Getting hitched in Colorado Springs? You’re in for a treat! I’ve seen countless couples fall in love with the Springs, and trust me, it’s not just because of those jaw-dropping mountain silhouettes (though they don’t hurt). As a wedding industry pro who’s been around the block a few times, I’m here to share why CLAY Venues is the talk of the town when it comes to Colorado Springs wedding venues.

clay clay clay clay

Picture this: You’re standing hand-in-hand with your sweetheart, the sun painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, with Pikes Peak as your backdrop. Then you pop over to downtown inside an avant-garde, modern building to say your vows. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, at CLAY, it’s just another Tuesday. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

m and s wedding at clay

Why Colorado Springs for Your Big Day?

First, why are so many couples flocking to CLAY & Colorado Springs to tie the knot from all over, including Denver? It’s simple, really. This place is a sanctuary of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and urban sophistication. You get the best of both worlds: breathtaking mountain scenery and vibrant city vibes.

downtown colorado springs art alley

But it’s not just about the scenery and vibes. Colorado Springs has this magical way of making every wedding feel like a getaway, even for the locals. And for out-of-towners? It’s a chance to turn your wedding into a full-blown vacation that your guests will be talking about for years.

red rock canyon open space

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Sounds great, but what about the actual venue?” That’s where CLAY comes in, and believe me, it’s a game-changer.

CLAY Venues: Where Urban Chic Meets Mountain Magic

Address: 10 N Wahsatch Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Info: Capacity up to 200, Downtown Modern Vibe

Imagine a place that’s equal parts New York loft and Colorado cool. That’s CLAY for you. Tucked right in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, this place is 6,000 square feet of pure possibility.

abbie james wedding at clay

From the moment you step inside, you can feel the energy. Those polished concrete floors? They’ve seen their fair share of happy dances. The soaring ceilings? They’ve echoed with countless “I dos” and champagne toasts. And those huge bay windows? They’re like nature’s own Instagram filter, flooding the space with that gorgeous Colorado light.

But what really sets us apart is its chameleon-like ability to transform. I’ve seen the venue go from sleek and modern to rustic and cozy reception space and everything in between. It’s like a blank canvas, just waiting for you to make your mark and unleash your creativity. One of my favorite brides brought in her sister to set up floating florals (peonies) and it made for the coolest photo opp ever.

m and d wedding at clay

The CLAY Experience: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Sure, CLAY looks good. But looks aren’t everything, right? But they do help, especially that modern yet historic architecture 🤣. What really makes this place shine is the experience and wedding services. The CLAY crew has your back from the moment you book until the last guest leaves.

landon and baileys wedding

The Best Place to Get Married in Colorado Springs for Modern Couples

I’ve worked with a lot of venues over the years, and the CLAY Crew are something special. They’ve got this knack for making you feel like you’re the only couple in the world getting married. It’s like having a team of wedding ninjas at your disposal.

And don’t even get me started on the packages. All-inclusive? Check. Customizable? You bet. Whether you’re dreaming of a lavish bash or an intimate gathering, they’ve got you covered.

chic wedding with great decor at clay

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

  1. PRIME downtown location. PRIME prime.
  2. Versatile 6,000 sq ft space
  3. Customizable look & aesthetic (we don’t box you in, get creative!)
  4. All-inclusive packages that make your life easier
  5. Experienced planning team
  6. Customizable options
  7. State-of-the-art amenities
  8. Easy access for out-of-town guests
  9. Tons of nearby hotels (hello, convenience!)
  10. Great restaurants and bars for pre or post-wedding gatherings
  11. Plenty of entertainment options for a full wedding weekend

m and s wedding at clay

But enough from me. Let’s hear from some real CLAY couples.

Real Love Stories at CLAY

I remember Elizabeth and Jesse. They were dead set on a mountain wedding until they stepped into CLAY. Her exact words? “It felt like coming home.” They ended up with a winter wonderland theme that had everyone talking. The CLAY crew even helped them source a hot chocolate bar!

abbie james wedding at clay

Then there was Alex and Jamie. These two were all about the party. They transformed CLAY into a neon-lit dance club for their reception. The movable black wall came in handy, creating a big reveal moment when it was time to hit the dance floor.

m and s wedding at clay

And I can’t forget about Taylor and Sam. They were worried about their guests with mobility issues. CLAY’s downtown location and accessibility features put their minds at ease. Plus, being close to hotels meant everyone could celebrate without worrying about long drives.

