of spring. Understanding the climate, crowd levels, and natural beauty throughout the year will help you plan a celebration that feels perfectly aligned with your vision. Here’s a closer look at what to expect during each season in Telluride and the surrounding San Juan Mountains:
Summer in Telluride is pure magic, with warm, sun-drenched days, cool mountain evenings, and meadows bursting with wildflowers. It’s the season for mountaintop ceremonies reached by gondola, cocktail hours on scenic terraces, and golden-hour portraits bathed in soft alpine light. Long daylight hours allow for a relaxed wedding timeline and plenty of guest adventures—from hiking and fly fishing to private jeep tours into the high country.
Summer – Sunlit Peaks & Alpine Meadows
Fall brings a dramatic transformation as the surrounding peaks and valleys glow with golden aspen leaves against a backdrop of rugged mountains. The crisp, cool air and warm autumn light create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for intimate gatherings in historic venues or elegant outdoor celebrations framed by the season’s vibrant colors. It’s one of Telluride’s most romantic—and photogenic—times of year.
Fall – Golden Aspens & Crisp Mountain Air
In winter, Telluride becomes a snow-globe wonderland, offering a magical backdrop for weddings that feel both adventurous and luxurious. Imagine exchanging vows in a candlelit lodge while snow falls softly outside, or arriving at your reception in a horse-drawn sleigh. World-class skiing, cozy fireside après experiences, and upscale mountain resorts make it an unforgettable season for couples who love the charm of alpine winter.
Winter – Snow-Dusted Romance & Alpine
where to get married in Telluride, CO
Telluride offers an array of breathtaking intimate wedding venues, each surrounded by the unmatched beauty of the San Juan Mountains. From chic alpine lodges to elegant mountaintop terraces, it’s nearly impossible to find a setting here that isn’t utterly spectacular. Below are some of my personal favorite luxury wedding venues in and around the Telluride area.
Luxurious Experiences to Elevate Your Telluride Wedding
Telluride is more than a breathtaking wedding destination—it’s a place where alpine grandeur, western spirit, and refined luxury meet to create an experience you and your guests will never forget. Whether you’re planning a multi-day mountain celebration or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the San Juan Mountains, a Telluride wedding offers the perfect blend of high-altitude adventure, elevated style, and small-town charm. As a Colorado-based destination wedding photographer, I’m endlessly inspired by Telluride’s dramatic peaks, golden aspen groves, and storybook streets—an ideal setting for love stories that feel cinematic, soulful, and timeless.
Scenic Gondola Rides & Mountaintop Views
Telluride’s iconic free gondola connects the historic town to Mountain Village, offering jaw-dropping 360° views of rugged peaks and alpine valleys. It’s a must for sunset portraits, wedding party excursions, or simply giving your guests a magical ride to your ceremony or reception.
Private Jeep & 4x4 Tours into the High Country
Venture deep into the San Juans with a guided private Jeep or 4x4 tour, exploring wildflower meadows, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and historic mining ruins. It’s an unforgettable way to welcome guests, host a pre-wedding adventure, or sneak away for breathtaking portraits.
Skiing, Snowboarding & Winter Adventures
In the winter months, Telluride transforms into a world-class ski destination with uncrowded slopes, legendary powder, and views that rival any resort in the world. Guests can spend the day skiing or snowboarding, then transition seamlessly into an après-ski celebration at a luxury lodge. Off the slopes, enjoy guided snowshoe hikes through aspen forests, snowmobiling to high-altitude vistas, or ice skating under twinkling lights in Mountain Village.
Luxury Spa & Wellness Experiences
After a day of adventure, unwind at one of Telluride’s world-class spas. From mountain-inspired treatments to hot stone massages and private yoga sessions, these experiences are the perfect way to relax and recharge before or after your wedding.
Horseback Riding Through Alpine Meadows
Saddle up for a guided horseback ride through wildflower fields, aspen groves, and scenic ridgelines. This romantic, unhurried activity offers a peaceful connection to Telluride’s western heritage and its breathtaking landscapes.
Featured
experience
Add a touch of Western heritage to your celebration with a custom leather branding bar—a unique, interactive experience guests will talk about long after the weekend ends. Perfect for a welcome party or rehearsal dinner, a skilled artisan will hand-brand hats, belts, boots, or other leather goods with your wedding monogram, date, or bespoke designs. Guests can watch the artistry in action, then take home a one-of-a-kind keepsake that blends Telluride’s rugged charm with luxury craftsmanship. It’s the ultimate way to personalize your event and create unforgettable memories.
