Love In The Rocky Mountains

When I first received Ashley’s inquiry she asked if I was familiar with the invisible string theory. It’s the idea that two people will meet no matter the distance, time, or circumstances to be overcome. She asked because she’d spent hours with Parker’s brothers and family during high school, while never actually meeting him. Until they both showed up at a birthday party and made an immediate connection. Less than two weeks later he brought her Chick-Fil-A and never left.

Their relationship developed over the next few years, spending days together at the zoo or hiking. One of their favorite days was visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Parker stood in line and bought lettuce leaves so Ashley could feed the giraffes, an animal she loves. She also describes the day they walked the trails at Garden of the Gods. When finally making it back to the car, Parker realized he’d dropped the keys somewhere along the way and they spent the rest of the day retracing their steps. But whether it’s relaxing at home or heading to the race track, their adventures have only begun.

Their wedding at Spruce Mountain Events was the perfect location for what they wanted. Not only is it a western style venue with incredible mountain views, it’s an authentic Angus cattle breeding company. Sitting between Colorado Springs and Denver, it offers two options of event space for weddings. After touring the property, Ashley knew the mountainside ceremony site was exactly what she envisioned.

So on a warm July day, Parker barely held back tears under his cowboy hat as Ashley walked the aisle. And in the wake of a subtle breeze they vowed to love each other forever. But that was only the beginning.

First Look in the Garden

While Ashley didn’t want a first look with Parker, she did want one with her dad. I absolutely adore a dad first look. It’s such a significant moment, often mimicking when we girls are little and twirling in a princess dress. To be seen and loved by a father is a gift that comes full circle on a wedding day.

Ashley’s mom and sister helped her dress in the bridal suite. She had a long, beautiful veil with lace accents and cowgirl boots with pops of baby blue. Once she clasped her earrings and checked her makeup, I placed dad in the open landscape just outside. Near what’s called The Colorado Room runs a quiet stream with a wooden bridge for crossing. Pampas grass and smooth stones lined the edges as I brought him to where the light was best.

With dad in place, Ashley came up behind him as I captured a few shots of the two of them. When they were ready, she told him to turn around. But nothing can prepare a man to see his daughter in her wedding dress. Full of emotion he hugged her, and they shared a beautiful moment before he realized he was being watched by the entire bridal party. With a hearty laugh, he looked at me and said I was “mean” for making him cry so much. That joke carried us through the day until I was forgiven by reception time. I love some good banter with the family!

Wedding Ceremony With Front Range Views

We walked through a copse of scrub oak bushes down a path to open space. And what we found was jaw-dropping green hills, views of Colorado’s front range, and the cutest altar. To have a wedding at Spruce Mountain Events means a ceremony in the midst of hundreds of stunning, mountain acreage.

The sun kept playing in and out of the clouds that warm July day when Ashley began walking down the aisle with her dad. Parker’s eyes were a dead giveaway for all the emotion he held as he watched her get closer. It was a simple ceremony but full of so much heart. A classic dip kiss made it official.

Portraits On The Ranch

Ashley and Parker have a genuine connection, so taking portraits with them wasn’t difficult. Especially with so many options for scenic spots. Likely my favorite photos of the day were in the fields of grass near the altar, mountains surrounding us. The coordinator brought them a couple Coors and I insisted they take a few sips. They just eased into giggles and stolen glances, and I knew that was authentically them.

We started their portraits on the mountainside. Then when sunset made its debut we walked out to the road and small pond. I often say that’s my favorite portrait time because not only is the lighting epic, but the stress of most of the day has settled. Couple are more carefree and able to relax.

Country Swing Under the Stars

This crowd could freaking DANCE a country swing like George Strait himself. I was quite literally in awe of them and had a blast capturing all the dips and turns. Boots were tapped, girls were twirled, and beers were drank. Classic country songs played as people ebbed and flowed from the dance floor under string lights. Ashley tossed her bouquet and Parker shot her garter by way of a football. At one point the entire guest list made a train.

Parker and Ashley’s day was a privilege to document. They are genuinely good people with a down-to-earth vibe that was a joy to watch. Congratulations, you two! Your wedding at Spruce Mountain Events was such a kick!

The Vendors

Hey there, I’m Brittany of Brittany Ann Photography, and I love the human experience. Offering exceptional lifestyle wedding photography in the Denver, Colorado area. With multiple package options, I’m able to serve a variety of clients. But more than anything, I love stories. Yours is my next favorite. Connect with me HERE.

Venue: SPRUCE MOUNTAIN EVENTS
Coordinator: LESLIE with EXCLUSIVE EVENTS DJ
Florist: CALLA LANE FLORALS
Caterer: Y. LO EPICURE
DJ: JUSTIN with EXCLUSIVE EVENTS DJ
Bartender: PEAK BEVERAGE