After last week’s story on Wedding at the ranch, we told you how, for prospective brides (and their mums), planning a wedding doesn’t get much simpler than choosing to hold it at a dude ranch. “No need to book a separate chapel, hire a caterer, or find a baker for that pesky cake. They can cover all of that for you, and lodge your out-of-town guests, to boot… ”

Well, that generated a nice note from Mary Bahus-Meyer at Colorado‘s Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch about their wedding packages. Mary told us about Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch’s romantic location—in a scenic spot in the Colorado Rocky Mountain foothills, just 7 miles west of Loveland, and an easy hour drive from Denver (DIA).

And if you’re looking for a memorable Rocky Mountain site for your wedding, consider Sylvan Dale. It’s aptly named, with wide open spaces, tranquil ponds and lakes, and the Big Thompson River flowing through the 3,200-acre property. They’re open year-round for weddings, and the most popular dates are (‘natch) May through mid-October because “brides like to be married outdoors in our scenic setting”.  They can accommodate 50-180 guests.

The ranch’s wedding coordinator, Sue Bennett,  notes that”Brides like that they can have their rehearsal dinner, wedding, lodging, and other activities all here at the ranch—they don’t have to drive anywhere.”

And since Sue was looking out at a view of a glorious mountain ridge, with the trees just starting to bud, she added “And of course, there’s the natural beauty.”

But what about hearing from a bride who had her event there? A recent testimonial read: “Thank you so much for everything you did to make our wedding day so special. It was wonderful to have everything taken care of so beautifully. You really helped us enjoy the day without any stress. The food was delicious and the service was wonderful. We are so happy that we chose to have our wedding at Sylvan dale. It was a perfect day. Thanks again, Teresa & Bud.”

Mary tells us that ceremonies can be held in the Jessup Lodge (indoor or outdoor options); a two-story building with a dining room on the lower level, fireplaces, antique furniture and western charm. Reception facilities on the upper level overlook the twisting Big Thompson River. Another option: The Heritage reception room is a warm and charming spot, with dramatic stone fireplace, log trusses, oak flooring, a covered wood porch, and an adjoining game room.

Outside, the Daddy J Pavilion is a third choice; a 30′ by 60′ covered pavilion tucked into the bend of the Big Thompson River, for a casual, intimate gathering or a grand affair. The adjacent   ceremony site is beautifully landscaped with an expansive lawn, and edged by wildflowers and aspen trees.

Generally, all packages include: one-hour rehearsal, ceremony and reception sites, ceremony chairs, tables for guestbook, programs, unity candle, music, gifts, cake, bridal party, guests, buffet, and bar, white linens, tableware, glassware, napkins, dinner menu, non-alcoholic beverages, fresh fruit, cheese, and crackers, champagne and sparkling cider toast, cake-cutting services, wait staff and bartenders. Contact: Sue Bennett – wedding coordinator – 970/667-3915 x. 11. E-mail: sueb@sylvandale.com. And please, tell ‘em the Ranchweb blog sent you!

PHOTO COURTESY: Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch