Andrew and Rachel for the first time in high school German class. As Rachel walked up to the whiteboard, Andrew said “nice shoes” to her, and she glanced down to see they were wearing the same black skater Vans. She replied, “You too”. This nonchalant comment sparked a friendship that lasted years and spanned thousands of miles.
After several years of long distance friendship, many phone calls, and many video chats, Andrew decided to drive 2000 miles to go visit Rachel in her home state of New Mexico. He arrived to surprise her in her living room after a long 12-hour NICU shift at work. Their relationship solidified and they shared a “first date” on Rachel’s back patio when Andrew surprised her with a homemade meal, complete with candles and twinkle lights. The two of them fell deeper in love, shared many belly laughs, and when it came time to take the next step, Andrew once again surprised Rachel when he flew out from NYC to ask her to marry him in her living room. With tears in her eyes and nothing but smiles, she said YES!
I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel and Andrew in May when they flew out for engagement photos in Rocky Mountain National Park. Their original plan was winter photos in January, but life happened and they were unable to make the trip. Instead, we were blessed with a snow storm in May to make their engagement session a magical winter wonderland! These two were so easy to be around and instantly felt like long time friends.
Rachel and Andrew both share a love for Colorado so when it came time to plan their wedding, it was a no-brainer decision to host their event in the mountains in fall. Autumn is typically the most beautiful season here, with more stable weather, beautiful leaf color, and brilliant blue skies.
They chose the new venue at Black Canyon Inn, The Boulders for it’s amazing mountain views, all-inclusive services, and easy access. We have had the most beautiful fall all over the state, with slow color changes and incredible weather. So when October 1 came, it was truly stunning. Every detail was perfect, from Rachel’s amazing dress and cute UP! movie themed pin on her bouquet to the falling golden leaves and their passionate first look. In their words, “the entire day felt like a fairytale and it’s so difficult to choose just one moment. It was all magical.”
Truly, it was magical. Congrats to you both. You are amazing souls and I’m so glad to have been part of your perfect day.
The couple’s biggest wedding planning advice: “Always better to be over-prepared and early than underprepared and late. Keep things simple. Don’t sweat the small stuff cause you won’t even notice them later. And don’t spend a tremendous amount on flowers. Yes they’re beautiful but they all get tossed next day. Spend your money elsewhere. (And buy a bouquet preservation on Etsy or somewhere! So you can keep a piece of your bouquet forever.)”
Vendor Dream Team:
Venue: Boulders at Black Canyon Inn
Dress: Ann Matthews Bridal // Designer: Atelier Pronovias
Groom’s Attire: THE BLACK TUX
Flowers: Floral Design of Europe
Cake: Butter+Milk Bakehouse
Hair & Makeup: Glow Salon and Spa – Estes Park
DJ: Philip Friedman
Videography: Chris Rasmussen Films
Officiant: Craig Cockrell
2nd Photographer: McGonzo Photo
