Brides-to-be, grooms in training, and self-proclaimed planner experts (I see you, bestie to the bride!), I’m so excited you’re here! πŸ•ŠοΈπŸ’ Keep reading for a deep dive into the world of wedding venues in Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs. Trust me, you’re in for a treat sweeter than your usual oat milk latte. ;) I’ve worked with my fair share of couples in this gorgeous area, and I can’t wait to share all the insider tips and tricks I’ve picked up since my own engagement.

sleek downtown wedidng at clay in colorado springs

In this guide, we’re going to explore some amazing wedding venues that’ll make your special day absolutely unforgettable! We’ll chat about why Colorado Springs might be the perfect choice for your big day, and I’ll even spill some tea on my favorite venue, Clay, the latest wedding trends, and fun planning hacks. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be bursting with ideas and ready to start planning your dream Colorado wedding. So, let’s get this party started! πŸ•ΊπŸ’ƒ

weddings at clay venues in colorado springs

Colorado or Manitou Springs Weddings? What’s the difference?

Now, I know what you’re thinking – any town in Colorado sounds pretty adorable, right? And it is! But let me tell you why Colorado Springs, Manitou’s next door neighbor might just steal your heart…

  1. SO many unique wedding venues! Colorado Springs is a big city, which means more places to find venues, reception options, and vendors for your big day.
  2. It’s easily accessible. With a major airport in town, out-of-town guests can attend your wedding ceremony without extensive travel.
  3. Progressive urban vibes meets natural beauty. You get the perfect blend of city convenience and the essence of the outdoors all in one place!
  4. There’s a place for you, your mom, your VIPs, and your “I guess we have to invite them”s. From cozy B&Bs to luxe hotels and sanctuary retreats, there’s something for every guest and budget.

And here’s a little secret – Manitou Springs is only 6 miles down the road, so you have two great locations to explore! You can totally enjoy the charm of Manitou Springs while taking advantage of all Colorado Springs has to offer.

weddings at clay venues in colorado springs

Modern Colorado Weddings | Uniquely Your Own

Couples travel from all across the country and even the world to exchange their vows in the Centennial state. Here’s a taste of what Colorado has to offer…

  • Mountain backdrops that’ll make your wedding photos pop
  • Farm-to-table catering that’ll have your guests raving
  • Craft beer and local wine to keep the party going
  • Adventure activities for your guests (hello, pre-wedding hike or ski!)
  • Laid-back vibes that let you truly be yourselves

A Colorado wedding is all about blending natural beauty with your personal style. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn ambiance or a sleek urban affair, you can make it happen here. Now, let me introduce you to a venue that’s taking Colorado destination weddings to the next level – Clay Venues in Colorado Springs!

modern wedding aesthetic at clay

Clay Venues | Where Modernity Meets Magic

I stumbled upon Clay Venues a while back, and let me tell you, it was love at first sight! This all-inclusive venue is the epitome of industrial elegance and avant-garde style. It’s a whopping 6,000 square feet of blank canvas in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, just waiting for you to make it your own.

weddings at clay venues in colorado springs

Here’s the best part – they offer comprehensive packages that’ll make your planning process a breeze. Let’s break it down…

2 Packages for Your Chic Colorado Wedding

Features

Classic Package

Signature Package

Venue Access

10 hours

11 hours

Bar Service

Soft bar + cash bar

All-inclusive hosted house bar

Planning Assistance

Day of Coordinator + planning help

Comprehensive coordination + full service planning & expertise

Catering

Appetizers + dinner buffet

Appetizers + dinner + late-night snacks

Decor

Elegant decor + lighting

Upgraded decor + furniture + lighting

Extras

Essential rentals

4-hour photo booth, florals/coffee bar/dress steaming/ & more!

Both packages also include a professional DJ and layouts, so you’re covered on the music front and the stunning spots for photo ops!

These 2 comprehensive packages allow you to enjoy your wedding day fully without juggling 10 different vendors. Clay is also ran by an impeccable team that is passionate about design and aesthetics (so you know your layout and decor will be Pinterest-worthy). ✨

retro event at clay venues in colorado springs

Catering Fit For a Queen (& Your Picky Relatives)

Now, let’s talk food! Clay Venues works with You & I Caterers, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you for choosing this preferred vendor. These folks can whip up everything from classic American to zesty Latin cuisine.

