Colorado is FULL of so many incredible venues, and with so many beautiful options across the state, narrowing down the perfect place to celebrate can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why I’ve put together this series of blog posts highlighting some of my favorite wedding venues throughout Colorado. This week we are diving into Blackstone Rivers Ranch.

‍I’ve now had the chance to photograph two weddings at Blackstone Rivers Ranch and both experiences have solidified why I’m obsessed with the venue. From the great location, just outside of Denver, to the thoughtful design of the property, it’s truly a venue that makes wedding days feel easy. Because of that, this week I’m excited to feature Blackstone Rivers Ranch and why it’s such an awesome place to host your wedding in Colorado.

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Traveling to Blackstone Rivers Ranch

One of my top reasons to love Blackstone Rivers Ranch is how easy it is for guests to reach while still feeling like it’s tucked away in the mountains. The venue is located just outside of Denver, making it incredibly convenient for couples hosting guests from out of state.

‍While the venue is an easy drive from Denver, the ranch still feels tucked away in the mountains.

There are also many nearby towns with lodging options for guests who want to stay close to the venue. Some local towns to look for accommodations:

-Idaho Springs

-Blackhawk

-Georgetown

-Morrison

-Denver

Each of these areas can offer your guests a slightly different experience, from charming historic mining towns to more of a big city feel. There are also plenty of great places to host welcome dinners or morning after brunches in these cute towns as well!

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Getting Ready for Your Colorado Wedding at Blackstone Rivers Ranch

One detail that I personally think is SO important, but surprisingly rare at many venues, is having two equally beautiful getting ready spaces.

Far too often I arrive at a venue where one partner has a gorgeous, light-filled suite while the other is tucked into a small side room somewhere in the building. It’s such a small detail, but it can make a big difference in how the morning of the wedding feels. Blackstone Rivers Ranch does this really well.

The venue offers two thoughtfully designed getting ready spaces that are both spacious, comfortable and beautiful for photos. There is plenty of space for everyone to relax, get ready and enjoy their time with their friends and family before the wedding day begins. If you wan’t to get a peek at the getting ready spaces you can look through Jordan and Kevin’s wedding gallery where I documented a few moments from their morning.

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A Beautiful Outdoor Colorado Wedding Venue

While Blackstone Rivers Ranch sits near some incredible mountain views, you honestly don’t even need to leave the property to experience stunning natural scenery. The venue itself is surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of the river nearby. The venue provides the quiet and intimate feel that Colorado mountain weddings are known for.

One of my favorite features of the property is the large outdoor canvas tent which allows couples to host their reception in a covered space while still feeling immersed in the Colorado woods. Of course. If couples want to venture out for portraits with expansive mountain views, there are beautiful locations nearby, but the property itself is so picturesque that you could easily spend the entire day at Blackstone.

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Centralized Wedding Venue

Sometimes less is more when it comes to a wedding venue and Blackstone Rivers Ranch embraces that idea. The venue’s buildings and main spaces are thoughtfully centralized which creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. Guests can wander throughout the property without ever feeling disconnected from the celebration. This also allows couples to stay present with their guests rather than constantly traveling to different parts of a large property or multiple properties.

As a wedding photographer, some venues just naturally lend themselves to a beautiful and relaxed wedding day, and Blackstone Rivers Ranch is absolutely one of them. Between the thoughtful layout, stunning natural surroundings and peaceful location, it creates an atmosphere where couples and their guests can settle into the day. If you’re planning a Colorado wedding and looking for a venue that combines accessibility, natural beauty and an intimate feel, Blackstone Rivers Ranch should definitely go to the top of your list. If you’re looking for someone to document your wedding dayI would love to be there!

For more information on my favorite wedding venues in Colorado, head to my wedding venue feature section of my blog here.