style and digital publication editor
Tasha Tagliani
u.s. editorial & sales staff
COLORADO & NEW MEXICO
Brit Tucker-Kline
IDAHO, MONTANA & WYOMING
Mackenzie Stevens
UTAH
Val Rasmussen
UTAH SALES MANAGER
Abbey Eddy & Hannah Wollenzien
canadian editorial & sales staff
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Celynn Bowman
ASSISTANT Carly Cooper COPYWRITER
Lily Harris
SALES MANAGER
Sarah Wood
graphic designer
Jessica Goldy
digital team
DIGITAL EDITOR - Laura Osborn
CONTENT CURATOR & COPYWRITER - Savannah Reynolds
VENDOR COLLECTIVE MANAGER - Heidi Zeh
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER - Bailey Jameson operations
ACCOUNTING
Lynn Kieffer
PUBLISHED BY RMB Media, LLC
PUBLISHER
Erika Oltmann
DISTRIBUTION
Disticor Magazine Distribution Services Storefronts in the U.S. & Canada or online at shop.rockymountainbride.com contact
INQUIRIES - hello@rockymountainbride.com
ADVERTISING - rockymountainbride.com/advertise
The Nest Above is the Bird’s Nest is a newly built event space. The second story of the Bird’s Nest will be exclusively yours. We have created a warm, stunning second-story event space. Located close to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Nest Above is the perfect venue with a rustic modern look framed by beautiful mountain views. We offer in-house and offsite catering providing your special event with quality, ingredient-driven Colorado cuisine, and exclusive wine and bar selections. Our upstairs event space is accessible by stairs or lift and can seat up to 90 guests. A full buy out of Bird’s Nest is available upon request, accommodating up to 125 guests.
Please contact us at info@thebirds-nest.com to connect with your event manager today! During the planning phase, you and your Event Manager will work through the menu choices put together by our Executive Chef. info@thebirds-nest.com 1221
Being born and raised in Colorado, I found my love for the Rockies in a state that holds so many beautiful places. Through the years, I’ve been lucky enough to travel to many of the other states across the Rockies and have found a certain charm to all of them. Something about the fresh air blowing through the evergreens, or the sand blowing across the Southwest deserts, and the aqua blue lakes in the north, I couldn’t think of a better place to say “I do!” than the Rockies.
As I begin to plan my own Rocky Mountain wedding using RMB, I find myself in awe of the talented local vendors in each pocket of the Rocky Mountain region. I hope that within these pages you will find all the inspiration and tips you need to make your day everything you want it to be. We’ve scouted the best of the best in your area to provide you trusted local vendors. Happy planning!
the ultimate planning guide for your rocky mountain wedding
TOP VENDORS + VENUES - LOCAL WEDDING GUIDES
BEST HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS
DOWNLOADABLE PDFs - TIPS, ADVICE + INSPIRATION
AUTHENTIC LOVE STORIE S
located at the base of rocky mountain national park, estes park is home to wildlife like elk and bears. the quaint town and miles of trails mean estes park is in no short supply of stunning mountain views.
RMB’s advice for a perfect destination Estes Park wedding. Plan ahead and make a memorable wedding adventure for you and your guests to enjoy.
The mountainous climate of Estes Parks makes for freezing winters and mild summers. Summers in Estes Park are warm and dry, which makes June to August the best months to plan a wedding if you’re looking for warmer weather with less chance of precipitation. Winters in Estes Park are snowy and not for those who are largely affected by the cold. If you’re looking to plan a winter wedding, take into account the winter months are typically freezing and snowy. Don’t fret the cold temperatures, winter in Colorado is one of the most magical times to host a wedding.
Guiding guests on what to pack for your wedding can take a lot of the guesswork out of their decision. Feel free to add your wedding attire, whether it be cocktail casual or black-tie optional, to your wedding website. Here is also a great place to add little tidbits too, such as packing a shawl for the cooler months, sunglasses if you are having an outdoor summer ceremony, and reminding guests to drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
The summer is the best and busiest time to visit Estes Park thanks to the warm weather, close proximity to the miles of trails and wildlife at Rocky Mountain National Park and quaint shopping downtown. Stop by the Stanley Hotel for a tour in one of the most haunted places in Colorado, and search the grounds to see where Stephen King was inspired to write, “The Shining.” October and November are ideal months to see the brilliantly vibrant changing leaves and you might even catch a glimpse of elk during weekend-long celebration, Elk Fest. Your typical mountain town, Estes Park has a little bit for every person who enjoys local food, beautiful views and the great outdoors.