m and s wedding at clay

The Inside Scoop on CLAY’s Offerings

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. What exactly does CLAY bring to the table? Hint: A LOT of bang for your buck.

abbie james wedding at clay

Our Event Venue: Wedding Ceremony & Reception

  • 6,000 square feet of flexible space
  • Polished concrete floors
  • Soaring ceilings
  • Large bay windows
  • Movable black wall for customizable layouts
  • Capacity for up to 200 guests

m and d wedding at clay

All Inclusive Wedding Venue in Colorado Springs

CLAY offers two main packages: The Classic and The Signature. Both are customizable and have EVEN more inclusions than this, but here’s a general idea to keep things simple:

m and d wedding at clay

The Classic Package

  • 10 hours of venue use and access
  • Day-of coordinator
  • Bar service (soft bar + cash bar for cocktails)
  • Basic decor and lighting
  • Catering (appetizers + dinner buffet)
  • DJ services
  • Essential rentals and setup

landon and baileys wedding

The Signature Package

  • 11 hours of extended venue access
  • Comprehensive planning assistance
  • All-inclusive hosted bar
  • Upgraded decor, lighting, and table settings
  • Expanded catering options
  • DJ services
  • Photo booth
  • Choice of bonus features (e.g., floral package, coffee bar)

Feature

Classic Package

Signature Package

Venue Access

10 hours

11 hours (extended)

Coordination

Day-of coordinator

Comprehensive planning assistance

Bar Service

Soft bar + cash bar for cocktails

All-inclusive hosted bar

Decor and Lighting

Basic

Upgraded decor, lighting, and table settings

Catering

Appetizers + dinner buffet

Expanded catering options

DJ Services

Included

Included

Rentals and Setup

Essential rentals and setup

Included (presumably more extensive)

Photo Booth

Not included

Included

Bonus Features

Not mentioned

Choice of bonus features (e.g., floral package, coffee bar)

Key Differences:

  • The Signature Package offers an extra hour of venue access.
  • Signature includes more comprehensive planning assistance beyond just day-of coordination.
  • The bar service is upgraded to all-inclusive hosted bar in the Signature Package.
  • Decor, lighting, and table settings are upgraded in the Signature Package.
  • Catering options are expanded in the Signature Package.
  • The Signature Package includes a photo booth.
  • Signature offers additional bonus features for customization.

Becky Owner at CLAYAaron Bar Manager at CLAY

Led by owners (and hubby & wife team) Becky and Aaron, the CLAY Crew is a mix of creative visionaries and practical problem-solvers. Becky brings 15 years of experience as a fine art wedding photographer, while Aaron’s background adds a dash of hands-on creativity to the mix.

m and s wedding at clay

The Location Advantage

CLAY’s downtown location is like the cherry on top of an already pretty sweet sundae.

Speaking of sweet, here’s a quick guide for your guests with some sweet accommodations, places to eat, and things to do:

Where to Stay After the Reception – Accommodations

  • The Mining Exchange (4-minute walk)
  • The Antlers (5-minute walk)
  • Kinship Landing (5-minute walk)
  • Hilton Garden Inn (7-minute walk)

Where to Eat

  • Dos Santos (killer tacos)
  • 503 W (Asian fusion goodness)
  • White Pie (pizza that’ll make you weak in the knees)

Where to Drink

  • District 11 (craft cocktails)
  • Mash Mechanix (local brews)

Sweet Treats

  • Frozen Gold (Instagram-worthy soft serve)

Where to Play Outdoors

  • Take a trip up Pikes Peak
  • Explore Garden of the Gods
  • Visit the Olympic Training Center
  • Check out the Broadmoor Seven Falls
  • Stroll through Old Colorado City

abbie james wedding at clay

Weather Wisdom for Your Wedding Day

Colorado weather can be a bit… let’s say, unpredictable. But don’t let that scare you off. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Spring (March-May)

  • Mild temperatures (50-70°F)
  • Possible late snow showers
  • Blooming wildflowers

Summer (June-August)

  • Warm days (70-80°F)
  • Afternoon thunderstorms common
  • Perfect for outdoor photos

Fall (September-November)

  • Cool, crisp days (50-70°F)
  • Stunning fall colors
  • Less crowded tourist season

Winter (December-February)

