Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Fantastic Fall Ideas For Your Wedding

With warm inviting colors, spicy fragrances, and delicious food, fall is a wonderful time to have your wedding! The crisp weather and the bright trees are also a wonderful advantage, especially at the Historic Pinecrest. Our beautiful mountain chapel in Colorado Springs is the perfect venue for your fall themed wedding, with our rustic feel and beautiful Colorado views. Here are a few beautiful ways you can incorporate the fall theme into your wedding day!

Fall Color Schemes

There are so many colors you can choose for your wedding, and fall weddings make it even more fun. You can go with bold, bright colors, or you can choose demure, soft, warm colors. No matter what you choose, we know your day will be amazing. Check out these beautiful colors from Katelyn James' Blog.

These color combinations are all of the warm, cozy colors that we love, paired with some really unique colors that really bring them out. Who knew that you could pair a harvest orange with shades of blue to create a rustic nautical? Or a seafoam green with orange to create a perfect fall feel without being too cliche. Check out these colors and let us know if you used any of them in your wedding!

Photo Credit: Katelyn James


Upper Left: Glasser Images
Upper Right: Clark Brewer Photography
Lower Left: Lucy G Photography
Lower Right: Carly K Photography

Fall Fashion Details

There are so many things to love about fall weddings because the crisp weather brings out the light sweaters and fun accents. You can also get really creative with textures and fabrics which photograph really well. You can still opt for nice suits for the groomsmen, or you can incorporate neutral colors in tweed or wool fabrics. For your bridesmaids, the sky is the limit. You can have them all wearing different colors or wearing the same. You can do short or long dresses in the fall, and you can mix and match with chiffon, satin, lace and more. Autumn is a great time to bring out the fabrics that are a little too warm in the summer, and take advantage of those beautiful styles.

Fall Food

The autumn season provides you the opportunity to pull out all of those savory flavors that you've been dreaming of all summer long. You can take advantage of the pumpkin and apple flavors in soups, salads, and desserts, and get creative with your cake too! You don't have to even have a standard wedding cake, you could do delicious pies with ice cream or smores with a fire pit. Bring out all of the warm, toasty drinks that people love with a hot chocolate bar, coffee, and apple cider too! Do you like naked wedding cakes? Rustic fall weddings always beckon the naked cake with its neutral feel and fall accents.


Fall Wedding Venue in Colorado Springs

Whether you're just finishing up your planning for a beautiful wedding this year, or you're planning well in advance for your fall wedding next year, we hope these pretty ideas got your creative side brimming with excitement about your big day. We would love to assist you in creating this warm, rustic, fall theme for your wedding, and help you create something magical. If you don't have your wedding date set, it's time to give us a call and find one that works for both of us! Visit our website to learn more about our wedding packages, and how to reserve your date at our beautiful Colorado Springs wedding venue.

A Beautiful Wedding Awaits...

106 Pinecrest Way
Palmer Lake, CO 80133

Call or text for a private tour!
719-357-8613

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Thursday, September 22, 2016

How to Choose Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands, and More!

You'll say "I Do," make your vows, and exchange rings. The circle of the wedding band can also be compared to a symbol of eternity. The circle has no beginning, it has no end - infinity. Many cultures have different ways you wear the rings, sometimes on different fingers, maybe you won't even exchange rings at all. In this part of the country it is most common to wear your wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand. They say it's because the vein in this finger is believed to lead directly to the wearer's heart.

No matter what finger you'll be wearing your ring on, you still have to find a ring that fits your perosnality and your lifestyle! Here are a few ways to find just the right bling for your wedding finger.



Think About Budget

Your budget should be one of the first things you consider when choosing a ring - and yes, the ring should be included in the wedding budget. There is an old adage that states a man should buy an engagement ring that is worth 3 months salary. That would mean if the man made $80,000 a year he should spend $20,000 on an engagement ring! Of course, there are so many options, and really no actual rule on how much you should actually spend on your ring.