Your wedding license, while one of the most important pieces, should be the least of your worries on your wedding day. You can purchase a marriage license at any Larimer County Clerk’s office and must use the license within 35 days of purchase. Colorado does not require you to be a resident or have a blood test. You and your spouse-to-be must be in attendance when purchasing the $30 license.
Larimer County Clerk
1601 Brodie Avenue, Estes Park
For further information call or visit: 970-577-2025
www.larimer.org/clerk/recording/marriage
Sarah’s first visit to see Jon was spent in Estes Park, Colorado on the 4th of July. That weekend they had taken a ride through Rocky Mountain National Park up to Huffers Hill. A little over a year later, on August 12, 2018, Jon took Sarah back up to the top of Huffers Hill. Sarah thought they were taking a picture together, when Jon turned to her, got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.
“The best moment was the first look. There was so much anticipation and build up to the wedding day. Still to this day when I close my eyes I can see Jon, standing at the end of the balcony at the Pavilion with his back to me. He hadn’t even turned around and tears were starting to swell in my eyes. There he was - my best friend. The man I get to spend the rest of my life with. It was emotional and magical.”- Sarah
“Jon says that the highlight of the ceremony was that he didn’t turn into a “blubbering mess.”
Seeing me come down the aisle brought so much emotion to him that he was glad he could hold it together.”- Sarah
-VENDORS-
Venue
The Pavilion at The Stanley | www.stanleyhotel.com
Wedding Planner Jolly Events | www.ajollyevent.com
Photographer Sarah Porter Photography | www.sarahporterphotography.com
Caterer Occasions | www.occasionsdenver.com
Sweets
Colorado Rose | www.coloradorosecakeco.com
Florist
Lace & Lilies | www.laceandliliesflowers.com
Bridal Boutique
Dora Grace Bridal | www.doragrace.com
Gown Designer Mori Lee | www.morilee.com
Hair
Nicole Riediger
Makeup
Candelaria Beauty | www.cassandragarza.com
Music & Entertainment
Elite DJ | www.myelitedj.com
Rehearsal Dinner
Ed’s Cantina | www.edscantina.com
“My first trip to Colorado included the Rockies. That was the weekend I not only fell in love with the Rockies, but knew I loved Jon, too. It will always hold a special place in our hearts because of that.”- Sarah
Luke and Melissa have known each other since they were young. Their best friends were brother and sister and their parents taught at the same school. As they grew up, life took them in two different directions. Each of them got married. Melissa had a little girl in 2011 and Luke had a son in 2013. They both realized life is full of ups and downs, and they both ended up going through a divorce. After Melissa’s divorce, she eventually started dating and would see Luke a few times while she was out. He would text her and tell her that her dates weren’t good enough. After about a year and half, Luke finally asked Melissa out. She agreed assuming it would be two friends hanging out, and since date one, they’ve been inseparable!
when time stood still
Melissa’s favorite moment of the day was their vows on the mountain top. For a moment the world stopped and it seemed like it was only the two of them. Time stood still. It was perfect! There is nothing like the beauty of Colorado plus looking at your favorite person in the world.
“Our relationship has been about adventure, and neither of us have ever been to the Rockies. Colorado took our breath away and we couldn’t be
-VENDORS-
Location
Rocky Mountain National Park
Photographer Melissa Shelton | www.melissasheltonphotography.com
Videographer Craig Duncan | @craig_duncan_photography
Florist
Margaret’s Garden | www.margaretsgardenonline.net
Invitations
Zazzle | www.zazzle.com
Bridal Boutique
White Traditions Bridal House | www.whitetraditionsbridal.com
Gown Designer Essense of Australia | www.essensedesigns.com
Bride’s Ring
Sam’s Fine Jewelry | www.samsfinejewelry.com
Bride’s Accessories
Uncommon James | www.uncommonjames.com
Groom’s Attire Bonobos | www.bonobos.com
Groom’s Accessories
The Tie Bar | www.thetiebar.com
Hair & Makeup
Heather Dunning | www.indigosalondenver.com
Officiant Craig Duncan
happier!”- Melissa
WHY THE ROCKIES
Modern mountain dining from an ingredient-driven kitchen, Bird & Jim is defining Colorado cuisine with their ever-evolving seasonal and ingredientdriven menus sourced from the Front Range of Colorado and beyond. Their commitment to community and locally-sourced items makes them the perfect choice for your rehearsal dinner.
