Brett and Lauren’s Rocky Mountain National Park elopement was a dream.

Firstly, it was everything you’d want in a wedding day. The weather was classic Colorado weather: sunshine and a rain shower here and there. Secondly, the elk were roaming the fields, as you’ll always find them doing in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the mountains shining in their natural brilliance. Can you think of a better venue for a wedding? Me either. Lauren and Brett made the perfect choice. It was simply perfection.

I’d say 95% of my couples are not local to Colorado, so I rarely have the chance to meet them before their wedding day. Similarly, I met Lauren and Brett for the first time on their wedding day. I knew Lauren would be warm and kind, and eager to say “I do” to Brett. We met just an hour before her ceremony, and anyone who has ever been to a wedding before knows how hectic things can be that close to the vows! But Lauren was calm and smiling- surrounded by her loving parents, who were full of compliments for their sweet girl on her special day.

Lauren looked like an angel. Her gown had a lit-from-within glow with its champagne tulle and tiny silver beads that sparkled all day. And her veil. WOW. After you see the images, you will know what I’m talking about! Stunning.
Lauren’s style had a classic-vintage vibe and it couldn’t have been more beautiful. One of the most beautiful brides I have ever photographed!

The first time I saw Brett he was making his way to the altar, ready to welcome his bride into his hands. Honestly, this is always a favorite moment for me- when the groom is seconds away from seeing his bride for the first time. I get butterflies in my stomach every time! It is so exciting.

Once Brett laid eyes on his bride, I’m pretty sure I saw a tear or two well up in his eyes. It was truly a special moment.
Lauren was accompanied down the aisle by two very important fellas in her life. That alone was enough to make me tear up! (and everyone in attendance!).

Although their ceremony was short and sweet, it was perfect. They exchanged vows and rings and before I knew it they were man and wife! WOOHOO!

After spending some time with their amazing families post- ceremony, we meandered throughout Rocky Mountain National Park, looking for the perfect spots for their newlywed portraits. Let me tell you, those spots aren’t hard to find. It’s like heaven on earth there.

During our time together, Brett mentioned how much he loves elk, as he and Lauren are avid hunters. And I’m pretty sure Brett was in paradise with all those gorgeous elk walkin’ around! Above all, we did our best to keep some elk in the shot but I think they were on to us, as they kept disappearing. Camera shy, perhaps?

However, our last portrait spot of the evening made up for the lack of elk to photograph! Bear Lake, which was at Lauren’s request- was STUNNING. I’m so glad she mentioned it. It was absolutely beautiful up there! As a result of shooting there in summer, the lake was beginning to melt but it was still gorgeous and semi-frozen.
If you haven’t been- GO! You won’t regret it.