It all started with a big, blue Land Rover. Lance gave Michelle a ride, and she wasn’t fussy about the giant vehicle, in fact she complimented it (it really does kinda kick butt), and soon it would be taking the couple camping all over Colorado and climbing the Flatirons above Boulder. Little did either of them know, but one day Michelle would be clambering in, still without fuss, in her wedding dress.
Colorado certainly tried to test the couple’s laid back spirit. First, it was unclear if Sunrise Amphitheater on top of Flagstaff mountain would be reopened in time after last year’s floods. The road was washed out- there’s still places that are more cordoned off rather than repaired- but luckily it was open in time. So it decided to rain. On and off, all day. We did get the ceremony in at Sunrise, along with that gorgeous view, and the sun came back along with a flock of birds riding the thermals just as their ceremony finished. Michelle and Lance’s trust in one another and go-with-the-flow attitude (and a little planning- thanks especially to Splendor for keeping their guests dry! I’m so glad your service exists!) kept what could be an ordeal as an adventure. I’m glad, too, that we got a few moments to take photos up there with the Flatirons they climb in the background.
Down to Rembrant Yard for a cozy reception inside while the rain came back. And what says “Colorado Wedding” more than a bison carving station at the buffet and s’mores pops for dessert? We loved their cute choreographed first dance, too- it was the most intricate choreography we’ve ever seen!
Most of all, I was struck as I edited these photos by all the happy, excited faces surrounding Michelle and Lance. From their nieces and nephews helping out at the St. Julien, to everyone just chatting and enjoying each others’ company at the reception, their friends and family were smiling and warm, so happy for this couple. And what a fantastic, loving couple they are, too. Congratulations you too! -A&D
