Rocky Mountain Bride Colorado Spring/Summer 2023

a picture OF PERFECTION

most beautiful location in Colorado. With sweeping panoramas of the Garden of the Gods National Landmark, Pikes Peak and Rocky Mountain backdrop, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club is Colorado Springs’ most exclusive setting for weddings. In addition to hosting weddings, ceremonies and receptions, this inclusive resort is a highly sought-aftervenue for engagement parties, bridal showers, baby showers, rehearsal dinners and farewell brunches. The property welcomes diverse cultural traditions, interfaith ceremonies and LGBTQ+ celebrations. The onsite expert wedding specialists understand the unique needs and attention required to create a breathtakingly beautiful and memorable event to impress every guest on your list.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SCHEDULE A TOUR, EMAIL WEDDINGS@GARDENOFTHEGODSRESORT.COM OR CALL 719 725 6600

Picture yourself marrying the love of your life in the

photo by: K Treneman

Iconic architecture. Modern elegance. Inspiring spaces.

WEDDINGS | RECEPTIONS | REHEARSAL DINNERS

Inspiring spaces for groups of 10 up to 1,000

Host your next event in the newly renovated Lanny & Sharon Martin Building, brand new Anna & John J. Sie Welcome Center, or iconic Hamilton Building. Enjoy world-class art, stunning architecture, and state-of-the-art event space in the heart of Denver.

Book your event today!

eventinfo@denverartmuseum.org

denverartmuseum.org/event-rental

Photos courtesy of Jenna Noelle Creative

720.688.0320

Backyard Bakeries makes stunning bespoke wedding cakes for couples in Colorado. Owner Robyn has always had a love of baking and decorating and is constantly learning and improving her skills. She has grown her passion from baking for her own family to creating gorgeous cakes and desserts for other families on their special day. With pride in having the honor of being included in their special day, Robyn takes time to discuss how she can best meet the needs of each and every couple who comes to her.

From design consultation to delivery + setup, Backyard Bakeries looks after all of the organizing. Robyn works with each couple to sweeten their day with cakes, macarons, pastries, and so much more.

Couples can even order individual cakes + desserts for their get-ready suites before celebrating together with a custom design and flavor combination to share with their loved ones at the reception.

backyardbakeries.com

Elizabeth, CO

Baked delicacies to make your special day just a little bit sweeter

COLORADO SPRING/SUMMER 2023

colorado & new mexico editor

Brit Tucker-Kline

u.s. editorial

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

IDAHO, MONTANA & WYOMING

Mackenzie Stevens

UTAH & DIGITAL EDITOR

Laura Osborn

canadian editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Celynn Bowman

ASSISTANT

Carly Cooper copywriter

Lauren Weller

style editor

Rachael Bell

digital

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER - Bailey Richy

CONTENT CREATOR - Meagan Kowalik

CONTENT CREATOR - Shalee Super

operations

CLIENT RELATIONS MANAGER - Amy Wainess

ACCOUNTING

Lynn Kieffer

PUBLISHER Erika Oltmann

DISTRIBUTION

Disticor Magazine Distribution Services

Storefronts

& Canada or online at shop.rockymountainbride.com

contact

INQUIRIES - hello@rockymountainbride.com

ADVERTISING - rockymountainbride.com/advertise

- rockymountainbride.com/submissions

Lauren Pippin Photography

MacKenzi Knight Photography

Jenae Lopez Photography

Laur Fernandez Photo

Start your love story with us.

BOOK TODAY!

720-865-3551

private.events@botanicgardens.org

1007 York St. botanicgardens.org

Brit Tucker-Kline @brit_rockymtnbride

Spring is here and with it, the promise of beautiful celebrations abound! Watching the world come back to bloom always seems to remind me of what is simple and true in life; connection, growth, love and adventure. What a beautiful analogy for your partnership as you piece together your gorgeous festivity to honor your love!

The pages ahead exemplify the undeniable Colorado magic that we all adore in our industry and that never ceases to get old. From ranch to vineyard, discover rich inspirations lush with creative musings. Trying to decide on signature cocktails to kick off the night? We partnered with Hazel's Beverage World to keep you and your guests refreshed all evening long. We even included some sexy little somethin' style inspirations for once the lights are out and it's just you two at the end of the day. As always, we are so grateful for the couples within the magazine that have shared their special day with us showcasing a variety of palettes, aesthetics, styles and locations unique to the state.

The Rocky Mountain Bride team and I are beyond thrilled you found your way here and are honored to be a part of your planning journey! We encourage you to snuggle up with your partner and your favorite beverage to soak it all in. Let it spark conversation and be an opportunity for you two to come together in creating your own unique celebration.

Happy planning!

FROM THE HIP PHOTO

grace gatto

Photo by Caitlin Steuben / www.CaitlinSteuben.com

Katherine Simmons & Brian Khzouz • 6/25/2022

PHOTO

Top

TRUE LOVE

ENGAGEMENTS

tina + sanil - Echo Lake Park

vy + michael - Garden of the Gods

katie + issam - Buena Vista

nicole + cole - Denver

dani + kendall - Black Lakes

REAL WEDDINGS

kate + trip - Vail

rachel + sundeep - Lakewood

eugenia + scott - Crested Butte

katarina + jordan - Dunton Hot Springs

blair + brendan - Denver

jacqueline + john - Vail

PHOTO CREDIT

Top to bottom, left to right:

only ten miles from downtown Telluride, CO on the historic Aldasoro Sheep Ranch, AB Weddings is the perfect location to host your mountain top wedding. You bring the party, we’ll take care of the views.

Photos: Cat Galleti

Enchanted Vineyard Elegance

elizabeth wells photography

Tina + Sanil

In 2016, Tina and Sanil were college students who met at a church sports tournament in Dallas, Texas. Returning from the conference, distance had them separated by nearly 1,300 miles as Tina studied at Colorado State University and Sanil played volleyball at The Ohio State University. Fast forward three years, Tina relocated to Chicago, Illinois, for work while Sanil was moving from Chicago to Sweden to play professional volleyball. Once the global pandemic hit, Sanil traveled back to the states just as Tina was homebound to Colorado. Despite the imperfect timing, the two stayed in contact over the years and officially began dating shortly thereafter. Six months later, photographer Sam Ruscher posted on Instagram that she was searching for a couple willing to model for a styled elopement. Tina responded to Sam expressing interest in the photo shoot. It just so happened that Sanil also reached out to Sam asking if he could take the photo shoot as an opportunity to propose. “At the time I thought I was the one putting together this photo shoot, but little did I know it was Sanil pulling the strings,” reminisces Tina. During the photo shoot Sam suggested a pose for the couple to try, to which Tina turned around to find Sanil down on one knee.

