I first met Kristen and Charlton at the Wine & Nosh Spruce Mountain Ranch Wedding Show. This is the only wedding show we do all year. The moment these two walked by our booth, I felt an instant connection with them. We spent time laughing and joking and I knew they were a perfect couple for us. I was so thrilled when they hired us to photograph their wedding and camping adventure session (complete with their cat Puss in Boots who they bring everywhere!)

Most couples are nervous the day of their weddings. A wedding day can bring chaos, emotions can run high, and it can pass all too quickly. When I asked Kristen if she was nervous as she was getting ready for her wedding, she shook her head no and said “I’m just so excited to see Charlton.”

I encourage the couple to have alone or spend with their families. In the time before Kristen and Charlton’s wedding, Kristen and her mom were able to have a moment alone in the midst of the craziness of the wedding day.

Family is obviously very important to both Kristen and Charlton. Kristen did a first look with her father. As she walked toward him and he turned around, they both had tears flooding down their face. Her mom joined in for the very last bit to enjoy the moment with her daughter and husband. Witnessing the connection Kristen’s parents have with each other and with her was incredible. Kristen’s sister was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly before Kristen and Charlton’s wedding. She was able to be there that day and was in good spirits. I was blown away by her all day; she’s a fighter for sure. She just finished her last round of chemo and is in remission.

As cheesy as it sounds, everyone just seemed so happy throughout Kristen and Charlton’s day. Charlton’s aunt was the officiant for their wedding ceremony at Spruce Mountain Ranch. I think it’s so special when someone who knows you as a couple can start off your marriage. They’re able to bring so much love, humor and good stories into your ceremony. In Colorado, anyone can officiate your wedding so it’s always nice when a couple chooses someone close to them. During Kristen and Charlton’s first dance, I watched the guests watching them. I think it’s a good reflection on the love people have for the couples. Kristen and Charlton’s guests were emotional as they danced and it was a great showcase for the immense love that was present on their wedding day. For the rest of the night, their outdoor dance floor was packed, with guests enjoying everything beautiful Colorado has to offer.

When I asked Kristen for advice to give to other couples planning their wedding she said, “set aside some time a day or two before, to set your intentions for the day but also for the marriage itself. Slow down and enjoy the little moments.”

Venue: Spruce Mountain Ranch 
Planning: Amazae Events
Hair and Makeup: Kim J Beauty
Florals: Nicole Ha Design
Catering: Buffalo Gals
Dress: Felice Bridal
Cake: Makery Cake Co
Liquor: Peak Beverage
Donuts: Horseshoe Donuts
Photo Booth: Shutter Bus
Rentals: Event Rents
Music: Beat Street
Suit: Black Tux
DJ: Celebrity DJ