Do Research

Your rings are truly an investment, so make sure you do some research before buying anything. Think about the colors of metals you want, and how they will go together. Consider the style and how it will look in 20 years. While it's okay to choose something that's currently trending, make sure you truly love it, as the idea is that you'll be wearing it for a lifetime. Do research on how to choose diamonds, and don't forget to find out if you can get a good warranty on your rings in case something happens.

Wedding Ring Materials

In the world of wedding rings, there are many different materials to chose from, and each one can be perfect, or not so perfect, for you or your spouse. There are a few things to consider as you choose the material of your wedding rings, and while color is important, you'll also want to think about the density of the metal and the types of work you and your spouse do. When your job keeps the amount of work on your hands light, you can opt for a softer metal like gold. If you'll be doing something agressive with your hands, like construction, you'll want something that can stand up to the pressure. Here are some of the most popular metals to choose from:


  • Gold
  • Silver
  • White Gold
  • Rose Gold
  • Platinum
  • Titanium
  • Stainless Steel
  • Sterling Silver
  • Tungsten

Don't Forget

This can be a realy fun part of getting married, but don't forget that when it's all said and done, you could have at least $1000 on one finger, and something could easily happen to it. Make sure to get your ring insured. This can be quickly done through your home owners or renters insurance. You will just need to contact them and most likely send them the information on your ring. Many jewelry companies offer insurance, but it generally covers the stones should somethig happen, and possibly not the whole ring if it got flushed down the toilet, or misplaced. Look into each policy to see exactly what it covers.


At the Historic Pinecrest, we know how exciting these next few months of planning are going to be. Whether you've just received your engagement ring or you've been engaged for some time, we would love to assist you on your wedding planning. Our beautiful mountain venue is surrounded by peaceful nature, and we're located at the base of Mt. Chautauqua. If you're looking for a beatiful mountain wedding venue, we would love to help you plan it. Don't forget that we have an ideal setting for a Colorado Springs destination wedding, visit our website to learn more.

A Beautiful Wedding Awaits...

106 Pinecrest Way
Palmer Lake, CO 80133

Call or text for a private tour!
719-357-8613

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Monday, September 12, 2016

From Ms. To Mrs. - How to Change Your Name

The "I Do's" have been exchanged, your Colorado Springs wedding was a beautiful success, and now it's time to change your name and start your new life - if that's what you're choosing to do. There can be a lot of steps involved when it comes to changing your name, and the Historic Pinecrest would love to help you out with all things wedding, from the engagement to the details afterward. Here are a few ways you can make changing your name easier, and know where to start


To Change Your Name, Or Not Change Your Name - That is the Question

While it is more common for brides to change their name after the wedding, there are other options. Depending on where you are in life, it may not be the most convenient to change your name, or perhaps you have familial reasons to keep your maiden name, or maybe you just want to. No matter what your reasons, here are a few things to know about your name change options:

1. Keep Your Name
2. Take Your Spouses Name
3. Take your spouse's name legally, but keep your given name professionally
4. Make your given surname your middle name and take your spouse's last name
5. Create a New Last Name

How to Change Your Name


Get a Certified Copy of Your Marriage License

When you file your marriage license they will file it and have a certified copy sent to your home. This will take some time, though, so if you are planning on changing your name quickly, you'll want to get a certified copy from them. This will cost extra, though, so plan on budgeting some extra money for this.

Update Your Drivers License

Take your certified marriage license over to the DMV along with your current driver's license. You can use this to now update your name on the driver's license as well as possibly your voter registration card if you have one.

Update Your Car Title

While you're at the DMV, if you have a car title without any liens on it, you can bring your title along with the marriage license and get that updated. If you have liens on the title, you may want to wait and change the name on the title once you've paid them off - depending on how long that will be.

Update Your Social Security Card

You will have to follow all of the instructions when changing your name on your social security card. They may require proof of citizenship, proof of your legal name change, proof of identity, and proof of your old name. Be sure and check their website to know exactly what they will need before going.

Talk To Your Human Resources Department Or Employer

Once you've updated your social security card, you'll want to speak with your employer or someone in the HR department of your company to get your name changed. They have to report you Social Security payments, so this step will need to be taken quickly.

