Michelle and Jared hosted the Beaver Creek Mountain wedding of the summer. Full of color, fresh florals by Double Dutch Floral, the sweetest personal touches (Michelle MADE their stationary herself… yes, even the amazing gondola cut-out), a huge, energetic wedding party full of their closest people, incredible mountain views, and the golden hour of my dreams, this was a day that will hold a special place in my heart forever.
I will always remember their wedding for how absolutely nothing could dim the energy and excitement of the day. Not even the fact that I was in the absolute trenches of the four-month sleep regression with Bo and running on very little sleep. I walked into Michelle’s getting ready space with my extra large coffee in hand and was immediately energized and inspired. The girls were girling – double fisting mimosas and coffee, yapping and excited, all in their matching hot-pink jammies. Michelle was beaming and yet still such a calm presence. It was clear what a fun, joy-filled day was ahead of us!
Michelle’s Mom helped her slip into her stunning Made With Love gown and completed her look with the same earrings her Mom wore on her wedding day… so special! After a quick first look with her bridesmaids and then with her Dad, we ran off to meet Jared for their long-awaited first look at the bridge near the Beaver Creek chapel. These two exchanged tearful vows under the lush greenery with the sound of the creek in the background and it truly felt like a scene out of a movie!! From there, we met the groomsmen at the chairlifts and took a gorgeous ride up to the top of the mountain. Keep scrolling to see why having a second photographer is a must on your wedding day!
After Michelle and Jared were officially “The Ecks” and all family portraits were behind us, the couple was able to enjoy the majority of their cocktail hour on the lawn outside of Spruce Saddle Lodge. If you’re on the fence about whether to do a first look or not, Michelle and Jared’s experience is one I share often. They chose to do a first look and exchange private vows, which allowed them to spend more of their wedding day together and knock out all the necessary (& fun) wedding party portraits before their ceremony, so that they were free to enjoy their signature cocktails, mingle with their (mostly out-of-town) guests, and relax before the reception kicked off.
This photo right here is why I will always encourage my couples to run out for a quick sunset session during their reception. Did we get plenty of stunning portraits of the two of them during their portrait time before their ceremony? Yes, BUT! If it’s a clear evening (like it was for Michelle and Jared), you just cannot beat the soft, golden light that comes just before sundown. Just look at these two!! Absolutely glowing.
The reception area at Spruce Saddle Lodge was transformed into a breezy, colorful space thanks to Michelle’s vision and Jill at Snapdragon Celebrations. Each table was adorned with gorgeous, pastel florals by Double Dutch Floral and more of Michelle’s handy-work – colorful menus and place cards at each setting. Michelle and Jared shared a sweetheart table underneath woven lanterns and guests gathered around to hear words from the newlyweds nearest and dearest. After toasts and dinner, the group made their way upstairs for dancing under the disco ball!! It was a night that I’ll never forget for two of the most genuine and crazy in-love people!
Planner: Snapdragon Celebrations
Photographer: Nicole Ryann Photography
Content Creator: Sherri Innis
Venue: Spruce Saddle Lodge at Beaver Creek Mountain
Dress Designer and Boutique: Made With Love Bridal at A&Be Bridal Shop
Hair & Makeup: Kim J Beauty
Florals: Double Dutch Florals
Cake: Hovey and Harrison
DJ: Garman Music
Rentals: Event Rents
Lighting: Little Branch Lighting
“Nicole is absolutely AMAZING! Her eye for beautiful photos is absolutely incredible. From the moment I met Nicole over a year ago, I was instantly relaxed by her professionalism, sweet personality, and special approach towards wedding photography. She made us feel so comfortable at our engagement shoot, it felt like I’d known her for years. A year later, our wedding photos turned out stunning! Nicole is incredibly kind, talented, and AMAZING!!! Best decision of our wedding was hiring her!!!” – Michelle |
Are you planning your wedding in Beaver Creek and seeking a photographer who can capture genuine, emotional moments? I’d love to help tell your story – reach out now!
Still on the hunt for the perfect Colorado wedding venue? Check out this gorgeous, fall wedding at Blackstone Rivers Ranch in Idaho Springs, CO, or this microwedding at The Lofthouse in Colorado Springs, CO.