Newlyweds Danielle and Michael chose to have a Colorado destination wedding in the scenic mountains of Beaver Creek because they wanted their wedding celebration to include outdoor activities that everyone would enjoy.

“We liked the idea of a bonding, fun weekend for all our family and friends, not just one night of celebration,” says the couple.

While there were lasting memories made with several loved ones, some family members were not able to make it. However, they were still able to make those who could not attend feel well included through FaceTime during the ceremony. “It was a tough decision, but we made it work,” says Danielle and Michael.

Although they admit that planning was stressful at times, the newlyweds were not disappointed by their efforts. “Overall, the wedding was worth every minute of stress,” they say.

One of the trickier parts to plan was the travel logistics for them and their guests. Because the ceremony and reception site is located on a mountain, the couple made sure they were clear with their guests about how to get there. “We linked all travel options on our wedding website,” says Danielle and Michael. “We think our transparency was well appreciated.”

Communicating with vendors for the big day was an equally important task and the newlyweds made sure they were all on the same page through numerous phone calls and even a few in-person visits.

Overall, when all the costs were added up, the couple says they ended up spending more for their destination wedding than they likely would have if they’d stayed closer to home. Despite this, Danielle and Michael say they wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

“It was such a special, loving weekend,” says the couple. “It is impossible to imagine our wedding anywhere else.”

Vendors: Photographer: Jamee Photography, Wedding Planner: Alexan Events, Ceremony/Reception Site: Spruce Saddle Lodge, Beaver Creek, Florist: Alexan Events, Hair & Makeup: Beauty on Location, Gown Designer: Pronovias, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Indochino & Groomsmen Clothing Designer: Indochino