Photographer: Samantha Ruscher Photography | samantharuscherphoto.com Engagement Ring: dimend SCAASI | dimendscaasi.com

Garden of the Gods

VY + MICHAEL

Vy and Michael are a true success story of online dating. Three years after meeting, the couple got engaged while vacationing in Northern Italy. There’s a reason the language of love is spoken in Italian, so it goes without saying that Italy is packed with love struck locations. Michael officially popped the question following one of the most stunning excursions in the Dolomites, known for its magnificent mountain range and picturesque countryside. After an unforgettable trek to Lake Sorapis, Michael asked Vy to marry him surrounded by a crystal blue, glacially fed small alpine lake.

Photographer: Century Tree Co. | centurytreeco.com

Engagement Ring: Brilliant Earth | brilliantearth.com

katie + issam

Katie and Issam have a college party to thank for their romance. The now-couple met through a mutual friend while they were students. Issam asked Katie to be his beer pong partner despite her throwing technique or lack thereof. The casual encounter quickly became the start of a new friendship. “We spent every weekend together and as we grew inevitably closer, we awkwardly decided to take a chance at a real date,” shares the couple. Although their quintessential drinking game score probably didn’t pan out, their first date consisting of a cheesy horror movie, boozy root beer floats, and tacos was a wild success. Four years later, Issam asked Katie to marry him on a snow-covered December day in Breckenridge.

Photographer: Paula B Photography | paulabphoto.com

Engagement Ring: Hyde Park Jewelers | hydeparkjewelers.com

Nicole + Cole

Nicole and Cole first crossed paths as undergrads at Colorado State University when they quite literally bumped into each other at a fraternity party. While Cole apologized and continued on his way, Nicole was left smitten over the nonchalant encounter. But, to her surprise, the two shared a class together along with many mutual friends. The rest is history as they say. After four and a half years of dating, Cole planned a rather clever ruse for his spring proposal. “My friend who was getting married told me her wedding photographer was looking to build her portfolio and wanted to do an additional photo shoot with the wedding party prior to the big day,” Nicole shares. What Nicole didn’t realize was that the photo shoot was solely intended for her. “Cole drove us to a downtown Denver apartment building and when we arrived the photographer told us that everyone was running late, but to check out the rooftop for photo locations,” Nicole recalls. As the couple patiently waited, the photographer offered to snap photos of just the two of them when Cole got down on one knee and asked Nicole to marry him. “I was so surprised it took me a minute or two to properly respond,” the bride-to-be jokes. With a bonafide “Yes” the newly engaged couple celebrated the exciting milestone with a surprise party in the company of friends, siblings, and family.

Photographer: MacKenzi Knight Photo | mackenziknightphotography.com

Engagement Ring: Jared | jared.com

BLACK LAKES

Dani + Kendall

Dani and Kendall’s story began months before they met when they both tore their ACLs skiing - Dani during a solo adventure in Lake Tahoe, California, and Kendall, who was hitting the slopes with friends in Park City, Utah. Following their respective reconstruction surgeries, they found themselves at the same physical therapy clinic in San Francisco, California. After connecting on a dating app in Sep tember 2019, Kendall thought she may have recognized Dani from the clinic, but that seemed impossible in such a large city. Following their second date, the two became an item and solidified their relationship over the early days of the pandemic. A year and a half later, the couple escaped with several of Kendall’s childhood best friends for a girls' weekend. With the trip coming to an end, Sunday brunch was planned as a final farewell; Dani claimed there was a wait to be seated, and instead, she suggested they mosey along the beach. To Kendall’s surprise, Dani popped the question on the sand to which she excitingly agreed. The celebration continued through the day with a sunset rooftop happy hour at Lido House in Newport Beach, California, and dinner at Malibu Farms. As the newly engaged couple strolled around the corner to dinner, Kendall was astounded to see her mom, sister, and another childhood best friend had all flown in from Texas to celebrate the engagement.

Photographer: Whitney Rae Photography | bywhitneyrae.com

Engagement Ring:

Appelblom Jewelry Co. | appelblom.com

Blackstone Rivers Ranch is the premier riverfront mountain special event destination in the Colorado Rockies, located just 35 minutes west of Denver! Our exquisite event spaces and relaxing atmosphere, will wow you and your guests.

Blackstone Rivers Ranch is the perfect boutique venue for your luxury wedding or special event.

We host one, completely unique, curated and exclusive event each day. Our venue is reserved for you, and ONLY YOU on your most special day. Whether you seek ultimate adventure, unapologetic luxury, and everything in between, we know that your time with us will be filled with amazing & unforgettable moments.

www.BlackstoneRiversRanch.com 303-567-2339

Photo Credit: Adam Houseman

Photo Credit: J & K Photography

Photo Credit: Adam Houseman

Photo Credit: Sarah Christine

Photo Credit: Hayley Allen

Photo Credit: Basecamp Visual

Photo Credit: Carrie King

Photo Credit: Hailey Pierce

Photo Credit: Kate Ivy Photography

Photo Credit: Carrie King

Colorado Craft Cocktails

A signature cocktail is a sure-fire way to create a fun personalization to your drink menu. Whether you are hosting an engagement party, bachelorette bash, bridal shower, or wedding reception, set the tone and taste with boozy sips that capture the feeling of summer. Located right here in the renowned state of Colorado, Hazel’s Beverage World is not your father’s liquor store. The vintage aviation themed shop located at 28th Street and Pearl in Boulder has an abundant selection of Rocky Mountain spirits for every celebratory occasion.

