Rocky Mountain Bride Colorado Fall & Winter 2024

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Photographer: Hannah Mayson
Florist: Bridal Veil Floral
Planner: Polished Fun
SARAH PORTER PHOTOGRAPHY

By Sarah

Photo
Porter

COLORADO FALL & WINTER 2024

colorado & new mexico editor

Brit Tucker-Kline

u s editorial

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MONTANA & WYOMING

Mackenzie Stevens

IDAHO EDITOR &

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

Bailey Richy

UTAH & DIGITAL EDITOR

COPYWRITER

Laura Osborn

canadian editorial

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Celynn Bowman

ASSISTANT

Carly Cooper

digital & operations

CLIENT RELATIONS MANAGER - Amy Wainess

CONTENT CREATOR - Savannah Reynolds

SALES & ACCOUNTING - Kelsey Comstock

PUBLISHED BY

RMB Media, LLC An Employee-Owned & Operated Company

DISTRIBUTION

Disticor Magazine Distribution Services

Storefronts in the U.S. & Canada or online at shop.rockymountainbride.com contact

- hello@rockymountainbride.com

a romantic setting for HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Picture exchanging vows with your soulmate at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club. As the #1 US location for a destination wedding, as voted on by readers of USA Today, your dream wedding day events will be surrounded by breathtaking views of Garden of the Gods and the Rocky Mountains. In addition to offering outstanding wedding services, the resort is also an ideal location for hosting engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and farewell brunches. Embracing diversity, the resort warmly welcomes all cultural traditions, interfaith ceremonies, and LGBTQ+ celebrations. Our team of wedding specialists excels in crafting unforgettable and awe-inspiring events that will create lasting memories for you and your guests. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SCHEDULE A TOUR, EMAIL WEDDINGS@ GARDENOFTHEGODSRESORT.COM OR CALL (719)725-6625. 3320 Mesa Road Colorado Springs CO 80904 | gardenofthegodsresort.com

• Space for intimate gatherings up to 1,500

• Full service catering services

• Modern elegance and inspiring spaces

• Panoramic city views

• Access to world-class art galleries

Book your event today! 720-913-2798

denverartmuseum.org/event-rental

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Brit

Tucker-Kline @brit_rockymtnbride

As the change of seasons unfold here in Colorado, I am filled with a distinct sense of nostalgia and joy. This autumn holds a special place in my heart as it marks my own five year wedding anniversary. Reflecting on my celebration of love and commitment amidst the beauty of our state reminds me of the unique magic that Colorado brings to every festivity, and that I am thrilled you get the chance to experience yourself!

Whether you’re planning a cozy winter celebration set amongst the snowy slopes or a gathering in the spectacular vibrant autumn foliage, we’ve got your inspiration covered in this issue. Our team has intentionally curated a plentiful array of real weddings to spark your creativity as well as provide useful tips on wedding day makeup looks that are sure to make you feel ultra confident on your special day.

We are eternally grateful to be part of your unique wedding journey and hope this issue inspires you as you plan your own unforgettable fête.

PHOTOS: BRADEN YOUNG

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TRUE LOVE

BEGINNINGS

katie + jake - Arapahoe Basin

taylor + thomas - Denver maya + nic - Boulder

REAL WEDDINGS

rockie + edgar - Longmont

mason + jeffrey - Boulder

courtney + zach - Grand Lake

devon + bear - Silverton

leila + edward - Telluride

maddie + joey - Aspen

shannon + ian - Telluride

isabella + michael - Bachelor Gulch

PHOTO CREDIT

Top to bottom, left to right:

bree woolliscroft, whitney rae, efege, jason and daris photocinema, sarah kempers photography, nathan george, mat schramm, kelly mour, brooke miller photography & katelynn macmillian

With the slopes of Shadow Mountain, the waters of Grand Lake, and the incredible people you call friends and family as your witnesses, you and your love can write your next chapter in a place like no other. A simply stunning nuptial knoll, an al fresco pavilion with mountain views, and a fire pit for late night s’mores will deliver a little mountain magic to every moment of your big day.

To begin planning your special day contact rohearn@highwaywest.com

Photo Credit: Tana Willden Photography

IN VAIL, LOVE IS ALWAYS IN SEASON.

With our captivating setting at the base of Vail Mountain alongside the calming waters of Gore Creek, we bring the natural beauty and wonder of Vail to weddings of all sizes. Set your imagination free & schedule a tour today.

Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Receptions, Bridal Brunches & More

thesebastianvail.com/wedding 970.477.8014

a welcome gift for all seasons

Custom gifts at weddings offer a unique way to show appreciation to the loved ones who have come from near and far to celebrate your special day. Bundles Gift Co. specializes in creating bespoke gifts that are as unique as the love stories they celebrate. Their mantra, “If you can dream it, we can source it,” reflects their commitment to crafting memorable and meaningful gifts. Each basket in the pages ahead was thoughtfully curated to reflect the spirit of each season and the unique taste of the recipient. Inspire your upcoming wedding with these welcome gift baskets, captured at the newly opened MOLLIE Aspen, crafted with unmatched creativity and meticulous attention to detail, including locally made items and products from nearby companies. They are a wonderful way for guests to truly embrace the local culture and support the community.

spring

Celebrate the fresh bloom of spring with a natural woven basket adorned with leather handles, filled with bright and delightful treats. This spring-themed basket features Bundles Gift Co.’s signature offering, the Altitude Kit—a refined take on the traditional “hangover kit.” Specifically designed for events in mountainous regions, these kits are perfect for soothing the little aches and pains of altitude adjustment, making them a thoughtful addition to any wedding or event.

The basket features a variety of locally made items including Aspen Kettle Corn popcorn, gingersnap cookies, a mountainthemed honeycomb chocolate bar, turmeric and super seed granola, honey pearls candy with lemon, an organic dark chocolate bar with goldenberries, elderflower and champagne edible floral lollipops, a small pink flask, a small almond butter chocolate bar, an Aspen, Colorado custom notepad, Poppy & Pout floral design lip balm and Italian Spritz gummies.

summer

Capture the essence of a sunlit summer with a choice of two custom bags: a natural tote with a green print featuring Aspen’s favorite activities and events, or a jute tote with a printed Aspen leaf and matching tissue paper. Inside, discover a corduroy hat with a map design by a local Aspen artist, chocolate chip cookies, French lavender honey drop candies, a silver Aspen leaf plated from a real leaf, an Aspen-themed summer puzzle, a woodgrain water bottle and custom koozies.

Celebrate the warmth of autumn with a natural color gable box, accented with a floral silk bandana and a custom wooden hang tag. This fall-themed gift includes mountain trail mix, custom matches, a champagne stopper, bourbon toothpicks, cowhide koozies, copper mugs, and ginger beer, perfect for cozying up on crisp fall evenings.

winter

Embrace the cozy charm of Aspen’s winter with a luxurious leather woven basket, featuring ski-themed delights perfect for the snowy season. This basket includes sheepskin slippers, Peak playing cards, a chairlift ski-themed Tree Line candle and Bundles Gift Co.’s signature Altitude Kit with a custom skier design. Indulge in ski boot-shaped chocolates, a s’mores kit, and Aspen-themed matches, along with leaf motif metal napkin rings, espresso martini chocolates, sea salt craft chocolate and a celestial bubble bath.

