Intimate, breathtaking, and filled with love – these are some of the words that come to mind when I think of micro weddings. As a micro wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing many extraordinary moments that unfold in the most personal and heartfelt settings. But Elizabeth and Jake’s Airbnb micro wedding in the Colorado mountains was truly something special, a celebration that perfectly embodied the magic of micro weddings.
Meet the Couple: Elizabeth + Jake
Elizabeth and Jake are the sweetest couple and have been inseparable for seven incredible years. Their journey together has been filled with shared adventures, a love for their home team – the Kansas City Chiefs – and the companionship of their two beloved pups, Teddy and Graham. When the time came for Jake to propose, he ingeniously attached the engagement ring to one of their sweet pup’s collars, creating a special start to their wedding adventure.
Planning Their Intimate Wedding
The entire experience of planning Elizabeth and Jake’s micro wedding was a true joy. When they contacted me just a few months before their wedding date, it felt like the stars had aligned. Our connection was immediate and genuine, and our shared enthusiasm for their special day was undeniable.
While I always offer my couples assistance in assembling their vendor dream team, Elizabeth and Jake had already started mapping out their journey. They had a crystal-clear vision for their micro wedding and had mindfully handpicked most of their vendors. It was clear that they were passionate about crafting an unforgettable and authentic experience.
As for the Airbnb ‘wedding venue,’ Elizabeth’s mom stumbled upon the property while scrolling TikTok, and it immediately captured their hearts. They secured the Airbnb before reaching out to me, proving how sometimes, fate guides us to the most breathtaking places.
The Perfect Airbnb Wedding Venue
To this day, I cannot get over how perfect that Airbnb was for a Colorado mountain micro wedding. Everything about it seemed made for their intimate wedding day. It was a stunning property with glass sides that fully opened, transforming the living room into an open-air mountain view masterpiece. The views were truly incredible, and this property took full advantage.
The top patio of the Airbnb was spacious – fabulously sized for a ceremony and perfectly oriented to the sun. There was also a second stunning patio just a short walk down the hill to another overlook. While this option was very tempting, the terrain required good footwear to traverse, leading Elizabeth and Jake to opt for the upper patio for their ceremony and dances. However, they didn’t miss the chance to change shoes and walk down to the lower patio for breathtaking sunset portraits.
But this Airbnb was more than just a beautiful backdrop and venue for their micro wedding; it was a one-stop-shop. With several rooms and a guest house for you and your nearest and dearest to stay, it transformed into a comprehensive experience. The equipped kitchen allowed for easy cooking, and the added bonus of a hot tub offered relaxation during wedding prep amidst the stunning natural surroundings.
Located on the edge of Pike National Forest at over 8,300 feet, this property provided access to 3 acres, giving Elizabeth and Jake endless options for creating cherished moments and beautiful photos throughout their wedding day and weekend.
Colorado Weather On Their Wedding Day
Now, let’s dive into the ever-unpredictable topic of weather. It’s a bit of a toss-up here in Colorado, which is why having a solid rain plan in place is always a wise move. Leading up to their special day, Elizabeth and Jake’s families stayed at the Airbnb for multiple days, and they experienced quite a downpour. Colorado has experienced record rainfall this year, so it’s understandable that they were nervous about the possibility of their wedding day being a rainy affair as well.
As their special day approached, the forecast continued to hint at possible rain. However, when their wedding day finally arrived, it brought a delightful surprise. Instead of rain, the sky cleared up, and the sun made a grand appearance. The clouds, which had been looming, constantly broke off in the distance, creating the perfect atmosphere for a mountain micro wedding.
Their Airbnb Micro Wedding Day
I absolutely adore micro weddings because they offer the conveniences and amenities of a traditional wedding, while embracing the intimacy and personalization of an elopement. It’s a chance to craft a day that’s unapologetically original, just like you.
When you choose an Airbnb tucked away in the Colorado mountains, it feels like slipping into nature’s embrace for a private “I do.” It allows the chance to be nestled in the heart of nature with the added comfort of a mountain home and your dearest companions by your side.
