J+B | St. Mary's Glacier, Colorado Elopement

Jayden and Blaine created the perfect hybrid between an elopement and a small wedding. Since they aren’t from Colorado, they wanted somewhere that showcased all of Colorado’s natural beauty while still being immersed in nature with their guests. They decided on St. Mary’s Glacier which not only has stunning mountainous views, but a snowy glacier year round (this was in June!) and a gorgeous lake at the base of the glacier. It pretty much has everything you could want from Colorado. They did want to include some friends and family, as well as a wedding party. Most of my elopements are just me and the couple and sometimes a few others, so this felt more like a small wedding celebration since they got to enjoy the company of a small group of people that they love, which was awesome!

The trek up the mountain to the glacier is only about a mile, but it is quite steep and rocky. Miraculously, everyone made it (in dresses, suits, and fancy wedding attire! Although everyone wearing hiking boots definitely helped). Their ceremony at the base of the lake was nothing short of perfection, and getting to take photos with their friends, family, and dogs afterwards only made it sweeter. They even had their dogs sign their marriage license with their paw prints! Yes, that is really allowed in Colorado. You don’t technically need an officiant, witness, or even human witnesses to get married out here in Colorado! Dogs are more than good enough witnesses if you ask me. 

Afterwards, they popped a bottle of champagne with their wedding party (PLEASE peek the photos of Blaine getting champagne blasted with extreme force into his mouth, I was laughing way too hard while editing those). Then all of the guests left so we could take private couple photos all around the glacier. We climbed to the top where there was snow and enjoyed some truly incredible views. Jayden and Blaine are beyond wonderful together and were absolute naturals in front of the camera, just embracing each other with so much affection that I barely needed to guide them. I can’t believe how lucky we got with everything for their day, it really was the ideal small wedding in my opinion. They didn’t have to feel the pressure or stress of planning a big day because it was so intimate, but still got to share the joy with their friends and family. What could be better? Thank you Jayden and Blaine for being the LOVELIEST and letting me photograph this day! 

Florals: Sunday Flower Company

Second Shooter: Cara Eliz