CREATIVE TEAM

Gifts: Bundles Gift Co. | bundlesgiftco.com

Location: MOLLIE Aspen | mollieaspen.com

Photographer: Nik House Media | nikhousemedia.com

ELEVATING OUR WORLD THROUGH EXTRAORDINARILY CRAFTED SPIRITS

At Copper Sky, we believe that good whiskey is meant to be shared, savored, and celebrated in great company. We offer a premium whiskey experience that is both affordable and community focused, perfect for hosting your rehearsal dinner, entertaining guests, or celebrating with your bridal party. Our commitment to excellence shines through in every handcrafted cocktail and barrel-aged spirit we produce.Whether you're enjoying a heartfelt welcome of your guests in our tasting room or enjoying a private experience in our speakeasy, we invite you to create unforgettable moments with us. At Copper Sky, every sip is a testament to the bonds we build and the community we cherish.

A wildly unique experience

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of the Rocky Mountains, The Orchard at Wild Cider offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rustic charm for your special day. The Orchard at Wild Cider is located in the historic coal mining town of Firestone, Colorado located just north of Denver. As home to an active cidery, our venue exudes a distinct character, infusing your celebration with the spirit of artisanal craftsmanship and authentic hospitality. Discover the magic of The Orchard at Wild Cider and embark on a journey to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Let the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the warmth of our hospitality inspire your love story as you begin your happily ever after with us.

sarah goff photography & j piper designs

GRANBY RANCH

Winner of Colorado Ski Country’s Prestigious Double Diamond Award in 2021.

AN AFFORDABLE, ALL-INCLUSIVE WEDDING ADVENTURE.

Nestled in an aspen grove overlooking the breathtaking continental divide, our chairlift-accessed ceremony site promises views for miles. After the ceremony, guests eagerly await the bride and groom’s return on the base lawn, engaging in lawn games during a lively cocktail hour. The outdoor vibe continues into the evening as guests dance the night away, taking breaks to stargaze on the deck or enjoy s’mores by the fire pit.

www.granbyranch.com

BEGINNINGS

KATIE + JAKE

The story of how Katie and Jake met has two tales. Katie shares they met over Twisted Teas at the notorious bar, One Star, in Federal Hill, Baltimore. But, if you ask Jake, he claims he was at a Game of Thrones viewing party when a girl wearing fuzzy socks, glasses and a backpack full of snacks caught his eye. Either way, the pair hit it off and ended up moving in together. Fast forward four years, the couple had moved to Denver, Colorado and were heading out on a Labor Day trip to Telluride with a few of their friends. Little did Katie know that this trip would be the place Jake took their relationship to the next level. As the trip ended the couple took a gondola up to the top of the mountain to soak in some last minute views before departing, when Jake, to Katie’s surprise, got down on one knee and asked Katie to marry him. The happy couple celebrated with tequila and a private Airbnb Jake booked for them to enjoy one more night in this now cherished destination.

Photographer: Whitney Rae | bywhitneyrae.com

Engagement Ring: Sarah O. Jewelry | sarahojewelry.com

TAYLOR + THOMAS

Both competitive cheerleading coaches, it was only a matter of time before Taylor and Thomas would connect. With an abundance of mutual friends, the pair linked up via Facebook and began a digital friendship. However, Taylor was living in Atlanta and Thomas in Denver. During the course of a few years, they had a few chance opportunities to meet at various cheer competitions across the country. Eventually they decided to dive head first into being a couple. After just a year and a half of dating, Taylor moved to Denver so the two could start their lives together.

When the timing was just right, Taylor and Thomas planned a trip abroad to Italy with a pre-planned proposal destination chosen: Polignano a Mare. The couple secured dinner reservations at a world-famous restaurant, Grotta Palazzese, which is carved into a cave and overlooks the Adriatic Sea. The two took the opportunity to make it a night to remember. “At dinner, we both took our turns to tell each other what our relationship had meant thus far, reminisced on our amazing seven years together, and envisioned our futures together. We had rings for each other, exchanged them and quietly finished it off with a champagne toast to the rest of our lives!” shared Thomas.

Photographer: Liz Osban Photography | lizosbanphotography.com

Engagement Rings: Ben Bridge | benbridge.com

Aydins Jewelry | shopaydins.com

MAYA + NIC BOULDER

Maya and Nic met on a warm summer’s day in Santa Monica, California, over drinks with friends at the Huntley Hotel. Maya reminisces on the moment, saying, “We both weren’t expecting anything more than a few glasses of white wine and IPAs but sparks flew...instantly.” The pair remained close friends for two years until one day Nic gathered the courage to put his arm around Maya, signaling more than just friendship. To Nic’s surprise, Maya leaned in, and from then on, they were inseparable. The moment Maya had been dreaming of finally happened at a beautiful lookout during sunset at Zion National Park in Utah. Afterward, the newly engaged couple celebrated with brats and, of course, champagne! The perfect glamping combo.

In the summer of 2023, Maya and Nic moved from Los Angeles, California, to Boulder and decided it was the best location for them to capture images that reflected their relationship for their save the dates. With Nic’s love for 1920’s and old Hollywood flair, the Boulder Theater’s marquee couldn’t have been more perfect. They enlisted wedding photographer Sarah Kempers to help bring their flirty, but edgy vision to life.

Photographer: Sarah Kempers Photography | sarahkempersphotography.com

Engagement Ring: Bridal Rings Company | bridalrings.com

kelliestonger com kellie@kelliestonger.com @kellie_stonger

gettin’GLAM

When it comes to your wedding day, looking and feeling your best is essential. The artistry of a skilled makeup artist, like Sabrina Deemer, can elevate your bridal beauty to new heights. With years of experience, Sabrina has perfected the art of creating timeless, radiant looks that reflect each bride’s unique beauty. Her approach is all about enhancing what makes you, you, because your wedding day glam should be as unforgettable as the day itself!

Finding the perfect makeup artist can feel daunting, but these tips can make the process easier. Start by checking reviews on Google, real feedback from other brides can provide valuable insights into the artist’s reliability and skill. When browsing social media, be cautious if you only see professional photos without any candid iPhone shots or videos; it might be a red flag that the full picture isn’t being shown. Additionally, look for an artist whose portfolio includes clients with similar skin tones and features as yours, which helps gauge how their work will translate on you. Most importantly, choose someone whose style resonates with you. While many artists can create a variety of looks, their social media and website often highlight what they excel at, whether it’s natural elegance or full-on glam.

Negligee: Petal & Pup | petalandpup.com

Robe: The Bridal Collection | thebridalcollection.com

Negligee: Petal & Pup | petalandpup.com

Veil: The Bridal Collection | thebridalcollection.com

Your makeup trial is the perfect opportunity to fine-tune your wedding day look. First, dress the part! Wearing white during your trial will give you a more accurate sense of how your makeup will look against your wedding dress. If possible, schedule your hair and makeup trials on the same day, so you can see the full picture. If scheduling doesn’t allow for this, at least come with your hair styled similarly to how it will be on your big day.

Be sure to bring inspiration photos that reflect your vision, ideally featuring people with similar features to yours for the best results. If you have a favorite product, like a specific shade of lipstick, don’t hesitate to bring it along, many artists are happy to incorporate it into your look. On the day of your trial, arrive with shaped brows, a fresh spray tan (if you’re planning on having one) and a clean, moisturized face. Open communication with your artist is essential. Share what you love, what you’re unsure of, and even what you don’t like. The trial is your opportunity to make adjustments until you achieve the perfect look that makes you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself.