For Elizabeth and Jake, their guest list consisted of 10 cherished guests, along with those present in spirit. With such an intimate gathering, every moment was an opportunity to forge deep memories and connections. Thanks to this, relaxed timelines, and a no-stress atmosphere, their wedding day flowed effortlessly, allowing them to savor each minute to the fullest.
Capturing the Precious Details
I began this beautiful day by capturing their wedding details. It’s a moment I absolutely adore as it allows me to unleash my creative spirit and capture so many memories in a single frame.
To make sure no detail goes forgotten, I send all my couples a ‘Stephanie Yves Photography’ branded tote bag to gather their wedding day treasures for epic detail shots. Two weeks before the big day, I email my couples a reminder, complete with a specific packing list to ensure everything is prepared.
I couldn’t have been more delighted when Elizabeth and Jake followed these instructions to a T. Their meticulous organization was truly impressive, and I must admit, with a hint of pride, that the results of their effort were nothing short of breathtaking.
Getting Ready Moments
Capturing the getting-ready moments of a wedding is always a profoundly special experience. These moments brim with anticipation, laughter, and excitement. And, let me tell you, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting when you can slide open the glass walls, inviting the crisp mountain air to fill the room.
Elizabeth radiated pure joy as she prepared for her big day in the Airbnb. Her pearl-embellished robe was the perfect complement to her veil and wedding shoes—each detail meticulously selected to complement her wedding day vision.
Pre-Ceremony Gifts and Letters
Now, this is where the magic truly began to unfold on their wedding day. As we ventured out to capture those beautiful pre-ceremony portraits, Elizabeth and Jake had a heartwarming surprise in store.
The couple mindfully exchanged sentimental gifts and heartfelt letters, a cherished moment that I had the privilege of being a part of. As their photographer, I played a secret courier, delivering their tokens of love and carefully written words from one to the other. I made sure to communicate their specific instructions to one another regarding the order in which all gifts and letters should be opened, all while capturing these priceless moments in photos.
Elizabeth gifted Jake a guitar and a pin bearing his mother’s photo. This particular photo held deep significance, as it was taken on the day Jake’s mom accompanied Elizabeth to choose her wedding dress. In a touching gesture, Jake’s dad pinned the photo on him, and Jake proudly wore it throughout the day.
As tears welled up, I found myself holding back my own, knowing that Jake had lost his mother just five months before their wedding date.
In return, Jake, ever the thoughtful gentleman, had prepared gifts for all the ladies in Elizabeth’s family. Gold necklaces for Elizabeth’s mom and her two sisters, along with a dazzling diamond necklace for Elizabeth herself.
These gestures set the stage for a day overflowing with heartfelt moments and a profound sense of togetherness. They served as a touching reminder of love’s enduring power, a bond that shone brightly even in the face of loss.
A Micro Wedding Ceremony with Breathtaking Views
Now, as the heartfelt exchange of gifts and letters concluded, it was time for the ceremony, where the vision of their mountain micro wedding would come into full bloom.
Their ceremony unfolded against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty, with the majestic mountains and endless vistas forming an indelible setting. Just moments before the ceremony started, Elizabeth’s father shared a beautiful first look with her, creating a truly heartwarming moment filled with love and unwavering support.
Mindful of their loved ones who were there in spirit, Elizabeth and Jake created a memorial table for their wedding day, a heartfelt gesture that spoke volumes.
One of the most meaningful aspects of their ceremony was their exchange of vows. Elizabeth and Jake chose to write their own, a choice that resonates deeply with me as an intimate wedding photographer. While they both had vow books, there was a moment of humor when Jake, known for his questionable penmanship, had to resort to reading his vows from his phone. It was a memorable and endearing moment, showcasing the genuine and light-hearted spirit of their day.