Spirits: Hazel’s Beverage World | hazelsboulder.com

Photographer: Autumn Cutaia | autumncutaia.com

lavender bee's knees

A classic Prohibition-era cocktail with a floral twist. The lavender infused gin from Gold Dirt Distillery is simply smashing featuring a stunning hue of purple, perfect for an elevated al fresco affair or garden party fête.

Recipe:

Add honey and simple syrup to into a saucepan over medium heat

Stir until the honey is dissolved

Allow to cool

Add gin, lemon juice and honey syrup into a shaker with ice and shake until chilled

Strain into a chilled coupe glass

Garnish with a lavender sprig

Ingredients:

2 oz Gold Dirt Distillery

Lavender Gin

1 oz Honey Syrup

1 oz Lemon Juice

Lavender Sprigs

For the Honey Syrup

½ cup Honey

½ cup Simple Syrup

old but fashioned

In true Western fashion, it seems only fitting to incorporate a spin on an old, legendary cocktail. Breckenridge Distillery took their bourbon whiskey and refreshed it in Tawny Port casks adding flavors of raisin and maple syrup.

Recipe:

Add all ingredients except orange peel and cherry to a mixing glass and stir

Pour over ice

Garnish with orange peel and drop in a cherry

Ingredients:

2 oz Breckenridge Whiskey

Port Cask Finish

½ oz Raw Simple Syrup

3 Dashes Bitters

Orange Peel

Luxardo Maraschino Cherries

colorado ranch water

While some may say ranch water is the unofficial drink of Texas, Colorado is certainly rich in cowboy culture. This refreshing recipe using Cuidado Blanco Tequila will kick off any summertime soirée with sweet citrus aroma and spicy pepper notes.

Recipe:

Pour Tajín seasoning onto a small plate

Wet the rim of the glass with lime, press the rim of highball glass into the seasoning

Fill glass with ice

Add tequila and lime juice

Top with Topo Chico and garnish with fresh lime and orange wedge

Ingredients:

2 oz Cuidado Blanco Tequila

¾ oz Lime Juice

4 oz Sparkling Mineral Water preferably chilled Topo Chico

Lime

Orange

Tajín Seasoning

jalapeno grapefruit mule

What is better than sipping from a handmade copper mug by Handlebend? We will wait, but the answer is not much. These hand-built, hearty mugs are worth their weight in copper. If you are dreaming about a Moscow Mule, but want to level it up with fresh ruby red grapefruit and spicy jalapeños, look no further than this delicious beverage. Champagne glasses are not the only way to toast the night away!

Mug: Handlebend | handlebend.com

Recipe:

Heap mug with ice

Add all ingredients then top with ginger beer and stir

Garnish with lime, grapefruit and jalapeño slices

Ingredients:

3 oz Woody Creek Distillers Vodka

½ Fresh Lime Squeeze

¼ Grapefruit Squeeze

1/3

cup Pomegranate Juice

1-2 Jalapeño Slices

1 Ginger Beer

CULTIVATED LOVE

Nestled at the base of the Sleeping Ute Mountain, an oasis of history belongs to an isolated vineyard deep in the red rock canyons of Southwest Colorado where lovers chase enchantment in life. Sutcliffe Vineyard is graced with 10 acres of organically farmed grapevines creating an exquisite atmosphere in which to marry the partner of your wildest dreams. Taking inspiration from the raw artfulness of the high desert while encompassing a European influence that is inherent to the winemaking territory, Elsa Jagniecki of Heirlooms Design echoes understated elegance and elevated organic elements to curate a vision which conveys an impressionistic painting.

With a focus on subtle yet significant details, let the setting speak for itself. Embrace the impressive backdrop that the venue provides with an intimate al fresco affair and minimal display of dècor. Guests will be engrossed in McElmo Canyon’s wine country scenery for the entirety of the reception. For dinner, one long imperial table nods to Italian traditions where a familialstyle meal is the heart for any occasion. Solid stoneware plates, linen napkins, gold flatware, and sophisticated menus are situated at each place setting. Whimsical floral arrangements in shades of light pink, peach, and ivory paired with edible pieces of fruit by Adela Flora up the ante, evoking a sense of sweet summertime.

The bride simply stuns in a pleated georgette gown from Elizabeth Dye featuring fabulous sleeves and a plunging neckline. A sweep train provides the right amount of drama allowing you to twirl through the evening, especially for photos. Meanwhile, the groom appears poised in a laid-back tan suit from SuitShop.

From Chardonnay to Cabernet

Sauvignon, toast to your newly minted status with local wine cultivated from an elevation of 5,340 feet above sea level. To guarantee a seamless day of wine and food pairings, tap into industry expert opinions, such as your catering team, to determine which wines you will serve based on the menu. No celebration is complete without dessert. A simple all-white cake from Toast Records & Bakes, juxtaposed in smooth and textured buttercream topped with delicate blooms and juicy fresh fruit, makes for an indulgent statement.

CREATIVE TEAM

Venue & Catering: Sutcliffe Vineyard | sutcliffewines.com

Photographer: Candace Cross Photography | candacecrossphotography.com

Planning & Design: Heirlooms Design | heirloomsdesign.com

Florist: Adela Flora | adelaflora.com

Invitations, Paper & Calligraphy: Blue Leaf Design Co. | blueleafdesignco.com

Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals | cpartyrentals.com

Chairs: Durango Party Rental | durangopartyrental.com

Candles: Chandlerie | chandlerie.com

Linens: BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Cake: Toast Records & Bakes | @toast.records.and.bakes

Gown Designer: Elizabeth Dye | elizabethdye.com

Bride’s Jewelry & Ring Designer: Sorrel Sky Gallery | sorrelsky.com

Beauty: BreeAnne Kelly | @breekelly_hmua

Groom’s Attire: SuitShop | suitshop.com

Models: Kacey & Wesley

Enjoy Ev y M t

From the ground up

Tucked alongside the banks of the Big Thompson River in the company of the Colorado foothills near Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch offers a charming, rustic atmosphere for couples who appreciate the Western lifestyle. With sweeping mountain vistas and grazing pastures in the background, the authentic horse and cattle ranch creates an ideal setting for marriage nuptials as Mat Schramm Photography captures each moment of your love story on camera.