Negligee: Cupshe | cupshe.com Robe: Petal & Pup | petalandpup.com

Negligee: Victoria’s Secret | victoriassecret.com

Veil: The Bridal Collection | thebridalcollection.com

Timing is everything. To keep your look fresh and flawless, start by giving your skin some TLC the night before; exfoliate and moisturize your face and lips to create a smooth canvas for makeup. On the day itself, schedule yourself second to last in the getting-ready timeline. This way, you avoid the rush and ensure your makeup stays pristine as you walk down the aisle. Begin the day with the air conditioning turned down, hot tools, makeup lights and extra people can quickly heat up the room, so staying cool is key. Don’t forget to plan a break in the middle of the glam process. This will allow everyone to eat, relax and freshen up before final touch-ups. Plan to read letters or open gifts before your makeup is applied, so any happy tears won’t smudge your look. When it comes to the getting-ready timeline, leave it to the experts, coordinating with the planner’s and photographer’s schedules ensures everything runs smoothly. Make sure your bridesmaids arrive 15 minutes early to avoid any delays, as punctuality is crucial on your wedding day. And for those inevitable emotional moments, keep a tissue handy. While makeup can be water-resistant, it’s never fully waterproof. Blot, don’t wipe, to keep your look intact.

CREATIVE TEAM

Location: Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek | halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com

Makeup: Sabrina Deemer | sabrinadeemermakeup.com

Photographer: Bree Woolliscroft | breewoolly.com

Hair: Brianna Miller Hair | briannamillerhair.com

Getting Ready Attire: The Bridal Collection | thebridalcollection.com

Cupshe | cupshe.com

Petal & Pup | petalandpup.com

Victoria’s Secret | victoriassecret.com

Jewelry: Sarah O. Jewelry | sarahojewelry.com

Models: Gloria, Cheyenne, Joanna & Julie

Lauren Pippin Photography
MacKenzi Knight Photography
Jenae Lopez
Photography

Mention Rocky Mountain Bride when booking and receive 5% off your wedding package, Double Marriott Bonvoy points, and discounted valet parking for guests! Say "I do" in the Heart of Denver!

Discover mid-century modern sophistication infused with European heritage at Le Meridien Denver Downtown. With personal service, delicious cuisine, and evocative setting, we create a wedding experience that will inspire you and your guests to savor the good life.

1475 California Street, Denver, CO 80202

For more information, visit lemeridiendenverdowntown.com or call (720) 996 1516.

CARRIE PATTERSON

REAL WEDDINGS

rockie & edgar

Rockie was in Denver apartment hunting with one of her friends, while Edgar was also in Denver celebrating one of his best friend’s Bachelor Party. And as fate would have it, each group decided to head to the same bar that night. The two met that evening and have never looked back. To propose, Edgar, after months of planning and tracking down the perfect ring, took cues from Rockie who had mentioned that she had always wanted to take a stroll through the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Illinois. On the day, Edgar told her that he had bought tickets to the zoo and they would get dinner somewhere afterwards. It had turned out to be the most beautiful sunny day they could have asked for! Edgar had planned things to a T, including incorporating a photographer to capture the big moment and thinking the timing was right, he messaged them to let them know they were making their way through the zoo and would be nearby soon, but Rockie slowed, just wanting to take her time and enjoy being outside. Edgar basically had to force her to pick up the pace so they could get to where their photographer was waiting. When he finally guided Rockie to the Peoples Gas Pavilion, they were joined by influencers galore posing for pictures. Alongside the pavilion were flowers laid on the ground, Edgar insisted they sneak over to take some pictures “before the people they were meant for arrived.” Rockie was hesitant at first, but Edgar was able to pull her to them. When they arrived, Edgar took out his speech and told her the flowers were for them. Through tears of joy, Edgar barely able to get the words out, asked, “Rockie, will you marry me?” Rockie said “YES!” and according to her, ugly cried.

FAVORITE THINGs PURCHASED FOR THE WEDDING DAY

Edgar: his cologne, Vilhelm Parfumerie scent Mango skin. The scent will always remind us of our wedding day.

Rockie: My white laced socks with hearts on them.

SOMETHING BLUE

A This Old House shirt signed by the cast. As a kid, Rockie’s dad would always pick her up and dance with her when the song came on and it was their father/daughter dance song.

SHADE OF LIPSTICK

Not a makeup gal, so I stuck with Burt’s Bees chapstick.

FRAGRANCE WORN

Juliette Has a Gun

ONE THING THE GROOM HAD TO HAVE

A grooms dressing room, out of the ten venues we looked at, the St. Vrain was the only one that also celebrated the groom. They even had a dart board and a foosball table.

AISLE SONG

The Fellowship of the Ring (Piano Version) by bits & hits

SIGNATURE COCKTAIL

None, but cocktail napkins with our black cats face on it, so she was included in the wedding.

FIRST DANCE SONG

Acoustic version of “First Date” by Blink 182

WEDDING CAKE FLAVOR

The Chantilly Cake from Whole Foods so we can enjoy our cake on every anniversary.

Second-look

Rockie changed into white Keds at the reception and literally danced her train off multiple times, Judi, our wedding coordinator, had to re-pin it up all night. Edgar changed into black and white converse for dancing.

WHAT SONG MADE EVERYONE DANCE

“Cruel Summer ” by Taylor Swift

LATE NIGHT SNACKS

Grilled cheese and s’mores

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND Judi Sperry of dotting the i. Planning a wedding can be a daunting task and Judi really made us feel at ease throughout the whole process. Our families and friends could not stop singing her praises. Her humor and kindness just shines out of her! Lover her!

Mat Schramm, our photographer, this man can make anyone comfortable in front of a camera, even two super awkward people like us. He really captures you as a couple and trust me his photos make you cry.

Rockie and Edgar met in Colorado and wanted to have their wedding take place where it all began. “We had seen a ton of venues from our research, but there was one that always stuck out to us and we could not stop thinking about it, The St. Vrain. Annie, coowner of the property, couldn’t have been a more fabulous host showing us the venue,” recounts Rockie. The couple planned a simplistic bohemian wedding with earthy tones and dressed to impress. “All I knew was that I wanted giant sleeves! My favorite movie growing up was The Labyrinth and I was obsessed with the giant puffy dress the main character wore. When I tried on my blush colored dress with the cut outs on the train, I knew it was the one,” shares Rockie. Edgar choose a burgundy colored tuxedo with a black satin tie, white cotton shirt and patent leather wood sole shoes. For his accessories, he added cuff links with his last name initial, “T,” on them and a silver neck tie clip.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Trust in your vendors! There will be stressful times while planning your day but they are there to help and answer all your questions even if you think they’re silly.”

Venue

The St. Vrain | thestvrain.com

Wedding Planner dotting the i | dottingthei-ltd.com

Photographer Mat Schramm | matschrammphoto.com

Florist

Palmer Flowers | palmerflowerweddings.com

Catering & Sweets

Sugar Pine Catering | sugarpinecatering.com

Bartending

Wyatt’s Wet Goods | wyattswetgoods.com

Entertainment TH Entertainment | th-entertainment.com

Officiant

Our good friend, Matt Santa Maria

Accommodations

SpringHill Suites Boulder | marriott.com

Transportation Green Ride Charter Services greenridecharterservices.com

Bridal Boutique Anthropologie | anthropologie.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Mineralogy | mineralogydesign.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Azazie | azazie.com

Hair & Makeup

Ember Salon | embersalonboulder.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire

The Black Tux | theblacktux.com

Rehearsal Dinner

The Roost | theroostlongmont.com

Honeymoon

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London, England

parkplazawestminsterbridge.com

The Selwyn Hotel, Richmond, England theselwyn.com

BOULDER // SEPTEMBER 23

Mason and Jeffrey met on Bumble. “I originally got on the BFF version to make some girlfriends, but no one wanted to meet up, so I ended up switching to the regular dating profile. Jeff’s bio said, ‘Just moved to Denver and looking for friends,’ and I was like, ‘Yes! This is perfect.’ So, we matched, started talking, and Jeff asked me to drinks the next day. We didn’t start dating until about a month after that! That was actually my first and only dating app date,” shares Mason. Three years later, at Christmas with Mason’s family, Jeffrey asked her parents for her hand. When doing so, Mason’s mom asked when he was thinking about proposing, to which Jeffrey replied, “What about today?” That night, he proposed, perfectly low-key and private, on the balcony, with their family waiting inside to celebrate.

