I am still thinking about this magical day with the sweetest and most thoughtful couple literally ever. Which is why I am so thrilled to finally be blogging this gem!
First of all, can we talk about the magic of getting married in autumn just off the Peak to Peak Highway? This stretch of road regularly shows up on lists of the best scenic drives for leaf peepers - usually right at the top. Jess and Colin's October wedding at Wild Basin Lodge in Allenspark, Colorado had everyone surrounded by golden aspen leaves. And that's just the beginning of what made this day awesome.
Now, a quick bit of inspiration for the more introverted couples: Jess and Colin opted to do a first look and read private vows to one another before their ceremony. They also hired a professional officiant (shout out Jane Gorman!) to develop a highly personalized script for their public marriage ceremony. This allowed their guests to feel like they really knew the more intimate details of Jess and Colin's meet cute and courtship - without Jess and Colin having to cry through an emotional vow reading in front of an audience. Because sometimes it doesn't matter whether those people have known you for your entire life or if they are strangers - an audience is an audience. So, to recap: read private vows first, then have a ceremony where your officiant tells your story. You get the best of both worlds. Your family is satisfied that they're been let into your 'couple bubble' and you don't have to be vulnerable in front of anyone other than your spouse.
At Wild Basin Lodge, there is a short walk (about 5 minutes) to get from the lodge to the Meadow Peak ceremony site. Jess and Colin opted to construct a champagne wall so that guests could sip bubbles on the scenic walk to the ceremony. And it is truly scenic - a bridge over a river, a vast field, views of Rocky Mountain peaks. The wow factor is definitely there.
There were so many moments to love, from the whiskey-fueled portraits in the aspens to the tear-jerking toasts in the cozy fire lit lodge. Scroll down and see for yourself, and let me know what you think in the comments!
VENDORS
Venue | Wild Basin Lodge
Planner | Hawley and Heidi, Vining Events
Caterer | Wild Basin Lodge
Baker | Nothing Bundt Cakes
Florist | Lilac Alley
Photographer | Dylan Crossley Photo
Videographer | Dylan Crossley Photo
Officiant | Jane Gorman
