An inspirational blog showcasing a wedding at the Holy Cross Wedding Deck and Eagle’s Nest reception in Vail, Colorado. This post also details other wedding venues on Vail Mountain and provides tips for planning your dream Vail wedding.

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A Summer Wedding on Vail Mountain

A combination between The Holy Cross Wedding Deck and Eagle’s Nest Reception Space

As two locals to the Vail Valley, it was only fitting that Chelsea and Ryan got married on Vail Mountain. They originally met working for Vail Resorts, so the mountain was full of relationship memories. We started the morning at the Antler’s Hotel, conveniently located right in the heart of Lionshead Plaza in Vail Village. This meant the entire day was walking distance away.

Chelsea and Ryan took a walk down memory lane and shared their first look at the Lionshead Gondola. This place held many special memories in their early years of falling in love. While Lionshead can be buzzing with tourists in the summer, we found a quiet little path by the river to give the couple a private moment. The second these two saw each other, it was as if no one else in the world existed.

After Ryan took in how absolutely stunning Chelsea looked and Chelsea spent a moment admiring her handsome hubby-to-be, we hopped on the gondola to head up the mountain. With storm clouds looming close by, we knew time was limited, and quickly kicked into gear. Ryan and Chelsea’s friends were all so excited for the day, that wedding party photos were a breeze…quite literally as a thunderstorm followed closely behind.

Eagle’s Nest Reception Space –
Top of Vail Mountain

Luckily we had a beautiful place to wait out the weather on the top floor of Eagle’s Nest. Eagle’s Nest is one of Vail’s most highly acclaimed venues as floor to ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the iconic Gore Range mountains. Because it’s accessible via gondola, it’s also a convenient location for wedding guests with physical limitations.

Holy Cross Wedding Deck –
Vail Mountain Ceremony

After the rain subsided, we made our way to the Holy Cross Wedding Deck. It’s named after it’s towering views of Mount of the Holy Cross, a 1400+ ft mountain peak. I love this ceremony space because it’s steps away from the gondola, yet feels as if you have the mountain all to yourself. Large enough to for a medium-sized wedding guest count, it’s the perfect spot for outdoorsy couples who want to feel immersed in nature.

Venue details:

• Availability:  Mid-June through Mid-September 
• Accommodates| Up to 180 seated guests 
• Venue Package | Starting at $5,000

*Information as of March 2025, see Vail Resorts website for most up to date info.

Eagle’s Nest Reception

After the ceremony, all the guests made their way back to Eagle’s Nest reception space. Here they were greeted with elegant, carefully crafted details. Chandeliers lit up the room as Diamond Empire Band set up for an electric dance floor. After the first dance, a cold bevy, and a few tasty apps, we snuck out for couple’s portraits. The hardest part about photographing weddings at Eagle’s Nest is deciding which direction to shoot because everywhere you look is so beautiful! Chelsea and Ryan decided on photos with the chairlift in the background, taking their love story back to where it all started – falling in love over chairlift beers and powder laps, a true Colorado fairytale.

Venue Details:

• Availability | June-September
• Accommodates | Up to 250 Guests
• Food & Beverage Minimum | Starting at $9,000
• Venue Package | Starting at $11,000 – including gondola transportation, Holy Cross Event Deck ceremony site, dining tables and chairs, cocktail tables, display tables, linens, china, stemware, cutlery, dance floor

*Last updated March 2025, see Vail Resorts website for current information and booking

Note: This wedding was second shot with Photographer Nicole Denae

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Additional Vail Mountain Wedding Venues

The 10th / Mid Vail Wedding Deck

For Small Intimate Weddings, Guest Accommodations and Rehearsal Dinners

Check out Manor Vail Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Vail, Manor Vail Lodge offers a quintessential Colorado experience for couples seeking a mountain wedding with charm and elegance. Set on five acres in one of the world’s most renowned mountain destinations, this iconic lodge combines modern comfort with authentic Rocky Mountain character.

With over 80 spacious condominiums and penthouses, Manor Vail Lodge is ideal for wedding parties and guests alike. The property boasts beautifully renovated indoor event spaces and stunning outdoor settings. It’s perfect for ceremonies, receptions, and memorable gatherings – all just steps away from the gondola.

From intimate celebrations to grand receptions for up to 240 guests, Manor Vail Lodge provides an inviting atmosphere with breathtaking mountain views. For the stylish couple, the Instagram-worthy bride, or the planner seeking a standout venue, Manor Vail Lodge blends relaxed sophistication with refined elegance. With thoughtfully designed spaces, curated menu selections, and personalized service, your wedding at Manor Vail Lodge will be an unforgettable experience—one your guests will remember long after the last dance.

Note: This wedding was second shot with Photographer Sunnie Heers

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