If you’ve ever dreamed of an enchanted forest wedding that feels like it belongs in the pages of a storybook, Claire and Dru’s wedding at Riversong Inn Retreat in Estes Park is everything that those dreams are made of. Nestled beneath towering pine trees with a peaceful river flowing, their July wedding embraced the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains while creating an atmosphere that was equal parts elegant, whimsical, and deeply personal. As an Estes Park wedding photographer, these are the kinds of celebrations that remind me why I love documenting weddings in Colorado.

From Coworkers to Adventure Partners

Claire and Dru’s love story began in an unexpected place—working long days together as photographers and sales staff for a dance competition company. They first crossed paths in 2019 during a work weekend in Chicago, where Claire jokingly critiqued Dru’s photography without fully appreciating just how demanding his job really was. A year later, after trying photography herself, she happily admitted she had been wrong, giving Dru an early glimpse into the humility and self-awareness that he would come to admire so deeply.

Although they saw each other occasionally through work, it wasn’t until a week-long rodeo assignment in Guthrie, Oklahoma, that everything changed. Between long hours, endless conversations, and tackling assignments side by side, they discovered an effortless connection. They bonded over their shared love of adventure, photography, and the outdoors, and what started as friendship quickly grew into something neither of them could ignore.

Back home, they became inseparable. Through home renovations, career growth, late-night editing sessions, mountain adventures, and life’s inevitable challenges, they learned they were stronger together. Their relationship has always been rooted in encouragement, trust, and helping each other become the best versions of themselves. As fellow photographers, they continue to share both their passion for creativity and a love for exploring Colorado together.

Their proposal was just as unforgettable. During a Thanksgiving trip through Southern California, Dru planned the perfect sunset proposal on a Malibu beach after touring some of his favorite places from his college years. Racing the clock to catch golden hour, they made it to the shoreline just in time. As Claire turned to tell Dru to leave the camera behind and simply enjoy the sunset together, she found him on one knee, asking her to spend forever by his side—a fitting beginning to the next chapter of a love story that started years earlier with shared cameras, long workdays, and a little friendly teasing.

A Hidden Woodland Wedding in Estes Park

From the moment guests arrived at Riversong Inn Retreat, it was clear this wasn’t going to be an ordinary wedding day. Claire and Dru envisioned a hidden forest fairytale where every detail reflected their personalities, and they brought that vision to life in the most incredible way. Their ceremony took place beneath the trees on a warm, sunny Colorado afternoon. With the gentle sound of the river and loved ones surrounding them, they exchanged vows and began their forever in a beautiful woodland setting.

If you’re searching for inspiration for a forest wedding in Colorado, Riversong Inn Retreat offers an intimate setting that blends mountain scenery, lush trees, and peaceful riverside views into one unforgettable venue.

Thoughtful Details Around Every Corner

One of my favorite parts of photographing weddings is discovering the unique details couples choose to make their day their own—and Claire and Dru truly outdid themselves.

Everywhere you looked, there was another thoughtful surprise waiting to be discovered. Guests found hidden scavenger hunt ducks tucked throughout the venue, which later became part of a playful duck race down the river. The reception tables featured beautiful china plates, colorful vintage glassware, and carefully curated décor that perfectly complemented their enchanted woodland theme. Their stunning cake and custom cookies felt like works of art, adding even more personality to an already unforgettable celebration.

Every element reflected the love, creativity, and intention they poured into their wedding day.

A Love That Speaks Without Words

While the details were incredible, what stood out most was Claire and Dru themselves. They share the kind of relationship that feels steady, genuine, and deeply rooted in friendship. There is a quiet confidence between them that makes every interaction effortless.

And then there’s the way Dru looks at Claire. Every glance carried admiration, gratitude, and complete certainty that he had found the love of his life. As a photographer, those authentic moments are the ones I treasure most because they can’t be staged—they simply happen when two people are completely present with one another. Those are the moments that become timeless photographs. 

Claire and Dru’s favorite wedding memories centered around the feeling of magic and togetherness. Claire loved seeing her dream of a fairytale forest wedding come to life at Riversong Inn, creating a one-of-a-kind experience where guests felt like they had stepped into a magical moment in time. Dru’s favorite memory was their heartfelt ceremony, seeing Claire radiant as they exchanged vows surrounded by the love of their family and friends. Together, they were especially touched by the incredible effort from their loved ones who helped bring every detail together,  including their moms and Claire’s aunt, to make the day feel even more meaningful, personal, and unforgettable.

Congrats, Claire and Dru! I’m so honored to have been a small part of your incredible day.

The couple’s biggest wedding planning advice: “Prioritize spending the day together and with your guests over having a lot of reception activities. We loved all of our activities that we had planned, but the day was so hot that the activities didn’t quite happen to the extent we would have liked, and they did take away some time to visit with each of our guests. Also make sure every single one of your vendors has a contract. You never know what can come of not having a contract.”

Vendor Team

Venue: Riversong Inn Retreat – Estes Park, Colorado
Wedding Coordinator: Dream Catcher Weddings
Wedding Dress: The Altar Bridal
Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Florals: Chris Kothenbeutel
Catering: Wildflower Catering and Events
Cake: Wildflower Bakery & Cafe
Hair & Makeup: C Hair & Makeup Artistry
Tablescapes: Eileen Kurucz
Seamstress: Hannah Hamilton Design
Centerpieces: Ginger Gonzalez
First Dance Choreography: Chanen Kearns
DJ: DJ Connection
Videographer: Peak Wedding Films
Second Photographer: Katharine Alexander

If you’re planning an Estes Park wedding, I’d love to help tell your story with vibrant, unique images that capture every meaningful moment.