Unique & Intentional Colorado Wedding | Abby + Jay

 

Intentionality was the first word that came to mind when reminiscing about Abby and Jay’s wedding. It was obvious that every detail was carefully hand-picked, right down to their vendors and guests. I frequently overheard people commenting on how “this is so Abby and Jay.” It made my heart happy! I love when couples are able to curate a day that perfectly encapsulates who they are. 

Abby and I met in college where we both ran track together at Wartburg. She was one of the upperclassmen who welcomed us, freshmen, with open arms. She was bubbly, kind, and beautiful which to no surprise, quickly caught Jay’s eye. I had the privilege of getting to know both of them throughout college and was incredibly excited when they reached out to me about their wedding. Choosing a photographer who they knew and trusted was important to them, which you will find is a common thread throughout their intentional wedding day. 

 

              

The Venue 

The venue they chose could not have been more perfect. Crooked Willow Farms in Larkspur, Colorado is a 90-acre property with multiple picturesque event spaces surrounded by gorgeous views. What used to serve as horse barns now operates as a fully functional wedding venue. All of the flowers and plants were in full bloom in August and though the mountains were covered in a hazy fog, the beauty was truly unmatched.  

 

   

The Ceremony 

Witnessing Abby and Jay lock eyes as she made her way down the aisle had everyone (including myself) holding back tears. They had saved their first look for that very moment, and boy was it worth it! Every feeling of built-up anxiety visibly melted away as they grasped each other’s hands at the altar. 

The ceremony was short, sweet, personal, fun, and performed by another dear friend of the couple. Instead of traditional wedding vows or unity symbols, they opted for a “unity beer” to celebrate their coming together as one. It was all fine and dandy until Abby drank a little too fast and beer came shooting out of her mouth. Everyone burst into deep-belly laughter at the malfunction and some even had tears rolling down their cheeks. Luckily, Abby fully embraced the humor in the situation and laughed right along with them!   

 

         

Cocktail Hour + Dinner

After the ceremony, guests began to trickle into the courtyard where they were met with an open bar and appetizers served from Shaggy the Burro Bar. There were drinks, conversation, and plenty of photos before it was time to transition into the grand dining hall for dinner. Biscuits & Berries served a delicious steak dinner with salad and sides while heartfelt speeches were given. Both fathers, the maid of honor, and the best man shared personal memoirs of Abby and Jay. They each expressed just how loved and admired the two of them are. 

 

   

The Reception

Abby and Jay decided to skip a traditional wedding cake and served cookies and milk instead (Abby’s favorite!) Each guest grabbed a cookie on their way outside to watch the newlywed’s first dance under the stars. Following their dance, Abby and Jay asked everyone to join them for a polka dance in honor of Abby’s grandpa Paca. Dancing continued for the rest of the night with DJ Brian Howe. It was nothing less than a party!  As two people who live for Lola Palooza, it came as no surprise when I saw Abby and Jay booked Brain as their DJ.

 

         

Abby + Jay’s Intentional Wedding Details

On our first call, Abby expressed that their main wedding goal was to create a fun atmosphere where all of their people could come together and celebrate. I am happy to report that they absolutely crushed that goal! The intentionality in planning their wedding did not go unnoticed with every detail thoughtfully calculated. Here are a few of my favorite examples: 

1) Abby’s bridal details represented a loved one who could not be with her on the wedding day.

2) Jay wore a shark tie pin because Abby calls him her “sharky.”

3) The officiate and I were both trusted friends from college. 

4) They drank a unity beer for their ceremony since they met at a college party. 

5) The ceremony was short and sweet so they could spend more time with their guests who had traveled.  

6) They served cookies and milk for dessert because it is Abby’s favorite.

7) They hired DJ Brain Howe as a tribute to their many memories at Lola Palooza. 

Abby and Jay’s intentional wedding day will go down as one of the funnest weddings I have worked to date. Not only were Abby and Jay good friends of mine, but the amount of thought that went into planning their wedding made it stand out. If you are currently planning a wedding or will be in the future, don’t be afraid to be unique! Your wedding day is about the two of you, and every special detail makes it all the more memorable. 

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