Matt And Renee Find Love
Renee squeezed her daughter in a tight hug, just an hour from walking down the aisle for her wedding at Bonnie Blues. But that’s not where this story begins. Sometimes life brings a new opportunity for love.
Matt and Renee had only been dating a couple months when he invited her to Honduras. She explains that she didn’t totally know what to expect but was “along for the ride.” By boat, they eventually ended up at a fishing lodge in a very poor community. Here is where she truly fell in love with Matt as he unpacked a large suitcase of toys and school supplies. In his outpouring of generosity and love for the people, he stole Renee’s heart.
Getting Ready At Bonnie Blues
Out past the hustle of Denver sits the most quaint, stunning wedding venue. Bonnie Blues has a history, a story, and was just what Matt and Renee were wanting. It is modern, rustic, and elegance in one. Bride and groom each have their own suite complete with a wet bar, plenty of mirrors, and chic accents. Options for ceremony include a newly built greenhouse or outdoor gazebo with mountains in the distance. For reception, walk into their expansive dining area that can also double as a dance floor. But it’s the attention to detail that really elevates this venue. The landscape is lush with flowers and trees. There is a putting green, an outdoor dance space with string lights, wooden bridge, and fire pits. Find a vintage pickup and windmill for epic photo locations.
When I stepped into the bridal suite I found Renee with a smile on her face and multiple generations of beauty. She has impeccable style and that translated easily to the details of the day. Florals of blush, champagne, and navy blended flawlessly. The girls wore dusty blue dresses and the guys wore navy suits. But her shoes. Oh my goodness, her cute shoes. Heels with pearl bows were the finishing touch.
Every wedding at Bonnie Blues is customized to individual style. Their white interiors, neutral and rich colors, and modern decor pair with a variety of aesthetics. And it’s a photographer’s dream. However, Matt and Renee’s details are still some of my favorites I’ve photographed.
A First Look
He creased his forehead in hopes of holding the emotion. But the tears in his eyes gave him away. Matt is an affectionate man and his weakness for Renee is obvious. They love with abandon and capturing their first look was such a gift.
In the brightness of the day, I set him facing the groom’s cabin. As I walked over with her I could tell she was giddy to see him. It’s important for me to take a couple minutes to capture different angles of couples before they see each other. Here’s what I tell them: “The only rule is that he cannot turn around until you tell him. Take as long as you need, I will not interrupt you. This is your time, your moments before the day gets crazy.”
They embraced so wholeheartedly, and he motioned for her to spin. Any man that needs to see the full scope of his woman in a dress is a keeper.
They didn’t take the minutes for granted while they looked at each other, to heaven, and had a moment to pray together.
Intimate Outdoor Ceremony
There may have never been a better duo than Matt and Renee’s mothers as flower girls! They tossed those petals with an exuberance I’ve not seen. I think they twirled at every stop down the walkway. It was amazing!
“But I can’t help falling in love, with, you,” sang the pianist. Renee’s face crinkled in the most beautiful way as her son walked her down the aisle. And at the altar with Matt was her daughter, and his son and daughter. What better way to get married than to be graced by your children.
Matt’s story is one of surrender and resiliency. He loves big because he’s been through fire. When he took Renee’s hands they stood not just before a pastor, but a friend. The officiant who married them has created a community where faith intersects with recovery for addicts and their loved ones. And the ceremony became a testament to the way Matt and Renee’s love has grown outward as much as inward. They serve each other, their family, and their community.
To involve their loved ones, the rings were passed through the crowd. Each person took a moment to hold, bless, or pray over the rings. More importantly, over their marriage.
As the vows were spoken and kisses shared, Matt and Renee cheered their way to the reception. Stopping once for a twirl, their joy was evident.
Friends And Family Celebrate
So many touching words were spoken; so many lives altered by the love of this couple. Once dinner was complete, the dancing made its way outside. And it was a mild July night with great temperatures. String lights surrounded the patio as Matt and Renee took their first dance. Her mom broke out moves like an expert and his brothers had us all laughing.
We snuck off at sunset for classic road photos, a trademark of weddings at Bonnie Blues. With an eye on traffic we were able to get some awesome lighting as they walked the blacktop.
To finish the night, friends and family lined the exit and lit sparklers. Matt and Renee made their way through the exit and in typical Matt fashion, he led them back again- ha!
Some weddings stay with me. This one did and I am beyond thrilled for the journey ahead for these two.
Connect With Me + Vendors
Hey there, I’m Brittany, a Colorado wedding photographer based in the Denver area. My passion is the stories people are living and the creative way I get to document it. Your story is my next favorite. If you’re planning to get married in Colorado or the world, I’d love to get to know you.
Add a comment
0 Comments