I was happily reminded this weekend of how truly unique Colorado is. I joined Lindsey and Kyle in Ouray where some of the best views in the country are. Truly. Tommy and I made a road trip out of the weekend and drove down via Durango. We meandered up the Million Dollar Highway with our mouths wide open. This was Tommy’s first time seeing the Swiss Alps-like peaks surrounding him. I had visited the area just last Fall and was equally impressed.
The many miles leading up to the wedding made us pumped to actually get to see Lindsey and Kyle on their big day. Lindsey got ready the historic Beaumont Hotel in downtown Ouray. I loved the old bones to the building and character that seeped through the wallpaper. Once ready, Lindsey and her girls roamed the streets all while getting whistles and cheers from passers by.
It was a short drive to Ridgeway State Park where there ceremony was perched atop a lookout point. A few raindrops paused the suspense of when Kyle could see his girl for the first time. I remember feeling the charge of energy when he saw her walk down the wooded path to meet him. Adam(Lindsey’s brother in law) gave a warm and funny speech that wove together both their taste in music. I had the pleasure of photographing Adam and Lisa’s wedding over eight years ago. These two are the best reminder to me of how much a photographer can stick with a family.
We then toured back to Ouray and hiked Cascade Falls. I was ticketed to see how gung ho Lindsey was in her flats and dress while hiking a pretty steep climb to the waterfall. These two live in Arizona now but definitely get a Colorado badge of toughness! We then headed down to their party at Fellin Park. They pitched a cute mini circus top tent for guests to celebrate at the feet of the grand surrounding mountains.
The highlight of the reception was Lindsey’s Dad performing a well pointed rap song toast for their first dance. Tommy and I were both blown away by the rhymes he was spittin’ (I know I’m not cool enough to say that)! They had a great live band who kept people out of their seats and on the dance floor. They know how to through a party!
Thanks Lindsey and Kyle for valuing Tommy and I to travel down and join you on your big day. Congrats! –Ryan
