Wanting an authentic western Colorado feel that also felt elegant and modern, Carrie & Chris held a laid back wedding at DEVILS THUMB RANCH in the Rocky Mountains. Captured by Colorado wedding photographers ALP & ISLE the couple found the perfect sweet spot between rustic and elegance.

After looking at a lot of venues they went with an option that gave them the convenience of holding the ceremony and reception in the one place, as well as accommodation for their guests. The stunning scenery and service were an added bonus. The gorgeous bride wore a beautiful dress by Wedding gown designer MADE WITH LOVE BRIDAL and carried a bouquet by ALEXAN EVENTS.

HOW DID YOU MEET? We had a mutual friend and were acquaintances for several years. On my 32nd  birthday, my friend and I went out for a few drinks and I randomly asked her, “What’s that Chris Doyle guy up to?” She was shocked and immediately texted him and started playing matchmaker. We went out the following week for happy hour and the rest is history. That was 8 years ago this December. 

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROPOSAL: We were in Aspen for a long Memorial day weekend with our pups. We planned an early morning hike to Maroon Bells that turned into such an intense blizzard we ended up returning back to the hotel, when Chris, being on a special mission, pivoted and made the best of a lost romantic moment by arranging meats and cheeses - and an engagement ring - on a charcuterie plate when I wasn’t looking, and I was so excited about the salami that I completely didn’t see the ring, which Chris then picked up and showed me,  asking me to be his wife.

TELL US ABOUT FINDING YOUR WEDDING DRESS: We set our wedding date exactly 6 months in advance, so I knew I needed to be fairly efficient in selecting my wedding dress. I went to 3 places with my mom over the holidays and fell in love with a simple long lace dress by Made with Love. Finding my dress was a pretty fun, quick and easy process. Loved who I worked with at Anna Be.

DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING FLOWERS: I was going for a fairly dramatic bouquet that incorporated deep burgundy colours with lots of greenery. I requested a more whimsical style vs a compact bouquet. 

FAVOURITE DETAIL OF THE DAY: Hmmm...there are so many, but we absolutely loved our ceremony. Our officiant was spectacular and told a beautiful story about us and how we got to this special day. I felt so calm and present in that moment. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OUT TO A COUPLE PLANNING THEIR WEDDING? It’s all about your vendors! Take the time to research, read reviews, interview, etc. to choose your dream team. I had a phenomenal team that made my vision come to life and can honestly say I was not stressed at all the day of our wedding.  

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR HONEYMOON: We took a mini moon right after the wedding back to Aspen where we got engaged. We pushed our honeymoon out and leave for Kauai, Hawaii in about a month. We couldn't fathom planning one more thing at the time of the wedding and wanted something to look forward to after the wedding excitement dissipated. 

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD CHANGE OR DO DIFFERENTLY? Honestly, no, it was a perfect day and weekend. It cost a fortune but I can honestly say it was worth it and I would do it again…...well not again, but you know what I mean :) 

A big thank you to Colorado wedding photographers ALP & ISLE for sharing this beautiful mountain wedding with us. If you're a Colorado bride you can see more of their work in our vendor guide. And you should definitely check out this Intimate Lake Tahoe wedding for an adventurous couple.