Last fall we met up with Lauren and Matt at Sand Dunes National Park for an epic day of engagement photos. They were game for everything from playing guitar in the cacti to racing to the top of the dunes as the sun set (please note: if you want the most epic photos, you actually do have to go to the top of the highest one, be sure to plan your time accordingly, or be ready to run!). We had an amazing time shooting, exploring, and getting to know Matt and Lauren. It was basically everything we hope for in as session, so we had high expectations for the wedding!

As Coloradans we spend embarrassingly little time exploring the state (hey, Summit County has everything we moved here for- skiing, snow, biking, snow, rowing, snow, hiking… you get the picture), so we’re always excited to shoot in places we haven’t been before. Getting to go down to Colorado Springs to Garden of the Gods Resort and Club was great both because it was Lauren and Matt’s wedding, and because we got to see the garden and Pike’s Peak for the first time!

We started the morning in the resort as Matt and Lauren prepared for the day. Matt spent the morning with his sisters helping get his nephews ready while Lauren’s sister did her makeup. Once Lauren was buttoned into her dress we watched a quick thunderstorm roll through, which might sound ominous, but as photographers we’re always thrilled to have the dramatic skies a little bit of cloudiness provides. Luckily, as always, Lauren and Matt were super laid back about the weather, no thunderstorm big or small was going to slow these two down!

Lauren’s father walked her down the aisle where the guests had a stunning view of the Garden of the Gods and Pike’s Peak as the ceremony backdrop. Matt’s sister presided over the ceremony, making everything that much more personal and touching. Lauren and Matt exchanged heartfelt vows and promised to always laugh together, something we can attest they excel at! After the ceremony we enjoyed speeches and cocktail hour before sneaking Matt and Lauren away for a couple of portraits. The reception began with cake, dances, and a backdrop we are going to have a difficult time convincing people is real. As the sky darkened the party kicked into high gear and Matt and Lauren proved how much fun they could be! We had an absolutely wonderful time working with Lauren and Matt, and adored them and their family and friends. We could not have asked for a better wedding to kick off our 2019 season!

Lauren and Matt /// Married