Portraits and a First Dance Among the Mountains
Following their emotional ceremony, the happy couple signed their marriage certificate and captured memorable family photos. And, of course, they couldn’t forget to include their sweet pups, Teddy and Graham, in the photos. Afterward, we ventured around the gorgeous property for breathtaking wedding portraits among the mountains, while their cherished guests enjoyed an intimate cocktail hour.
The Airbnb itself offered an abundance of options for capturing stunning portraits, adding yet another checkmark to its list of qualities making it a perfect micro wedding venue.
Upon their return, the newlyweds made their grand entrance. They shared an intimate first dance on the deck of the Airbnb, which served as the perfect stage for this special moment. Elizabeth and her father also shared a heartwarming dance, adding an extra layer of emotion to this already unforgettable day.
A Family-Style Dinner with a Private Chef
As their wedding day neared its close, Elizabeth, Jake, and their 10 guests changed into their coziest clothes to finish the night off with an intimate family dinner. They gathered around a long family-style table, thoughtfully adorned with rustic yet elegant decor, where their nearest and dearest could share the meal together. Chef Rich of Five Star to You crafted a mouthwatering menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, filling the air with irresistible aromas.
Some highlights from the menu included a Farmers Market Salad with fresh greens, a succulent Ribeye with beef fat brussels sprouts, and a delightful lemon cheesecake for dessert. Each dish was a culinary delight, infused with a personal touch thanks to their talented chef.
Planning Your Airbnb Micro Wedding
If Elizabeth and Jake’s Airbnb micro wedding doesn’t inspire you to plan your own, I’m not sure what will. Choosing an Airbnb as your wedding venue offers so many benefits—it combines the intimacy and charm of an elopement with the convenience and amenities of a traditional wedding.
The Budget-Friendly Option
One of the standout advantages of an Airbnb or VRBO micro wedding is its budget-friendly nature. This option allows you to allocate your wedding budget more strategically, leaving extra room for personalized details, exceptional photography, gourmet catering, or even unique guest experiences.
Given that Airbnb rentals often come at a lower price point compared to traditional wedding venues, you have the freedom to make your big day truly extraordinary and personal. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
Creating a “Wedding Weekend” Elopement
Another wonderful advantage of hosting your micro wedding at an Airbnb is the opportunity to transform your special day into a “wedding weekend” elopement, just as Elizabeth and Jake did. Gathering your loved ones for several days of bonding and celebration can be an incredibly meaningful experience. Whether you choose to hike together, prepare meals as a group, or explore the local area, it’s a chance to create lasting memories and get ready for the wedding celebration to come.
Choosing the Perfect Property
When choosing an Airbnb or VRBO for your micro wedding, be sure to familiarize yourself with the property’s rules and restrictions. Confirm that the property allows weddings and check any pet policies if you plan to include your furry friends. Consider your needs for kitchen facilities and spaces for various wedding activities, such as a first dance or family-style meal.
While a natural backdrop can be breathtaking, remember to plan for unexpected weather changes. Opt for a property with indoor accommodations and spaces in case of rain or inclement weather. Flexibility is key to ensuring your day runs smoothly, rain or shine.
And if you’re looking for a more in-depth guide on planning your own Airbnb or VRBO micro wedding, be sure to check out my other blog post!
The Best of Both Worlds
Airbnb micro weddings and elopements offer an incredible opportunity for a highly personalized and authentic wedding day experience. They provide the best of both worlds—an intimate setting, relaxed schedules, unique activities, and complete customization, all while enjoying the convenience of on-site vendors and well-maintained facilities.
Ultimately, an Airbnb micro wedding or elopement lets you celebrate your love in a way that truly reflects your unique journey. It’s about cherishing each moment, forging lasting memories, and relishing the happiness of your special day with your nearest and dearest.
Why Wait? Plan Your Dream Wedding Day
So, why wait? Reach out to start planning your dream Airbnb micro wedding or elopement, and let your love story unfold in a setting that’s as extraordinary as your love itself.
All-Star Vendor Team:
Hair: Brianna Miller Hair
Makeup: Sabrina Deemer Makeup
Private chef: Chef Rich of Five Star to you
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