How to Plan a Wedding in Six Months (or Less!) in Colorado Springs & Cañon City

How to Plan a Wedding in Six Months (or Less!) in Colorado Springs & Cañon City

By: Elizabeth Schlup - Lost Pond

If you just got engaged and realized your dream wedding date is, oh… half a year away, don’t panic. You can absolutely plan a beautiful Colorado wedding in six months or less, even if you or your fiancé are stationed at Fort Carson, Peterson Air Force Base, or the U.S. Air Force Academy. The key? Organization, flexibility, and maybe a sense of humor when your first-choice photographer is already booked.

Whether you’re tying the knot in Colorado Springs or heading a little south to Cañon City for mountain views and fewer crowds, here’s your timeline for pulling off a stunning, stress-managed wedding, fast.

Month 1: Big Decisions First

1. Set your date and budget.
Pick a range of dates before locking in one. Military life can mean shifting schedules, so choose something that allows wiggle room. Set your budget early so you know what’s realistic, and remember, Colorado Springs venues fill fast, especially in summer and fall.

2. Book your venue.
If you want that rustic-elegant vibe, check out local favorites near Cañon City like Lost Pond or other small mountain venues that can host both ceremony and reception. They tend to have more flexible availability than larger Colorado Springs venues.

3. Get your marriage license on your radar.
You can get one from any Colorado county clerk’s office (no waiting period, yay!). El Paso and Fremont Counties are convenient options if you’re near Fort Carson or Cañon City.

Month 2: Dress to Impress (and Book Your Key Vendors)

1. Find your wedding dress (or suit).
Six months goes by fast! Many bridal shops near Colorado Springs offer rush options or off-the-rack gowns. You can always add your personal touch with tailoring or accessories later.

2. Secure your photographer and DJ.
The good ones book early, especially around military graduation weekends or major holidays. When calling around, mention you’re on a six-month timeline; many vendors have “short notice” packages for military couples.

3. Lock in your florist.
If your florist knows your colors and vibe early, they can plan ahead even if the bouquet decisions take a little longer.

Month 3: The Fun (and Tasty) Details

1. Choose your caterer or food plan.
Buffet, barbecue, taco truck, whatever fits your venue and budget. Many Cañon City and Colorado Springs caterers offer smaller-scale menus perfect for intimate weddings.

2. Send your save-the-dates or digital invites.
Yes, even if it’s a short timeline, it helps guests plan travel, especially if they’re military friends coming from out of state.

3. Start planning décor.
Rustic Colorado venues like Lost Pond often look stunning with simple greenery, string lights, and mountain views as your backdrop.

Month 4: Lock It All In

1. Finalize your ceremony details.
If one of you is stationed at Fort Carson or Peterson, ask about chaplain services or base-approved officiants. Or go the self-solemnization route (Colorado allows it - no officiant required!).

2. Book transportation and accommodations.
Think ahead for guests who may be flying into Colorado Springs Airport or driving from Denver.

3. Finalize the wedding party outfits.
Coordinate bridesmaids’ dresses, groomsmen suits, and accessories. Rush orders can sneak up on you.

Month 5: Paperwork and Pre-Wedding Fun

1. Apply for your marriage license.
You can get it up to 35 days before your ceremony. Don’t forget to bring valid IDs (and a paw print, if your dog’s the witness — yes, really, some Colorado counties allow it!).

2. Schedule your hair and makeup trial.
Local stylists near Colorado Springs book out quickly, so get on their radar early.

3. Plan your rehearsal and dinner.
Whether you’re having a backyard barbecue or reserving a local restaurant, make it a relaxed moment before the big day.

Month 6: Showtime!

1. Confirm all vendors.
Reconfirm times, deliveries, and final payments. Send your timeline to everyone involved (including your family helpers).

2. Pack your emergency kit.
Think safety pins, lip gloss, a snack bar, and your marriage license.

3. Enjoy the day.
Take a deep breath and remember, you pulled off a wedding in six months! Whether you said “I do” under Colorado blue skies or among the cottonwoods near Cañon City, you did it your way.

Final Thoughts

Planning a wedding in six months or less isn’t impossible, it’s just about prioritizing what matters most. Whether you’re a military couple making the most of your current posting or locals ready to celebrate close to home, Colorado Springs and Cañon City have everything you need: beautiful scenery, amazing vendors, and plenty of heart.

So grab your calendar, pour a cup of coffee (or a glass of Colorado craft beer), and start planning. You’ve got this!