Chief Hosa Lodge weddings fit any style of celebration
One of the best parts of being a Colorado Wedding Photographer is discovering all the beautiful locations this state has to offer! I’ve now photographed two Chief Hosa Lodge weddings, and it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite “hidden” venues. Owned and managed by the Denver Parks Department, it’s a beautiful stone building with fantastic mountain views.
The two events I have photographed there couldn’t have been more different in theme. Fatina & Forest had a wonderful 1920s “Gatsby” wedding. They asked guests to show up in their best sequins, feathers, and fedora hats. Laura & Adam had a much more traditional ceremony that incorporated their Jewish faith. In both cases, the beautiful stonework of the building and the natural surroundings fit perfectly.
Having photographed two different weddings there, I can definitely recommend it as a solid choice for any couple looking for a wedding under 100 guests (their limit).
Here are my favorite aspects of Chief Hosa Lodge weddings:
LOCATION:
- Less than an hour from Denver International Airport, it’s an easy drive for out-of-state guests, but still feels like you are totally in the forest.
- There’s a campground literally right across from it. If you or your guests want the REAL Colorado experience, you can stay there after the wedding.
- If running water and full amenity bathrooms are more your speed, the towns of Evergreen and Golden are both nearby. They’re beautiful and just rustic enough to give you a feel for Colorado while keeping all the comforts.
- The grounds themselves are beautiful. However, if you build in time for the two of you to explore the surrounding area for a first look or private portraits, there are tons of options. I have a handful of favorite scenic spots in the area that are all within a 20 minute drive.
COST:
- This is one of the more affordable locations you’re likely to find anywhere near Denver. The prices listed on their website are as follows:
Peak Season (May 1 – Sept. 30):
- Mon-Thurs | 7:00 a.m. – 3:59 p.m.: $160/hour
- Mon-Thurs | 4:00-11:00 p.m.: $260/hour
- Fri-Sun & Holidays: $420/hour
Off-Peak Season (October – April)
- Mon-Thurs | 7:00 a.m. – 3:59 p.m.: $115/hour
- Mon-Thurs | 4:00-11:00 p.m.: $230/hour
- Fri-Sun & Holidays: $230/hour
-The reason these rates are so reasonable is that the property is owned by the Denver Parks Department. So, as an added bonus, you know your rental fee helps support an organization that keeps our city beautiful and accessible for all! I’m probably biased as the spouse of a Parks’ employee, but I love to support our amazing system of open spaces whenever possible.
VENDOR FLEXIBILITY:
- While Chief Hosa Lodge does have a wedding coordinator who will work with you, all the other vendors are up to you. That means, among other things, you can choose to bring in food and alcohol from any licensed business you like. The only stipulation is that you hire an insured bartender (not simply a guest of the wedding). If you choose to have alcohol at your wedding, being able to bring in your own is one of the best ways to save money from your overall budget. Plus, that opens so many possibilities for food! Taco bar? Food truck? You can have whatever you’d like.
- Chairs and tables are provided for you. All you need to do is let them know which ones you want set up. Check that very annoying rental arrangement off your list!
- You and your vendors will need to provide proof of insurance to rent the facility. I carry a one million dollar liability policy, which is the standard required, but not everyone does. Make sure to ask whoever you hire if they have such a policy and can provide documentation to the Parks department ahead of time.
Also…. did I mention it’s a freaking stone castle???
Chief Hosa Lodge offers a unique location at a reasonable price. It’s also conveniently located not far from Denver and close to some amazingly beautiful areas. Are you sold on planning your own Chief Hosa Lodge wedding yet? I can help.