Inspired by the natural beauty of the rolling landscape, Alison Amy of A Bride's Best Mate and a phenomenal team of creatives infused romance, earthy elements, and natural textures, conveying a sweet surprise from the traditional rustic vibes of the Colorado mountains. Innately, the invitation suite by Paper and Dust followed an elegant yet unconventional twist with modern shapes and a touch of masculinity featuring a personalized response card made from textured leather fabric. Amidst the stationery, is a stunning satin pear-shaped diamond ring, part of John Atencio’s signature engagement ring collection. The scintillating halo of stones above the pavé diamond band is an eye-catching choice for the statementloving bride and is complimented by the groom's Custom Men’s Band with Antler Inlay, also by John Atencio.

After an intimate ceremony, surprise guests with an astonishing memory that they will hold onto for years to come: running of the horses. When the wranglers gather all of the horses and you watch them gallop across wide open spaces, that is what postcards are made of. The rest of the evening's festivities took place on the property’s River Bend where sand-colored linens were accented with wooden vessels holding an abundance of lush blooms in a romantic color palette of deep reds with pops of blush, mauve and peach designed by Sheilan Mueller of Yarrow & Spruce. Each table setting was complete with a bold rust linen napkin, ivory stoneware dinner plates, rose gold flatware, and vintage blush glassware. The final touch? A soft pink menu and circular leather place card to imitate the invitation suite. Of course, there was a cake too, a four-tier confection synonymous with a summer fête.

CREATIVE TEAM

Venue: Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch | sylvandale.com

Photographer: Mat Schramm Photography | matschrammphoto.com

Planning & Design: A Bride’s Best Mate | abridesbestmate.com

Florist: Yarrow & Spruce | yarrowandspruce.com

Local Flower Wholesaler: Colorado Flower Collective | coloradoflowercollective.com

Paper & Calligraphy: Paper and Dust | paperanddust.com

Rentals: Wallflower Rentals | wallflowerrentals.com

Linens: BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Candles: Chandlerie | chandlerie.com

Chairs: Colorado Party Rentals | cpartyrentals.com

Sweets: Sweet Ride Bakeshop | sweetridebakeshop.com

Gown Designer: Willowby | watters.com/willowby

Bride & Groom's Ring Designer: John Atencio | johnatencio.com

Beauty: Wild & Whimsy Beauty Co. | wildandwhimsybeautyco.com

Groom’s Attire: SuitShop | suitshop.com

Models: Josephine & Jeremy

(Left) Bridget Burnett Photography, (Top) Lucy Shultz Photography, (Right) Devoted and Wild

carrie elizabeth photography

Real Weddings

Kate + Trip

After a spring day of skiing, Kate and Trip found themselves at Recess Beer Garden in Denver. “My group of girlfriends sat next to Trip’s table of guy friends when a mutual friend introduced us,” Kate shares. Days later, Kate and Trip shared their first date at a new restaurant in town overlooking spectacular, unobstructed views of the downtown Denver skyline where they talked for hours. From that moment forward the two were inseparable. Four years later, Trip surprised Kate with a spontaneous weekend getaway to Santa Monica, California. Once they arrived at their accommodations, Trip suggested taking a morning walk along the beach. “We walked until we had gotten away from the crowd when I heard Trip say my name. I turned around and he was down on his knee, holding a ring. I was completely shocked and over the moon. It was just us and the sea, so private, so special,” Kate remembers. After an enthusiastic “Yes,” the newly engaged couple celebrated with rosé, nestled on the pristine stretch of California’s coastline. Right off the bat, Kate and Trip knew they wanted to provide guests with a Colorado experience among the Rocky Mountains. “Vail is our favorite place on Earth, and The Sonnenalp Hotel is quintessential Vail. We wanted them to enjoy skiing, dining, shopping, and going to the spa, so there was no better place for us to get married,” shares the couple. Kate and Trip said “I do” in an organic, mountain setting at Sonnenalp’s Ludwig’s Terrace overlooking Gore Creek.

During the ceremony, Kate and Trip exchanged vows underneath a chandelier intertwined with wispy foliage in shades of pink and blue. The wild and overgrown florals continued to steal the show with an asymmetrical archway designed by Figment Floral which perfectly framed the bride and groom as they stood at the altar becoming husband and wife. After recessing down the aisle, the newlyweds and their loved ones dined in the open atrium space which created a soft and welcoming atmosphere. With the wedding being celebrated on Earth Day, the couple embraced eco-conscious practices such as minimizing paper use, upcycling where possible, and reducing overall waste. The bride even utilized her artistic and creative talents by thrifting colorful glass bottles throughout the country to create a uniquely fun seating assignment for guests. As a nod to their darling dog, the couple chose to honor him with a signature cocktail, the Petey Pablo Margarita. Following the reception, the bride and groom ushered guests to an after-party at Shakedown Bar for live music and dancing. “We didn’t want the night to end,” Kate exclaims.

-VENDORS-

Venue, Catering, Sweets & Lodging Sonnenalp Hotel Vail | sonnenalp.com

Wedding Planner, Paper & Calligraphy Cloud 9 Weddings & Papers | cloud9bliss.com

Photographer Kayla Rae Photography | kaylaraephotography.com

Florist Figment Floral | figmentfloral.com

Invitations Designed by the Bride

Music & Entertainment Keith Hicks | keithhicksmusic.com Jubilingo | jubilingomusic.com

Bridal Boutique Che Bella | chebella.com

Gown Designer Pronovias | pronovias.com

Bride’s Veil Kim Alpha Bridal | etsy.com

Bride’s Shoes Jimmy Choo | jimmychoo.com

Bride & Groom's Hats Kemosabe | kemosabe.com

Bride’s Ring Designer 5th Avenue Designs | 5thavenuedesigns.com Continental Diamond | continentaldiamond.com

Beauty Rollers & Rouge | rollersandrouge.com

Groom’s Attire Balani Custom Clothiers | balanicustom.com

Groom’s Accessories Hermes | hermes.com

Groom’s Shoes Magnanni | magnanni.com

Officiant Father of the Groom

Rehearsal Dinner Root & Flower | rootandflowervail.com

Groomsmen’s Gifts Waterhorse Bronze | etsy.com

Honeymoon The Little Nell | thelittlenell.com

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“We highly recommend being together as much as you can on the day of the wedding. We did our first look early. The day goes by so fast and it can get a little overwhelming, but being by each other’s side brought a calmness to the entire day. We recommend discussing what parts of the night are the most important, and maximizing those moments (dancing, eating, speeches). We also found it important to practice gratitude. A lot of people (family, friends, and vendors) are involved in the process of planning and executing a wedding and we wanted them all to feel appreciated.”

