Winter may be behind us but if you’re considering saying “I do” in the snow, then now is the time to shop for next season! But where to host that quintessential winter wedding? One with roaring fire pits, s’mores among friends, and a casual, relaxed elegance that makes everyone feel welcome? Consider a domestic destination wedding in Colorado – Bachelor Gulch to be specific. Tucked into its own mountainside in the Vail Valley, you’ll find The Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, a giant log cabin of sorts (with seven miles worth of logs to build its beautiful structures!). A skiers dream, this property sits halfway up the mountain and at the base of a lift, for ski in and ski out celebrating. Visiting here is an experience surrounded by the beauty of nature no one in attendance will ever forget!
Sun or snow, no matter the season, you can say I do outdoors on their skiers bridge, overlooking a gorgeous valley view and just steps from the grand Ritz Carlton ballroom (that seats up to 350) to wine and dine indoors when the deed is done. But before you do that, you’ll want to stop by the outdoor terrace for cocktail hour complete with the scent of a fresh burning fire pit and Aspen trees all around. I recently experienced one such wedding and it was magic on a mountain – the meal even incorporated smoked local meats like bison and elk cooked out back on property for guests to enjoy! Colorado has a bounty of local meats and veggies to delight the biggest foodies in your bunch, and some pretty great craft cocktails, local breweries and even distilleries too! No matter your tastes or your season, the amazing culinary and events team on property helps you design a menu unlike anything you’ll experience anywhere else.
And speaking of season, The Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch isn’t just for winter weddings, in fact, they are most popular in the summer and fall months when it comes to tying the knot in nature. So if sunny 80 degree days are more your style, then settle in here like the original bachelors of the area. Beautiful wildflowers spring up everywhere (or leaves turn to gold in the fall season), giving you a picture-perfect backdrop that needs little décor for a wedding ceremony.
No need to be a skier to fall in love with this place, your group can hike, bike, star gaze with a guide as you roast s’mores, white water raft by day or spa instead – they truly have it all! …Like this gorgeous indoor grotto, available for all hotel guests to use in that spa!
What better way to bond and merge two families together than in the beauty of nature paired with the creature comforts of The Ritz Carlton! For more information on getting married in the Beaver Creek area at The Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, be sure to check them out here. I’ve been in winter and in summer and know I’ll be back soon to experience another season at this spectacular spot!
All Photos Courtesy of The Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch.
