Spruce Mountain Ranch, a picturesque venue set in the heart of Douglas County, Colorado, is more than just a place for weddings—it’s a family legacy and a labor of love. We had the privilege of interviewing Tara Ames, the driving force behind Spruce Mountain, to learn more about how the venue came to be and what makes it such a beloved choice for couples seeking a memorable wedding experience.
The Birth of Spruce Mountain
Spruce Mountain’s story began in 1999 when the Ames family purchased the property with the intention of running a working Black Angus cattle ranch. However, when the economy took a downturn in 2010, they sought ways to supplement their income. Tara, who was a teacher at the time, saw an opportunity to create an event venue on the ranch. Drawing on her organizational skills and creativity, she developed a business plan and embarked on a new adventure.
“We started doing weddings in my parents’ front yard,” Tara recalls. “We loved sharing the property and making couples’ dreams come true. After a year, we realized this was our passion, so I quit my teaching job and dedicated myself to Spruce Mountain.”
Family-Owned and Heart-Centered
One of Spruce Mountain’s standout features is its family-owned and -operated approach. Tara emphasizes that when couples book their wedding at Spruce Mountain, they become part of the Ames family.
“Service from the heart is our motto,” she explains. “We want our couples and their guests to feel like they’re in our home. We’re very hands-on, helping throughout the planning process and offering recommendations and logistical support.”
“Service from the heart is our motto”
Tara’s son, who serves as the general manager, lives on the property, ensuring that there’s always someone available to assist couples.
Embracing Trends and Innovation
Spruce Mountain stays on top of current wedding trends to offer couples the most up-to-date experiences. The Aspen Room, for instance, was built in response to the growing popularity of winter weddings. This indoor ceremony space boasts beautiful fireplaces and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for romantic winter celebrations.
“We’ve also embraced the trend of pre-ceremony drinks,” Tara shares. “Having a cocktail in hand right away gets the celebration started and puts guests at ease.”
Spruce Mountain is known for its flexibility and willingness to accommodate unique requests. Whether it’s a helicopter send-off or a hot air balloon ride, Tara and her team work closely with couples to make their dreams a reality.
Personal Touches and Unforgettable Moments
Tara believes that the most memorable weddings are those that reflect the couple’s personalities. She encourages couples to incorporate personal touches, whether it’s a favorite hobby or a beloved pet.
“The weddings that resonate with me the most are the ones where I walk through and feel like I know the couple just by seeing the details,” she says. “It’s about making the day truly special and meaningful.”
Collaboration with Peak Beverage
Spruce Mountain and Peak Beverage have been working together closely for 10+ years. Tara was eager to boast about our partnership and what partnering with Peak has done for business. Tara speaks highly of Peak, emphasizing the safety, professionalism, and support brought to every event.
“One of the biggest challenges I had going into this business was how to do the bar, because for me, that was very scary.” Tara shares. “From a liability standpoint, it was just so important that we get this laser-focused.”
“We have not had any issues. So to be able to hand that piece off was awesome. And also, from a financial side of things, it was very beneficial for us. So not only is it helping the liability piece, letting us do weddings in a very safe way, but also the client experience. They are paying less for their bars, which is a great thing for them and us.”
Together, Peak Beverage and Spruce Mountain Ranch are a dream team.
Spruce Mountain Ranch is not just a wedding venue; it’s a place where couples can create unforgettable memories with the support of a loving and dedicated team. Tara and her family have crafted a haven where every couple’s dream wedding can come to life. If you’re looking for a picturesque, family-owned venue that offers personalized service and embraces creativity, Spruce Mountain is the perfect choice.