915 Moraine Avenue, Estes Park | 970 586 9832 | www.birdandjim.com
Locally owned and operated, the Dunraven Inn is home to two Estes Park locations. Enjoy a romantic meal on Lake Estes for a more intimate experience or plan your rehearsal dinner in the rustic Tuscan Room for a cozy cabin mountain feel. Enjoy the Dunraven’s 40 years of delectable eats and delicious treats.
1700 Big Thompson Avenue, Estes Park | 970 586 6409 | www.dunraveninn.com
Love at first sip, Ingrid and Lou Bush expanded their passion for craft beer to The Barrel in Estes Park. If you’re looking for a non-traditional rehearsal dinner space, then the Barrel is the venue for you. The Barrel is a rustic, Bavarian-Style Craft Beer Garden & Hall, with an additional focus on highend Whiskeys.
251 Moraine Avenue, Estes Park | 970 616 2090 | www.thebarrel.beer
Twin Owls offers an outdoor covered deck for small private events and group dining. Great for 25-40 guests. Their packages include a food and beverage package, featuring the world-class cuisine and service of the Twin Owls Steakhouse. They look forward to helping you make your Rocky Mountain Experience a truly unforgettable one.
3110 South St Vrain Avenue, Suite B, Estes Park | 970 586 9344 | www.twinowls.net
The View Restaurant at the Historic Crags Lodge is Este Park’s best kept secret for dining and private events. With sweeping mountain views and an upscale American menu, the atmosphere of The View Restaurant is ideal for a quaint and romantic rehearsal dinner. If you’re dreaming of a winter wedding, make sure to check their winter hours!
300 Riverside Drive, Estes Park | 970 586 1087 | www.theviewestes.com
Home to the first and only spirits made legally in Estes Park, Elkins Distilling creates local whisky distilled and bottled in the Rocky Mountains. Their Lake Estes tasting room with extensive craft cocktails and Colorado whisky is a change of pace from the typical rehearsal dinner space. Enjoy their carefully-curated drink menu made with high proof Colorado whiskey, along with soft drinks for kids and drivers.
1825 North Lake Avenue, Estes Park | 970 480 1848 | www.elkinsdistilling.com
During the annual Marquette University versus University of Wisconsin basketball game, Jeff and Priyal made their very first encounter. Together they witnessed the obvious Wisconsin showdown and Priyal basked in all of the winning glory as Marquette took home the big “W.” Now, looking back, it was only fitting that their “love-story” initiated some classic sports rivalry and flirty banter. Life, timing, and great friends brought them back together almost three years after their first official encounter. They’ve had five dream-worthy years together since.
Jeff proposed to Priyal on November 19, 2018 in Cappadocia, Turkey. The day was spent exploring the city centre, horseback riding at sunset through the Gerome National Park, and topped off with dinner at the famous potter-kebab restaurant, Dibek. When they returned home to their historic Sultan Cave Suite, Jeff lit a fire, poured wine and got down on one knee! They stayed up a majority of the night and celebrated with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride through the Cappadocia Valley. It was pure magic!
photographer sarah porter photography | www.sarahporterphotography.com
hair & makeup 303 beauty bar | www.303beautybar.com
rings levy creations | levycreations.com & dana rebecca designs | www.danarebeccadesigns.com
Taharaa Mountain Lodge boasts astonishing mountain views of Estes Park, which adds to the romance of this winter wonderland wedding inspiration. The scenery is enhanced by the warmth of the tablescape and romantic fireside dinner, while the snow added a bright magical winter touch against the moody tones of navy blues, terracotta, and touches of burgundy and green.
