I'm a fine art wedding and portrait photographer — creating a space that welcomes creativity and inspiration. Based in Colorado, my work has taken me across the globe.

Meet WHITNEY RAE

HOW TO PICK THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE IN COLORADO

tips for couples

Selecting the perfect Colorado wedding venue can be an exhilarating yet daunting task for any engaged couple, particularly in today’s abundance of stunning options throughout the state. The wedding venue sets the tone for the entire day, and this pivotal aspect of planning may undoubtedly feel like a weight on your shoulders. Amidst the variety of details to coordinate, securing your dream venue is of the most importance, both for your desires and to speed up the progress on other wedding arrangements.

As a Colorado mountain town local, I consider it a privilege to assist couples, especially those coming from out of state, in navigating through the plethora of exceptional venues that perfectly align with their style, budget, and overall requirements. The quest for this dream location can be a journey, and therefore, I offer some advice to help you discover the place that resonates with you and your wedding day!

SOME QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN DECIDING ON YOUR WEDDING VENUE IN COLORADO

  • What is your dream space or aesthetic?
  • Is it in your budget?
  • Does it fit the overall vibe and aesthetic you’re creating for you and your guests?
  • What is included in your Colorado wedding venue?
  • Does the venue require you to use their preferred vendors?
  • Will it comfortably fit all of your guests?
  • How cohesive will the experience be for your guests?
  • Does the venue offer a contingency plan for weather?
  • Are there any special requirements?
  • Can you picture yourself getting married there, and will you look back on it fondly?

THINGS TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR COLORADO WEDDING VENUE SEARCH

Start early: begin your search for a venue as soon as possible, especially if you have a specific date in mind and even if you are having a smaller wedding or elopement. It’s crucial to start your search early, as many popular venues are booked well in advance.

Consider your guest list: be sure the venue you choose can accommodate your guest list comfortably. You don’t want it to feel cramped or overcrowded. Ask about flexibility within different layout options and sites where you can hold a ceremony.

Think about your theme + overall vision: if you have a specific wedding theme or style, look for a venue that complements it. For example, look for a barn or farm venue if you want a rustic wedding. If you like more of the boho style, look for one that is more modern and ‘clean.’

Check out the amenities: consider the amenities that the venue offers, such as catering, parking, and restrooms. These can impact your and your guest’s wedding day experience.

Visit the venue in person: schedule a tour before finalizing your decision. Doing so will offer a chance to see the space in person and ask any logistical questions you may have as things pop up during the tour.

Consider the location: choose a venue that’s easily accessible for you and your guests. If you’re having a destination wedding, make sure the place is convenient for travel and accommodations.

Review the contracts: before signing any contracts, review them carefully to ensure you understand all the terms and conditions.

Happy Planning!

COLORADO WEDDING + ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER | WHITNEY RAE PHOTOGRAPHY

I love helping my couples plan their dream wedding day. If you’re still looking for your Colorado wedding photographer, learn more about me, and click here to get in touch. Don’t forget to check out my Instagram to keep up with my latest work. I can’t wait to meet you and help you find your perfect Colorado wedding venue!

Every wedding is unique and deserves more than a cookie-cutter approach. By stepping back to let intimate moments unfold naturally while offering support and guidance to ensure no important memory is missed, I strive to create timeless images that blend an editorial style with a documentary approach. From the distinctive details of your celebration to the cherished traditions, I'll deliver a collection of photographs that allow you to relive these memories for years to come. After all, the moments that matter most aren’t always staged or polished—they’re raw, authentic, and uniquely you.
Don’t you agree?

MY PHILOSOPHY

An Honest Wedding Experience

Dorothea Lange

“Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still”

Words I Live by

I'm WHITNEY.

Your wedding day is a story—one filled with fleeting moments of beauty, deep emotion, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. As an artist, I am here to preserve those moments with intention, artistry, and care. I don’t just capture what your wedding looked like—I document how it felt.

Born and raised in the breathtaking landscapes of Vail, Colorado, I am deeply inspired by the way love and nature intertwine. There’s something poetic about the way light moves across mountain peaks, the way wind dances through a bride’s veil, and how the beauty of the outdoors mirrors the intimacy of a wedding day. My work is shaped by this connection—an effortless blend of refined editorial imagery and documentary storytelling, allowing each wedding to unfold naturally while being captured with timeless elegance.

Beyond photography, I am an adventurer at heart. Whether I’m exploring new landscapes, hiking through the Rockies, or traveling to breathtaking destinations, my love for movement and exploration brings an effortless, natural feel to my imagery. Every love story is unique, and I am deeply invested in capturing the emotions, scenery, and in-between moments that make your wedding day truly unforgettable. From the moment we connect, my goal is to provide an effortless, elevated experience that allows you to be fully present while I handle the art of storytelling. With a calm, intuitive approach, I blend artistic direction with documentary storytelling—guiding you when needed while allowing your most authentic moments to unfold naturally. My couples value timeless, emotive imagery, a refined yet relaxed presence, and the confidence of knowing their memories are being preserved with intention. When I’m not behind the camera, you can find me skiing down the slopes, hiking with my husband and our two border collies, or enjoying a slow morning with a perfectly crafted latte. I live for meaningful conversations, spontaneous adventures, and capturing beauty in the quiet, in-between moments of life—just as I do with my couples. I take on a limited number of weddings each year to provide an intimate, high-touch experience, ensuring each love story is captured with the highest level of artistry and care. If you feel drawn to timeless, emotional, and editorial-inspired imagery, I would love to hear your vision and create something extraordinary together.
























 




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