Mason and Jeffrey knew they wanted to get married in Colorado, where they met and live, and they envisioned their wedding as a cozy and intimate celebration for their 100 guests. Throughout the wedding planning process, they entrusted most of the details to their planner and Mason’s mother, focusing on the little decisions that mattered most to them. When the day arrived, they were excited to see how everything had come together. The couple shared many personal and cherished moments, including Mason’s dress being selected by her mother and Jeffrey’s custom suit, which featured his initials on the cuff of his dress shirt and “Fly High Big Guy” embroidered on the jacket collar in honor of his late father. Most significantly, their wedding bands were Jeffrey’s grandparents’ rings, on his father’s side, something he had wanted from the moment they got engaged. “Jeff is very close with his grandmother, Grams, and I am really sentimental. Her ring also fit me perfectly, so it was meant to be,” shares Mason.

SOMETHING BLUE

A thin blue ring I wore with my wedding band.

FRAGRANCE WORN

Bergamote 22 by Le Labo

ONE THING THE GROOM HAD TO HAVE

His dad’s old Rolex.

AISLE SONG

“Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Margaritas & Espresso

Martinis

FIRST DANCE SONG

“This is How You Fall in Love” (live version) by Chelsea Cutler and Jeremy Zucker

WEDDING CAKE FLAVORs

Lemon, vanilla and red velvet

WHAT SONG MADE EVERYONE DANCE

Oh, gosh everyone danced the entire night! Our band was incredible.

LATE NIGHT SNACK Pizza!

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND

Definitely Karli Spangler! Literally could not have done a single thing without her. I barely knew what I wanted the day to feel like and from what I told her she created a masterpiece.

VENDORS

Venue, Catering, Sweets & Beverage Jacqueline Malcolm-Peck, Greystone Castle greystonecastle.wedding

Wedding Planner

Karli Spangler Events | karlispanglerevents.com

Photographer

Katelynn MacMillan | katelynmacmillan.com

Videographer Runaway Vows | runawayvows.com

Florist

Moss Floral | mossfloralfw.com

Invitations & Paper Goods

Hazlewood Paper Co | hazelwoodpaperco.com

Band

Jordan Kahn | jordankahnorchestra.com

Gown Designer Mark Ingram | markingramatelier.com

Veil

Warren Barron Bridal | warrenbarron.com

Bridesmaids’ Jewelry Mejuri | mejuri.com

Hair

April Hayes, Full Circle Aspen | fullcircleaspen.com

Makeup

Amy Merritt Hair & Makeup amymerritthairandmakeup.com

Rehearsal Dinner

Salt | saltboulder.com

“It might sound cliché but just enjoy it. It isn’t that serious - the wedding - it’s supposed to be fun! At the end of the day, no matter what goes right or wrong, you still get to be married to the person you love. Never stop having fun together.”

GRAND LAKE // SEPTEMBER 23

Courtney and Zach both moved to Grand County around the same time back in 2018. With it being known as a heavy area for seasonal visitors, dating can be tricky. However, when they both swiped right, they knew they were destined to be together. After four years of dating, Zach was ready to take their relationship to the next level. The couple planned a fun weekend of activities with Zach’s brother and Courtney’s best friend, Bri. Bri, who happens to be a content creator, was the key piece to Zach’s surprise proposal. During one of the group’s hikes, Bri set up her tripod to “vlog” which was Zach’s cue to pop the question! With Craig Mountain in the background and the Aspen trees displaying vibrant hues, Zach got down on one knee and asked Courtney to marry him. In complete shock, Courtney said, “Yes!” After making the trek back home, the four of them marked the occasion with celebratory tequila shots.

Grand Lake served as the foundation of the couple’s love story, so it was only natural that Courtney and Zach chose to get married at his family’s property just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. They planned an elevated garden party with western touches sprinkled throughout for 200 of their family and friends. Courtney shares, “We still wanted that backyard wedding feeling, but cranked up a notch!” With this in mind, Courtney worked with local florist, The Stalk Market, to decorate the day in shades of soft pinks, gentle greens and bright whites creating a whimsical, yet inviting atmosphere.

With the breathtaking views, not much was needed to create the perfect ceremony space. A simple arbor, one of the few items that survived the 2020 forest fires at a neighbor’s property, was lent to Courtney and Zach for their special day. It stood as a true testament to love enduring the test of time and the challenges of life. After enjoying a private moment together as newlyweds, the couple joined their guests under a beautiful sail tent adorned with thrifted china and glassware. To get the real party going, the couple’s carefully curated playlist served as the sign for everyone to let loose and dance the night away.

FAVORITE THING PURCHASED FOR THE WEDDING DAY

I curated all of the wedding China and colored glassware and I am still obsessed with it all to this day! It really helped bring our garden party theme to life, and the mismatched table settings gave it that homey feeling we were trying to achieve.

SHADE OF LIPSTICK

Pillow Talk by Charlotte Tilbury

FRAGRANCE WORN

Peony and Blush Suede

ONE THING THE GROOM HAD TO HAVE Bolo ties, and picking a country song for our first dance.

AISLE SONG

“Enchanted” by Taylor Swift, Orchestral Cover by Joseph William Morgan

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Aperol Spritz & Spicy Margaritas

FIRST DANCE SONG

“I’ll Quit Loving You” by Hardy

WEDDING CAKE FLAVOR

White cake with a raspberry filling

Second-look

I did end up changing into a white sweatsuit for our short afterparty!

WHAT SONGs MADE EVERYONE DANCE

“Pepas” by Farruko and “Sk8er Boi” by Avril Lavigne

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND It’s SO hard to choose a single vendor to call out! They all did amazing work.

Our florist, Becky at The Stalk Market in Grand Lake was incredible. Looking back, our florals are one my favorite details of the day, and they contributed so much to the look and feel, atmosphere, and theme. I think florals are one thing that brides tend to have sticker shock with, but they are 100000% worth it. Becky and Sonya did an amazing job of taking a few inspiration photos, and bringing it to life in a way that was better than I could have ever envisioned.

Our photographer, Kelly Mour, and our videographer, Phil Carter, were the absolute dream team. Going into the wedding planning process, I knew that photo and video would be the most important vendors that we hired. Not only because they would be capturing the most important day of our lives, but also because we would be spending so much of our day with them. They both did absolutely incredible work, but we also just appreciate who they are as humans. They both made us feel calm and relaxed throughout the entire process, made sure we were comfortable, talked us down when things didn’t go according to plan or we were running behind, and just reminded us to focus on what was most important to us.

