Tucked into the rugged depths of Idaho Springs lies the quiet and quaint wedding venue Blackstone Rivers Ranch. This mountain top wedding venue is only 30 minutes from Denver and creates a majestic backdrop to any ceremony. With a rustic, covered bridge, the babbling of a stream, and plenty of shade, it’s a gem of a location. But the true treasure was being part of Lucy and Blake’s incredible love story. They are a perfect combination of wild and witty, with roots in southern charm. Lucy is genuinely hilarious. Their timeless color palette of lavender, ivory, and varying shades of green went beautifully with the natural landscape. And boy, can they have a good time with their friends and family!

THE DETAILS

Having a bride as easy-going as Lucy made details come together effortlessly. Arriving with her makeup already done by the talented Carly Day Makeup {whom she used from my vendor recommendation list here}, she gave me her emerald cut ring and invitation pieces. While the girls chatted and poured champagne I made quick work of layering it all together. A floor rug can make a great flat lay surface! Lucy’s sweet mom, whom I was told we call Fred, was by her side for every important moment.

Once I was finished with the details, Lucy got into her dress. With help from bridesmaids, friends, and Fred she was buttoned up and fluffed to perfection. The venue has a separate getting ready room for the bride and groom. The groom’s room is decorated with masculine touches of dark, rich furniture, a deep colored accent wall, and a walk-out area. You know, for the occasional cigar session. But the bridal suite is gorgeous with a claw foot tub, floor-to-ceiling mirror, and plenty of lush furniture.

Blackstone Rivers Ranch offers a uniquely tailored experience by creating signature cocktails for each bride and groom. Their reception tent featured lined greenery, paisley blue tablecloths, and farmhouse chairs. Both getting-ready suites are modern, rustic, and luxurious with just the right amount of space and plenty of amenities, making it an amazing mountain top wedding venue. Clink the link at the bottom for inquire for their all-inclusive packages and options.

FIRST LOOK AND PORTRAITS

He loves her. Like, he really loves her and these intimate moments before the hustle of the ceremony were some of my favorite. I placed Blake where the lighting was best and the twinkle lights glowed in the background. The tree-line road made for some fun composition. She slowly walked up to him and cued him to turn. I will never tire of watching a first look play out. She was giddy with seeing him and I loved documenting his emotion as he set eyes on her for the first time. You can feel the connection between these two!

I stood back and photographed silently as they took all the moments they needed. Once they were ready we took portraits near the trees, under the covered bridge, and on the path. Blackstone Rivers Ranch has an abundance of picturesque locations for taking portraits with variety.

THE CEREMONY

Sitting on wooden benches in an intimate corner, Lucy and Blake’s closet friends and family watched as they made it official! Their sweet flower girl meandered her way to the front, not always quite sure where to go. Lucy walked down the aisle escorted by her dad and step-dad, with a live band playing in the background. Blake seemed more than ready to grab her into his arms and the lighthearted moments were genuine. Who says you can’t laugh during your wedding?! No one, I hope. They spoke their commitment, prayed together, and promised forever. When it was time for their first kiss as husband and wife, their guests hollered in celebration. Their joy was palpable as they headed back to greet friends and family.

RECEPTION

Every cocktail hour deserves a shed turned bar. And what’s more of a mountain top wedding experience than that?! What a blast to see friends reconnect, family circle around, and selfies being taken everywhere. A variety of wines, cocktails, and liquors were available with the open bar. Just beyond were small tables with chairs for groups who wanted to relax near the stream. Live music graced the ceremony and reception, but it was the community of people that was a joy. So much love.

Cocktail hour segued into the full reception under the venue’s provided tent. A few men were sitting on the porch rocking chairs as guests found their place settings at the tables. The most beautiful greenery was woven up ropes holding the tent in place. It was like some sort of fairy fantasy world!

After an incredible menu of food the DJ set up for dancing. And oh, was there dancing. I honestly don’t know how people learn the moves they do because it’s downright impressive. Sometimes. With a bar in the corner and an open dance floor the good times were endless. After an hour, most of the women had ditched their heels and the songs just got better. It was a heck of a party!

ADDITIONAL INFO

If you’re looking for an intimate ceremony in rustic Colorado, I highly recommend Blackstone Rivers Ranch as your mountain top wedding destination. It’s so easy to access; just be mindful of the elevation. Drink that water! I can hardly wait to work here again! And Lucy + Blake, THANK YOU for letting me capture all your small and big memories.

PHOTOGRAPHER: BRITTANY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY If you’re looking for a hell of a good time, a photos that tell the story of each important moment of your day, I’m your girl. I was a full-time mom for 14 years when I decided my kids were outgrowing me, and I needed something to create. In 2019 I launched my professional photography business and have fallen more in love with the human story than ever before. It would be an honor to serve you for your upcoming wedding!
VENUE: BLACKSTONE RIVERS RANCH
MAKEUP: CARLY DAY MAKEUP
FLORAL: HUTSON FLORAL DESIGN