This delightful Brown Palace wedding took place at Christmastime, one of my personal favorite holidays, and it included many wonderfully detailed elements, surprises, and family traditions. In fact, Tess and Pete’s decision to host a Brown Palace wedding harkens back to the bride’s childhood. For Tess, The Brown Palace is a place where she can easily recall countless childhood memories of enjoying high tea with her mom and sister.

Additionally, it just so happens, that The Brown Palace is also the same venue where Tess’s grandparents were married, many moons ago. For their family, The Brown Palace is so much more than a wedding venue. It is a home away from home where old memories come to life and their family bond is solidified through a sea of milestones and joyous occasions.

How They Met

Tess and Pete met one another just after graduating college through mutual friends. They both quipped that they weren’t exactly sure how they lasted their first year together after life tossed them hurdle after hurdle. As it turned out, the love and support of their family and friends empowered each of them and their bond only grew and strengthened over time.

Soon, however, Pete’s career in the military saw him stationed overseas. But no matter, because by this time Tess and Pete were both well acquainted in navigating the intricacies of their long-distance love story. As Pete’s deployment came to a close, they were able to reunite and make a home together; saying goodbye, once and for all, to long distance.

Delightful Brown Palace Wedding at Christmastime

Though they are no longer Denver locals, Tess and Pete think of Colorado as home. When it was time to plan their big day, a Brown Palace wedding seemed a fitting way to honor Tess’s childhood, the legacy of her grandparents, and the blending of their two families. A weekend of events centered around their wedding day, including a welcome dinner, a wedding after-party, and a farewell brunch. Their family and friends were treated to fun games, vibrant cocktails, and scrumptious dining options for every event. Nevertheless, it was the spirit of the season that drew everyone together.

In lieu of a wedding registry, Tess and Pete set up a Christmas tree and asked guests to bring an unwrapped gift to donate to Toys for Tots on behalf of Team Rubicon. That stunning Christmas tree, outfitted with ribbon, baubles, and sparkling lights donned another surprise. Custom-made Christmas ornaments held guests’ escort cards and adorned the tree for a fun touch of added whimsy to Tess and Pete’s Brown Palace wedding.

Later in the evening, another holiday-themed element was in store for Tess and Pete. Santa made an appearance! That is, Pete’s dad dressed up as Santa as a surprise to the newlyweds. His jolly spirit also came with a gift for the guests. Inside his Santa sack, he had a red Santa hat for every guest in attendance. When it was time to hit the dance floor, it was quite the sight with a sea of Santa hats flooding the room. 

Yet another delightful moment was in store for this Brown Palace wedding. Pete just so happens to be a huge Denver Broncos fan. In fact, early on when I first met Tess and Pete (through Brooke & Ian), I recall him telling me how happy it made him to hear Pat Surtain II’s voice every time he traveled through DIA. Of course, his sweet bride wasn’t going to let their wedding day pass without an amazing gift for their grand entrance during their Brown Palace wedding reception. Custom-made Denver Broncos jerseys! The smile on Pete’s face, when she unveiled the jerseys, was priceless. It was only rivaled by thunderous cheers and applause from their guests when they entered the ballroom.

The night of Tess and Pete’s Brown Palace wedding was filled with merriment, and one rockin’ night on the dance floor courtesy of their live band. When it was time to cut their chic four-tier wedding cake, Tess and Pete invited Pete’s grandparents to cut into the cake and enjoy the moment with them, side by side. You can see all of these cherished moments, and so much more, when you scroll through the images from this Brown Palace wedding, featured below.

Creative Team

Photography: Ali & Garrett Photography

Venue: Brown Palace

Planner: First Look Events

Florals: Statice Floral

Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals

Entertainment: Great Family Reunion

Lighting & Draping: Elite Entertainment

Bridal Gown Designer: Katherine Tash

Bridal Salon: Anna Bé Bridal Boutique

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