Cuisine Type

Description

American Classic

Comfort food favorites with a gourmet twist

Asian

A fusion of flavors from across the continent

Italian

From rustic pasta to elegant antipasti

Southern

Soul food that’ll make you feel right at home

Latin

Vibrant dishes bursting with color and spice

Irish

Hearty fare that pairs perfectly with a pint

And get this – they’re open to preparing your favorite family recipe. Imagine nonna’s meatball recipe or your favorite childhood snack modernized. I’m not crying… You’re crying. πŸ₯²

weddings at clay venues in colorado springs

Wedding Planning Tips and Tricks

Alright, now that we’ve got you excited about Clay Venues, let’s talk about planning your Colorado Springs wedding. Here are some tips to make your day as smooth as the Rocky Mountain air…

  1. Plan for all weather – Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan for outdoor elements.
  2. Help your guests acclimate – Remind out-of-towners about the altitude. Encourage them to stay hydrated and take it easy.
  3. Incorporate local flavors – From craft beers to locally-sourced produce, give your guests a taste of Colorado.
  4. Organize an epic rehearsal dinner – A rehearsal is not always necessary, but if you’re planning a destination wedding especially, it’s nice to check in with your party before the big day. Here’s a list of the best restaurants in Colorado Springs.

bistro lighting at clay venues

I’ve also put together this insider’s guide to the area if you’re looking to make a whole week out of your storybook wedding. Browse luxury accommodations, local monuments & attractions, and dining options.

red rock canyon open space

Minimoon Magic | Romantic Getaways Nearby

After all the excitement of your wedding celebration, you might want to sneak off for a little minimoon. Here are some nearby spots that are perfect for newlywed bliss:

  • Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs’s Rocky Mountains): Camp under the stars surrounded by stunning red rock formations.
  • Royal Gorge: Get your adrenaline pumping with zip-lining or white-water rafting.
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park: Sandboard down massive dunes for a unique adventure.
  • Breckenridge: Hit the slopes or enjoy a cozy mountain town vibe.

chic wedding with great decor at clay

FAQs | Planning Your Modern Colorado Springs Wedding

chic wedding with great decor at clay

What’s trending for modern Colorado weddings?

Oh boy, where do I start? Here are some hot trends I’ve been seeing…

  • Micro weddings with epic locations
  • Modern, “old money” decor and attire (think: pearls, gold, candlelight, pure sophistication, and subtle sparkles)
  • Coffee bars at receptions
  • Neon sign decor
  • Sustainable, eco-friendly elements
  • Interactive experiences (think: whiskey tastings or tarot readings)

m and d wedding at clay

Any tips for planning a destination wedding in Colorado Springs?

Absolutely! Here’s my top advice…

  1. Visit in person if possible, or work with a local planner who knows the area.
  2. Give guests plenty of notice so they can plan their trip.
  3. Create a wedding website with local info and attractions.
  4. Consider welcome bags with altitude-friendly goodies (think: water bottles, sunscreen, and local snacks).
  5. Plan some group activities to help everyone get to know each other before the big day.

abbie james wedding at clay

Any wedding apps or sites I should know about?

Technology is your friend when it comes to wedding planning! Check these out…

  • Wedding Swap App: Buy/resell wedding decor. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
  • Betting on the Wedding App: Allows guests to bet on various wedding elements. The best part? You’re the house, and the house always wins. ;)
  • GuestPix App: A database of all the photos taken by your guests during the festivities
  • As for sites, The Knot Worldwide and Wedding Wire are classic resources for planning couples.

m and d wedding at clay

I want to stay trendy! How can I incorporate TikTok trends into my wedding?

TikTok is full of fun wedding ideas! Here are a few trending now…

  • First look prank (where the groom turns around to see the best man instead of the bride)
  • Before & after getting ready transitions
  • “This is my first drink” & “This is my ___ drink” videos
  • “Get ready with me” videos for your wedding day prep
  • The iconic sunglasses! (Where every guest takes a photo in the same pair of glasses, and you mash them up into one reel)

m and s wedding at clay

Any unique guest experience ideas for a Colorado Springs wedding?

Absolutely! How about…

  • Hiring a caricature artist for fun guest portraits
  • Set up a s’mores station or hot cocoa bar for a late-night pick me up
  • Arrange a group hike the day before the wedding reception
  • Bring in a local craft brewery to set up a tasting station

sleek downtown wedidng at clay in colorado springs

What are the most common venue types in Colorado?

When people think of Colorado, they think of ranches, cliff houses, retreat venue spaces, and mountain wedding venues. We’re a lot more complex than that, though! You’ll also find ballrooms, winery venue rentals, castles, cathedrals, and modern venue spaces like Clay. Not everyone in CO is about rustic cottage celebrations at mountain destinations. We can do urban glam, too!

m and s wedding at clay

Get Ready to Be Haute, Hip, and Hitched!

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but remember, it’s all about celebrating your love. Whether you choose an urban chic event venue like Clay or another spot in beautiful Manitou or Colorado Springs, your day is going to be amazing.

I hope this guide has given you some ideas and inspiration for your Colorado Springs wedding. From venues to catering, from minimoon spots to the latest trends, you’re now armed with all the info you need to start planning your dream day. Remember, at the end of the day, it’s about you two lovebirds starting your new life together. So take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and get ready for the best day ever! Click the button below to contact the Clay team and learn more about their availability.