While Ashley and Matt knew each other in high school, they didn't start dating officially until 2016. These two lovebirds shared an instant connect and love for the mountains and snowboarding. During their dating, Matt suffered a snowboarding accident that broke his neck and left him paralyzed. This hardship could have easily torn them apart, but both Matt and Ashley truly are amazing souls. They fought for their relationship and one year later, they enjoyed his first trip up the Keystone gondola since his accident. At the top of the mountain, he proposed to Ashley. Of course, she said YES!
I first met Ashley as a bridesmaid in another wedding we photographed (Sarah and Jak!) and she soon reached out to me about photography for her and Matt's upcoming August wedding. We met up at Dillon Reservoir last fall for engagement photos and it felt like hanging out with long-time friends. These two are so fun and full of energy. Ashley has the biggest heart and so much love to give.
Normally, August is a hot and dry month here in Colorado. Normally. This year, it seems like Colorado is constantly saying, "hold my beer!" with weather as we've had a very unusual summer season. With monsoonal weather patterns, we've had one of the wettest years on record! Ashley and Matt's wedding day arrived hot, humid, and threatening storm clouds. But after dumping rain during their prep time, the skies held for the rest of the day. It was beautiful, moody, and perfect.
They chose Cielo at Castle Pines as the backdrop for their big celebration. It's an easy-access and beautiful space with large windows, a lovely patio area, and stunning waterfall feature. We decided to set up Ashley and Matt's first look at the beautiful staircase inside the venue to give them a private moment together. From the first time he laid eyes on her that day, you could FEEL the love he has for her. He simply stared in awe. It was incredible.
After a fun time with the wedding party for photos, it was time for the ceremony! Ashley was all smiles as her dad walked her down the aisle, and Matt couldn't take his eyes off of her. Soon, they exchanged rings and vows and sealed it with a kiss.
My favorite moment of their big day (and of the entire year!) was when two of Matt's groomsmen helped him stand to dance with his bride for their first dance. There was not a dry eye in the room and I fought back tears as they swayed together. Truly, these two are an inspiration.
Congrats, Ashley and Matt! You guys hold a special place in my heart. Your unconditional love and patience is commendable. May you be blessed with a lifetime of adventures and love.
Couple's biggest wedding planning advice: "Give yourself more time and don't procrastinate."
Vendor Dream Team
venue // Cielo at Castle Pines
coordination // Blue Lace Events Colorado
dress // The Bridal Collection
groom's attire // Ted's Clothier
catering // Occassions Catering
flowers // Sharon Herrmann
dj // Seamless Entertainment
hair // Salon Utopia
makeup // Nordstrom
officiant // Dan Luebcke
2nd photographer // McGonzo Photo
ASHLEY + MATT
08.06.22
