After residing in Colorado for most of her childhood and meeting Luke just 75 miles north while at the University of Wyoming, Rachel knew from the second he got down on one knee that they’d get married near the Rocky Mountains. She had always dreamed of a winter wedding, and what better way for her guests to enjoy winter than with a view of the striking snowcaps? Both recreational hikers, Rachel and Luke take any chance they get to be in nature, breathing in the mountain air and soaking in the sun. With the help of her wedding sister, Cat (Beautifully Noted), Rachel selected a palette straight from Rocky Mountain National Park: a range of dusty mountain blues, rich sunlit amber, deep pine, earthy chestnut, and bark-inspired cinnamon.
With her sister in the industry, Rachel turned to Cat not only for paper goods but for the event’s design and coordination. “One of my favorite parts of our wedding (besides marrying my best friend, of course!) was getting to send our friends and family something that truly set the perfect tone for our wedding. Dropping the invitations at the post office is such a sweet memory of mine because we were SO proud to share them! This would not have been possible without Cat’s ability to understand our vision and create tangible pieces that represent us as a couple, making our day so personal. Having Cat as an integral part of our day made it 1000x more special than it would have been otherwise. And, of course, having her as my MOH only made our wedding that much MORE special.”
Knowing that she’d be busy with the maid of honor duties on the wedding morning, Cat suggested that Rachel and Luke recruit Celynn (Tied With A Bow) to bring their detailed vision to life. Celynn did that and so much more. Her attention to detail, eagerness to serve, and efficiency in solving last-minute set-up issues made her the perfect choice to carry out the design flawlessly. The ceremony, held at Brookside Gardens in Berthoud, Colorado, boasted rustic beams, an iron chandelier, and a robust stone fireplace. Situated with views of the aspen tree courtyard, the reception space brought the natural beauty of Colorado inside with elements like tree stumps, organic hand-dyed gauze, gently draped branches of smilax and pine, and hand-painted wooden signage. Guests cozied up by indulging in steaming barbecue, followed by a visit–or two–to the donut display wall (designed and constructed by Rachel’s brother-in-law) and hot cocoa station.
Rachel and Luke chose Lauren Lee Photography, a Columbus photographer, to capture their day. “Leaving Ohio for some gorgeous Colorado scenery and the sweetest couple’s wedding was an easy yes! Upon my arrival, Rachel and Luke, along with the entire family, made me feel so welcome. From their gorgeous details to perfect January weather, everything was so wonderful. The day was centered around so much love, family, friends, and faith. It was incredibly inspiring to photograph a couple whose love truly shines in such a beautiful place. We’re planning another session in RMNP in the near future and I’ll be over the moon excited to reunite with the newlyweds!”
Rachel’s classic and subtly glam bridal style hinted at mid-century fashion icon Jackie Kennedy; accessories included a cathedral veil, a dainty BHLDN hairpiece, bejeweled satin pumps, and a warm fur stole. And those perfect pearl stud earrings? They were gifted to her on the wedding day by Luke himself.
With many of the guests (including Rachel and Luke) being well-practiced in western swing dancing, the dance floor dazzled until it was time for the bride and groom to say farewell. Their magical exit was made through a sea of glowing LED balloons and the cheers of their guests. Unbeknownst to everyone else, Rachel and Luke stopped right in the small downtown to enjoy an ice cream in their wedding attire on their way out. It was in the house, of course!