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Leather branding bar
How to Get to Telluride
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is just minutes from town and offers seasonal direct flights from select cities, making it the most convenient option for couples and guests. For more flight options, Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) is approximately 65 miles away and serves major carriers year-round; from there, guests can enjoy a stunning 90-minute drive through mountain passes and scenic valleys. Private transfers, luxury car rentals, and even helicopter charters can be arranged for a seamless, elevated arrival experience. For those traveling from within Colorado, a scenic road trip through the state’s mountain corridors can turn the journey into part of the celebration.
Guest Accommodations
Telluride offers an array of luxury accommodations to match your wedding’s style and scale. Guests can choose from award-winning boutique hotels in the historic downtown, ski-in/ski-out lodges in Mountain Village, or private estates with panoramic mountain views. Many venues partner with nearby accommodations for room blocks, making it easy to keep guests close to the festivities. For a multi-day celebration, consider reserving a luxury chalet or mountainside villa where friends and family can gather, relax, and enjoy the surrounding beauty together. With options ranging from five-star resorts to charming alpine inns, every guest can experience the magic of Telluride in comfort and style.
How to Get to Telluride: Travel Logistics & Airport Options
Planning travel for your Telluride wedding is key to ensuring your guests arrive inspired, refreshed, and ready to celebrate amidst one of the most breathtaking mountain towns in the world. Nestled deep in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Telluride feels like a hidden alpine gem—offering a perfect blend of rugged natural beauty, small-town charm, and sophisticated luxury. Despite its remote mountain location, Telluride is surprisingly accessible, with several travel options that make the journey part of the overall experience. Whether your guests prefer flying into a nearby regional airport, embarking on a scenic mountain drive, or even arriving by helicopter, every route to Telluride offers stunning vistas and a taste of the adventurous spirit that defines this extraordinary destination.
Elevate Your Guest Experience: The Power of a Thoughtful Welcome Bag
- Mini jar of local Colorado honey or fruit jams — a sweet taste of the region’s natural bounty
- Handcrafted leather keychain, belt buckle, or luggage tag — practical keepsakes with authentic western flair
- Mountain-themed candle or matchbox — scents like cedarwood, pine, or campfire to evoke the outdoors
- Pocket-sized trail map or hiking guide of Telluride’s best spots — curated for alpine trails and hidden gems
- Reusable coffee tumbler or insulated mug — perfect for morning brews or après activities
- Locally made craft chocolate, artisanal jerky, or herbal teas — indulgent treats with a Colorado twist
- Custom enamel pin, bolo tie, or patch with western motifs — a unique memento of your wedding weekend
- Gift card to a beloved Telluride breakfast spot — like the Butcher & The Baker or The Village Smithy, giving guests a delicious start to their day
- Handmade soap or lotion infused with native scents like sage or pine — luxurious and locally inspired
How to Plan a Multi-Day Destination Wedding in telluride
Planning a multi-day destination wedding in Telluride transforms your celebration into an elevated, immersive mountain experience. More than just a single day, this curated journey invites you and your guests to slow down, connect deeply, and soak in the breathtaking beauty of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Nestled among towering peaks, golden aspens, and charming alpine streets, Telluride offers rustic elegance, world-class hospitality, and a vibrant western spirit—creating a wedding weekend that feels both intimate and unforgettable. From welcome gatherings in historic venues to outdoor adventures and spa indulgence, every moment becomes a meaningful extension of your love story. A multi-day Telluride wedding isn’t just a celebration—it’s an artfully designed experience your guests will cherish forever.
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome
- Guests arrive in Telluride, check into their accommodations, and receive curated welcome bags with local treats and mountain essentials
- Casual lunch or coffee meet-up at a favorite local spot like Butcher & The Baker to reconnect and unwind.
Evening
- Welcome dinner or cocktail reception at a historic downtown venue or cozy mountain lodge
- Optional live acoustic music and toasts to kick off the celebration in an intimate, relaxed setting
Day 2: Adventure & Preparation
- Optional sunrise gondola ride to Mountain Village for panoramic views and morning photos
- Light breakfast with coffee and pastries either at the hotel or a nearby café
- Time for guests to explore Telluride’s shops, art galleries, and boutiques
- Wedding party preparations: hair, makeup, and getting ready in luxury suites or private chaletsGroup activity: choose from guided slot canyon hike, horseback ride, or spa treatments
Evening
- Rehearsal dinner at an elevated mountain restaurant with stunning views, featuring locally sourced cuisine and fine wine
- Final pre-wedding gathering with close family and friends, sharing stories and excitement
Day 3: Wedding Day
- Leisurely breakfast and relaxation time for the wedding party and guests
- Final preparations: dressing, detail photos, and quiet moments before the big event
- Ceremony at a breathtaking outdoor location—mountain ridges, alpine meadows, or a rustic venue with panoramic views
- Cocktail hour with locally inspired drinks and hors d’oeuvres, offering guests time to mingle and enjoy the scenery
- Reception in an elegant lodge or mountaintop venue, styled with western charm and refined details
- Dinner service featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients paired with Colorado wines
- Dancing under string lights or stars with a live band or DJ
- Late-night snacks and a cozy fireside lounge area for guests to wind down
Day 4: Farewell & Reflection
- Farewell brunch at a charming café or scenic spot, allowing guests to say their goodbyes and share highlights from the weekend
- Optional morning activity: guided hike, yoga session, or leisurely gondola ride for those staying longer
- Guests depart or continue their Colorado adventure with personalized recommendations and travel assistance.
