I recently had the pleasure of photographing Lauren and Will’s marriage at one of my favorite ranch wedding venues. The day was absolutely perfect– just enough cloud coverage that it wasn’t too hot (though we were a little nervous for rain, but spoiler, it held off all day). Everything just fell perfectly into place, from getting ready to one of the best dance parties I’ve ever witnessed, this day was a one of my favorite weddings and favorite couples ever!
Lauren and Will live in Dallas, which is where I was located pre-Colorado. During our initial inquiry call I knew these were my kinda folks. We chatted about everything, from their proposal to the fact that I hadn’t had power for 2 days due to Dallas’ “snowpocalypse”.
Four days before their wedding I did their engagement photos up at Chautauqua Park in Boulder. Their sweet dog Marley accompanied us (she was also the flower girl at their wedding). Right away we all got on like old friends. I had never done an engagement session so close to wedding day, but it really did mean we were all so comfortable on the big day, 10/10 would recommend.
To Lauren and Will
Thank you for trusting me to capture your day! You and your family made me feel so incredibly welcome. It was an honor and a joy to spend my Fourth of July with y’all. Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness!! Can’t wait to link up when I’m back in Texas! 🤘
-Leah
The Deets
How did y’all meet?
“We met while both working at Hilton! We were both selected to a leadership development program after college in Hilton’s Dallas office. We immediately connected as we had the same sense of humor, work ethic and heart for others. Quickly we went from coworkers to great friends, and in no time I had caught mad feelings. In an effort to see each other as much as possible, separately, we both planned office happy hours multiple times throughout the week. Finally, Will asked me out on a date, and the company happy hours never occurred at the same frequency again. From there, the rest is history.”
Tell me about the proposal!
“Will took me to Los Cabos for a “MBA Graduation celebration”, as he had just wrapped up a 2 year program at SMU. Little did I know, he was really planning a proposal trip. He asked me on the beach at sunset. He had professional photographers there to capture the moment. The hotel staff was prepared as well and had an engagement dinner overlooking the ocean ready for us after while the excitement continued to set in. It was a beautiful evening and certainly one we will never forget.”
What are you most looking forward to about being married?
“Calling Will my HUSBAND!! But mostly just living life together in the smallest details. :)”
The Wedding Day
Getting Ready
Getting ready at Spruce is such a breeze because there is so much space to spread out. I loved how Lauren would peak over the balcony to get a glimpse of the reception space coming together. After a few getting ready photos and Lauren was fully dressed, she did a fun first look with her bridesmaids and a first look with her dad, before heading out to another first look with Will. It was a lot of first looks but every single one was sentimental and emotional.
First Look and Portraits
Will and Lauren chose to do a first look and read personalized vows. I am such an advocate for first looks, not only does it give you portrait time but it also is a great time to take a moment together as a couple. Will and Lauren’s first look was perfect– Will had the response I think every bride dreams of. My favorite part of the day? When Lauren mentioned in her vows about promising to kill spiders for Will and then promptly removed a spider from his as he read his vows.
Wedding Party
Because we did a first look, we were able to complete all our wedding party portraits before the ceremony. This meant all we had to do post ceremony were family photos, allowing Lauren and Will to enter their reception as soon as they wanted!
Ceremony
After wedding party portraits it was time for the ceremony!! One big misconception about first looks is that it’s not as emotional or special seeing each other down the aisle. Well Will proved that false, his face seeing Lauren walking down the aisle was a freakin tear jerker. But what truly got me was his dad, my camera was fogging up watching how emotional he got.
Sunset Portraits
Right after dinner we snuck off for the quickest, rapid fire portrait session of all time. I think we were out there for maybe tops 10 minutes, including the walk from the reception space to the ceremony site. I always encourage a little sunset session (even if it’s just 10 minutes) when you choose to do a first look. This ensures you have more variety in your wedding gallery and you get some photos with that gorgeous sunset-y light.
The Reception
Now it was time to party! And lemme tell ya, this group did. This was one of the most fun groups to photograph, from wild groomsmen to Will’s dad absolutely tearing up the dancefloor to Will literally tearing his pants. Normally once the end of the night comes around I am thankful, but this was one wedding that I just didn’t want to end.
Lauren & Will’s Vendor Team
Wedding Planner – Tied & True
Wedding Dress – Mockingbird Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses – Azazie
Florals – Statice Floral
Cake – Cak the Bakery
Catering – Biscuits & Berries
DJ – A Music Plus
Videographer – JKloppy
Makeup – Beauty by Isabella
Hair – Rebecca Marshall
Learn more about Leah, a Colorado wedding photographer
Hey there! I hope you enjoyed this wedding highlight of Lauren and Will’s big day! I’m a wedding photographer based out of Denver and serving locations across Colorado and beyond. I’m originally from Texas but beelined it here as fast as I could. I’ve always loved the Colorado way of life– the mountains, the food, the people, it’s unlike any place I’ve ever been! Being a wedding photographer here is a dream. I love serving fun and in love couples. If you’re wanting candid, authentic imagery with a creative twist and a luxury experience, I’m your girl! I’d love to learn more about you and your special day! You can send me a message here or using the contact form below.
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