Good Parties Come in Small Packages

Good Parties Come in Small Packages

Intimate Teton venues deliver big experiences

Words by Britney Magleby

I recently attended a wedding in the mountains. The couple exchanged vows in front of 50 witnesses with a backdrop of rolling hills that faded from green to blue to purple and stretched on for what felt like forever. The groom, an astrophysicist, pointed at the view and said, “I feel so blessed …. In this entire universe and among all its living things, I have found my one soulmate, my best friend, and a person to share my life with.”

With its wide-open spaces, endless night skies, and massive, awe-inspiring peaks, Jackson Hole has a way of making us feel small; it’s part of the allure. An intimate wedding in this grand destination presents the perfect nuance; a chance to experience private moments that intricately weave their way into the greater circle of life.

The Teton region’s smaller event spaces offer massive benefits: creative menus, bespoke decor, and specialized attention for every participant. These carefully curated experiences — best for 50 people or fewer — leave couples feeling deeply connected with their surroundings, their loved ones, and each other. At the end of the night, as the newlyweds stare into a sea full of stars, they become gratefully aware of the place they share in this big world.

Wedding Tree till DUSK (at Ringholz Studios)

In the Bridger-Teton National Forest, located within a five-minute walk of the trailhead and with breathtaking views of the Tetons, stands a meaningful landmark where the trunk of a Douglas fir has produced two living trees, signifying the joining of two souls into one. The “Wedding Tree” sits in a clearing adjacent to a limber pine, which creates a natural picture frame so unreal it could have been written into a Tolkien novel. The secluded spot accommodates small groups willing to leave no trace. Those who respect this rule may choose this location for their wedding vows but need to reserve the spot at least 30 days in advance. The reward: Stunning pictures enhanced by an unforgettable view.

A ceremony at a location as beautiful as the Wedding Tree deserves a reception that feels equally intimate. So, if the Wedding Tree belongs in Lord of the Rings, DUSK at Ringholz Studios could grace the pages of The Great Gatsby. This art-studio-meets-event-venue is the creation of local wildlife mixed-media artist Amy Ringholz and resembles a speakeasy with its brick walls, colorful paintings, and long banquet tables. The small size of the space allows Ringholz to execute her craft by working with couples to design unique tablescapes and custom bars that showcase their personal style.

Solitude Station

Solitude Station, built into the side of the Teton Mountain Range, allows smaller parties to feel tucked away from the rest of the world. Immersed in nature at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and accessed by a gondola ride, this space somehow feels both rustic and refined. Plus, the resort staff — who provide full catering and bar service — are one of the most dialed outfits in the valley.

“The lawn has great views overlooking the valley and Sleeping Indian with the iconic red JHMR gondola servicing the venue,” explains Allie Ziegler, JHMR director of sales. “The indoor space opens onto the deck with folding glass doors around the fireplace, opening the dining room to the views and fresh air. All this makes [Solitude Station] an appropriately sized venue for a smaller group with no need to bring tents or outside catering.”

National Museum of Wildlife Art and The Cloudveil

Weddings at the National Museum of Wildlife Art overlook the National Elk Refuge, with the Gros Ventre mountains and “Sleeping Indian” peak in the distance. This space often showcases the best sunrises and sunsets in the entire valley (especially on the hazy days of late summer and fall). Plan a dusk wedding when your silhouettes will be highlighted by blues, purples, and pinks, followed by a cocktail hour at the museum’s built-in restaurant, Palate.

After indulging in appetizers, bring the party to The Cloudveil, a luxury boutique hotel in downtown Jackson. The Cloudveil serves beautifully plated meals in the Lupine Room before leading your guests up to the rooftop for dancing and toasts. “The intimate setting of The Cloudveil rooftop [bistro] and Lupine Room enhances the cozy and personal vibe that smaller weddings are usually trying achieve,” explains Fine Dining Restaurant Group’s vice president of sales and events, Jen Givens. “With fewer guests, the space can be arranged creatively to suit the couple’s vision, whether it’s an unconventional seating arrangement, a relaxed lounge area, or a more open dance floor.” The hotel also provides easy, walkable access to the perfect after-party location: the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.”

Forage at the Driggs Airport

On the Idaho side of the Tetons, inside the Driggs airport, hides a little-known wedding venue. In fact, it’s one of the few places in the area that could still be considered “a hidden gem.” Forage Bistro & Lounge, famous for their small-town friendly service and artisanal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, has long been a restaurant staple. But a move into the Driggs-Reed Memorial Airport last summer gave them the space to elevate their game. Couples can rent the entire restaurant — and therefore a section of the airport with access to the Warbird Airplane Museum housing impressive vintage aircraft — for a small wedding, a pre-wedding rehearsal dinner, or a post-wedding brunch.

“Forage Bistro & Lounge is indeed a fantastic venue for a wedding,” says Lisa Hanley, the general manager and owner with her husband, Christian. “The combination of our chef-inspired craft food and the unique Warbird plane display creates a memorable experience for guests. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, exceptional cuisine, and a touch of aviation history.”

The Biblical phrase “my cup runneth over” expresses gratitude for the moments when we find ourselves blessed with more than we need. This verse comes to mind when I recall that small wedding in the mountains. Despite its intimate size — or perhaps because of it — the open-air ceremony and joyous reception overflowed with love. 

Photos by Erin Wheat