K+R | Juniper Mountain House, Evergreen, Colorado Wedding
Katie and Reed’s wedding at Juniper Mountain House (which is an LGBTQ+ owned venue and a magical place to stay) in Evergreen, Colorado was an absolute dream in every way. When I first met with Katie, she told me it was extremely important for her to hire LGBTQ+ vendors who would not only capture her and Reed’s wedding but also fully embrace them and make them feel totally comfortable. She explained to me that when she looked at my portfolio, she saw many different kinds of people and loves and that made her feel seen. I feel as an LGBTQ+ photographer myself, it is so important to showcase ALL beautiful forms of love that exist in this world. I want every couple that looks at my portfolio to feel represented in some way.
Katie and Reed’s day started with them getting ready together at The Eddy Taproom & Hotel in Golden, Colorado. Once they were nearly finished getting ready, we sent Reed down for some photos with my incredible second shooter Sara Plett. Then Reed boarded the party bus to travel to Juniper Mountain House. Katie wanted to stay hidden once she was in her dress until the ceremony, which one of the many times when a second shooter comes in handy! Next is where the most chaotic part of the day occurred - I got in the limo with Katie, her mom, and sister. The limo driver immediately told us that “sometimes the limo breaks down.” We all did a “yikes” face and sure enough, halfway to the venue the limo broke down…twice. Katie wasn’t going to settle for being late to her own wedding, so she hopped out on the side of the interstate in her wedding dress and stuck a thumb out without even thinking twice. Thankfully an angel of a woman pulled over and packed us all into her car. Her son in the back seat looked so confused as to why a bride and 3 strangers were crushed against his carseat. MAJOR shoutout to this woman for the rescue mission.
When we arrived at Juniper, the most gorgeous ceremony setting awaited Katie and Reed for their first time seeing each other. The florals were done by the incredibly talented Skyvanah (one of my all-time favorites, please check her out!) Katie and Reed proceeded to have the most beautiful and moving ceremony that had nearly everyone in the audience tearing up and holding hands. I was overwhelmed by the pure joy radiating from all of her friends and family. The ceremony was followed by lots of hugs, another party bus, and then a night of hardcore DANCING back at The Eddy. I absolutely loved capturing Katie, Reed, and the wonderful humans they celebrated their day with. I’ll leave Katie’s review of working with me below because it really encompassed what I strive for with my couples. Thank you so much K+R and congratulations to you beautiful souls!
“We chose Mado to be our photographer for obvious reasons…her style and commitment to her craft is beautiful. Things that might not be as obvious (unless you’ve worked with her) are her patience, kindness, and her authentic approach with her couples. Mado is so inclusive and that’s what really drew us to her. When I saw Mado’s work I saw myself and I saw my wife… I saw my friends. Make sure your photographer takes pictures of people who resemble your family and friends. Diversity and inclusion are important to us and Mado does a great job of representing all those things in her work. Thanks so much. -Katie & Reed”
