Audrey and Jake | Buena Vista Wedding
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Savannah Chandler Photography | Colorado Mountain Wedding Photographer
Audrey and Jake hosted their winter wedding at the charming Surf Hotel in Buena Vista, Colorado. Surrounded by the booming Collegiate Peaks, this quaint little mountain town is the perfect getaway throughout the year. Winter in the Colorado Mountains is always interesting, to say the least – we could have a massive blizzard (which we did about 10 days after their wedding) or it could be a bluebird day without a cloud in the sky. Audrey and Jake were graced with the latter for their late February wedding. We spent the day basking in the sunshine and looking out on the snowcapped peaks.
The Slammer and The Surf | Getting Ready
Audrey and Jake wanted to spend time with their friends and family on their wedding day. The second I walked in, I could tell that this friend group that they’ve been a part of for quite some time was close-knit.
My first stop of the morning was meeting Jake and the rest of his Groom’s party at The Slammer – a local Whisky Bar and Distillery. In the 1880s, this little joint served as the town Jailhouse. Since 2021, they’ve kept the Wild West vibes while serving craft Whiskey and Beer. It was a really neat place – with what I’m told were fantastic drinks (I’ll have to take Jake’s word on that one for now).
Back at the Surf Hotel, Audrey was getting ready with her Ladies in one of the hotel suites. When I arrived, everyone was just about done getting their hair and makeup done. Once Audrey put on her AH-MAZING wedding gown, we had a first look with all the Bridesmaids. No one except the Maid of Honor had seen her amazing and unique gown.
Collegiate Peaks Overlook | First Look and Wedding Party Images
Audrey and Jake wanted mountains as the backdrop for their wedding photos. And Buena Vista is full of those large piles of rocks.
We headed just a short drive away to the Collegiate Peaks overlook for some portraits – it’s an easily accessible area that overlooks Mt. Princeton and Mt. Yale. The wedding party joined us as well (with champagne and fireball in tow). The great thing about winter is that nearly all of the areas that are overcrowded in the summer months are typically much less so. The overlook had one other person there when we arrived – and he was just hanging out with his super sweet doggo.
Surf Chatueax | The Ceremony
During the colder months, most ceremonies at the Surf Hotel are held in their private courtyard. The brick walls and archways make for a stunning place to get married.
Many of the wedding party members were couples who preceded Audrey and Jake up to the altar for their ceremony. One “trend” that I’ve been LOVING lately is nixing the Ring Bearer and having an adult partake in shenanigans instead. This wedding had a Bubble Boy announcing the bride – coming down the aisle with a bubble gun. These funny and quirky personal touches are the things that stick with me, even after photographing weddings for nearly 14 years.
After their vows and family portraits, we all started to make our way into the Ivy Ballroom for their grand entrance and to kick off the reception. Just as we were about to head inside, Audrey and Jake were approached by musician Christian Porter – who happened to be in Buena Vista for an event and offered to play a private song for just the two of them. We headed back to the courtyard where they danced to the tune of their very own wedding concert. Thanks again, Christian – this was the experience of a lifetime (for me as well).
The Music is Better with You | Reception
Audrey had dreams of a celestial-themed wedding – and HOLY MOLY was it amazing. Stars were hanging from the ceiling, magical candlelights lit every surface, and stunning shades of blue stretched as far as the eye could see. It was clear that Audrey put a ton of time and effort into designing the reception space.
The night progressed as toasts ended and the music began. Both Audrey and Jake are fans of techno music and dancing the night away – so dance they did as the bass boomed on. The dance floor was lit up with fog, a multitude of colors, and at one point – a massive skull and big-heads of their two cats. It’s safe to say that a massive party ensued.
To cap the night off, all the guests lined up to send Audrey and Jake into the night via. sparkler tunnel.
Congratulations again, Audrey and Jake! I had such an amazing time celebrating (and dancing) with you. I can’t wait to talk about Sarah J. Mass books as they come out and hopefully head out for a night on the town.
Cheers-
Vendors:
Planner | The Event Troupe
Florist | Growing Wild
Hair and Makeup | The Glam Castle
Music | Discosapien