Update Your Bank Accounts

Not only will you want to update your bank accounts with your new name, but you may also want to add your spouse to your accounts. This can be a quick stop in your name change process, but while you're running around town getting it done, it can save you some time.

Replace Your Passport

There are two different ways to do this, depending on whether you've gotten your passport within a year of your marriage or before. Depending on the time frame you have, you may want to save this step for last, as you'll be mailing your marriage certificate off.

If you applied for your passport within a year of your name change, you can fill out the correct form from their website and then mail the form, your old passport, two new photos, your marriage certificate to the address listed on their website and your passport will be replaced free of charge. If you have had your passport for more than a year, you will have to apply for a new passport and pay a fee to have it processed.

Miscellaneous Accounts

Now it's time to update all of the rest of your accounts where your old name will be. Online accounts, credit cards, 401(k), etc. You may still be finding accounts months down the line that need the name change, and some accounts may require a copy of your marriage license depending on who it is. 

The Historic Pinecrest Celebrates With You!

This is such a fun adventure in your life, and we're proud to have stood by your side through all of the wedding planning. If you are a bride who is still looking for a beautiful mountain wedding venue in Colorado Springs, we would be honored to show you the possibilities available at The Historic Pinecrest. Our breathtaking wedding chapel is nestled in the mountains of Colorado, our event center is spacious and perfectly set up for your wedding reception in Colorado Springs, and the Lodge has enough room for you and the bridal party to all stay in the same place for the weekend. Visit our website today to learn more about our wedding venue, and how you can get a private tour!

A Beautiful Wedding Awaits...

106 Pinecrest Way
Palmer Lake, CO 80133

Call or text for a private tour!
719-357-8613

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Friday, September 9, 2016

5 Tips for Planning an Amazing Wedding Playlist

From the ceremony to the reception, your dream wedding will probably be filled with many different tunes and ballads. With all of the artists, styles, and songs to choose from, how is one bride supposed to narrow it down? There are a few ways you can pick a perfect playlist and find great music that appeals to everyone. Here are 5 tips for creating the perfect atmosphere through fun tunes.

Photo Credit: Farage Photography

Band, DJ, or DIY Playlist

Your first decision will be whether you want to hire out your music or do it yourself. If you want to hire a band, start looking around several months in advance so you can be sure that the band you want will be available. You'll need to do the same for a DJ. If you don't know of any vendors in the area who you can hire, feel free to ask us! We have many excellent recommendations.

The other option is to do a DIY playlist for your wedding. You can choose all of the songs that you and your spouse want, and then find someone who can start it up for you before the reception.

Talk With Your Venue

It's important to always speak with your Colorado Springs wedding venue to learn about what they have available in the way of rentals and sounds systems. At The Historic Pinecrest, we have a digital sound system with mixing board - along with wireless microphones and instrumental inputs. This is available if you are using a Pinecrest preferred DJ. Give us a call at 719-357-8613 to learn more.

Choose a Theme

Do you and your soon-to-be spouse have a specific theme that surrounds your relationship? Are you a Throwback Couple? Party Couple? Maybe a Country Couple? This can be a great way to decide what types of music should be played at your wedding. Of course, if your wedding has a certain theme, you'll want to also consider sticking with that so your wedding and music all go together.

Choose Key Songs

If you and your fiance have specific songs, be sure and give those titles to your musicians or DJ. If you don't' know where to start, think of songs that remind you of your first date, first kiss, your engagement, or even a special outing that you planned for each other while you were dating. These can all be great ways to choose songs that are key.

Additionally, you'll want to think about songs that could have played a role in your growing up years if you will be doing a Father/Daughter dance, Mother/Son dance, etc. While there are many lists that can provide suggestions, there's something special about a song that you and your father shared together. This can be as funny or as sentimental as you would like.

