Lauren and Andrew’s wedding day in Vail was set at Donovan Pavilion; their celebration unfolded on a slightly smoky, but still absolutely magical summer day (thanks, Colorado wildfire season). But that was just a simple reminder that perfection doesn’t mean flawless skies, it means being fully present with the people you love.
One of the most meaningful details (and truly my sentimental-soul favorite) was Lauren and Andrew’s Tsuru tradition. Together, they folded 1,001 origami paper cranes, just as Lauren’s parents and grandparents had done before them. In Japanese culture, Tsuru symbolizes long life, good health, and happiness. It was legacy, love, and family history folded carefully by hand.
Those paper cranes made their way throughout the celebration, adding the most thoughtful layer to the design. Paired with lush, romantic florals and—because Lauren and Andrew know how to have fun—disco balls sprinkled in for good measure, the whole day struck that perfect balance of sentimental and playful. Even with a little haze in the air, this summer wedding felt warm in all the right ways.
Donovan Pavilion: A Dreamy Mountain Reception Space
Tucked right into the heart of Vail, this Colorado wedding venue offers a rare mix of mountain charm and clean, modern simplicity, making wedding design feel fun instead of overwhelming. This space will support your vision.
For Lauren and Andrew’s reception, Donovan felt warm, welcoming, and elevated. The open layout gave everything room to shine. Guests could flow easily from cocktails to dinner to dancing, and that natural rhythm kept the energy light and joyful all night long.
One of my favorite things about the Donovan Pavilion is how versatile it is. It works beautifully whether your style leans romantic, modern, playful, or somewhere in between. Plus, being so close to Vail Village makes logistics a breeze with easy transportation, happy guests, and way fewer questions of “where are we going?”
Getting Ready, Exploring Vail, & Making a Weekend of It
One of the best parts about a Vail wedding is that it’s never just a wedding. It’s a whole weekend experience (the best kind). Lauren and Andrew really leaned into that by getting ready and staying at the Grand Hyatt Vail, and it was such a solid choice. Hotels and resorts like this are perfect for slow mornings and those sweet getting-ready moments with your favorite people.
If you’re planning a wedding in Vail and thinking about where to get ready or stay, here are some other amazing options that always photograph beautifully and feel special:
And then there’s the gondola… because yes, you can take it to the top of Vail Mountain for photos or a first look, and it’s just as dreamy as it sounds. The views are unreal, the air feels extra fresh, and it adds such a fun, adventurous layer to the day.
For guests, Vail is the kind of place that makes attending a wedding feel like a mini vacation (which everyone loves). Between wandering Vail Village, checking out local shops and restaurants like Sweet Basil, hiking at Upper Piney River Falls, skiing at Vail Ski Resort, or just soaking up the alpine vibes, there’s so much to do without ever feeling rushed. It’s relaxed, scenic, and the perfect backdrop for celebrating love while making memories that last way beyond the wedding day. This website is incredible for all things Vail!
For more like this: A Greystone Castle Wedding in Boulder, Colorado
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