What to Expect: The Average Cost of a Luxury Ranch Wedding in Jackson Hole During Fall
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is nothing short of extraordinary—a place where rugged natural beauty meets refined luxury. Picture golden aspen groves, the towering peaks of the Tetons, and a serene, open sky that feels like it was painted just for your special day. It’s no wonder this breathtaking destination has become a sought-after location for couples dreaming of a luxury ranch wedding. But what does it take to plan an unforgettable event in such an awe-inspiring setting? Let’s explore!
I’m thrilled to collaborate with my dear friend and esteemed luxury wedding planner, Latham Stevens, who has mastered the art of curating exquisite weddings in Jackson Hole and beyond. With her insider knowledge and expertise, we’ll guide you through the essentials of planning your dream wedding and what to expect when it comes to costs in this remarkable destination.
Before diving into the cost breakdown, we wanted to take a moment to share what makes destination weddings so special to us—and why Jackson Hole holds a particularly meaningful place in our hearts.
Why we love destination weddings in jackson hole
If you’ve been following either of our journeys, you know we both have spent the past 15 years traveling to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and recently started planning and photographing weddings there—finally breaking into this stunning mountain market. There is something truly magical about the mountains in Jackson Hole. When we’re there, it feels like home. Yet, we’ve also come to realize that Jackson Hole is so much more than a rustic hideaway; there’s a niche of true luxury there, unmatched by many other destinations. It’s the perfect place for a chic-yet-rustic celebration, a lavish soirée, or anything in between.
Here are some of the reasons we believe a destination wedding in Jackson Hole is such a wonderful choice. As we go, we’ll highlight insights from Latham’s past posts (which Mary Kate wholeheartedly endorses) and our own experiences in this magical corner of Wyoming.
1. The Magical Mountain Vibe
Jackson Hole sits in the shadow of the majestic Teton Range, offering some of the most breathtaking mountain views you can imagine. There’s a certain peace and mystery to these towering peaks. After all these years of visiting, I still find myself in awe of the rugged beauty every single time. Many of my couples and their guests say they’ve never experienced such an instant sense of connection and wonder like they do in Jackson Hole.
I’ve written before about how Jackson Hole “feels like home.” That sense of belonging stems from the welcoming local culture and the community’s love for the outdoors. A destination wedding here naturally encourages everyone to breathe in the crisp air and soak in the open vistas, which can be an amazing way for couples and their guests to connect on a deeper level.
2. Luxury With a Touch of Rustic Charm
A common misconception is that Jackson Hole weddings are always rustic—think barns and cowboy boots. While that can be part of the charm, the region truly embodies luxury as well. With premier resorts, world-class dining, and top-tier services, Jackson Hole can accommodate the highest-end wedding visions. From elegant mountain lodges to upscale resorts with jaw-dropping views, the luxury market in Jackson Hole is alive and well.
Because Jackson Hole offers both rustic and luxurious elements, you can tailor your wedding aesthetic however you like. Rustic-chic barn wedding at sunset? Sophisticated black-tie ceremony with panoramic mountain backdrops? You can have it all. This mix of styles is part of what makes destination weddings in Jackson Hole so unique and personal.
3. Making Your Guests’ Experience Unforgettable
When you choose Jackson Hole as your wedding destination, you’re also giving your guests an unforgettable experience. Beyond the wedding day itself, this region offers endless outdoor activities: hiking, wildlife safaris, fly-fishing, skiing in the winter, and more. It’s like turning your wedding into a mini-vacation for everyone involved.
In my previous posts, I’ve highlighted the unique camaraderie that forms during destination weddings. Couples, friends, and families bond over shared adventures—like exploring Grand Teton National Park or spotting bison and elk. The memories formed during these group excursions extend far beyond the wedding day, creating a truly memorable getaway for all.
Average Jackson Hole wedding budget price breakdown
Venue costs:
Luxury ranches in Jackson Hole provide a blend of rustic charm and five-star elegance, offering everything from historic lodges to sprawling private estates. Venue fees typically include exclusive use of the property, outdoor ceremony sites, and indoor reception spaces.
Average cost: $15,000 to $50,000
What’s included: Many venues offer tables, chairs, basic linens, and setup/cleanup. Some also include bridal suites, outdoor fireplaces, and spaces for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding brunches.
