I was so delighted to be a part of Jess and Tom’s gorgeous mountain wedding in Estes Park, Colorado. The combination of the trolly, the all-glass banquet room opening to the fresh mountain air, and the jaunt to Rocky Mountain National Park was the epitome of a mountain lover’s dream wedding.
Jess and Tom met in Houston working in the energy sector. I was pleased to see we had that deep connection of having all chosen to flee the urban sprawl of Houston to move to Denver for outdoor adventures and type II fun. And with easily accessible places like Estes Park in Colorado, how could you not think that was an amazing choice?
The Rocky Mountain Wedding Venue
Jess and Tom decided to choose the breathtaking SkyView at Fall River Village (commonly just called Skyview), which is a centrally located Estes Park Wedding Venue. There are a lot of great venues throughout Colorado and the Rocky Mountains, but this aptly named wedding venue is one that takes the cake. It’s no wonder why it’s one of the top wedding venues in Estes Park Colorado.
Rooftop Mountain Views, Grand Windows, and Wrap-Around Decks
Naturally, the location has a lot to do with the venue, but the SkyView venue itself is sure to make your jaw drop. This Colorado wedding venue boasts impressive views of the Rocky Mountains, onsite lodging at Fall River Village Resort, and a spectacular rooftop deck that is perfect for ceremonies and cocktail hours. And don’t worry about the weather, the open-air roof canopy allows for nothing (like the moody Colorado weather) to come between you and your special day.
I could go on about the reception room for days. The floor-to-ceiling windows give you an unobstructed view of the surrounding alpine panorama. And with the ability to open up the large glass doors to the spacious wrap-around deck, it feels like you were placed in the middle of Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you are inside or outside, the entire property is designed to take full advantage of the views.
Getting Ready at SkyView
SkyView goes beyond its stunning ceremony and celebration spaces, providing a spacious suite for the wedding party to prepare. Equipped with large mirrors, ample seating, and a generous counter area, it offers convenience for hair and makeup artists and plenty of space for personal touches. With even the wedding suite having stunning views, you won’t want to miss out on getting-ready photos.
Jess and her wedding crew decided to get ready in the SkyView wedding suite, and as you can see, the space is just gorgeous. I could not pass up getting some timeless bridal photos of Jess on the tufted couch. These getting ready moments during your wedding day are so important. After all, when the flowers have wilted, your cake is eaten, and the last song is over, you’ll always have your photos to relive the rush of emotions when you were preparing to say “I do” to the love of your life.
First Look by the River
SkyView wedding venue sits near the banks of the most charming river. Surrounded by trees and the sounds of the babbling river, this was the perfect spot for Jess and Tom to have their first look. It was such a sweet and intimate moment to capture. When Tom turned around and saw his bride, you could tell there was so much love between them – I may have even spotted the glimmer of a tear in Tom’s eye. Colorado weather showing up in true form, it started to sprinkle a little bit during their first look, but they were great sports and were happy to take my oh-so-handy clear umbrellas to keep the party going.
A Charming Vintage Trolley for Wedding Transportation
One of the fun, authentic touches that Jess and Tom did for their wedding day was to hire a vintage trolly as their wedding transportation. I thought this was such a novel idea. The dark blue exterior with the wood and gold interior accents gave their ride a very ‘vintage salon’ atmosphere.
Picture-Perfect Wedding Party Portraits at The Stanley Hotel
As a wedding photographer, my heart couldn’t have been happier – SkyView wedding venue sits in an ideal spot, just a stone’s throw away from countless scenic photo-worthy spots. We decided to take advantage of its ideal location by taking the trolley car to The Stanley Hotel for wedding party portraits.
This Estes Park hotel is an iconic and picturesque landmark famous for its charm and history. The beautiful white and red of the hotel creates a striking contrast against the Colorado mountain backdrop. And yes, you may also know it for being the inspiration behind Stephen King’s “The Shining”.
An Epic Rocky Mountain Backdrop for Wedding Portraits
After some fun and photos at The Stanley Hotel, we strolled back to the trolley car. Then, we headed just down the road to one of the best places for wedding portraits, and quite possibly in all of the USA—Rocky Mountain National Park. Now, Rocky Mountain National Park does have a permit fee for taking wedding photos, but don’t worry, I will help out with the logistics and make sure that is all taken care of! Its renowned vistas are always worth it!
With countless mountain backdrops, spacious fields, and the possibility of seeing some Colorado wildlife, there are never-ending photo opportunities for your wild heart. The happy couple and their joyful crew definitely made the most of this Rocky Mountain wedding portrait experience and had a few chuckles along the way.
