Two Brides are Better than One: LGBT Elopement

There was something very special about this wedding. From the beautiful weather, to the sprinkling of early fall colors in the background, to the love these two shared, this LGBT elopement was straight out of a love story.

Both brides got ready at the house they had rented in Snowmass. Lauren got ready on the main level, and Shelly got ready upstairs. Throughout the morning, I went back and forth capturing the details of them getting ready, while also photographing their shoes, ring boxes, and jewelry outside.

After both were dressed, it was time for the first look. I had Lauren set with her eyes closed, facing away from the house. Shelly came down with eyes closed, guided by their wedding planner, Lilli Black (of Sweetly Paired). The two went back to back and then turned around on my count. Witnessing first looks is one of my favorite parts of the day and the first look between these two did not disappoint. Full of smiles and compliments, these two shared a giant hug after seeing each other for the first time.

Another one of my favorite moments happened just after this when the two brides exchanged gifts. Lauren told me earlier in the day that they had made sure to see each other’s dresses (on the hanger) before purchasing to make sure they didn’t get the same one. Apparently, buying the same or very similar things was common in their family. Knowing this, I couldn’t believe my eyes when they opened their gifts and they had gifted each other the same thing! The look on Lauren’s face when she realized that they had gifted each other the same bracelet was priceless!

After the hilarious gift exchange, we left the house and headed to the ceremony site at Maroon Bells where Lauren and Shelly shared their vows and made a promise for forever. I absolutely love being included in wedding ceremonies and getting to see the love between two people through their expressions, touches and vows. As a Denver LGBT wedding photographer, I have seen a lot of LGBT elopement and wedding ceremonies. It is always my favorite part of the day due to the immense love that you feel surrounding you in those moments by the couple, the friends and the family. While all weddings are unique and special, LGBT couples have different obstacles to overcome in everyday life which translate into a bigger celebration of equality and love at each elopement or wedding.

When all the photos were done, I drove them back to their condo for dinner and drinks with their family. As we drove up, I saw everyone lined on the balcony cheering, ready to welcome and congratulate the two newly married brides. Talk about a love story.

Wedding Planner: Sweetly Paired / Wedding Officiant: Wedlock Officiants (Scot) / Florals: The Olive & Poppy