The Most Unforgettable Jackson Hole Wedding Weekend
If there’s ever a place that nails the balance between wild mountain energy and elevated, stylish vibes, it’s Jackson Hole! This town just gets it. You’ve got the cinematic drama of the Tetons (they literally don’t look real), candlelit tents strung with antler chandeliers, and yes, cowboy boots paired with designer gowns in a way that totally works. It’s Western, but make it fashionable.
Mia and Cal’s Jackson Hole wedding weekend? Unreal! And not just because of the view (although, wow!). The whole thing felt like an experience, intentional, joyful, full of personality. From a welcome party across from the iconic antler arch to late-night dancing downtown at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, it was one of those weekends where everything just clicked. And as a destination wedding photographer, it reminded me how a wedding in Jackson Hole isn’t just a day on the calendar. It’s a whole vibe. A memory-making, bring-your-people-together kind of thing. And that’s the magic.
Planning your wedding in Jackson Hole? Say less. This guide is full of real advice, scenic inspo, and ideas to make it all come together with ease. Let’s dive in!
Planning a Jackson Hole Wedding Weekend
One of the best things about getting married in Jackson Hole is that it invites a weekend-long adventure. Guests aren’t just coming in for a few hours; they’re flying in, booking cabins, grabbing coffee in town, and getting swept up in the setting. Here are a few things to keep in mind while planning:
1. Arrive early. Jackson Hole is at an altitude, and giving guests time to acclimate helps everyone feel better on the big day. A day or two buffer also means time for a welcome party, spa day, or scenic hike.
2. Build in downtime. Not everyone wants to go horseback riding or hike 10 miles, but everyone loves fireside cocktails or a chill brunch. Give guests a mix of planned and free time.
3. Western chic = balance. Think: high-end florals with leather details, sleek silhouettes with boots, minimal tablescapes with local florals (yes, Mia + Cal did this, and it was incredible).
4. Weather plan wisely. Wyoming weather can be dramatic. Tent your reception or have a solid Plan B. A tent with antler chandeliers, like Mia + Cal had, brings the outside in without risking a storm.
5. Book vendors who get it. Especially your photographer. You want someone who knows how to capture both those epic mountain backdrops and the smaller moments (like a teary grandparent or a wild dance floor).
Mia + Cal’s Jackson Hole Wedding Weekend
Okay, so, where to even start! Mia + Cal’s wedding was such a dream to photograph, and not just because of the views (although, wow). It was the kind of weekend that felt thoughtful, well-designed, but still relaxed. Personal touches everywhere.
Their welcome party was at the Cloudveil Hotel in downtown Jackson Hole, right across from the famous antler arch. And I have never seen so many cowboy boots styled so chic-ly. Everyone understood the assignment when it came to the dress code, the perfect mix of western flair and personal expression. Cowboy boots, bold patterns, and just the right amount of glam made the whole thing feel effortlessly cool.
Mia got ready at her parents' private home, which had Teton views and was just down the road from their venue, The Club at 3 Creek. While she was doing bridesmaid photos on the couch, her pup literally jumped right up and joined, completely unplanned but so sweet (and yes, I got the shot, it was one of my favs!!).
They did their first look at the Nature Center, which is part of the golf club, and not even gonna lie, pretty sure half of us cried. The second they saw each other, all the nerves melted, and the excitement kicked in. From there, we took golf carts back to the clubhouse for the ceremony.
Speaking of, the ceremony backdrop? It overlooked the Tetons, with the aspens just starting to turn, so gorgeous! They read their vows, then walked back down the aisle with their pup. The whole thing felt intimate, emotional, and full of those little in-between moments that matter.
The Reception: A Night To Remember
The reception took place in a tented space filled with antler chandeliers, because, Jackson Hole. The tables had stunning florals, each named after a national park, and golden hour? Insane. I’d scoped out a nearby field the day before that I knew would catch the light just right. For portraits, I made sure Mia had her veil on so we could play with that extra glowy light. We did a mix of editorial shots and movement-based prompts (walking, spinning, holding hands) to keep it natural and relaxed. Some wide angles to show off the Tetons, and then some tighter, more intimate frames that really showed how in love they were.
Dinner was cozy and elevated. The band? Legendary. They played Espresso, Pink Pony Club, and had everyone on the dance floor all night. The caterers served hot skillet chocolate chip cookies with ice cream on the dance floor (this should be required at all weddings, honestly).
And Mia’s reception dress change? 14/10. No notes.
Before heading to the afterparty, they snuck away to a quiet table to soak it in together. Just ten minutes to sit, breathe, and debrief, I loved that. Then, for the afterparty, they rented out part of the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, yes, the iconic one in downtown Jackson. Their names were up on the marquee like actual celebrities, and you know we had to stop for those photos. It was such a surreal, cool moment that capped off the night perfectly. A little wild, and a little glamorous.
