Telluride Elopement Photographer | Andrea and Richard | Yankee Boy Basin Elopement » Colorado Mountain Elopement and Wedding Photographer

Andrea and Richard | Yankee Boy Basin Elopement

Savannah Chandler Photography | Telluride Elopement Photographer

Andrea and Richard knew they wanted to spend their Elopement day in Colorado’s Southern mountains with their sweet elder pup, Jake.

One of my very favorite things about the San Juan mountain range is the amazing network of 4×4 roads that provide access to some of the most beautiful places in Colorado. Knowing that Jake’s comfort was of top priority, we decided on an off-roading adventure to a few basins near Ouray would get the out-of-this-world scenery Andrea and Richard were looking for while allowing Jake to join on his parent’s wedding day.

For their first look, we all met up just outside of Ouray at a stunning overlook with Mt. Abrams booming in the background. I don’t think we needed to give Andrea or Richard any instruction – they were so genuinely happy to see one another that the smiles and hugs kept flowing.

After EIGHT years together, they were finally getting married.

To start our mountain adventure, we all hopped in my Jeep and headed up to Governor’s Basin. The road leading up to the alpine overlook does have a shelf road, however, it’s a very mild dirt road with minimal rocks. Topping out at 12,000 ft and looking out onto Mt. Sneffels, Governor Basin boasts views of green slopesides, volcanic rock features, and in early summer has fields of wildflowers.

As they said their vows to one another, good-boy Jake sat at their feet.

One of favorite things about Elopement days is the ability to enjoy the traditions that you want, while having the freedom to switch things up as well. Andrea and Richard took a small break between their vows to have a moment with Jake – followed by a celebratory champagne spray.

Knowing we wanted to visit a few places lower in the basin, we headed down into Yankee Boy to have a picnic at the Twin Falls area.

Food is one of the best parts of any wedding day – and an elopement doesn’t have to be an exception to that! Andrea and Richard packed a full charcuterie board to enjoy together with the rushing waterfalls as their backdrop. Jake even got to partake in the food festivities, trying to catch crackers in his mouth.

When Andrea and Richard were dating, they took Salsa lessons together – and wanted to have a few first dances together in the mountains. First was a more traditional first dance, followed by a choreographed Salsa number.

As the sun set behind us, we walked back to the Jeep where Jake was anxiously awaiting.

I had such a fun time adventuring with you, Andrea and Richard! I can’t wait to celebrate again with you and your families next year.

C