Real Weddings- Winter Wonderland: Mara & Patrick’s Day in Winter Park, Colorado

Mara and Patrick traveled from Iowa to celebrate the holidays and tie the knot in the stunning Winter Park, Colorado. Their late November wedding, just after Thanksgiving, embraced the magic of the season, with chilly 25-degree weather and the ever-present possibility of snow. The ski slopes were alive with holiday visitors, adding to the festive atmosphere of their special day. The couple rented a beautiful mountain home near the ski slopes, offering breathtaking views from the living room.

Getting Ready in the Mountains

Bridal Hair and Make up, The Salon Winter Park

We started our day with Mara as she had her hair and makeup done in the peaceful quiet of the morning. Since the wedding was scheduled for early in the day, she had the entire space to herself, a rare and serene moment before the excitement began.

After Mara was ready, we made our way to the house where Patrick was getting ready. The couple wanted to save their first look for the mountaintop, so we took separate portraits in different locations before heading out. Patrick, bundled up against the cold, took the gondola up the mountain while Mara prepared for their emotional first look.

A Magical First Look on the Slopes

One of the best parts of photographing at ski resorts is the incredible scenery, and riding the gondola always adds an extra element of adventure.

Waiting for his Bride for their First Look

As Mara approached Patrick, the cold seemed to disappear, at least for a moment, while they shared their first look. It was such a sweet and emotional moment, and we took advantage of the stunning mountain backdrop for a short couple’s session before heading to the ceremony site.

A Chilly but Beautiful Ceremony

Ceremony site Winter Park Resort, Colorado

Friends and family arrived, bundled up in warm layers, ready to witness Mara and Patrick say “I do.” Their ceremony was beautiful but brief, given the chilly mountain air. Afterward, everyone made their way to Sunspot, a cozy venue at the top of Winter Park Resort, to warm up with delicious food and drinks. The newlyweds enjoyed a quiet moment by the fireplace, thawing out.

Golden Hour Perfection

As luck would have it, the weather gave us a brief window of sunshine, perfect for family photos. The sun peeking through the clouds at just the right moment made for the dreamiest light, so we took advantage of it for another couple’s session. Patrick and Mara braved the cold with big smiles, soaking in every moment of their mountain wedding experience.

Wrapping Up in Winter Park Village

We wrapped up their day by taking the gondola back down to Winter Park Village, capturing a few last shots around the charming resort area. Colorado weather is always unpredictable, and that day was no exception, but it only added to the adventure and beauty of Mara and Patrick’s wedding.

Their day was filled with love, laughter, and breathtaking winter scenery. It was truly an honor to capture their Winter Park wedding, and we couldn’t have asked for a more joyful and adventurous couple!