Example Timeline for a Long Weekend Wedding
finding your wedding vendors
When planning a wedding in Telluride, choosing the right vendors is essential to bringing your vision to life with elegance, ease, and mountain-inspired intentionality. This stunning alpine town is renowned for its breathtaking peaks, rich western heritage, and refined luxury—so it’s only fitting that your vendor team reflects the same level of sophistication and expertise. From seasoned wedding planners and talented florists to skilled hair and makeup artists, here are some of the best professionals who understand the unique demands and dramatic beauty of Telluride, ensuring your celebration is as seamless and unforgettable as the mountain landscape itself.
Telluride wedding Planners
Because of its unique mountain setting and popular destination status, Telluride weddings require thoughtful planning and seamless coordination. Local venues often have dedicated event managers who will be your primary point of contact for securing venue access, dates, and ensuring all venue policies are followed. It’s important to work with vendors and planners who are experienced with the alpine environment and familiar with Telluride’s distinct logistics, permits, and seasonal considerations.
Telluride
hair & makeup artist
The right hair and makeup artist can elevate your Telluride wedding by ensuring you feel as radiant and confident as the stunning mountain backdrop. Whether you’re envisioning a natural, fresh-faced look that captures the effortless beauty of the Rockies, soft romantic glam that complements Telluride’s alpine elegance, or a bold, editorial style inspired by the dramatic peaks, these top beauty professionals specialize in luxurious, personalized artistry. Each brings a refined touch, expert technique, and an understanding of how to create a flawless look that lasts from mountaintop vows to your final dance under the stars. Here are my top recommendations for hair and makeup artists who will bring your vision to life with skill, creativity, and care.
Telluride
wedding florist
The right florist can transform your Telluride wedding into a breathtaking celebration where rugged alpine beauty meets artful, intentional floral design. Whether you’re envisioning organic arrangements that showcase native wildflowers, evergreen sprigs, and seasonal mountain foliage, soft romantic blooms that complement Telluride’s rustic elegance, or bold, sculptural designs inspired by the dramatic mountain landscape, these top floral designers specialize in luxurious, one-of-a-kind creations tailored to your vision. Here are my top recommendations for florists who will elevate your Telluride wedding with artistry and thoughtful intention.
finding your
wedding photographer
As a luxury wedding photographer, I provide an elevated experience that artfully documents your unique love story while allowing you to be fully present on your wedding day. Specializing in intimate destination weddings and grand luxury affairs, I ensure a seamless, stress-free journey from the moment you inquire. Whether you’re planning a Telluride wedding or celebrating in another breathtaking mountain location, my goal is to serve you with intentional care, capturing every beautiful detail while you focus on cherishing the moments that matter most.
With a blend of candid storytelling and artistic elegance, I create timeless images that celebrate your love and reflect the natural beauty and refined style of your wedding day. Telluride’s dramatic alpine peaks, golden aspens, and rustic elegance provide the perfect backdrop for heartfelt, romantic photography that tells your story with authenticity and depth. As your luxury wedding photographer, I make the process effortless, allowing you to relax and fully embrace the magic of your celebration. Average wedding photography investments begin at $9,300.
Starting at $7,600
Weddings
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we're a good fit if...
connection
artistry
present
A genuine connection with your wedding photographer is essential to feeling relaxed and fully present on your special day. If you value trust, comfort, and a photographer who truly sees and celebrates your unique love story, we’ll be the perfect fit to work together.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who values artistry and storytelling, we might be the perfect fit. I approach each wedding with a creative eye, blending candid moments with thoughtfully composed portraits to craft images that feel both authentic and timeless. Your wedding day is a work of art, and my goal is to document it in a way that reflects your unique love story with beauty and intention.