VENDORS

Venue

Private Property

Photographer Kelly Mour | kellymour.com

Videographer Phil Carter | philcarterfilms.com

Florist

The Stalk Market | thestalkmarket.com

Invitations

Elkdale Design Co. | elkdaledesignco.com

Rentals

Benson Tent Rent | bensontentrent.com

Catering

Amber’s Kitchen foodbyamberskitchen.com

Cake

Cakes by M | fb: Cakes-by-M

Officiant Iver Marjerison coloradomicroweddings.com

Bridal Boutique Little White Dress Bridal Shop lwdbridal.com

Gown Designer Monique Lhuillier | moniquelhuillier.com

Veil Angela Beardal | etsy: ABusyMother

Bride’s Shoes

Bella Belle | bellabelleshoes.com

Hair & Makeup

Chelsea Bennett Beauty chelseabennettbeauty.com

Groom’s Attire Indochino | indochino.com

Honeymoon

Avali Deluxe Suites, Naxos, Greece airbnb.com

Hotel Senia, Paros, Greece | hotel-senia.com

Otium Villas, Santorini, Greece airbnb.com

Hotel Marincanto, Positano, Italy marincanto.it

“Even if there are moments during the planning process or the day of that feel stressful, remember why you are doing it, and re-center yourself around that. It can be easy to get carried away with the production of it all, but at the end of the day it’s about getting to marry the person you love, don’t forget that!

On the day of, we know everyone says this, but live it up, and soak in every minute because it does go by so fast. Take a moment at your reception or ceremony to look around and appreciate all of the people who gathered to celebrate you and your love story.

Things may not all go according to plan, but roll with the punches. My veil flew off my head as I was walking down the aisle, I forgot to have place settings at our head table, just to name a few! But at the end of the day, none of those things were make or break for our day.”

devon & bear

Devon and Bear, both outdoor enthusiasts, were living and working in Vail, chasing 100+ ski-day seasons. One night, after a long day on the slopes, Devon spotted Bear on the dance floor at a live underground music bar. It didn’t take long for the pair to hit it off. Bear continued to chase Devon down the slopes for the rest of the season, getting to know more about her adventurous soul. Often, Devon would stay in Bear’s sprinter van so she could enjoy fresh tracks on the mountain each morning. Devon shares, “Eventually (and conveniently), Bear’s van broke down in my parking lot, and the rest is history.”

Seven years into their relationship, Bear planned a proposal unlike any we’ve ever encountered. Devon had been teaching their dog, Rooney, how to talk with buttons. On Devon’s birthday, Bear secretly programmed one of the buttons to ask Devon to marry him. Of course, she said, “Yes!” and the newly engaged couple spent the evening celebrating with his family.

FAVORITE THING PURCHASED

FOR THE WEDDING DAY

Porrons! We also bought a drip torch that wildland firefighters use as a homage to Bear’s career. We used that as a makeshift porron at the table for his firefighter friends.

SHADE OF LIPSTICK

Nyx Liquid Suede in Soft Spoken

AISLE SONGs

Bear: “If Not For You” by Shakey Graves, Devon: “Oh You Pretty Things” by Seu Jorge

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Ranch Water with Tajin rim, Whiskey Sour & Carajillos

FIRST DANCE SONG

“Your Song” by Leo Nocentelli

WEDDING CAKE FLAVOR

Cheesecake bar with different toppings

WHAT SONG MADE EVERYONE DANCE

All of them!

LATE NIGHT SNACKS

Chicken and waffle bites

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND

I am so sorry, we cannot call out just one! From the town of Silverton and Kendall Mountain to The Wyman Hotel which served as our welcome party, pre-wedding yoga spot, and Sunday brunch. To Celia, Stevie, Lacey, and Emily at Wildly Collective, the backbone of our weekend, to Brooke and Jonathan Couch, for capturing breathtaking sceneries, raw emotions and everything in between. To Natalie and Molly and the team at Adela Flora, who completely transformed the space with breathtaking floral arrangements both indoors and at the ceremony site, including a custom seating chart and keepsake display shelf and a floral dog collar for Rooney to boot! They also donated all flowers to local healthcare facilities after the wedding. To Sarah at High Desert Hair Studio for the flawless makeup and hair, to Chris Lewis for listening, collaborating with us and keeping everyone dancing the entire night. To Alexis and the team at Farm to Fingers, for feeding an entire weekend and then some, while ensuring all our requests were met. To our rentals, Alpine Peach, Farm to Table Rentals, Moore Family Tables and Durango Party Rental, throwing a party in a remote part of the state required sourcing all available resources. Everyone was so gracious in helping us piece together rentals to make the details of our vision a reality. To Grace Loves Lace and Suit Supply, who helped us throughout the decision and fitting process making us feel and look like our best selves. And of course the gorgeous jewelry and accessories to bring the outfits all together; Opal Milk, J Albrecht Designs, Bohemi and Ruby + Revolver were all handmade pieces from individuals we specifically reached out to designers, whose work and creativity we resonated with and represented pieces to have far beyond just our wedding day.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Make sure you’re doing it for you! Don’t get caught up in trying to please everyone, because at the end of the day it’s about celebrating the love of you two as a couple, in whatever way that means to you. Also, if your budget allows, hire a planner and/or design team for stress free planning. Lastly, put all the details you can on your wedding website so people aren’t asking you as many questions.”

Devon and Bear planned a chic and eclectic mountain wedding with a side of silly at the Kendall Mountain Ski Area for 80 guests. They chose Silverton for its rugged San Juan Mountains and adventure-seeking crowd, wanting to share their love for the area with friends and family. Bear’s suit was chosen specifically to complement their dog Rooney and Devon’s hair color, with cowboy boots adding a nod to Silverton’s Western flair. Devon wore a simple, timeless gown by Grace Loves Lace and re-styled her sister’s wedding cape, accessorizing with funky jewelry by Opal Milk.

Some of the couple’s fondest memories from the day included taking private photos with Rooney before the ceremony, with incredible views of their favorite ski lines. Rooney also served as the couple’s flower girl and, in lieu of a wedding party, stayed by their feet the entire time. After their intimate ceremony, the newly married couple ensured a good time was had by all with great food, drinks and lively dancing. The evening featured porron toasts, a typewriter haikus and love notes station, a Polaroid photo booth with playful props and a vintage ski arch, followed by an unforgettable after-party at The Wyman Hotel.

One of the most memorable details of the wedding was the unique and interactive seating chart, crafted with a nostalgic twist. Guests discovered their table assignments through custom-designed viewfinders, adding a playful and personal touch to the celebration. The idea, envisioned by the bride’s sister years ago, finally came to life with the help of the talented wedding planners at Wildly Collective. “This is one of our favorite seating chart collaborations ever!” they exclaimed. The viewfinders were displayed in a beautifully designed cubby shelf, courtesy of Adela Flora, featuring objects that represented the couple’s journey together.

