Silverthorne, Colorado, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offers a picturesque backdrop for weddings and elopements. Opting for an Airbnb as your wedding venue in this scenic town has its unique advantages and potential drawbacks. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of getting married or eloping in Silverthorne at an Airbnb.
Pros
- Scenic Beauty
- Stunning Backdrops: Silverthorne boasts breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and serene lakes. An Airbnb in this area often comes with natural beauty right outside your door, perfect for wedding photos and an intimate ceremony.
- Seasonal Charm: Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland or a summer paradise, Silverthorne offers beautiful scenery year-round.
- Intimacy and Privacy
- Personal Touch: Renting an Airbnb allows for a more private and intimate setting compared to traditional venues. It’s ideal for smaller weddings or elopements where you want a personal and cozy atmosphere.
- Exclusivity: You’ll have the entire property to yourselves, without the distractions or interruptions that might occur at a public venue.
- Unique and Customizable Spaces
- Variety of Options: Airbnbs come in various styles and sizes, from rustic cabins to luxurious homes, allowing you to choose a venue that perfectly fits your aesthetic and needs.
- Personalized Decor: With an Airbnb, you have the freedom to decorate and set up the space exactly how you envision your wedding, creating a unique and personalized experience.
- Cost-Effective
- Budget-Friendly: Renting an Airbnb can often be more affordable than traditional wedding venues. Plus, you can combine accommodation and venue costs, saving money overall.
- Flexible Booking: Airbnbs offer flexible booking options, allowing you to find something that fits your budget and timeline.
- Accommodation Convenience
- On-Site Lodging: Many Airbnbs can accommodate your entire wedding party, making it convenient for everyone to stay together and enjoy the celebrations without worrying about transportation or logistics.
- Extended Stay: Turn your wedding into a mini-vacation. With an Airbnb, you can stay for a few extra days and enjoy all that Silverthorne has to offer.
Cons
- Logistical Challenges
- Space Limitations: Depending on the size of the Airbnb, space might be limited for larger wedding parties. It’s essential to ensure the property can comfortably accommodate all your guests.
- Weather Dependence: Outdoor ceremonies are subject to weather conditions. Silverthorne’s unpredictable mountain weather can pose challenges, so having a backup plan is crucial.
- Vendor Coordination
- DIY Setup: Unlike traditional venues that offer comprehensive packages, an Airbnb wedding requires more hands-on planning and coordination. You’ll need to arrange for all vendors, including caterers, florists, and photographers.
- Permits and Regulations: Some Airbnbs may have restrictions on events or require special permits. It’s important to check with the host and local authorities to ensure compliance.
- Amenities and Facilities
- Limited Facilities: Airbnbs may lack some amenities typically found in dedicated wedding venues, such as professional kitchens, ample parking, or large bathrooms. Consider renting additional equipment or facilities if needed.
- Noise Restrictions: Residential areas might have noise ordinances that could limit your celebration. Be mindful of the property’s rules and the surrounding neighborhood.
- Host and Property Dependability
- Host Reliability: The success of your wedding can depend on the responsiveness and cooperation of the Airbnb host. Ensure clear communication and confirm all details well in advance.
- Property Condition: The property might not look exactly as pictured in the listing. Reading reviews and possibly visiting beforehand can help avoid any surprises.
- Guest Experience
- Travel and Accessibility: Silverthorne’s mountain location can be challenging for some guests to reach, especially during winter. Ensure your guests are aware of travel conditions and have the necessary information to navigate the area.
- Comfort Levels: Not all guests might be comfortable with the informal setting of an Airbnb wedding. Consider your guest list and their preferences when making your decision.
Conclusion
Getting married or eloping in Silverthorne, Colorado, at an Airbnb offers a unique and personalized experience with the stunning backdrop of the Rockies. While there are many advantages, such as cost savings and intimacy, it’s essential to consider the logistical challenges and limitations. With careful planning and coordination, an Airbnb wedding in Silverthorne can be a magical and unforgettable event.
About this Engagement:
Planning the perfect proposal for Macey was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. As a Colorado engagement photographer, capturing unique moments in stunning locations is my passion. Macey, my incredibly fit fiancé, shares my love for the Colorado mountains, making a 14er engagement the perfect choice for us. Here’s how we made it happen.
Macey often spoke about her talented college friend, Benjamin Strong, a world-class photographer. Ben had a dream of photographing a couple in formal attire, specifically a woman in a red dress, on top of one of Colorado’s majestic 14,000-foot peaks. I knew involving Ben would make our engagement unforgettable. After covertly contacting Ben via Facebook, we planned for July 22nd, setting the stage for a truly unique proposal.
The planning involved many details: acquiring a red dress in Macey’s size without her knowing, ensuring Ben could handle the altitude, choosing the right mountain, and conducting a recon of the proposal site. I enlisted my future groomsmen, Jimmy Agee and Josh Simmonds, to help. Jimmy conducted a reconnaissance hike, while Josh picked up Ben from the airport and kept him hidden. Our friend Brie Ruse helped select dresses on Amazon, ensuring Macey would have the perfect outfit.
After considering various peaks, we chose Mount Yale. Its moderate difficulty, breathtaking 360-degree views, and proximity to the Cottonwood Hotsprings Resort made it ideal. The weekend before the proposal, Jimmy and I did a recon hike, despite the threat of thunderstorms. We found the perfect spot on the summit and mapped out cell phone coverage for communication.
The engagement day began with Josh picking up Ben, and the three heading to the trailhead at 5 AM. Macey and I started our hike an hour later. Josh, Jimmy, and Ben carried our outfits and gear, while a “Baby on Board” sticker on Josh’s car helped keep the surprise.
We spent the night at a hotsprings resort, and I secretly prepared for the next day, checking the weather and packing the ring, champagne, and a custom summit sign. On the hike, I faked knee pain and took breaks to give the guys time to set up. As we neared the summit, I received a text from Josh, signaling that they were ready.
When we reached the summit, I asked Macey to get a photo from Ben, who was in disguise. As she turned, I flipped a sign that read, “Macey McDowell, will you marry me?” She turned back to see me on one knee, and her surprise was priceless. She happily accepted, and we celebrated with a photoshoot in our formal attire, despite the cold and wind.
Our descent was filled with excitement as we headed to a celebration at the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. The support from Ben, Josh, Jimmy, Brie, and our friends made the day unforgettable. I am grateful to God for the perfect weather and the best summit of my life.
Our Background
Macey McDowell, a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Neenah, Wisconsin, has called Colorado Springs home for over three years. She excels in volleyball, fishing, tennis, and country music dancing. Her second love is our dog Ember, followed by the Green Bay Packers. Macey was charmed by Dave’s persistence during a church volleyball group.
Dave Hickox, originally from Oregon, has served in the U.S. Army for seven years, finding his best assignment at Fort Carson, CO, where he met Macey. Dave is an avid fisherman, cribbage player, and Oregon Ducks football fan, looking forward to future Seahawk-Packer showdowns with Macey.