Notes-
Diamond Cross Saturday Rental- $25,000 - accommodations not included- tables and chairs included
Split Creek Ranch Saturday Rental- $28,000 - accommodations included- no tables, chairs, or linens- everything must be rented
Antelope Trails- 5 night minimum required for weekend weddings at $12k per night (totaling $60k for the rental) -accommodations included- no tables, chairs or linens included- everything must be rented
Catering & bar service:
Food and beverage are central to the luxury wedding experience, and Jackson Hole offers exceptional options. Local caterers craft menus that highlight regional flavors, from bison filet to huckleberry desserts. Many luxury ranches require in-house catering or approved vendors.
Catering per guest: $150 to $350
Bar packages: $50 to $150 per guest for premium open bars
Total cost for 100 guests: $20,000 to $50,000
Notes:
Family Style- Averaging around $250+ p/p including bar services
Seated Plated- Averaging around $400+ p/p not including bar services
Wedding Planner:
Given the remote location and logistical challenges of a destination wedding, a wedding planner is an essential investment. Planners familiar with Jackson Hole can coordinate transportation, manage local vendors, and create a seamless experience.
Average cost: $8,000 to $15,000
My personal minimum is $8k and charge 12% of the wedding budget
Other Jackson Hole Planners charge 15-20% of the wedding budget with minimums closer to $20k
Florals & decor:
Fall in Jackson Hole provides a stunning natural canvas, but florals and decor elevate the setting to luxury status. Expect lush seasonal arrangements with warm tones and textures, paired with elegant tablescapes and lighting.
Average cost: $10,000 to $20,000
Notes:
Lowest Range florals are $10k with luxury flower decor being around $30k
rentals:
Every venue is going to require rentals. Tents, Tables, chairs, linens, bars, dinnerware, lighting, draping, restroom trailers, etc. Most rental quotes start out around $8k and if all of the above is rented usually end up costing around $25k. Custom Rentals for bars and escort card displays usually start at $2k.
Notes: Restroom Trailer rentals start at $3250 for a 4 stall trailer. Generators are almost always required they start out at $2k
Photography & videography:
Capturing the breathtaking scenery and intimate moments is crucial. Luxury photographers and videographers specializing in destination weddings often include travel fees in their packages.
Photography: $7,000 to $15,000
Videography: $5,000 to $12,000
attire & beauty:
For a high-end ranch wedding, couples often lean into the aesthetic with elevated attire. Brides might opt for designer gowns, while grooms choose bespoke suits or Western-inspired formalwear.
Bridal gown and accessories: $5,000 to $10,000
Groom’s attire: $1,000 to $3,000
Hair and makeup: $500 to $1,500 per person (bride and bridal party)
Notes:
Out west it is customary for the bride to pay for all of her attendants' hair and makeup. Packages start at $2,595 included 4 attendants
entertainment:
Live music, whether a string quartet for the ceremony or a full band for the reception, is a staple of luxury weddings. Many couples also opt for DJs to keep the party going late into the night.
Live band: $5,000 to $12,000
DJ: $2,000 to $5,000
Notes:
Wedding Bands have to come from Salt Lake or other cities and start around $20k and usually need backline services + some instrumental rentals costing an additional $10k
transportation & acommodations:
Jackson Hole’s remote location means transportation and lodging can be significant considerations. Luxury ranches often offer guest accommodations, but additional transportation for guests may be required.
Guest shuttles: $2,000 to $5,000
On-site accommodations: $10,000 to $30,000 for exclusive use of ranch lodgings
Notes:
Guest shuttles average $10k for 120 guests. All companies have 4 hour minimums and because of the narrow roadways in the ranches, multiple shuttles need to be rented.
additional costs to consider:
Marriage license: $30 (Wyoming state fee)
Favors and welcome gifts: $2,000 to $5,000
Officiant: $500 to $1,000
Day-of insurance: $500 to $1,500
Total estimated cost:
For a luxury ranch wedding in Jackson Hole during the fall, the overall cost for 100 guests typically ranges from $80,000 to $200,000. Variables like guest count, vendor choices, and additional customizations can shift the budget higher or lower.
why it is worth it:
A wedding at a Jackson Hole luxury ranch is more than just an event—it’s an experience. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and infused with personalized details, your wedding day will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. While it’s an investment, the memories made in this one-of-a-kind location are truly priceless.
Collaborating with Latham Stevens means every detail of your Jackson Hole wedding will be artfully designed to reflect your unique love story in this stunning destination. If your dream is to host a celebration that’s as breathtaking as the Tetons and filled with romance, I’d love to be a part of it. Together, we’ll capture the beauty of your wedding day and the essence of your love story, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s connect and bring your extraordinary vision to life!
Xoxo, Mary Kate & Latham