During our memorable photo session, we had a humorous yet heartwarming moment of everyone delicately removing stickers from Jess’s gown after our walk through the fields. It turned out to be quite a prickly experience, but we couldn’t help but share a laugh—just another unforgettable memory to add to their special day! Whether it’s holding your lipstick or removing pesky stickers from your gown, you can trust me to be your wedding day comedic relief and camera-wielding sidekick.
The SkyView Wedding Ceremony
Jess and Tom’s wedding ceremony at SkyView truly felt like something out of a fairytale. Surrounded by mountain views and the closest family and friends, each moment was brimming with genuine emotion. The personal touch of having loved ones share a few words added such sweetness to the atmosphere. And speaking of sweetness, a reading from Winnie the Pooh during the ceremony brought a charming touch of whimsy to the proceedings and a smile to everyone’s face.
The wedding reception embodied pure authenticity, with every corner of the space echoing the essence of Jess and Tom. As avid adventurers in Colorado, they were sure to incorporate mountain touches throughout their wedding day. From the mountain-inspired table markers to the centerpieces, everything complemented SkyView’s modern rustic decor and harmoniously blended with the surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Moments and Delightful Surprises
After the heartfelt ceremony, amidst the happy chatter and celebratory vibes, Jess had a moment of realization – she had forgotten to put on her veil for the ceremony! A delicate accessory that, in the excitement, had momentarily slipped her mind. And honestly, I can relate. My own wedding day had its share of these delights, and I also forgot I had a veil.
But you know what? That’s the beauty of it all. A veil is a special touch, but it did not make or break the day. Your wedding day is about immersing yourself in the moments that truly matter- like the smiles radiating from the faces of your loved ones and the fun that’s so infectious, it carries you away. So, like Jess, embrace each second of your wedding experience, and have so much fun that the little things become cherished snapshots in the epic story of your unforgettable day.
Sunset Wedding Photos, a Private Dance, and a Bit of Adventure at SkyView
If you have the opportunity, I always suggest opting for sunset wedding photos during your wedding day experience. Along with the fact that sunset photos are a striking addition to your wedding gallery, it’s also always nice to take a step away from the hustle and soak it all in. Our sunset journey gave us the chance to have a little moment of fun in solitude.
As we headed out for their sunset photos outside of SkyView, the wedding coordinator playfully suggested they go climbing on the rock by the river. In authentic adventurer spirit, Jess and Tom saw it as more than just a joke – it sounded like a fabulous idea! And I must say that Jess pulled it off gracefully, heels and all.
One of my favorite parts of Jess and Tom’s whole wedding experience was a special moment at the amphitheater. The sweet couple had gone to dance classes in preparation for a fabulous first dance. So, during their sunset wedding photos, I lit up the amphitheater that is near the climbing wall and had them do one final rehearsal before we went back in for their big moment of sharing the dance with their guests. I was honored to be able to capture such a precious memory.
Jess and Tom entered the dancefloor with confidence, ready to get the party started. The grand celebration at the end was an absolute blast. As soon as the dance floor came alive, you could sense the joy radiating from every guest. An electric ending to an adventure lover’s dream Colorado wedding.
As the stars came out, Jess and Tom’s Estes Park wedding drew to a close. From the vintage trolly ride and intimate first look by the river, to the rock climbing and private dance, these moments captured the very essence of who they are – full of life, adventure, and love. Through my lens, I had the privilege to capture these fleeting moments – a glimpse into their journey, their love, and their celebration.
Discovering a Rocky Mountain Hidden Gem: SkyView at Fall River Village
SkyView at Fall River Village really is a true gem tucked away in the Rocky Mountains. It is an amazing place for wedding parties and vendors alike. I always love working at this wedding venue as the wedding photographer. The owner, who used to be a caterer, treats the vendors like gold, going the extra mile to ensure vendors are well-cared for (and well-fed) so that they, in turn, can provide the best experience. It’s a wonderful thing to experience such genuine care and collaboration.
A Photographer’s Delight: Capturing the Magic of SkyView Weddings
This Colorado wedding venue is a dream playground for anyone planning an Estes Park wedding. The views alone could make your heart skip a beat. Plus, the fact that it is an accessible wedding venue with plenty of room for friends and family, close to so many epic Colorado locations, makes it an easy choice.
Capturing Memories: Your Estes Park Wedding at SkyView
As a Colorado wedding photographer, I strive to document the bold colors of the landscape, creating a cinematic gallery that captures not only the sights but also the raw emotions that make your day truly authentic. So, whether it’s the quiet moments of reflection, the shared laughter with loved ones, the spirited dancing, or the daring climb on a riverside rock, every element contributes to the beautiful journey that is your wedding day.
Let’s start planning your Estes Park wedding at Skyview for an intentional wedding day free of stress, and a wedding gallery that, like your favorite jeans, only gets better with time.