Love is in season.

BOOK TODAY!

720-865-4339

chatfieldrentals@botanicgardens.org

C-470 & Wadsworth Blvd. botanicgardens.org

find the best wedding vendors + venues in the u.s. & canadian rockies

FROM THE HIP PHOTO

BLUSH SKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Rachel + Sundeep

Rachel and Sundeep first met through a friend during a fundraiser in New York City, New York. While the two were dating other people at the time, they found themselves running into each other around the Big Apple before fate intervened. One morning following a girls night out, Rachel and her friends popped into the Grey Mare in East Village to grab a credit card that had been forgotten the night before when a serendipitous encounter unfolded. Sundeep and his buddies were at the same place at the same time. The next day, Rachel was asked if she ever thought about dating Sundeep to which she replied with a conspicuous answer and the rest, as they say, is history.

Two and a half years later, Sundeep asked Rachel to marry him with an epic destination proposal in Utah’s luminous canyons of the Southwest. The road trip started off on New Year’s Eve in Vail alongside Rachel’s sisters and their significant others, followed by Glenwood Springs then Moab with their dog, Bella. “After exploring Moab, we wanted to stop at Lake Powell. Rachel had been wanting to go for years. I told her that we were staying at a cheap hotel around Lake Powell, why not, we were going to spend the entire time exploring anyway… we’d barely be there,” Sundeep explains. Little did Rachel know, Sundeep canceled the booking a few moments after he showed her the confirmation. The couple weren’t just checking into any hotel, they were unwinding in a place that means peaceful home: Amangiri. Also referred to as Rachel’s dream accommodation. Days leading up to the surprise, Sundeep thought Rachel saw an email from Amangiri come through on his phone, so he told her that a friend in the hospitality industry had coordinated a tour for them. Once the couple arrived at the secluded desert hideaway, they were offered to sit down for lunch which Rachel was ecstatic about. "Shortly after lunch, they took us around the property and over to a room that was filled with our luggage, treats for Bella, and a handwritten note to Mr. Kumar. Rachel was mortified, she turned to me and asked how we will ever recover from this. Even saying, 'How are we going to break the news that we were just here for a tour? They wrote us a letter!'" Sundeep laughs. Once it was confirmed that they were in fact staying at the exclusive resort, Rachel quickly got ready for their welcome hike. “They drove us out to a viewpoint in the middle of the desert and the manager of Amangiri greeted us with champagne and a charcuterie board. As we drank champagne and walked to the viewpoint, the manager of Amangiri who happened to be our photographer dressed as an employee pulled out her camera and snapped a picture of the best moment of our lives,” the couple reminisces.

From the beginning of their engagement, Rachel and Sundeep took their time to plan an intentional wedding with 200 loved ones. “We sat down and came up with our wedding values which were a staple for us throughout the planning process, they acted as a guide in tough decisions and really permeated every aspect of the weekend,” the bride explains. Among the foundational values were balance, connection, tradition, and location. All of which enhanced an authentic celebration rooted in love and unity. To execute the vision of a modern yet organic wedding, the couple enlisted Southern California-based planner and designer, Details Darling, to ensure the three-day event went off without a hitch. The weekend itinerary kicked off with a casual welcome party where Rachel and Sundeep hosted guests at the bride’s family home to enjoy a summer evening in the Rocky Mountains complete with tacos, s'mores, and of course, a bonfire. The following day was reserved for a traditional Indian ceremony and sangeet. As part of Hindu customs, Rachel donned a stunning sage green Lehenga draped in handcrafted beads, pearls, and sequins by Manshaa The Designer Studio. The groom, decked in Indian finery, arrived atop a ceremonial horse as family members, relatives, and friends danced all the way to the ceremony setting. The procession known as the Baraat signifies an age-old tradition of when the groom would travel from one town to another for his bride. After the ritual, the couple wed beneath a vibrant floral adorned Mandap, which translates to a structure with four pillars symbolizing the parents on both sides.

“Knowing that half of our guests would not be familiar with most of these rituals, we made sure we found an officiant who could translate the significance behind each part of the ceremony while engaging our guests. We both learned so much about the traditions throughout the process and loved getting the opportunity to have our family join in on the fun,” the bride shares. From there, Rachel and Sundeep transitioned the evening under an open-air tent outfitted with hanging bistro lights for the Sangeet which involves singing, dancing, and music. The word Sangeet means music, although, when it’s used to describe a celebratory occasion it translates to musical party. Definitely, one of the most talked about experiences, the groom’s sister choreographed seven incredible dance performances for the bride and groom.

On the final day, Rachel and Sundeep followed an American Christian ceremony officiated by the bride’s cousin. This time, the bride stunned in a modern and minimal gown from designer Sarah Seven while the groom sported a timeless threepiece tuxedo. Low white floral arrangements and lush greenery brought an understated elegance to the private property allowing the atmosphere to speak for itself. After Rachel’s father walked her down the aisle and presented his daughter to her partner, the two exchanged personal heartfelt vows aloud. “We built our vows on ten promises that covered the things we knew we cared most about and recited them back to one another in front of our family and friends. Even just six months later, we find ourselves falling back on those vows - from promising to live in the moment to committing to take ownership for the quality of the life we have together. It was a really powerful process for both of us,” shares Rachel.

