Alyssa and Kyle | The Lodge at Crestview Ranch Wedding

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Savannah Chandler Photography | Granby Wedding Photographer

I met Alyssa and Kyle through another Denver wedding photographer. We initially met for lunch in the DTC area at a golf club where Kyle golfs often at. I was so excited to hear all about their Granby wedding at one of the area’s newer wedding venues – The Lodge at Crestview Ranch. I had heard of Crestview Ranch from some fellow colleagues, but had yet to photograph there myself. After discussing their wedding day and details, I knew that it would be a stunning, full of personal details day.

We arrived early in the afternoon while the gals were getting ready (and the guys were playing cornhole). I knew that Alyssa would have some stunning details – and some that were very personal. One of my personal favorite items were wine glasses that said “ex girlfriend, ex fiance, wife/husband”. I’m not quite sure why, but I think it’s absolutely hilarious and one of my new favorite ways to introduce a partner – “Oh is that your Fiance?” “Yes, this is my ex-boyfriend and soon be ex-fiance”. 😆

Of the more personal items, Alyssa was gifted a stunning necklace that belonged to Kyle’s grandmother. Kyle’s sister told us that 4 years ago, before she passed, Kyle said he knew that he had found the person that he was going to marry and asked if he could gift the necklace to Alyssa on their wedding day. Four years ago. Before he proposed, before many of life’s ups and downs. That right there brought a tear to my eye behind the camera.

As the sun continued to beam down upon Granby, Alyssa and Kyle’s ceremony was full of sun, love, humor, and tears. I always try to remember bits and pieces of what was said at my couple’s ceremonies – I really, truly love to hear your personal vows. As a married person, I also love hearing vows that remind me of why I personally got married and the things that mean the most on your wedding day. I remembered that in our initial conversation, Kyle and Alyssa had told me that they had been together a long time and would have many, many people celebrating with them. And to recede from their ceremony, the many people celebrating would be tossing paper airplanes at them. Of all the weddings I’ve photographed, a paper airplane recessional was a first. And was SO MUCH FUN.

After walking around the property for a while capturing their family, bridal party, and couple’s portraits the sun began setting behind the horizon and the entire sky filled with color. One think about September in Colorado is that we tend to get a lot of wildfires. Which is such a sad, sad thing. But makes for the most amazing sunsets. The skies turn amazing shades of orange and pink. This past September was no exception – there were wildfires raging and the sun put on the most spectacular show in the sky. Above Rocky Mountain National Park, the entire sky filled with bright orange and pink clouds. Alyssa and Kyle were (beyond) troopers and set out into the marshy field across the pond to capture reflection photographs. Just as the sun went down, we finished our time before the reception in the small Aspen grove just behind where they’d be doing their grand entrance from.

Then… the party began. I love live bands. There’s something SO FUN about live music at a wedding. All the guests, of all ages, get out of their seats to boogie. Alyssa and Kyle’s reception was no exception – everyone was having a grand time enjoying the band. One other thing that I found out about the bride and groom is that they are exceptional dancers.

To end our time together, everyone gathered round to say goodbye in a grand exit and sent Alyssa and Kyle off with a bang.

Thank you for inviting me to celebrate with you and your loved ones, Alyssa and Kyle. It was truly and honor. I wish you a lifetime of happiness, travel, and many nights of Northern Lights <3

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