When Is The Best Time Of Year To Book A Wedding In Northern Colorado For Scenic Mountain Views?
Every couple dreams of a wedding day that feels magical, with scenery that takes their breath away and photos they’ll cherish for a lifetime. In Northern Colorado, the majestic Rocky Mountains provide that picture-perfect backdrop. But with four distinct seasons, where each offers its own charm, you may be wondering: when is the best time of year to book a wedding in Northern Colorado for scenic mountain views?
At Ellis Ranch in Loveland, Colorado, couples have celebrated their “I do” moments surrounded by sweeping foothill views and rustic beauty for decades. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony under mature trees or a grand reception inside a classic barn venue, choosing the right time of year can elevate your entire experience. From spring blooms to golden fall sunsets, the timing of your celebration sets the tone for your wedding photos, comfort, and even vendor availability.
We can help you discover when is the best time of year to book a wedding in Northern Colorado for scenic mountain views that perfectly capture your love story.
Excellent Venue
“Ellis Ranch Carriage House was an excellent venue for our daughter’s wedding. Shawn and Kim were awesome and very helpful from start to finish. Ted the bartender was also amazing and really made sure our guests were well taken care of and had fun. We highly recommend Ellis Ranch for your family’s wedding,” Jeff Van Es.
Spring Weddings: Fresh Blooms and Mild Beauty
Spring in Northern Colorado—typically from late March through May—brings the landscape to life with color. Wildflowers begin to bloom, the trees regain their leaves, and the hillsides around Loveland glow in shades of green.
For couples wanting that “fresh start” feeling, a spring wedding can be an ideal choice. The temperatures are mild, often ranging from the 50s to 70s, and the soft lighting during this season adds a natural romance to your wedding photos.
Imagine exchanging vows beneath budding trees, with the mountains just beginning to shed their snowcaps in the distance. However, spring weather in the Rockies can be unpredictable. Rain showers are common, and some days might still carry a winter chill. If you choose this season, consider venues that offer both indoor and outdoor options—Ellis Ranch’s rustic barns are perfect for a seamless transition between ceremony and reception spaces.
Summer Weddings: Golden Light and Full Blooms
If you love long days, clear skies, and vibrant sunsets, summer might be the best time of year to book a wedding in Northern Colorado for scenic mountain views. From June through early September, the mountains are lush and alive, creating a postcard-perfect setting.
This is peak wedding season in the region, and for good reason. The warm evenings are ideal for outdoor dining and dancing beneath the stars. Ellis Ranch’s Event Center can host up to 450 guests, making it perfect for large celebrations filled with laughter and music that drift into the night.
Keep in mind that with popularity comes competition. Summer weekends book quickly—sometimes a year or more in advance. If you’re dreaming of a midsummer mountain celebration, reserve your date early.
Fall Weddings: Warm Colors and Crisp Air
Ask any Colorado photographer and they’ll tell you—fall is the most visually stunning time to capture the Rockies. The trees transform into brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds, and the sunlight adds a rich, warm tone to every image.
For many couples, autumn represents romance, coziness, and natural elegance. If you’re wondering when is the best time of year to book a wedding in Northern Colorado for scenic mountain views, fall might be the clear winner.
From mid-September through early November, temperatures are comfortable, ranging from the 50s to 70s during the day. Guests can enjoy the crisp mountain air without the heat of summer or the chill of winter. Ellis Ranch’s Carriage House is ideal for smaller weddings of up to 150 guests and offers a breathtaking view of colorful hillsides framed by rustic wooden benches and a charming gazebo.
Because the season is shorter and highly sought-after, fall dates fill up quickly. For couples set on capturing those golden hues, it’s best to book at least 12 to 18 months in advance.
Winter Weddings: Rustic Romance and Mountain Snow
Winter weddings in Northern Colorado have a magic all their own. Snow-capped peaks, cozy barn interiors, and twinkling lights set the stage for a truly romantic celebration.
At Ellis Ranch, the Event Center transforms beautifully for winter weddings, with its warm wood interiors and mountain backdrop creating a sense of intimate grandeur. Think roaring fireplaces, soft candlelight, and elegant winter décor.
The biggest advantage to winter weddings? Availability. Many venues and vendors have more open dates between December and February, allowing for flexibility in planning and potentially lower costs.
The tradeoff is weather unpredictability—snowstorms and cold snaps can occur, and travel conditions for guests may vary. But for couples who love the idea of a serene winter wonderland, this can be the most magical and memorable time to wed.
5 Factors to Help You Decide the Best Time to Book
To determine when is the best time of year to book a wedding in Northern Colorado for scenic mountain views, consider these five key factors:
1. Your Desired Aesthetic: Do you envision wildflowers, golden leaves, or snowy peaks in your photos? Your ideal visual theme often dictates the season.
2. Guest Comfort: Summer offers warmth, but fall provides crisp comfort. Think about how your guests will feel during outdoor ceremonies or receptions.
3. Availability: Popular months (June, September, and October) book quickly—start early to secure your date at Ellis Ranch.
4. Budget: Off-season weddings in winter or early spring can offer more affordable pricing for venues and vendors.
5. Lighting for Photos: The position of the sun, length of day, and clarity of the air all change with the season—important considerations for photographers.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Book a Wedding in Northern Colorado for Scenic Mountain Views?
Ultimately, the answer depends on your vision. If you dream of golden sunsets and lush greenery, summer is ideal. For vibrant color and crisp air, fall reigns supreme. Those seeking quiet beauty and romantic charm might find their perfect moment in winter. And for couples who love new beginnings and soft blooms, spring brings nature’s renewal to life.
Celebrate Your Season at Ellis Ranch
Every season in Northern Colorado has something extraordinary to offer couples searching for that perfect mountain-view wedding. No matter which season you choose, Ellis Ranch offers breathtaking backdrops, professional event coordination, and two versatile venues designed to make your day unforgettable. With over 60 years of hosting weddings and special events, Ellis Ranch has helped thousands of couples find the right place to say “I do.”
Ellis Ranch
At Ellis Ranch Wedding and Event Center, we’re a family-owned venue with deep roots in Northern Colorado—welcomed by couples and event planners alike since 1963. Set on a majestic 40-acre working ranch in Loveland, we offer two stunning venues: the Event Center for larger gatherings and the Carriage House for more intimate events. Whether you’re planning a wedding, family reunion, corporate fundraiser, or private celebration, our indoor and outdoor settings—including a scenic gazebo wedding park under mature trees framed by stunning mountain views—offer flexibility and beauty in equal measure. We guide every client with a warm, hands-on approach, bringing decades of experience and scenic western flair together in one place. Find us on Google Maps; we’d love to help you create an unforgettable event.
