Melinda and Leland had a perfect fall day. In November, we are often concerned that it is going to be drab or snowy but, the wonderful thing about Colorado is that you can have any kind of weather. Melinda and Leland’s weather was lovely. They had perfect blue skys and the fall colors stuck around unusually long. We were all ecstatic. Moreso, however, what made the day perfect was the joy and love surrounding these two incredible people.
I can’t imagine anyone meeting Melinda and Leland and not liking them immediately. They are so sweet, light-hearted, funny, and charismatic. You just want to be around them. From the time we got there Melinda had her big beautiful smile all over her face and Leland was being is theatrical and silly self. They both are the perfect subjects for photography. They mix the right amount of fun and perfection in posing. Honestly, we could have called them models all day. I am pretty sure a passerby thought that they were.
Together they are a dream. From the moment they read their letters to each other we were all crying and laughing and ooing and ahhing. Gosh, I pretty much had the full gamit of emotions. The bridesmaids saw it too. They were watching from a window inside Highlands Ranch Mansion. The groomsmen tried to snoop too but I kicked them out. There is something special about that moment being between the two of them. It was extraordinary.
The day ran so smoothly. Everyone was smiles and laughs and so happy to see these two join. The dance party was epic. There were barely any people in their seats once the dance floor opened. In fact, I would be bold enough to say it was one of the top 5 best dance parties I have ever seen. Leland is a killer dancer and his groomsmen follow suit. It was, however, the grandparents that got all my attention. They were all out there the entire time, dancing up a storm. Janae got one of my favorite dance photos of all time because of it.
Needless to say it was a great party. It was a great party to exclaim a marriage that was more than meant to be. I am so happy for Leland and Melinda. Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. McCluskey!
Thank you to all the incredible vendors:
These wine colored bridesmaids dresses match the flowers and mansion perfectly.
The getting ready rooms at Highlands Ranch Mansion are so elegant. Rich and dark for the men and light and elegant for the women.
The finishing touches with the bride putting on earrings and the groom tying his tie.
Bride and the room at the window.
Leland is walking to the first look while the bridesmaids spy.
They read each other letters back to back before seeing each other.
You can tell they were so excited.
Wedding Party looking suave on the steps of the Highlands Ranch Mansion.
The back area at the Mansion usually has a ceremony but we got to use the big evergreen trees for golden light.
The way they look at each other is so dreamy.
The wind was blowing perfectly. I am pretty sure they are lying about not being models.
Ceremony out front of the Highlands Ranch Mansion.
Celebrating and showing off rings.
Check out the beautiful fall colors still around in November!
This venue is a fairytale for a wedding.
Gold embellished cake by Kelley Kakes.
Clever cards to keep peoples drink fresh while dancing.
First Dances.
Check out the dance party!
Perfectly planned sparkler exit by Sapphire Celebrations.