Next came the cocktail hour where the newlyweds forwent a family and wedding party photo session allowing them to soak in precious moments with those who gathered near and far for their special day. Similar to the Sangeet, the reception was held outdoors under a white canvas tent where string lights twinkled at nightfall and disco balls mirrored groovy glamor among the dance floor ambiance. The dance floor was the place to be, after all, as Rachel’s father, uncles, and aunts all sang Scottish folk songs accompanied with a whole lot of dancing. “Every single person under the tent screamed the lyrics at the top of their lungs, courtesy of my father printing out lyrics and making sure every table had a few sheets. It was one of the most memorable moments of our lives,” Rachel reminisces.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“One of Sundeep’s uncles came to him in the middle of the wedding and gave him a piece of advice that has really stuck with us. ‘Now that you’re married, remember that whatever is right for you is right.’ Planning a wedding is only an introduction into the nuance, challenge, and excitement that comes with starting a life together, but this advice can be applied to every second of it. At the end of the day this wedding is about you and your hubby, your new lil family. If it means making the guests wait a few more minutes to eat because you want that extra person to give a toast or you want a picture with your great aunt DO IT. Whatever is right for you is right, don’t second guess it.”

-VENDORS-

Venue

Private Residence

Wedding Planner, Invitations, Paper & Calligraphy Monica Hamilton, Details Darling | detailsdarling.com

Photographer Carrie King Photography | carriekingphotography.com

Videographer

Jadyn Alexa Films | jadynalexafilms.com

Florist Something Styled Events | somethingstyledevents.com

Rentals

Colorado Party Rentals | cpartyrentals.com

Royal Restrooms | royalrestroomsmountainwest.com

Catering & Sweets

The Madras Cafe | themadrascafe.com

Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group | hello@ktrg.net

Music & Entertainment

TH Entertainment | th-entertainment.com

Indian Bridal Boutique, Gown Designer & Veil Manshaa The Designer Studio | manshaa.com

American Gown Designer Sarah Seven | sarahseven.com

Bride’s Veil LT Couture Atelier | etsy: LTCoutureAtelier

Bride’s Shoes

Ann Taylor | anntaylor.com

Jeffrey Campbell | jeffreycampbell.com

Bride’s Jewelry Zevar by Archana | manshaa.com

Amanda Amato Jewelry | etsy.com

Hair Ashley Metayer, Grand Salon | grand-salon.com

Makeup

Mikela Ashlee Artistry | mikelaashlee.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses

Seeaash | seeaash.in

Nitisha | perniaspopupshop.com

Yogita Kadam | labelyogitakadam.com

V. Chapman | vchapmanstudio.com

Mac Duggal | saksfifthavenue.com

Bridesmaids’ Jewelry Shop Poshak | shopposhak.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire Shop Poshak | shopposhak.com

The Black Tux | theblacktux.com

Officiant Padmakar Gangatirk

Taylor Young

Lodging

Hyatt House Denver/Lakewood at Belmar | hyatt.com

Transportation Ace Express Coaches | aceexpresscoaches.com

Welcome Dinner Taco Block | tacoblock.com

Honeymoon Peru | intheknowexperiences.com

Eugenia + Scott

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Have a wedding planner! Don’t stop dancing, try all your desserts, and write a letter to your fiancé for each of you to read before you walk down the aisle. Really try to take a moment to soak in everyone and everything on your day. It goes by so fast!”

While Eugenia and Scott worked at an animal hospital in Arkansas, they probably weren’t expecting to fall in love, with the exception of adorable puppies and kittens. But the receptionist and vet technician’s encounter was written in the stars. Two years later in February 2021, Eugenia’s mother purchased a 36 acre property near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Arden, North Carolina. Owning a farm had been a dream ever since Eugenia was a young girl. During the 4th of July the couple traveled to the East Coast to see the land for themselves. Upon their arrival, Eugenia’s mother told the pair to walk around and discuss where each horse pasture should be placed. When they reached the top of a hill there was a picnic spread perched between two crabapple trees. “Scott got down on one knee overlooking the property that would eventually become our farm,” Eugenia shares. To celebrate their engagement, Eugenia and Scott popped a bottle of champagne over Carolina’s famous barbecue. With family ties to Colorado, the couple chose a destination wedding nestled in the Gunnison Valley. “I grew up going to my grandmother’s house in Crested Butte every winter to ski and was determined to have our wedding there so I could share such a special place with Scott and all our guests,” explains the bride. On an early summer afternoon, Eugenia and Scott said “I do” in a relaxed, wildflower setting with 92 guests to witness their love.

-VENDORS-

Venue Private Residence

Wedding Planner & Rentals

Stephanie Ames, Alpenglow Events | alpengloweventsco.com

Photographer Jillian Brown Photo | jillianbrownphoto.com

Florist Bramble & Bloom | brambleandbloomfloral.com

Invitations The Knot | theknot.com

Rentals - Restroom Trailer Gunnison Construction & Septic gunnisonconstructionandseptic.com

Catering Crested Butte Catering | crestedbuttecateringcompany.com

Sweets Blue Sky Baking Co. | blueskybakingco.com

Mobile Bar The Horsefeather Mobile Bar | thehorsefeather.com

Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music Tyler Hansen | @hansentj

Reception Entertainment Ryan Griz, Griz Entertainment | grizent.com

Bridal Boutique Joon Bridal | joonbridal.com

Gown Designer Alexandra Grecco | alexandragrecco.com

Bride’s Veil Lovely Bride Dallas | lovelybride.com

Bride & Groom's Shoes Tecovas | tecovas.com

Bride’s Jewelry Mother of the Bride

Bride’s Ring Designer Swift’s Jewelry | swiftsjewelry.com

Beauty Annie Battle | @_blushing_on_you_

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Bella Bridesmaids | bellabridesmaids.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire Walker Brothers | walkerbrothers.com

Groom & Groomsmen's Accessories Brackish | brackish.com

Officiant Father of the Groom

Lodging Elk Mountain Lodge | elkmountainlodge.com

Transportation Dolly’s Mountain Shuttle | crestedbutteshuttle.com

Rehearsal Dinner Bonez | bonez.co

Katarina + Jordan

Third grade romances seem to only last a few months, but what if the boy you were once crushing on at school became your husband? For Katarina and Jordan, that’s exactly what happened. The California couple met in the third grade and were each other’s “dates” to dances in the fifth grade before a relationship evolved during college. Eight years later, the elementary school sweethearts were engaged at last. In March 2019, Jordan proposed in the Mojave Desert while on a camping trip to Joshua Tree. Though Katarina and Jordan call the Santa Ynez Valley home, the couple headed to the Rocky Mountains to tie the knot. “We knew we wanted a destination that made us feel calm and far away from the modern world. We chose Dunton Hot Springs specifically because it was so us. We live a Western lifestyle with horses and knife making so an Old Western town seemed like a perfect fit,” the pair explains.

