I absolutely adore when couples frame their wedding day in a way that perfectly reflects THEM. I am a huge proponent of throwing out the rules that say your wedding has to follow a certain schedule or look a certain way. John and Anna met while square dancing, and their family members are also avid dancers. Having a celebratory reception seemed like a forgone conclusion for them. However, they also couldn’t possibly imagine going to Buena Vista (which is stunning) and spending their entire day indoors. So what to do? Elope on Cottonwood Pass, of course!

Part 1: A private Cottonwood Pass elopement

The three of us met up at the top of Cottonwood Pass, where the views are stunning… and the wind can be fierce. Luckily this day was just a moderate breeze, which added some beautiful drama to Anna’s dress and veil. We began with a first look, where they saw each other for the first time in their wedding attire.

A trio of photos from a first look at the top of Cottonwood Pass; when the groom turns around, this is the first time they have seen each other in wedding clothing.

Since they had intentionally structured their day to allow for some private time together without feeling rushed, we had plenty of time to walk around. We found some spectacular views without too much of a hike and enjoyed the cooler weather. I could tell this was going to be a joyful day. Anna never stopped grinning the entire time she was there with John.

I have seen so many couples feel stressed before their wedding ceremony. Planners are reminding you how much (or little) time you have left. Guests are starting to arrive and want to chat with you. It can feel like a lot when you just want to take a deep breath and soak in every moment of this significant day. I cannot possibly recommend enough the option of taking a window of time before the “formality” of the day that is just for you and your soon-to-be spouse.

Black and white landscape shot of Cottonwood Pass with mountains and alpine lake and a couple walking in the foreground.

A couple eloping in the mountains of Buena Vista, grinning widely and enjoying the breeze through their hair.

Stunning scenery provides the perfect backdrop for this embracing couple during their Cottonwood Pass elopement

The wind creates dramatic movement in the veil and dress of a bride who is embracing her new husband at the top of Cottonwood Pass

At the end of their Cottonwood Pass elopement, John and Anna wanted to pose with a sign and use it as a thank you card. I saw a cyclist coming up the mountain and thought “let’s see what happens here”. Maybe I have the reflexes of a cat. More likely, I have built up some good karma. Either way, I was so unbelievably tickled to get this shot exactly as I wanted it.

A couple holding a sign after they elope on Cottonwood Pass are perfectly framed through the arms of a passing bicyclist. — I could try this shot a thousand more times and never frame it this perfectly again.

Part 2: Dancing with family at the Orpheum theater in Buena Vista

After taking some quiet time in nature together, John and Anna returned to Buena Vista where their family met them at the Orpheum theater. Considering how much they love to dance, I was really looking forward to seeing the reception. I was not disappointed! I have never seen so many flips on a dance floor in my life.