VENDORS

Venue

Kendall Mountain Ski Area | skikendall.com

Wedding Planner

Wildly Collective | wildlycollective.com

Photographer

Brooke Miller Photography | brookemillerphotography.net

Florist

Adela Flora | adelaflora.com

Welcome Sign

Jacqueline Hall Designs

Table Numbers

Brooklyn Rustics | @brooklyn_rustics

Rentals

Alpine Peach Rentals | alpinepeachevents.com

Farm to Table Rentals | @farmtotablerentals

Moore Family Tables | moorefarmtables.com

Durango Party Rental | durangopartyrental.com

Caterer & Bartender

Farm to Fingers | farmtofingersgrazing.com

Music & Entertainment

Chris Lewis | whoischrislewis.com

Accommodations, Rehearsal Dinner & After Party

The Wyman Hotel | thewyman.com

Bridal Boutique & Designer

Grace Loves Lace | graceloveslace.com

Cape

Sarah Seven | sarahseven.com

Bride’s Ring Designer

J Albrecht Designs | jalbrechtdesigns.com

Ruby + Revolver | rubyandrevolver.com

Bride’s Jewelry

Opal Milk | opalmilkbyrye.com

Bride’s Shoes

Reformation | thereformation.com

Hair & Makeup

High Desert Hair Studio | @highdeserthairstudio

Groom’s Attire

Suitsupply | suitsupply.com

Groom’s Ring

Bohemi | bohemi.com

Groom’s Shoes

Tecovas | tecovas.com

Leila and Edward met on a dating app. “We had both met dozens of people on the app and were almost ready to give up using it. However, we were lucky that we didn’t give up before matching with each other. We had so many common interests that, after chatting online for a few days, we decided to meet in person,” shares Leila. Their first date was at the de Young Museum in San Francisco, California. While viewing the exhibition, Edward shared many fascinating insights about the exhibits, even though Leila had chosen the location. It was clear they both shared the same passion for art. From that moment, they knew they had found the one and quickly decided to make their relationship official. A year and a half later, Edward proposed on Valentine’s Day. “We were celebrating by cooking dinner together at home when he suddenly pulled out a ring. It was from my favorite brand and in the style I loved most, he always knows me so well,” recounts Leila.

Leila and Edward share a love for adventure, the mountains and exploring the unknown. Their dream was to marry amidst lesser-known natural landscapes, and Telluride provided the perfect backdrop. “We had never been there before, nor had our friends, so we wanted to share this stunning scenery with our closest family and friends and ensure they had an unforgettable experience,” says Leila. The couple prioritized personal touches, from Leila’s mermaidstyle, off-the-shoulder dress, which took 10 months to handcraft, to Edward’s custom Dior suit, complete with his guitar, a must-have for the day. One of the most heartfelt moments was when Leila chose not to toss her bouquet but instead split it in two, gifting it to her and Edward’s parents. “It was a gesture to thank them for their unwavering support and for raising us. Seeing their faces light up with happiness made all the effort worthwhile,” Leila reminisces.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Start planning early! Great venues and top-notch vendors tend to get booked up well in advance, so the sooner you start, the better your chances of securing your first choices.”

Fragrance Worn

Oud Wood by Tom Ford

One thing the groom had to have His guitar!

highlight of their reception

A highlight of our reception was when we replaced the traditional first dance with our first performance together. I played the electronic piano while Ed played the guitar, and we performed “River Flows in You.” This musical collaboration was a unique and personal touch that reflected our shared love for music and added a special and memorable moment at our celebration.

WEDDING CAKE FLAVOR

Red velvet

Second-look

After the ceremony, I changed into a stunning red one-shoulder, A-line gown from Mac Duggal. Red is the most joyous and fitting color for weddings in Chinese culture, symbolizing happiness and good fortune.

LATE NIGHT SNACK

Cereal

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND

We feel incredibly fortunate with every vendor we chose for our wedding.

Our planner, Sutton, made sure that every step of our wedding was just as we envisioned it, and even more perfect than we had imagined. Sutton was incredibly attentive, handling every detail to ensure our day went perfectly. Her expertise, dedication and personal touch transformed our wedding dreams into reality. Every detail was meticulously managed, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the joy of our special day. Her blend of professionalism and genuine care made all the difference.

Our photographer, Nate, was exceptional. He captured all the romantic and touching moments of our wedding day with such artistry and attention to detail. Nate has a unique ability to catch candid moments that truly reflect the emotions of the day. The adventurous shots he took of us in various breathtaking locations around Telluride the next day are some of our favorite photos. His creativity and passion for photography shows through in every picture, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.

Our videographer, Daylon from Blue Shadow, created a film that we can’t stop watching. Despite many of our conversations being in Chinese, Daylon seamlessly integrated our words into the film, making it feel incredibly personal and special. The music selection was also perfect, elevating the entire film and making it truly unforgettable.

Our florist, New Leaf, perfectly created the floral design I had envisioned. I wanted a fireworks effect, and their execution exceeded my expectations! They truly understood my vision and brought it to life in the most stunning way. I can’t describe how beautiful the backdrop was!

VENDORS

Ceremony Location

Palmyra Lookout tellurideskiresort.com/weddings

Reception

The National Telluride | nationaltelluride.com

Wedding Planner bySutton | bysutton.com

Photographer Nathan George | nathangeorgephoto.com

Videographer Blue Shadow Films | blueshadowfilms.com

Florist

New Leaf Design | newleafdesign.net

Rentals a.studio | astudiocollection.com

Linens

BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Cake

Fig & Bloom Cakes | figandbloomcakes.com

Entertainment Telluride Strings | telluridestrings.com

Officiant Joshua Geetter

Transportation Mountain Limo | mountainlimos.com

Gown Designer & Veil

Ms. Sister | mssisterstudios.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Harry Winston | harrywinston.com

Bride’s Jewelry Chanel | chanel.com

Bride’s Shoes

Bella Belle | bellabelleshoes.com

Reception Dress

Mac Duggal | macduggal.com

Beauty

Vivi Liu | @zhuoliumakeup

Groom’s Attire Dior | dior.com

Welcome Brunch

The New Sheridan Chop House newsheridan.com

Maddie & Joey

A combination of mutual friends and Instagram brought lovebirds Maddie and Joey together. Joey casually gave Maddie a follow on the app after coming across her photo at a baby shower. A few weeks later, Joey posted a photo, and Maddie’s friend took the initiative to slide into his DMs for Maddie. The rest is history, as they say! A little over a year after the pair began dating, the couple took a trip up to Aspen, where they had plans to get custom hats made at the iconic Kemo Sabe. Maddie shares, “We got to the part where it was time to brand my hat with my initials. I just wanted to do an ‘M’ for my first initial only, suspecting we would be getting engaged within the next few months. To my surprise, Joey said, ‘Why don’t you go ahead and put the “P” on it too?’ and then got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.” They celebrated with a glass of champagne in the store with a surprise visit from their parents. The newly engaged couple, with the help of Gold Leaf Events, went on to plan their wedding weekend in Aspen with a wedding party welcome event at none other than Kemo Sabe.

FAVORITE THING PURCHASED FOR THE WEDDING DAY

My perfume! My mom and I found a new scent for me to wear and had the bottle engraved. It’s been so fun to wear it on trips and date nights and reminds us both of our day.

something blue

My engagement ring is actually my great-greatgrandmother’s diamond that was passed down to my grandma, with plans to be passed to me. When Joey proposed he had the original diamond reset, we later took my grandma’s original setting and had a blue topaz replace the diamond, which I wore on our wedding day.

SHADE OF LIPSTICK

Pillow Talk by Charlotte Tilbury

FRAGRANCE WORN

Francis Kurkdjian Paris - L’eau A La Rose

ONE THING THE GROOM HAD TO HAVE

A tuxedo that fit. Long story short Joey’s tuxedo came in two weeks before the wedding in the COMPLETE wrong size. We had to buy one last minute, shout out to Aspen Stitchworks for saving the weekend.

