Jill and Brian's Wedding Information



We chose to have our wedding during the beginning of October because of the beautiful weather at this time of year and because the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta falls during the same time. We thought it would give our out-of-town guests an opportunity to see this unique and awe-insiring event. We have enjoyed seeing the balloons during this time of the year during our past 3 years in Albuquerque, not only seeing them up-close at the event, but every morning during Fiesta week on our drive into work.

Because the Balloon Fiesta is at the same time as our wedding, we strongly suggest that those guests coming from out-of-town book hotel and airline reservations well in advance. Albuquerque fills up fast during this 9 day event. Santa Fe is an alternative to staying in Albuquerque and is closer to the ceremony/reception site. In general, Santa Fe is a more expensive place to stay than Albuquerque, although this may not hold true during Balloon Fiesta week.

Our wedding is in Cerrillos, a town in the mountains east of Albuquerque and south of Santa Fe. Cerrillos is an old mining town, famous for its turquoise. It is an old west "ghost town" that once had 21 saloons and 4 hotels, and more recently has been revitialized with art, crafts, and museums, and has served as backdrop to a number of movies. It lies on the famous and scenic Turquoise Trail. There are many things to do along the Turquoise Trail as well as in other areas in and around Albuquerque and Santa Fe.


Weather on the day of our wedding

Weather in Albuquerque during this time can range widely: Lows can be down into the 30's with highs in the 80's.

Averages for October 9th in Albuquerque:

The weather in the mountains is typically cooler than in Albuquerque.
Averages for October 9th in the East Mountains:


Albuquerque's elevation ranges from 4900 to 6500 feet above sea level, averaging 5,314 feet, which makes it the highest metropolitan city in America (even higher than Denver). Elevation in Cerrillos is roughly 1000-1500 feet higher than Albuquerque.

To get to the ceremony location, check out the Hacienda's website, which gives detailed directions. To further give you an idea of the location of Cerrillos in relation to Albuquerque and Santa Fe, here is a map of the area.

Additional links:

For things to do in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe area
For travel and lodging information

For information on our gift registries