Crested Butte, Colorado Elopement Photo Story Award

The couple's first kiss happened right at sunset, with just their parents and best friends to witness.

This easygoing pair got ready in Andrew's mom's cabin in Mt. Crested Butte. After an adorable first look in the yard, they were all grins, all day. We rented a Jeep and began the offroad adventure elopement they'd been dreaming of. There were so many great places to stop, and they put their trust in me to guide them through the dirt roads. When we got to Kebler Pass and walked into the forest, a quiet hush surrounded them. They knew this was where they wanted to read their private vows to one another. One of my favorite photos of the day was how they exchanged vow books after reading aloud, just so they could soak in each other's words a second time. 

The adventure continued up to horse park and lost lake. We were overdue for a picnic by this time, so they sat on the shore together, popped champagne, and toasted to their good choices. They had packed letters from all their friends, and as they ate they took turns reading out all the cards and well wishes. Honestly, there were too many love letters to read during lunch. 

Andrew's adventure of choice was the Jeep. Jenny's was the horseback ride! She absolutely lit up when she was in the saddle. We did a 2 hour sunset ride through groves of gold aspens with trail horses named Itchy & Scratchy. Andrew's horse kept stopping to graze on the dead brush and my horse ran into his several times. 

Finally, it was time for the actual ceremony! As soon as we arrived at the lake, a horrific wind storm came through. It lasted all of ten minutes, but the rain and dust was unbearable, so we all hid in their cars. There MAY have been champagne being passed around inside just to pass the time.

As soon as the sun came back out, so did we. Jenny's brother-in-law officiated, and their 6 guests plus a baby flanked them on the shore of a beautiful lake. The golden light just got better and better as they shared their first kiss amid whoops and hollers and hugs.

As soon as all the photos were done, the couple's godson spit up all over the groom's pristine tuxedo, which was unfortunate but a hilarious moment. Soon it was time for a campfire cookout under the stars. Grilled steaks and corn on the cob were followed up with toasts, beers, and of course - smores.

Andrew throws his head back in laughter as they re-read the vows they'd each written.

The couple clinked plastic champagne glasses at a mountain lake as they picnicked on the shore.

While dodging a passing rainstorm in their car, the couple pops open some champagne to pass the time.

The couple and their best friends hosted a campfire cookout with smores under the stars.