AISLE SONG

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Apple Cider Old Fashioned & Moscow Mules

FIRST DANCE SONG

“See you Tomorrow” by Muscadine Bloodline

WEDDING CAKE FLAVORs

Golden velvet with cream cheese frosting and chocolate with chocolate cream cheese frosting

Second-look

I took my bolero off after cocktail hour to change from long sleeves to strapless

WHAT SONG MADE EVERYONE DANCE

“Proud Mary” by Ike & Tina Turner

LATE NIGHT SNACKS

Truffle fries, fried chicken sliders, chocolate chip cookies and brownies

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND

All of them. We seriously got so lucky with our vendor team and wish we could scream their names from the rooftops. European Caterers killed it with the food, our friends still bring up the beef wellington bites from cocktail hour WEEKLY. Valorie Darling, our photographer, was so fun to be around and truly such a light. She made two people who don’t love posing for photos enjoy the day SO much. Bordoni Films, Alessandro captured the entire weekend insanely well and you just can’t help smile and have a good time when you’re around him! Cerka Creative, from the very first meeting they were truly unbelievable and made the entire design process so fun, we looked forward to every call. Kate of Gold Leaf Events & Allan of Cerka Creative are insanely talented and I think they both know we are their biggest fans. We gave them the vibe we wanted with very little direction and they both took it and RAN. They brought our vision to life more than we could have ever thought possible. We knew what the day was going to look like based off of mood boards, but when we walked in and our jaws hit the floor, but we also just appreciate who they are as humans. They both made us feel calm and relaxed throughout the entire process, made sure we were comfortable, talked us down when things didn’t go according to plan or we were running behind, and just reminded us to focus on what was most important to us.

Maddie and Joey invited 185 of their family and friends to celebrate at The Chaparral Ranch with a Ralph Lauren-inspired wedding that highlighted the natural beauty of Colorado in the fall. From the grand ceremony arch featuring views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and colorful Aspen trees to the breathtaking ceiling installations at the reception, the wedding day was adorned with a plethora of decor and florals in nature’s palette and rich textures curated by florist and designer Cerka Creative. This one-ofa-kind event merged black-tie elegance with intimate coziness seamlessly, featuring an al fresco cocktail hour with a sushi station, signature drinks, lounge seating and inviting nature inside for the reception space. The celebration continued well into the night with Aragon Artists, who kept everyone on their feet until the party’s end.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Find a planner that you’re not only obsessed with but also one you have complete trust in. We went in with the mindset that she is the professional, she knows way more than anything we could ever find online. She’s seen it all, done it all and she’s not going to steer us in the wrong direction. We trusted every vendor recommendation, suggestion and small little detail that aligned with our vision. We truly let her take the reins and our weekend exceeded every single one of our expectations.”

VENDORS

Venue

The Chaparral Ranch | aspenchamber.org

Wedding Planner Gold Leaf Events | goldleafevent.com

Photographer Valorie Darling | valoriedarling.com

Videographer Bordoni Films | alessandrobordoni.com

Florist

Cerka Creative | cerkacreative.com

Invitations

Emily Baird Design | emilybaird.com

Rentals

Eclectic Hive | eclectichive.com

Caterer

European Caterers | eurocataspen.com

Cake

d’Elissious Cake Studio | delissiouscakestudio.com

Entertainment Aragon Artists | aragonartists.com

Lighting Halcyon Productions | halcyonproductions.com

Accommodations & Welcome Party The Hotel Jerome | aubergeresorts.com

Transportation CTS Transportation | ctsaspen.com

Bridal Boutique Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus | neimanmarcus.com

Gown Designer Monique Lhuillier | moniquelhuillier.com

Bride’s Shoes

Loeffler Randall | loefflerrandall.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Wirt’s Jewlers | wirtsjewelers.com

Bride’s Jewelry Ring Concierge | ringconcierge.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Anthropologie | anthropologie.com

Seamstress Aspen Stitchworks | @aspenstitchworks

Hair & Makeup

Gambuti Robson Hair and Makeup grhairandmakeup.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire & Shoes The Black Tux | theblacktux.com

Groom’s Accessories

Brackish | brackish.com

Rehearsal Brunch

The Little Nell Wine Bar | thelittlenell.com

Bridal Party Hat Making Party Kemo Sabe | kemosabe.com

Honeymoon

Sugar Beach A Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

shannon & Ian

Shannon and Ian met at a charming jazz bar in downtown San Francisco, California. If it weren’t for Shannon’s quick thinking on her feet, the two of them might have never locked eyes. Shannon shares, “As we approached the bar, the line to get inside was longer than expected, and the bar was only admitting groups that were together. In front of us stood Ian and his friend who would later be his best man. The maître d’ called Ian’s group up next. ‘Party of two?’ Before Ian could respond, I spoke up, ‘Actually, we’re a party of six!’” From that night on, the pair was inseparable. Fast forward three and a half years, Ian crafted a heartfelt proposal in Vail, a place they shared many memories. After a thrilling day of skiing and a romantic dinner at La Nonna, Ian proposed on a bridge under the starlit sky. Shannon’s immediate “Yes!” transformed their weekend getaway into an unforgettable moment.

To no surprise, the newly engaged couple chose to host their intimate wedding for 65 guests in Telluride, another breathtaking Colorado mountain town they had visited often. With the help of K2 Event Co, Shannon and Ian planned a modern classic wedding featuring a sophisticated black and white palette, perfectly reflecting their elegant style. For the ceremony, Shannon wore an exquisite Ines Di Santo dress, complemented by Prada slingback heels and Mikimoto diamond drop pearl earrings. For the reception, she changed into The Ultimate Muse Pearl Drop Dress by Odd Muse. Meanwhile, Ian looked dapper in a Ted Baker black tux, featuring a sentimental pocket square crafted from the shirt he wore on their first meeting.

Of course, their beloved dog, Olive, was in attendance throughout the wedding, donning a darling pink tulle dress. While the couple shared that the ceremony and reception were everything they had dreamed of, Shannon said, “Amidst the laughter, dancing and joyful celebrations, my favorite part was the private cake cutting with Ian. This intimate moment carved out amidst the festivities allowed us to pause and savor a special memory just for the two of us.” To close out the celebration, the couple walked hand-in-hand through a tunnel made up of family and friends, marking the beginning of their new life together as husband and wife.

FAVORITE THING PURCHASED FOR THE WEDDING DAY

My wedding dress.

SHADE OF LIPSTICK

Mix from MUA

FRAGRANCEs WORN

Hers - Joe Malone Sea Salt and Wood Sage

His - Joe Malone Cypress and Grapevine

AISLE SONGs

Ian and our bridal party walked down to “Sleep on The Floor” by The Lumineers and I walked down to “ I’m With You” by Vance Joy

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Hers - French 75

His - Old Fashioned

FIRST DANCE SONG

“One and Only” by Adele

WEDDING CAKE FLAVOR

Almond raspberry

Second-look

Halfway through the reception, I opted for an outfit change to ensure comfort and to make a fresh statement. The dress was the perfect blend of chic and contemporary, with its flattering fabric and beautiful pearl embellishments. It allowed me to dance the night away with ease.

WHAT

SONG MADE EVERYONE DANCE

“Night Moves” by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

LATE NIGHT SNACKS

At the Stronghouse afterparty we had soft pretzels, fries and flatliners.

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND

Our wedding was nothing short of magical, thanks in large part to the exceptional vendors who went above and beyond to make our day perfect including K2 Event Co., Jason and Daris Photocinema, Puppy’s Plus One, and Desert Child. From the very first meeting, Ian and I knew we wanted to work with K2 Event Co.. Right away, her exceptional organization and insightful questions assured us that we were in the right hands.