If you believe your wedding day is about being fully present and celebrating your love—not just about the photos—we might be the perfect fit. I prioritize capturing the moments as they naturally unfold, so you can focus on what truly matters: the joy, connection, and meaning of your day.
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01.
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I think we'd be a great fit, let's talk!
"We had the BEST time working with Jayla! From the start, she was super easy to communicate with and made the whole process incredibly easy. She had great suggestions for locations and was quick to respond for any questions. The turnaround time was so fast, and we were obsessed with how the photos turned out! This was an elopement for us, so the day was already incredibly special—and Jayla only added to that magic. She made us feel so comfortable and relaxed during the shoot, like we were just hanging out with a friend, not a photographer. She truly captured the essence of the day, and we couldn’t be more grateful. We 100% recommend Jayla to anyone looking for an amazing photographer who’s fun, professional, and knows how to make your day even more unforgettable."
- Callie & Robby
the day was already incredibly special—and Jayla only added to that magic
The Teluuride Experience
As a wedding photographer, my role goes far beyond simply capturing beautiful images—it’s about building a genuine connection that allows you to feel seen, heard, and truly celebrated. That connection begins the moment you reach out. Whether you’re planning a luxurious mountain ceremony in Telluride or an intimate celebration nestled among towering alpine peaks and golden aspens, we’ll start with a call to get to know each other, dive into your vision, and dream together about how to bring it to life. My goal is to make you feel completely comfortable and cared for, creating a photography experience that’s as intentional and elevated as your Telluride wedding day.
01 | Connection
a step-by-step guide to what it really looks like to work with me
As a wedding photographer, my role goes far beyond capturing beautiful images—it’s about creating a meaningful connection that makes you feel truly seen, heard, and celebrated. That connection begins the moment you inquire. Whether you’re envisioning a sophisticated mountain ceremony in Telluride or an intimate gathering nestled among its stunning alpine peaks and golden aspens, we’ll begin with a call to get to know one another, talk through your vision, and start shaping a day that feels entirely your own. My goal is to offer more than just photography—I provide a seamless, elevated experience that allows you to feel completely at ease and fully present as your Telluride wedding unfolds.
02 | the Engagement Session
Two months before your Telluride wedding, I’ll send you a detailed photography questionnaire designed to capture the essence of your vision. This thoughtfully curated guide covers everything from your timeline and key moments to the subtle details that make your day uniquely yours. You’ll have ample time to complete it as the excitement builds, allowing me to prepare with intention and clarity. With Telluride’s dramatic alpine peaks, golden aspens, and rustic elegance as our backdrop, this ensures your wedding photos reflect not only the breathtaking beauty of your day—but the heart of your story.
03 | Wedding Questionnaire
2–4 weeks before your Telluride wedding, we’ll hop on a final call to review your completed questionnaire and walk through all the key details. From timeline logistics to meaningful moments and special requests, this consultation ensures nothing is overlooked. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a mountaintop ridge or celebrating in a charming alpine lodge, my goal is for you to leave our call feeling completely confident and at ease—knowing every moment will be documented with care, creativity, and intention.
04 | Pre-Event Consult
The day you’ve been dreaming of is finally here—it’s time to celebrate your love amid the breathtaking beauty of Telluride! As your wedding photographer, I’ll be by your side every step of the way, capturing each meaningful moment with care and intention. From your intimate first look framed by towering alpine peaks and golden aspens to your sunset ceremony overlooking sweeping mountain vistas, and every joyful celebration that follows, I’ll be there to document your story with artistry and heart. Let’s soak in every moment and create memories you’ll cherish forever.
05 | It’s Time to Celebrate
Whether you’re extending your stay in Telluride to savor more time with loved ones or heading off on your honeymoon, this is your moment to relax and soak in the joy of it all. While you’re making more unforgettable memories amid the stunning alpine peaks and golden aspens, you can look forward to receiving a sneak peek of your Telluride wedding photos within 24 hours of your celebration. These first images will beautifully reflect the magic of your day—set against the town’s rustic charm, dramatic mountain vistas, and serene natural beauty.
06 | Enjoy the Destination
learn more about the experience
Featured
story
Jacy and Quay kicked off their wedding weekend with a rehearsal dinner that beautifully blended Western charm and elevated mountain style, all set against the golden summer glow of Gorrono Ranch in Telluride, Colorado.
Guests arrived to a warm welcome as florals lined the steps leading up to the barn’s expansive patio deck, creating a vibrant and inviting entryway. Dressed to impress in their finest Western attire—cowboy boots, fringe, felt hats, and statement turquoise—everyone brought their own flair to the evening.
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Western Elegance at Gorrono Ranch: Jacy & Quay’s Telluride Rehearsal Dinner
