There is something so incredibly heartwarming about photographing the wedding of someone near and dear to your heart. Don’t get me wrong—I always pinch myself on a wedding day, whether I recently connected with the couple or have known them for ages. But I’d be lying if I said Hannah and Adam’s wedding didn’t hit just a little differently. Documenting my childhood friend’s elegant Western ranch wedding in Larkspur, Colorado—states away from where we grew up—could only be described as an “out-of-body” experience. Spending the weekend with Hannah and Adam as both their photographer and a guest was a joy unlike any other.
Elegant Western Ranch Wedding | Colorado Wedding Photography
Hannah and I go way back—like middle school “back.” While we knew each other back then, we didn’t really become close until our college days. After college in the Midwest, we were both itching to head to the mountains. While I ended up in Washington, Hannah and Adam made their way to Colorado. But no distance could keep our friendship apart. Hannah’s friendship is completely invaluable; she believed in me as a wedding photographer probably before I ever did. So when she asked me to photograph her Western ranch wedding near Denver, I was giddy. It was such a touching, beautiful moment that I will never forget.
Flying Horse Ranch Wedding | Colorado Wedding Inspiration
Hannah and Adam’s wedding weekend kicked off on a Friday with a welcome party in Denver. While it was a “local” wedding for Hannah and Adam, it was a destination wedding for most of their guests. It was so sweet to witness loved ones meeting for the first time, old friends catching up, and the pre-wedding jitters as the couple mingled. After snacking on some hors d’oeuvres and catching up with Hannah’s family, I headed out to get some rest for their big day at Flying Horse Ranch.
My second shooter, Madison (who was actually my wedding photographer!), and I arrived bright and early the next morning at the stunning Flying Horse Ranch. As we made our way to the event space, we were greeted by horses grazing in the pasture along the driveway. Knowing we had a full day ahead, Madison and I got busy taking detail photos before transitioning into the getting-ready moments. The bridal suite was flooded with beautiful natural light, perfect for the ladies buzzing about, doing hair and makeup. Over in the groom’s den, Adam and his guys sipped hard seltzers while a taxidermy moose looked on. His Indochino suit jacket was embroidered with his and Hannah’s names and their wedding date—a special and stylish touch.
Colorado Western Wedding Venues | Flying Horse Ranch
Back in the bridal suite, Hannah and her gals enjoyed some champagne before it was time for her to step into her wedding dress. After her bridesmaids made the finishing touches, Hannah made her way out to the lawn to share a first look with Adam. Warm, golden sunshine spilled over the grass as Hannah floated toward Adam, her romantic lace wedding gown trailing effortlessly behind her. There couldn’t have been a more breathtaking setting for their first look. Their happy tears and joy were infectious as they took in the moment with one another.
After Hannah and Adam wiped their happy tears away, I snagged the cutie pies for some much-needed horsin’ around. Hannah and I were both “horse girls” back in the day, so we were absolutely in our prime. After petting a few velvet noses, a cowgirl from the ranch approached us and asked if we wanted to step inside the pasture with the horses. It was such a dream moment that truly solidified the whole “ranch wedding” vibe. We then made our way back to the event space for formal portraits, ensuring the party could get started right after the ceremony.
Elegant Western Wedding Reception | Sam Wilder Photography
The wedding ceremony took place beneath a gorgeous rustic arch overlooking the expansive property. Hannah walked up the aisle with her dad as her brother played guitar. Perfectly plump, fluffy clouds drifted by in the impossibly blue sky while Hannah and Adam shared handwritten vows. I remember thinking that it felt like we were on the cover of a Toy Story movie poster with how perfect the sky was. The ceremony, officiated by a close friend of Adam’s, was a beautiful representation of the sweet couple.
Once rings were exchanged and the “I do’s” were said, the newlyweds headed inside to sign their marriage license. As cocktail hour began outside on the patio, Hannah and Adam enjoyed a few moments to themselves, snacking on appetizers and sipping their signature drinks. They had two signature drinks for their elegant Western ranch wedding—both named after their ridiculous, precious dogs. The first drink, Cowboy, was named after their nutty little cow dog (who, ironically, is terrified of cows). The second, Maggie, was in honor of their senior dog with the sweetest soul. Seeing their little faces on the bar signage and can koozies was such a fun touch throughout the evening.
As cocktail hour continued, guests enjoyed horse-drawn wagon rides throughout the property. Hannah and Adam even got to enjoy a private wagon ride, sneaking in a few more quiet moments before it was time for the formal dinner. Inside, eager guests filled the round tables scattered throughout the grand foyer, ready to continue the celebration. Once the newlyweds made their grand entrance, the festivities continued with delicious food and heartfelt speeches.
Breathtaking Golden Hour Bridal Portraits | Elegant Western Wedding Inspiration
Initially, the plan was for Hannah and Adam to head over to the barn with their guests for the reception. But the videographer and I noticed an absolutely bananas sunset spreading across the rolling hills. Immediately, we grabbed the couple to capture some magic. I can’t even put into words just how dreamy this moment was. The pure joy on Hannah and Adam’s faces as they frolicked hand-in-hand among the golden sunshine was pure bliss. Before we knew it, the golden sky gave way to a soft, romantic blue hour with the tiniest moon peeking out. I’m still not over it, if you can’t tell.
After catching the last bits of daylight, we made our way to the barn, where my sweet second shooter took over coverage so I could celebrate alongside my hubby. I always love hitting the dance floor with my couples, but it was extra special dancing alongside my childhood friend and the love of her life. They had such a fun, down crew, all ecstatic to dance the night away. The evening ended beneath glowing string lights as Hannah and Adam hopped into their getaway car.
Colorado Destination Wedding | Colorado Springs Elopement Photographer
I felt tired after photographing Hannah and Adam’s elegant Western ranch wedding in Larkspur, Colorado, but it was the best kind of tired. Their day was so beautiful and perfect for them, and it was such an honor to capture their happiness and celebrate their next great adventure.
I’m already counting down the days until I’m back in Colorado (which won’t be too long now hint hint). As much as I love being a Seattle wedding and elopement photographer, I like the sound of being a Colorado wedding and elopement photographer, too! I couldn’t be more grateful for this job or for the couples who trust me to document their best days ever. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for supporting me.
Be sure to check out the blog for more sweet love stories. And you can keep up with my adventures as a Washington elopement photographer over on the ‘Gram (@samwilderphotography). Until next time!
Denver, Colorado Wedding Vendor Team:
Photography: Wilder Photography
Venue: Flying Horse Ranch
Videographer: Complete Weddings
Planner: Complete Weddings
Catering: Footers Catering
DJ: Complete Weddings
Dress: LUV Bridal
Dress Designer: Evie Young
Suit: Indochino