Photo From Rob Gillen

Get Your Guests Involved

Another fun choice for your wedding could be to let the guests choose your songs! You can put cards and pencils at the tables where they can write down songs they would like to hear and then submit them to the DJ. This is a wonderful way to ensure that the dancing lasts all night long, as your guests begin to choose songs that mean something to them as well.

Hosting a Fun Wedding in Colorado Springs

Your big day will be made even more fun through the music that you choose to play. For many people, music communicates with them on an emotional level - and since your wedding is most likely going to be very emotional, you can speak the language that they will love. Are you ready to start planning the wedding of your dreams? Visit our website to learn more about our wedding packages, and then contact us to schedule your Colorado Springs wedding venue!

A Beautiful Wedding Awaits...

106 Pinecrest Way
Palmer Lake, CO 80133

Call or text for a private tour!
719-357-8613

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Thursday, September 1, 2016

Repurposing The Pieces of Your Wedding

There comes a day after months of planning, that a bride and groom will say "I do," party the night away, get whisked off to a fairytale honeymoon, and then come back home. Now you get to relive all of those wonderful moments again and again through photos, videos, and all of the details that you now have stacked in your home that were once decorations.


While we have loved planning every minute of your wedding with you at the best wedding venue in Colorado Springs, we know the planning doesn't stop here! Now you need to figure out how to preserve your wedding dress, and then decide what you'll do with all of the extra pieces of your wedding. From your bouquet to the wedding invites, there are ways you can repurpose all of these! Check out these great ways to remember your wedding long after the day has passed.

Wedding Dress
Photo Credit: Floral Keepsakes

We'll start with the forerunner and highlight of your wedding day - the dress. There are many creative ways that women are preserving the wedding dresses nowadays, aside from putting it in a box under the bed. There are also many ways to do it so that you don't have to do any harm to it, and you can save it for your daughter someday if she would like it. Here are a few of the unique and beautiful ways people are preserving their dresses.
  • Creating a shadowbox to display their dress
  • Making a hair comb from the lace to give each of your daughters
  • Turning the pieces into a necklace or putting it in a locket
  • Doing photos with your daughter wearing the dress
  • Make a christening gown for your daughter
  • Do a fun Trash the Dress photo shoot (Are you brave enough?)
  • Have the pieces made into a teddy bear
  • Create Christmas ornaments, a wreath, or a stocking from it

Bridal Bouquet
Photo Credit: DFI Designs

This is something you'll want to think about before the wedding because if you'll have fresh flowers in your bouquet, you'll want to preserve it properly. If you want to dry the flowers, you'll need to make sure and hang the bouquet upside down before you leave for your honeymoon. This will ensure that the flowers dry in the right position without getting droopy. Are you looking for some unique ways to preserve your bouquet? Try these!

  • Make an ornament from the petals or flowers
  • Commission an artist to paint a unique photo of your flowers if you don't want to save the petals
  • Arrange the flowers in the shape of your new initial for a shadow box
  • Have the flowers preserved into a tall candle
  • Press the petals and arrange them into a frame
  • Include your bouquet into the shadow box with your dress

Print Pieces
Photo Credit: Something Turquoise

There will be many different things you create for your wedding when it comes to print pieces. The save the dates, invitations, programs, thank yous, custom napkins, custom stamps, and more! With all of these pieces being created specifically for your wedding, it would be nice to find a way to preserve them instead of tossing them into a box to be saved for later. Try using some of these ideas:

  • Including them in a scrapbook with your wedding photos
  • Arranging them in a pretty frame with a wedding photo
  • Shredding them and putting them in a clear ornament
  • Cut hearts or other shapes out of the leftover invitations and glue them into a frame

If you are still in the planning phase of your wedding, The Historic Pinecrest would love to assist you! Our beautiful Colorado Springs event center is a beautiful place to make all of your dreams come true. We're romantically situated at the base of Mt. Chautauqua, where the views are breathtaking and the weather is beautiful. If you would like to visit our mountain chapel in Colorado Springs, visit our website and schedule a private tour!

A Beautiful Wedding Awaits...

106 Pinecrest Way
Palmer Lake, CO 80133

Call or text for a private tour!
719-357-8613

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