  • Cold temperatures (20-40°F)
  • Possibility of snow
  • Magical winter wonderland vibes

No matter the season, CLAY’s climate-controlled interior means you’re covered. But for those dreaming of outdoor photos, the team can help you plan around the weather.

m and d wedding at clay

Trending Wedding Ideas for Colorado Springs

Every year brings new trends, and Colorado Springs is no exception. Here are some ideas that are heating up:

  • Mountain-inspired decor (think pine cones, antlers, and rustic wood elements)
  • Farm-to-table dining experiences
  • Locally sourced favors (Colorado honey, anyone?)
  • Adventure elopements combined with larger receptions
  • Sustainability-focused celebrations

The best part? CLAY’s versatile space can accommodate all these trends and more.

chic wedding with great decor at clay

Planning Your CLAY Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to make it official at CLAY? Here’s how it usually goes down:

  • Reach out and schedule a tour
  • Fall in love with the space (trust me, you will)
  • Choose your date and package
  • Sign the contract and pay the initial deposit
  • Start planning with CLAY’s online tools
  • Meet with the CLAY team to iron out details
  • Attend your tasting and finalize menu choices
  • Have your final walk-through
  • Get married!
  • Dance the night away

chic wedding with great decor at clay

Tips for Making the Most of Your CLAY Wedding

After seeing countless weddings at CLAY, I’ve picked up a few tricks. Here are some insider tips to make your day extra special:

  • Use the movable wall for a big reveal moment
  • Take advantage of the natural light for photos
  • Incorporate the urban surroundings into your theme
  • Use the online planning tools to stay organized
  • Trust the CLAY Crew – they know their stuff

bistro lighting at clay venues

Common Questions About CLAY & Wedding Packages in The Springs

Q: Can we bring our own vendors? A: CLAY works with a list of preferred vendors, but they’re open to outside pros too. Just check with the team first.

Q: Is there parking available? A: Yes! There’s ample street parking and nearby garages.

Q: Can we have our ceremony and reception at CLAY? A: Absolutely! The space is perfect for both.

Q: What’s the capacity? A: CLAY can comfortably host up to 200 guests.

Q: Is CLAY LGBTQ+ friendly? A: 100% yes. Love is love at CLAY.

weddings at clay venues in colorado springs

Beyond the Wedding Day

Your CLAY experience doesn’t have to end with your wedding. The venue is also perfect for:

  • Rehearsal dinners
  • Day-after brunches
  • Anniversary parties
  • Vow renewals
  • Bridal showers

And hey, who says you can’t come back to celebrate other milestones? I’ve seen couples return for baby showers, retirement parties, and everything in between.

modern wedding aesthetic at clay

Exploring Venue Options in Colorado Springs

While Clay offers a cool, modern vibe for your special day, you might be curious about other venues in the Colorado Springs area. Let’s take a journey through some alternatives:

Traditional Choices (A Bit Stuffy, If You Ask Us)

  • Banquet Halls & Ballrooms: Think Cheyenne Mountain Resort or The DoubleTree Hotel. Sure, they’re classic, but do they really capture your unique style?
  • Country Club Venues: Elegant, but perhaps a tad too formal for the free spirits among us.
  • Hotel Venues: ’nuff said. Think Mining Exchange (A Wyndham Grand Hotel and Spa).

retro event at clay venues in colorado springs

Is anyone else tired of dusty barn weddings and dated wedding reception halls?

There are way cooler places to host your nuptials. Maybe you’re obsessed with The Shining and MUST get married at the Stanley Hotel. Or you’re truly just looking for a quick and simple setting, there’s always the El Paso County Courthouse. Either way, you’re clearly still here and ready, so the show must go on. Just promise us you won’t get married on a smelly cattle ranch. Let’s show some love to some more venues!

garden of the gods photo shoot

Outdoor Adventures (If That’s Your Vibe)

Colorado Springs isn’t just about indoor venues. If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” under the vast sky, consider these Colorado mountain wedding venues and towns for destination weddings:

  • Ranch Weddings: Venues like Younger Ranch or Flying Horse Ranch offer a taste of the Wild West.
  • Mountain Majesties: With Pikes Peak and the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop, your wedding photos will be breathtaking.
  • Manitou Springs: This charming town near Colorado Springs offers unique outdoor settings.