The greenery and soft candles surrounding the reception area, moody colors of the invitation suite by Margeaux Paperie envelop the area with a warm, cozy atmosphere. The intricate details of the floral centerpieces and statement piece over the ceremony spot by Best Day Floral Design brings about the perfect mix of winter greens with touches of vibrant colors.
Cheers to forever with an intimate sweetheart table where you’ll feel as though you are the only two people in the world. The greenery draped over the fireplace and matching floral menus add a touch of charm and personalization to an already perfect day. Taharaa Lodge is the perfect backdrop for a cozy and romantic winter wonderland wedding.
creative team
Venue: Taharaa Mountain Lodge | www.taharaa.com
Planning: The Perfect Touch Wedding Planning | www.nocoweddings.com
Photographer: Visual Poetry by Meghan | www.visualpoetrybymeghan.com
Sweets: Colorado Rose Cake Company | www.coloradorosecakeco.com
Florist: Best Day Floral | www.bestdayfloral.com
Invitations: Margaux Paperie | @margauxpaperie
Bridal Boutique: The Bridal Connection | www.thebridalconnection.net
Hair & Makeup: Bella Capelli Hair Studio | www.bellacapellihairstudio.com
Rentals: Flexx Productions | www.flexxproductions.com
Models: Kellsie + David
black canyon inn
800 macgregor avenue
estes park, colorado
970 586 8113
www.blackcanyoninn.com
bristlecone inn
215 virginia drive
estes park, colorado 970 586 4370
www.bristleconeinn.com
della terra mountain chateau
3501 fall river road
estes park, colorado
970 586 2501
www.dellaterramountainchateau.com
estes park condos
1400 david drive
estes park, colorado 970 577 0068
www.estesparkcondos.com
skyview at fall river village
278 sunny acres court
estes park, colorado
970 325 6864
www.fallrivervillage.com
taharaa mountain lodge
3110 south st vrain avenue
estes park, colorado 970 577 0098
www.taharaa.com
the estes park resort
1700 big thompson avenue
estes park, colorado 970 577 6400
www.theestesparkresort.com
the landing at estes park
1774 state highway 66
estes park, colorado
970 820 0118
www.thelandingestespark.com
the ridgeline hotel
101 south st arain avenue
estes park, colorado 970 480 0110
www.ridgelinehotel.com
the stanley hotel
333 east wonderview avenue estes park, colorado 970 577 4000
www.stanleyhotel.com
twin owls steakhouse
3110 south st vrain avenue, suite b estes park, colorado 970 586 9344
www.twinowls.net
ymca of the rockies 2515 tunnel road estes park, colorado 970 586 3341
www.ymcarockies.org
3110 South St Vrain Avenue, Estes Park | 970 577 0098 | www.taharaa.com
In 2019, the Taharra was purchased by Sandra Huerta and Thad Eggen. Owners of the Twin Owls Steakhouse, Estes Park’s premiere fine dining and event destination, Sandra and Thad are excited to bring their decades of expertise to the Taharaa. Whether you’re joining us for a weekend geataway or the wedding event of the season, Sandra and Thad and the entire staff of the Taharaa Mountain Lodge are dedicated to making sure that your time with them leaves you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready for whatever might come next. We are also excited to announce that the Taharaa will be the new home of the Twin Owls Steakhouse! We look forward to welcoming new faces and old friends alike to the Valley’s premiere fine dining event establishment.
Getting a manicure will ensure your nails and fingers are looking their absolute best as you show off your new engagement ring.
Having a professional photographer on hand to capture the moment you say “yes” gives you a keepsake to cherish for a lifetime.
This is a great time to show off your partner as well as your new ring. Cheers, you have officially been upgraded to fiancé.
While the bling is the number one focus of a #ringselfie, the background view is also important. Try a few different angles to get the ultimate shine from your bling.
To cast those stunning prisms all around, you need bright direct light. Move your fingers back and forth to create these dashing rainbows.
Add a filter from VSCO or Instagram to brighten any shadows and keep the focus on your ring. Our favs are Lightroom, KiraKira+ and Instasize!
Keep tagging @rockymtnbride in all your frosting photos for your chance to be featured on IG!