“Forget about the rules and traditions and just have fun. Do what brings you joy and try not to feel guilty about doing things differently. We had 20 people, including us, with us that weekend, and it was the best decision ever. No drama, less stress, less pressure, everyone that we spent the most time with was there so we felt super comfortable and could relax and enjoy our wedding without the traditional added pressure. When we got home we had a big reception so everyone else we love could celebrate with us. Also, we suggest choosing the right vendors, as on your big day they are the ones that make it happen. For us every single person we worked with was amazing, we trusted them and they made our day so magical.”

With odes to the American West, including handmade leather name tags, a collaborative effort by the bride and groom, featuring Native symbols to represent every guest’s personality and vintage Navajo rugs in faded mustard yellow hues that influenced the color scheme, Katarina and Jordan thoughtfully blended their love for nature with subtle, warm, and organic elements. “We like to keep it down home and make people feel comfortable while allowing things to be beautiful. It is how we approach our life so our wedding reflected that,” Katarina shares. As a creative, the bride had a natural eye for style and design. Katarina channeled Colorado’s authentic roots in Claire La Faye, known for her whimsical and nontraditional wedding gowns. She accessorized with vintage Native American turquoise jewelry and carried a bouquet of flowers indigenous to the region. The ceremony took place in a grassy meadow tucked deep in the San Juan Mountains surrounded by the intimate and rustic charm of what once was a mining town. Katarina walked down the aisle with both of her parents, serenaded by a rock band’s rendition of a Chris Stapleton tune. “The scenery at Dunton was unreal, having all of our closest loved ones there plus our dogs watching us say our vows was magic,” says the bride.

-VENDORS-

Venue, Catering, Officiant, Lodging & Rehearsal Dinner Dunton Hot Springs | duntondestinations.com

Wedding Planner

The Bride | katarinadevine.com

Photographer Carlie Statsky | carliestatsky.com

Videographer Josh King Photography | joshking.co

Florist

Adela Flora | adelaflora.com

Invitations

Little Salt Wagon | littlesaltwagon.com

Rentals BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Sweets

Something Cute Co. | somethingcuteco.com

Music & Entertainment

Desert Child | desertchildmusic.com

Bridal Boutique Wild Bride | wildbride.us

Gown Designer Claire La Faye | clairelafaye.com

Bride’s Shoes

Vintage Dan Post Boots | devinesupply.com

Bride & Groom's Jewelry

Vintage Native American Turquoise | devinesupply.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Baxter Moerman | baxtermoerman.com

Groom’s Attire Kimes Ranch | kimesranch.com

Groom’s Accessories KJ Murphy’s | kmuphys.com

Groom’s Knife Sasquatch Survival Gear | sasquatchsurvivalgear.com

Honeymoon Telluride, Ouray & Aspen, Colorado

Blair + Brendan

Brendan met Blair through a mutual friend on the very day he arrived home to the States from deployment in Iraq. After falling in love, Brendan proposed three years later with the help of Blair’s sister. “He flew my sister in as a surprise and they set up a proposal complete with an arch and sign that said ‘Marry Me’ in the backyard,” Blair shares. Following a fifteen month engagement, Blair and Brendan tied the knot with photographer Paige Mckenzi in Downtown Denver.

Talk about a stunning civil ceremony. The couple married at the Denver Courthouse; however, this was not your average city hall wedding. On the morning of the big day, Blair began getting ready at The Ramble Hotel, located in Denver’s River North Art District featuring industrialchic décor inspired by 17th-century French salons. The bride’s desired look? Modern city elopement. Blair knocked tradition in a sophisticated tailored two-piece from Because of Alice, echoing the ever timeless and elegant Bianca Jagger who famously opted to wear a white suit instead of a traditional wedding dress. Prior to the ceremony, the bride and groom posed for portraits around the boutique hotel even stealing a kiss in the palatial elevator. After saying “I do,” the newlyweds celebrated with a glass of champagne and a vintage heart-shaped cake accompanied by their sisters before enjoying an intimate evening over dinner as husband and wife. “My favorite moment of our elopement was heading to dinner just the two of us. But honestly, waking up married the next morning was the best feeling,” reminisces Blair.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Take in every moment, be present, ask people for help so you can be in the moment - it goes quick!”

-VENDORS-

Ceremony Location Denver Courthouse | denvergov.org

Reception Venue & Lodging

The Ramble Hotel | theramblehotel.com

Photographer Paige Mckenzi Photography | paigemckenzi.com

Florist Beet & Yarrow | beetandyarrow.com

Sweets

Nikai's Bakery Goods & Cakes | @nikaisbakery

Bridal Boutique

Because of Alice | becauseofalice.com

Hair The Parlour | theparlour.net

Bride's Ring Rock Doc | @bulkinsnorlax

Groom’s Attire Jos. A Bank | josbank.com

Groom’s Shoes Tecovas | tecovas.com

Honeymoon Sedona, Arizona

Jacqueline + John

VAIL // AUGUST 27

Colorado is the place where Jacqueline and John have fond memories of the scenery and a peaceful nostalgia from the days visiting as children with their families. “It was really the only location that felt like us and had meaning behind it, so we had decided on Vail even before we were engaged,” the bride explains. The executive health and fitness director at Women’s Health met her now-husband as a freshman in college while attending Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Nearly twelve years later, the two welcomed friends and family to the quaint, alpine-style village for a wedding weekend filled with authentic Western charm.

At the top of Jacqueline and John’s list when planning their wedding was to keep the integrity and natural beauty of the mountains. With the guidance of Lindsey Morgan, owner and creative director of Bello & Blue, the vision came to life with a timeless mountain chic celebration attended by 150 guests. The couple incorporated an organic palette of neutrals like oatmeal and olive green, starting with the invitation suite designed by Lucky Onion allowing their loved ones a glimpse into what the day would bring.

