After planning my own wedding, I really can’t blame people when they decide to elope! There were many late nights of seating charts and glue sticks where I sometimes wished I had done the same. Elizabeth & Edward decided to skip the stress of a large wedding and opted for an intimate vacation weekend in Colorado instead. I was thrilled they picked me for their Colorado elopement photography.  They chose a beautiful location in Devil’s Thumb Ranch.  I decided I absolutely HAVE to go back to as a guest with my husband. It is so incredibly beautiful and serene up there. You can do everything from cross-country skiing (if you’re adventurous) to enjoying hot cocoa around a fire pit.

I met the two of them at their cabin as they leisurely got ready. They promised not to peek at each other.

Edward must have kept his promise, because his reaction for their first look was perfect!

We then drove down the road a bit where they had arranged to spend time with the Ranch’s horses. Their car was immediately stuck in the snow. Luckily, their wedding coordinator, Danielle of Entwined Planning, was on the ball and jumped out to help them push. I helped by giving them the bag of kitty litter I always keep in the car and then made sure everyone had entertaining pictures 🙂

Their horse, Luke, was very insistent on getting a nibble of Elizabeth’s bouquet! He kept trying to sneak a few bites every time someone wasn’t looking.

After a few laps around the barn, it was time to let Luke warm up inside.

Elizabeth and Edward didn’t officially tell anyone what they were doing.  Although, they thought perhaps a couple people may have figured out what they were up to. I was especially honored that these photos were going to be how they shared the news with the world!

With the help of Danielle, Edward made sure the ceremony space was decorated with Elizabeth’s favorite things. Candles, horses, and her mother’s Bible made it absolutely perfect. Danielle did an amazing job and the look on Elizabeth’s face when she walked in was priceless.

This was the first time I was the ONLY guest at a ceremony!

Elizabeth and Edward: I was honored to be included in such an intimate moment in your lives. I hope you find your way back to Colorado soon!

If you are interested in Colorado elopement photography, please get in touch!