EJ, Pete and I hit it off within the very first email. Sometimes you just REALLY click with people, and these two were truly the client soulmate" type. Photographing their Crystal Mountain wedding right here in Washington, and also serving as their videographer and officiant, made this day one of those core memories I’ll be carrying with me for a long time.

I travel the world to ski, ski once a month year round, and call Crystal Mountain my home here in WA, making this day even more special to photograph!

EJ and Pete first met while serving in the U.S. Army, navigating deployments, cross-country moves, and the kind of life experiences that shape you fast. Years later, after new chapters, grad school on opposite coasts (Harvard and Berkeley!), and a lot of growth, they found their way back to each other with a calm, confident “this is it” kind of love.

They originally planned a simple Seattle courthouse or greenhouse ceremony from Boston, but ultimately wanted something meaningful, outdoors, and close to home. As two people who love the mountains (and wanted their pup Theo there), choosing a Crystal Mountain wedding in WA ended up being the perfect fit. And because Crystal is also my home mountain, documenting their day there felt extra special.

As a Seattle wedding photographer who spends a lot of time in the mountains, this wedding venue truly feels like the best of the PNW wrapped into one place. Below is everything you need to know about Crystal Mountain wedding costs, packages, what the venue includes, best times of year, photography tips, and how to decide if it’s the right fit for you.

EJ & Pete's Crystal Mountain Wedding Video

Why Choose Crystal Mountain for Your Wedding

Crystal Mountain is known for its dramatic, endless views and that iconic shot of Mount Rainier looking impossibly close. It’s perfect for couples who want:

• A stunning natural backdrop with minimal to no decor needed. Mount Rainier will do all the aesthetics herself.
  
• Crystal Mountain is a dog-friendly wedding venue! YEP, even in the gondola!
  
• A true Washington mountain experience, making it my number one recommendation for couples who are inviting family from out of town.
  
• A venue that feels both adventurous and elegant, so  your wedding photos get that wilderness, elopement feel just feet away from your ceremony space.
  
• A place that’s easy for guests to access, even if they’re not hikers!
  

And honestly there’s just something indescribably grounding about getting married at elevation. The stillness, the breeze, the wide-open sky. Even the simplest ceremonies feel meaningful here.

Crystal Mountain Wedding Cost

Crystal Mountain wedding pricing can vary depending on the season, guest count, and which ceremony/reception spaces you choose, but here’s a general overview to help with budgeting:

You should expect $3,500–$6,500+ depending on month, time of day, and guest count to rent the space.

On average, couples invest $150–$250+ per guest for food and beverage.

Best Time of Year to Get Married at Crystal Mountain

Crystal Mountain weddings are seasonal due to weather and snowpack. 

If you’re worried about smoke, EJ and Pete’s wedding took place on September 1st on a smokey afternoon. It was still stunning! 

Summer (July–September)

• Clear skies, but harsher light during ceremony hours
  
• Best accessibility and longest days
  
• Warm daytime temps, cooler evenings
  

September (gondola access ends in the 3rd week)

• Crisp air and beautiful larch + alpine color
  
• Slightly higher chance of fog or early snow
  
• Gorgeous soft light for portraits
  

Winter Weddings

Crystal Mountain does not typically host full mountaintop ceremonies mid-winter due to ski operations, snow, and safety, but elopements or small sessions may be possible at lower elevations. And then we can ski about it!

So.. Do you think Crystal Mountain is right for your wedding?

This venue is especially perfect if you love the mountains, want a wedding day that feels relaxed and intentional, and don’t mind a little adventure. It’s less traditional, more immersive, and genuinely unforgettable.

If you want a straightforward, accessible venue with minimal transport needs, the summit may feel like a bit more coordination. But it can still work beautifully with the right timeline!