Unique Wedding Reception Alternatives in Colorado Springs

If you’re looking for something between modern and traditional, the area offers some interesting wedding locations:

  • The Loft Collective Music Venue: A vintage-style venue with character.
  • Vault and Orpheum Theater: Located in nearby BV, these spaces offer a touch of history. Address: 2506 W Colorado Ave suite c, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
  • Hearth House Venue: A blend of modern and rustic who prides themselves on being different. Address: 192 Front St, Monument, CO 80132
  • The Colorado Springs School – The 32-acre campus is located on the former Claremont Estate, built in 1907 as the home of Charles and Virginia Baldwin.

Finally, there is Wedgewood Weddings, which manages MANY venues nationwide, including the Springs.

Beyond Colorado Springs

Expanding your search? Consider these options:

  • Fort Collins: Home to several beautiful venues.
  • Littleton, Colorado: Offers charming settings for your big day.
  • Southern Colorado: Explore the beauty of the southern Rockies.
  • Granby: Rockies. RMNP. Nuff said.

abbie james wedding at clay

Quick Tips

  • Check out our wedding venue checklist on our website to help with your decision.
  • Consider micro weddings for a more intimate celebration.
  • Don’t forget about photography – the right venue can make for stunning wedding photos!

garden of the gods

Other sites to check out & explore:

Remember, while these venues have their charm, Clay offers a perfect blend of modern style and versatility that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or a local celebration, we’re here to make your dream venue a reality.

abbie james wedding at clay

What Will a Wedding Near Colorado Springs Cost Me?

Drumroll, please… You’re looking at about $24,832 to $35,350 total depending on the venue and their inclusions. Yeah, we know, that’s a chunk of change. But hey, you only do this once, right? (Fingers crossed!)

m and d wedding at clay

Guest List Drama

We based this on 175 guests, but here’s a pro tip: each extra person you invite could add $142 – $173 to your bill. Choose wisely, folks! Uncle Bob got a little sloppy at your sister’s wedding, remember?

landon and baileys wedding

Where’s Your Money Going?

Let’s break it down by category:

  • Venue, Catering & Rentals (73.4% of your budget)
    • This is the big one, folks! We’re talking $18,237 – $22,289.
    • Includes the venue itself, food, drinks, and all those tables and chairs.
    • Pro tip: The open bar alone? That’s about 12% of your total budget. Cheers!
  • Attire & Accessories (6.9%)
    • Looking good isn’t cheap! Budget $1,725 – $2,109.
    • Most of this goes to the wedding dress. Sorry, grooms!
  • Photography & Video (6.8%)
    • Capturing memories: $1,690 – $2,066.
    • Trust us, you’ll want these pics for your anniversary posts!
  • Flowers & Decorations (3.6%)
    • Setting the mood: $897 – $1,097.
    • Don’t forget those Instagram-worthy centerpieces!
  • Entertainment (3.2%)
    • Gotta have tunes! $792 – $968 for a DJ/MC.
    • Time to practice your dance moves!
  • Invitations (3.6%)
    • First impressions matter: $892 – $1,090.
    • From save-the-dates to thank-you cards, it all adds up.
  • MiscellaneousBeauty & Spa: $115 – $141 (Looking fresh!)
    • Gifts & Favors: $483 – $591 (Show some love to your guests)

chic wedding with great decor at clay

The Bottom Line

Remember, these are averages. Your wedding, your rules! Want to splurge on a live band? Go for it! Prefer to DIY your decorations? That works, too!

The key is to focus on what matters most to you. After all, the best weddings are the ones that feel true to the couple. So, whether you’re all about that gourmet menu with local flavors or you’re dreaming of a late-night coffee bar to keep the party bumpin’ (you can have that at CLAY!), make it uniquely yours!

weddings at clay venues in colorado springs

Making Memories That Last a Lifetime

At the end of the day, your wedding is about more than just a beautiful venue or a perfect party. It’s about creating memories that’ll last a lifetime. And that’s where CLAY really shines.

I’ve seen fathers tear up as they walk their daughters down the aisle, watched couples share their first dance under the warm glow of market lights, and heard toasts that had the whole room in stitches (and tears).

These are the moments that make a wedding special. And at CLAY, these moments happen every single day.

So, if you’re looking for a Colorado Springs wedding venue that’s more than just four walls and a roof, give CLAY a look or send us an email. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

After all, in the words of one CLAY bride, “It wasn’t just a wedding venue. It was the place where our forever began.”