Unforgettable Summer Wedding at the Iconic Surf Hotel

Dec 21

When Anna and Flip asked me to help plan their wedding at the iconic Surf Hotel in Buena Vista, Colorado, I knew it would be an unforgettable experience. Nestled along the Arkansas River with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, the Surf Hotel is a place where beauty meets adventure, and the vibe is always welcoming and relaxed. From the beginning, it was clear that Anna and Flip were looking for something unique—a wedding that reflected their love for the outdoors, their fun personalities, and their desire for a laid-back celebration with their closest family and friends.

A Warm and Inviting Color Palette

One of the first details that really set the tone for the event was the warm, earthy color palette. Anna and Flip were drawn to a mix of rich, inviting hues that captured the essence of Colorado's stunning landscapes. Think warm terracotta, burnt orange, deep mustard yellow, and soft dusty rose. These colors brought a cozy and intimate feeling to the entire celebration, creating a beautiful contrast with the hotel's rustic charm and the breathtaking mountain backdrop.

From the ceremony to the reception, every element of the decor was thoughtfully designed to tie into this warm color scheme. The bridesmaids’ dresses, floral arrangements, and even the table settings all exuded a sense of warmth, elegance, and comfort. It felt as though the entire space was glowing with love.

Fresh Florals and Natural Beauty

When planning a wedding in Buena Vista, I always love connecting with Growing Wild Floral to set the tone for the florals. The florals were fresh, vibrant, and perfectly complemented the colors of the day. Growing Wild crafted lush, romantic arrangements that gave the wedding a natural, organic feel. The bouquets and centerpieces were full of texture and beauty, with pops of greenery and delicate blooms that added to the rustic charm of the venue.

One of my favorite touches was the flower installation at the ceremony site. Set on the hotel’s picturesque Chateau Courtyard, the florals perfectly blended in with the stone arch, creating the backdrop for Anna and Flip’s ceremony. It was the perfect combination of modern style and natural beauty, setting the tone for the rest of the day.

A Fun, Laid-Back Vibe

From the beginning, Anna and Flip were clear that they wanted their wedding to be fun and laid-back—an opportunity for their guests to enjoy good food, great music, and the beautiful outdoors. The Surf Hotel, with its charming blend of rustic and modern aesthetics, was the perfect place to bring that vision to life.

The reception was full of energy and laughter, with guests mingling on the outdoor terrace, sipping cocktails, and enjoying the mountain air. The Surf Hotel served a delicious plated dinner, which encouraged guests to relax and enjoy each other’s company while indulging in the delicious local cuisine. The energy was contagious—everyone was there to celebrate and have a good time, and the atmosphere felt comfortable yet festive.

Custom Cowboy Hats: A Nod to Their New Home in Colorado

One of the most memorable touches of the wedding was the custom cowboy hats that Anna and Flip gifted to their wedding party. As a nod to their love for the outdoors and the Western vibe of Colorado, the hats were the perfect accessory to the event.

It didn’t take long for the entire group to embrace the fun vibe, and before long, the dance floor was full of people laughing and dancing the night away. It was one of those details that perfectly captured the couple's personality: thoughtful, fun, and full of life.

The Big Day Comes Together

As the wedding day approached, everything fell into place beautifully. The Surf Hotel's incredible team was instrumental in making sure every detail was executed flawlessly, from the seamless ceremony set-up to the delicious food and drinks served at the reception. The venue itself provided such a gorgeous backdrop for the wedding—whether it was the river views or the rustic charm of the interior, every corner of the Surf Hotel was picture-perfect.

Anna and Flip’s wedding was a celebration of love, joy, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Colorado. The warm color palette, fresh florals, and custom cowboy hats perfectly captured the couple’s personalities and created an atmosphere that was both elegant and laid-back. It was truly a day to remember, and I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of it.

As the sun set over the mountains and the dance floor continued to hum with energy, I couldn’t help but smile. Anna and Flip’s wedding was everything they had dreamed of—and more. It was a perfect reflection of their love story and their incredible adventure together. I’m so grateful to have had the chance to help them celebrate this next chapter of their journey at the Surf Hotel in Buena Vista, Colorado.