How I Captured That Golden Hour Magic
When golden hour hit, I just knew we had to make the most of that soft, glowy light (this is so important, lighting can completely transform your photos). I’d scoped out the venue the day before, and found this open field nearby that felt like it was made for veil shots and a little post-ceremony frolicking. So before we hopped in the golf cart, I made sure Mia had her veil on, and wow, did it pay off! The Tetons were glowing behind them, and I framed a bunch of wide shots to really show off the landscape. (P.S. big environmental shots are perfect for showing where your love story happened!).
I love mixing those epic, environmental portraits with the closer, more emotional stuff. As always with my documentary/editorial approach, I gave them movement-based prompts, walk hand-in-hand, spin, run a little, just be together, so they could relax and soak each other in, this is key: natural movement = natural emotion! And then we slowed it down for a few classic portraits that still felt true to who they are. That little golden hour window gave us some of my favorite frames from the whole weekend.
Best Coffee + Eats in Jackson Hole
If you’re planning on sneaking away during the wedding weekend, or just want some recommendations for your guests, here are a few favorites to check out:
Cowboy Coffee Co. – a must for your morning latte (seriously, don’t skip this one, it’ll set the tone for your day).
Persephone Bakery- – amazing brunch and pastries that make you feel like you’re in a little European café tucked in the Tetons.
Trio – an elevated downtown dinner spot that’s perfect for rehearsal dinners or a night out after the wedding chaos.
Bin22 – wine bar vibes with delicious shared plates (great for an intimate evening with friends or a quick snack between wedding events).
Snake River Grill – a splurge-worthy pick for dinner; their menu and ambiance make it feel extra special.
Bonus picks for more local flavor:
Pinky G’s Pizzeria – casual, fun, and perfect if you’re craving a slice after a long rehearsal dinner or adventure-filled day.
Cafe Genevieve – cozy Southern-inspired breakfast or lunch spot with charm to spare.
The Bird – for something quick and casual, but still so tasty (their sandwiches are legendary).
Top Things to Do in Jackson Hole
If you’re building out a wedding weekend itinerary, here are some ideas to keep your guests entertained, or give yourself a little sneaky adventure time:
Scenic tram ride at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort – the views are jaw-dropping, and it’s a fun way to get a bird’s-eye look at the Tetons.
Wildlife safari or float trip through Grand Teton National Park – you never know what you’ll see (moose? bald eagles? maybe a fox photobombing your engagement photos?).
Horseback riding with a local outfitter – perfect for couples who want a classic Western adventure or just a gorgeous morning in the mountains.
Hike Taggart Lake or Jenny Lake Loop – a little exercise with major photo ops. (Pro tip: pack your camera, the reflections in the lakes are stunning.)
Spa day at the Four Seasons – because wedding weekends are stressful and you deserve some R&R before or after the big day.
Float down the Snake River – a relaxing way to take in the scenery, maybe even with a mimosa in hand (just saying).
Explore downtown Jackson – check out the local shops, art galleries, and the famous elk antler arches for some quick, fun photos.
Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art – perfect for art-loving guests or anyone who wants to soak up some culture while surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Popular Wedding Venues in Jackson Hole
The Club at 3 Creek (Mia + Cal’s venue!) – Jackson Hole’s only member-owned club that perfectly balances luxury and natural beauty. Seriously, this place is a dream for mountain weddings.
Amangani – modern luxury with unbeatable Teton views; ideal if you want a sleek, elevated vibe without losing that mountain charm.
Diamond Cross Ranch – iconic Teton backdrop plus cowboy charm; think open skies, rustic elegance, and plenty of space to let guests roam.
Jackson Hole Winery – intimate, relaxed vibes for couples who want a low-key but beautiful setting (bonus: wine tasting!).
Snake River Ranch – a vast and stunning property where you can really let the day unfold naturally, and trust me, the photos look incredible.
Spring Creek Ranch– luxury lodge feel with amazing outdoor spaces, perfect for a weekend wedding with friends and family.
Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa – a classic, polished option with plenty of options for both ceremony and reception spaces.
A Jackson Hole Wedding is More Than Just a Ceremony
At the end of the day, what made Mia + Cal’s wedding so special wasn’t just the incredible scenery (though yeah, that helped). It was the way the entire weekend felt intentional. Every moment, every guest interaction, every detail was rooted in meaning and joy.
That’s the beauty of a Jackson Hole wedding. It’s not about checking off a timeline. It’s about creating an atmosphere where memories can unfold naturally.
If that sounds like your vibe, I’d love to help document it all. From champagne toasts at your welcome dinner to dancing barefoot under string lights, I’m there to capture the big moments and the little ones that often go unseen.
Reach out here and let’s start dreaming up your Jackson Hole wedding weekend together!
If you’re planning a Colorado mountain wedding, check out my blogs The Best Mountain Wedding Venues in Colorado and How to Choose the Perfect Colorado Wedding Photographer for Your Style.
And if you’re planning a destination wedding, check out The Ultimate Amalfi Coast Wedding Guide: For Your Destination Wedding in Italy.