Despite their East Coast roots, Jacqueline and John leaned into the Rockies’ wildly stunning yet rugged territory through an earthy arrangement of florals with plenty of texture and movement. Beneath a wooden framed arbor built by the bride’s parents swelling in grasses and flowers, the couple shared personal vows overlooking the valley’s Gore Range. “John is pretty stoic and a man of few words, so hearing him put our relationship into words gutted me,” Jacqueline shares. Following the intimate “I do’s,” guests found their names on leather fabric tags in a dinner space among white, nude, and honey florals hung from the ceiling beams.

-VENDORS-

Venue, Catering The 10th | vail.com

Wedding Planner & Florist Bello & Blue Events | belloandblue.com

Photographer K.R. Moreno Photo | krmorenophoto.com

Videographer Wedding Videos Colorado | weddingvideoscolorado.com

Stationery & Signage

Lucky Onion | luckyonion.com

Rentals

Colorado Party Rentals | cpartyrentals.com

Sweets A Cake Come True | acakecometrue.com

Music & Entertainment TH Entertainment | th-entertainment.com

Accommodations The Lodge at Vail | vail.com The Arrabelle at Vail Square | vail.com

Transportation The Turtle Bus | theturtlebus.com

Bridal Boutique WONÁ | wonanyc.com

Gown Designer Eva Lendel | evalendel.com

Bride’s Veil Alexandra Grecco | alexandragrecco.com

Bride’s Shoes ASOS | asos.com

Bride’s Jewelry Nadri Wren | bloomingdales.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Bliss Lau | blisslau.com

Bride’s Reception Suit Galvan London | us.galvanlondon.com

Bride’s Hat

Kemo Sabe | kemosabe.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses

Monique Lhuillier | moniquelhuillier.com

Significant Other | shopsignificantother.com

Katie May | katiemay.com

Anthropologie | anthropologie.com Bec + Bridge | becandbridge.com

Jenny Yoo | jennyyoo.com

Show Me Your Mumu | showmeyourmumu.com

Agua by Agua Bendita | aguabyaguabendita.com

Beauty

Jones Beauty & Co. | jonesbeautyco.com

Groom’s Attire

Custom Alan David | alandavid.com

Groom’s Cuff Links Tiffany & Co. | tiffany.com

Groom’s Shoes

Calvin Klein | calvinklein.us

Welcome Drinks The Ritz Carlton Club, Vail | ritzcarlton.com

Welcome Party Vail Brewing Company | vailbrewingco.com

Welcome Party Music Brian Spotts | brianspotts.com

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“I mentioned this is my vows to John, but I once heard a psychologist say that you should choose a partner that you can do conflict with. The highs in any relationship, of course, are amazing and lovely, but I think it’s even more important to feel secure in your ability to navigate disagreements and challenges together. You can learn a lot about a person and how they would be as a long-term partner by how they handle the bad stuff, like loss and disappointment or arguments or even just bad moods. John approaches hurdles with a calmness that I don’t always have and helps keep me from spiraling or dwelling in the negative. And he always reminds me that it’s us against the problem - not each other. I feel extremely safe with him and supported by him even on the worst days.”

Sexy little something

While saying “Yes” to your dress is undoubtedly a moment you will remember forever, slipping into a sexy little something on your wedding night can ignite a modern take on sensuality and inner confidence within yourself. With so many tasteful styles to suit your personality and body shape, deliver the romance with bridal lingerie you will enjoy long after the honeymoon.

Photographer: Autumn Cutaia | autumncutaia.com

Hair & Makeup: Ally’s Beauty Bar | allysbeautybar.com

Jewelry: Leigh Sandusky Jewelry | leighsandusky.com

Model: Amber

We will always have an affinity for classic wedding white, however, there is something seriously sexy about black lingerie. Boldly beautiful, the Entice bra and panty from Skarlett Blue showcases just a hint of exposure with balconette lace and scalloped eyelash trim.

Lingerie:

Entice Balconette Bra & Thong by Skarlett Blue skarlettblue.com

Robe:

Ivetta Bridal Robe by Luxx Nova Bridal Boutique luxx-nova.com

Embrace your femininity with a romantic white lace set that is designed to be seen. The effortlessly girly mini slip crafted from flouncy sheer material with a tiered ruffle trim is irresistible and flirty making it a perfect choice for the playful bride.

Lingerie:

Entice Balconette Bra & Thong by Skarlett Blue skarlettblue.com

Slip: Push Send Mini Slip by Free People freepeople.com

Shoes: Nina Dianne Feather Detail Ankle Strap Sandal by Nina Shoes | ninashoes.com

Take your lingerie to the next level with a chic satin slip from Voir Bride featuring delicate pearls and a sweetheart neckline. The simplicity of the design allows for versatility to be glammed up or styled as she comes.

Left - Floral Set & Robe: Lingerie:

Glein - Lindens Lingerie Set by Luxx Nova Bridal Boutique | luxx-nova.com

Robe: Rommel Robe by Vior Bride viorbride.com

Right: Slip: Sleep Dress Pearl by Vior Bride viorbride.com

A timeless and romantic lace robe is an essential piece for every bride’s wedding night negligee. The Lara robe exudes old-world elegance with soft scalloped edges along the neckline, hem, and sleeve cuffs. Fully lined to provide coverage if desired or show off au naturel.

Robe: Lara Lace Robe By Catalfo bycatalfo.com

Slip: 'Date Night' Slip Dress By Catalfo bycatalfo.com

YOU DO YOUR THING. I’LL DO MINE. TOGETHER, WE’LL MAKE MAGIC.

Aspen’s Mountainside Manor

Wed exquisitely and majestically at the base of Aspen Mountain. From breathtaking views to enchanting moments, discover The Art of Celebration at The St. Regis Aspen Resort.

Stay exquisite at more than 40 St. Regis hotels and resorts worldwide.

@stregishotels Photographer: Rebecca Jones Photography - Lloyd Wedding

SOMETHING BOLD, SOMETHING NEW.

Imagine taking your first steps together as a married couple, walking out onto a stunning mountain scene, the sun splashing down on you and your smiling loved ones all around. At The Broadmoor, we have everything you need to make the happiest day of your life absolute bliss with endless luxurious spaces to suit your tastes and a medley of amenities that delight every one of your guests. Celebrate at The Broadmoor, the perfect place for your special day.