Kristen and her team never missed a beat. From vendor suggestions to timelines and wedding etiquette, her and her team’s guidance was invaluable. Navigating the complexities of wedding planning was entirely new to us, and Kristen made the process feel manageable and even enjoyable. Her expertise was especially crucial given that we were planning the event from afar, which naturally came with its own set of challenges. We couldn’t have imagined working with anyone else for such an important event.

Jason and Daris Photocinema were phenomenal in capturing every moment of our special day. As someone who is quite camera shy, I found Jason’s approach particularly comforting. He always made Ian and I feel at ease in front of the camera. Both Jason and Daris are true artists, skilled not only in photography but also in videography. Before we even chose Telluride as our venue, I was captivated by their previous work. After speaking with Jason, his deep understanding of his craft and his readiness to accommodate the challenges of winter weather further reassured us. The stunning photos and videos they produced are nothing less than artwork, capturing the essence and emotion of our wedding day beautifully.

Puppy’s Plus One ensured that our beloved dog, Olive, was not just present but also well-cared for throughout the day. Their team was incredibly easy to work with, showing genuine love and care for Olive. They handled all her needs from walking and feeding to making sure she was safe and comfortable in our hotel room at the end of the night. They even captured heartwarming photos and video clips that gave us a delightful glimpse into her day.

Desert Child, our band, transformed our reception into a vibrant concert-like experience. They performed our first dance beautifully and kept the energy up all night with a fantastic mix of new hits and throwback favorites. Their unique spin on the music and electrifying performance captivated our guests, who were so enthralled they requested an encore. Desert Child truly made our reception unforgettable. We still have guests talking about it.

We are profoundly grateful for their contributions and would highly recommend them to anyone wanting to elevate their event. These heartfelt thanks extend to all our vendors, whose collective efforts made our wedding not just an event, but a spectacular milestone in our lives.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Take care of yourselves! Wedding planning can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health. Make sure to carve out time for relaxation and connection with each other. This is one day and you have the rest of your lives together.”

VENDORS

Ceremony Location San Sophia Overlook | tellurideskiresort.com/weddings

Reception Venue & Catering

Allred’s | tellurideskiresort.com/weddings

Wedding Planner K2 Event Co. | k2eventco.com

Photographer & Videographer

Jason and Daris Photocinema | jasonanddaris.com

Florist

Bridal Veil Floral | bridalveilfloral.com

Paper Goods

Studio Ashmohr | studioashmohr.com

Candles

Yummi Candles | yummicandles.com

Rentals

Tablescape Event Rentals: Amend Collective theamendcollective.com

Dance Floor: Alpine Events | alpineeventscolorado.com

Linens & Chargers: BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Cake Fig and Bloom Cakes | figandbloomcakes.com

Band

Desert Child | desertchildmusic.com

Pet Attendant Puppy’s Plus One | puppysplusone.com

Officiant Gina McMahan | @ginamcmahan

Accommodations

The Peaks | Tellurideskiresort.com

Madeline Hotel | aubergeresorts.com

Transportation Gondolas | tellurideskiresort.com

Bridal Boutique anna bé bridal boutiques | anna-be.com

Gown Designer Ines Di Santo | inesdisanto.com

Bride’s Shoes PRADA | prada.com

Bride’s Jewelry Mikimoto | mikimotoamerica.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Forever Diamonds | Foreverdiamondsny.com

Bride’s Reception Dress Odd Muse | Oddmuse.co.uk

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Xscape Evenings | Xscapeevenings.com

Hair Moxie Loft | Moxieloft.com

Hair Extensions Envie Pro | @envieprohair

Makeup

Haley Skye Makeup | @haleyskyemakeup

Groom’s Attire Ted Baker | tedbaker.com

Groom’s Shoes Allen Edmond | allenedmond.com

Groomsmen’s Attire, Accessories & Shoes

The Black Tux | theblacktux.com

Rehearsal Dinner Timber Room, Madeline Hotel & Residences Aubergeresorts.com

Afterparty Stronghouse | stronghousebrewpub.com

isabella & michael

Isabella and Michael, with the guidance of wedding planner GoBella, planned a minimalistic winter ski wedding in Bachelor Gulch for 300 guests. The couple, who first met at a wedding in Aspen, envisioned a full wedding weekend experience in the mountains, beginning with a themed “Duck & Denim” event at Zach’s Cabin, a nod to Michael’s family, who operates the largest duck farm in America, and Isabella’s family, who runs denim manufacturing factories in Mexico. Guests arrived in snowcats under a starlit sky, dressed in denim and savoring Peking duck, setting the tone for a unique and memorable weekend.

SOMETHING BLUE

Hers: my bouquet & my American Spirit Light Blue “ciggy wiggies” His: boutonniere

ONE THING THE GROOM HAD TO HAVE Duck and mezcal

AISLE SONG

“The Autumn” by The Four Seasons

SIGNATURE COCKTAIL Carajillos

FIRST DANCE SONG

“You Sang To Me” by Marc Anthony

WEDDING CAKE FLAVOR Tres leches

WHAT SONG MADE EVERYONE DANCE

“Thunderstruck” by ACDC

LATE NIGHT SNACKS

Duck carnitas and pastries

VENDORS THAT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND The wall drapery. The team did a beautiful job. And the entire food and beverage team from the chefs to the servers at the The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch.

On the wedding day, Isabella stunned in a Vivienne Westwood Galaxy Cape Gown, walking down the aisle to greet her soon-to-be husband in front of an altar made of ice. Meanwhile, Michael wore a crisp black tuxedo from Zegna.

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to an unforgettable reception that blended elegance with wintry charm. An outdoor ice bar, Wagyu beef sourced from Michael’s brother’s farm and tequila shot carts kept the celebration lively as laughter and music echoed through the crisp mountain air.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Soak it all in since it goes by extremely fast. Even if you get overwhelmed just enjoy every second.”

The couple and many of their friends and family danced into the early hours to tunes played by the Walton Stout Orchestra. Even with staying up well past midnight, guests joined Isabella and Michael at Anderson’s Cabin in Bachelor Gulch for a festive après-ski farewell brunch featuring Mexican cuisine such as gorditas and antojitos specific to Isabella’s hometown, Torreon, cocktails and, of course, cozy attire!

VENDORS

Venue, Catering, Beverage, Cake & Accommodations The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch | ritzcarlton.com

Wedding Planner GoBella | gobella.com

Photographer & Videographer EFEGE | @efegepho

Florist Aspen Branch | aspenbranch.com

Band Walton Stout | jordankahnmusiccompany.com

Officiant

Jose Maria Quera & Father Jesus Murillo catholicparishesofthevalley.org

Bridal Boutique Loho Bride | lohobride.com

Gown Designer Vivienne Westwood | viviennewestwood.com

Bride’s Hat HeadWest | @headwestbrandingbar

Bride’s Shoes Jimmy Choo | us.jimmychoo.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Dana Rebecca Design | danarebeccadesigns.com

Hair & Makeup

Johana Elizabeth Lopez Gaona | @joujoestyle_

Groom’s Shoes Zegna | zegna.com

Rehearsal

Zach’s Cabin | beavercreek.com

Honeymoon Planning KAX Lifestyle | kaxlifestyle.com

Honeymoon &Beyond, Punakha River Lodge | andbeyond.com

Nihi Sumba | nihi.com

The Urban Denver Alternative to the Mountain Wedding Experience

You deserve to celebrate in a World-Class urban venue. Located in the heart of the vibrant RiNo Arts District on Larimer Street. We are purpose-built, fully restored, up to code. Ready for your most amazing celebration.

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Cocktail Hour Inside
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SOMETHING BOLD, SOMETHING NEW.

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