Kristella & Matt
December 2024

Boulder Weddings: Cozy and Classy Winter Wedding at Chautauqua Park and Community House

WEDDING STORY
Kristella and Matt hosted their December wedding celebration at Chautauqua Community House after getting legally married the year prior. They were excited to gather with their closest family and friends and took full advantage of everything Chautauqua has to offer. Their guests stayed in the historic cabins for a weekend of celebrating.

They greeted guests in the downstairs lounge for cocktail hour, where the fireplace was blazing and mistletoe was glittering. Guests arrived dressed to impress—furs, velvet gloves, and shimmering dresses. Upstairs in the main hall, long family-style tables were set for dinner, fostering a communal and intimate dining ambiance.

After dinner, the space transformed for a night of dancing and karaoke, where everyone sang and danced their hearts out until returning to their cozy cabins.

GETTING READY AT CHAUTAUQUA COMMUNITY HOUSE
Chautauqua Community House provides a convenient and comfortable space for getting ready before the ceremony. The upstairs area is a quiet, private space with natural light, mirrors, and seating, making it an ideal spot for final preparations. It keeps the wedding party close to the venue while allowing for separation from arriving guests.

For those staying overnight, Chautauqua's historic cottages offer a unique lodging experience. Staying in one of these cabins feels like adult summer camp— charming and well-equipped, with full amenities. Many couples book multiple cottages so they and their guests can stay together, turning the wedding into a full weekend experience. Guests can walk from their cabins to the ceremony and enjoy the surrounding trails and mountain views. The cottages also provide extra space for family and wedding party members to get ready in a more relaxed setting. Since these rentals are in high demand, early booking is recommended, especially during peak wedding season.

THE CEREMONY SPACES
Chautauqua Community House offers a flexible ceremony space with a historic, intimate atmosphere. Couples can choose to hold their ceremony indoors in the Community House, which features warm wood interiors and large windows with natural light. For those who prefer an outdoor setting, Chautauqua Park provides scenic backdrops with views of the Flatirons. Seating arrangements can be customized based on guest count, and the space works well for both small and medium-sized weddings. This venue offers gorgeous views year-round, so whether you're planning a summer or winter wedding, you can't go wrong with Chautauqua.

THE RECEPTION SPACE
Chautauqua Community House provides a historic setting for wedding receptions. The main hall features wood-paneled walls, high ceilings, and large windows that create an inviting, intimate atmosphere. The layout is flexible, accommodating both seated dinners and open-concept receptions with room for dancing. Downstairs, a cozy lounge area serves as a perfect cocktail hour space, giving guests a comfortable place to mingle before the main reception begins.

Originally built as part of the Chautauqua movement in the late 19th century, the Community House retains its original architectural charm. Whether hosting a formal dinner or a lively dance party, the venue’s setup provides plenty of options to create a personalized experience.

PHOTO LOCATIONS
Chautauqua Community House is surrounded by some of the most scenic backdrops in Boulder, making it an ideal location for wedding portraits. The park is filled with lush trees and greenery, offering natural, shaded spots perfect for intimate couple photos or group shots. These areas change with the seasons, with vibrant greens in summer and golden hues in the fall.

The historic Chautauqua cabins provide another unique setting. Their rustic charm and wooden exteriors add depth and variety to your wedding portraits. Many couples take advantage of the cozy porches and surrounding wildflowers for casual, candid-style photos.

And of course, the most iconic portrait backdrop is the Flatirons. These massive rock formations are a defining feature of Boulder and one of the main reasons couples choose Chautauqua as their venue. Personally, I think the flatirons look stunning in any type of weather: dusted with snow or vibrant in golden hour light.

FAQS

What is the guest capacity for ceremonies and receptions?
The venue accommodates up to 100 guests for a seated reception and slightly more for a cocktail-style event. For ceremonies, indoor seating arrangements can be adjusted, and outdoor spaces allow for more flexibility.

What are the catering options?
Chautauqua Community House partners with the Chautauqua Dining Hall for in-house catering, making wedding planning simple and stress-free. With no need to coordinate an outside caterer, couples can choose from a variety of menu options, including plated meals, buffets, and passed appetizers. The dining hall’s team handles everything from preparation to service, ensuring a seamless experience with minimal effort. Their customizable packages also accommodate dietary restrictions, making it a great low-lift option for couples looking for quality food without the hassle of bringing in an external vendor.

What else to do while visiting Boulder?
Guests can explore Pearl Street Mall, a lively pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Start the morning with coffee at Boxcar Coffee Roasters or Trident Booksellers & Café. For incredible views, grab a rooftop cocktail at Rosetta Hall or Avanti Boulder. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Piece, Love and Chocolate or one of the many ice cream and gelato shops along Pearl Street. Beyond downtown, visitors can hike Chautauqua Park or drive up to Lost Gulch Overlook for a photo-op. There are also great hotels within a couple miles of the venue, including St Julien Hotel & Spa and Hotel Boulderado.