An Intimate Summer Elopement in Steamboat Springs
Love found its perfect backdrop nestled in the serene mountain town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Michelle & Gavin decided they wanted to tie the knot at one of their favorite spots, Pearl Lake State Park. This was a day filled with love, laughter, and adventure as Michelle & Gavin celebrated their commitment to one another, surrounded by their nearest and dearest. Keep reading to see the magic of this intimate celebration in Steamboat Springs that perfectly embodied everything this couple cherished.
The Perfect Start to an Intimate Elopement
Pearl Lake, with its crystal-clear waters and majestic mountain views, served as the ideal canvas for this love story. Michelle & Gavin had previously camped at the lake and fell in love with it. Towering pines, serene campgrounds, and the tranquil Pearl Lake created an enchanting atmosphere for their ceremony. Michelle and the girls got ready in an adorable yurt they had rented while Gavin got ready in their trailer. They call it “the Tuggie” since they tugged it all throughout the country on an amazing road trip during the pandemic. M+G chose to exchange vows at one of the park’s camp sites, where their love story would forever be etched into the landscape.
Michelle + Gavin stood before their loved ones as their ceremony began with some dramatic clouds hovering behind. Luckily, it never rained and made for some gorgeous lighting. This intimate affair filled with heartfelt vows, tears of joy, and tender moments, even had some goldfish to share as a snack! Love truly blossomed amidst the breathtaking beauty of the mountains.
Fun Activities to Include During Your Elopement
Following the ceremony, after a champagne toast and family portraits, the newlyweds embarked on a charming canoe ride across Pearl Lake. With lots of laughter, they explored the pristine waters and hoped to catch something with their trusty fishing pole. The shimmering lake with the green of the trees mirrored the couple’s love, reflecting the beauty of their journey.
After their adventurous canoe ride, Michelle & Gavin along with their loved ones headed back into Steamboat Springs for their reception. Here, the celebration continued at Aurum. With panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains, the rooftop provided a stunning backdrop for toasts, first dances, and celebration.
Post Wedding Adventure
Michelle + Gavin had an incredible elopement in Steamboat Springs and still wanted some time to enjoy an adventure together as newlyweds. We planned a post adventure session where it was just the three of us. We all met up at the trailhead of Long Lake at 5am. Plenty of time to hike in and catch the sunrise. It was beyond cold and windy, but the magical glow we witnessed on the mountains was incredible and definitely worth it!
We continued hiking down the trail, stopping and admiring views along the way until we made it back to the river where the newlyweds decided to stop and fish for a while. I love when couples bring their passions and activities they enjoy doing into their wedding experience. In their suit and dress, Gavin and Michelle stood next to each other along the river casting away while the sun was finally high enough to start warming them up.
The Best of Both Worlds
What made this elopement truly special was the focus on what mattered most to M+G. They easily combined the love they shared and the people who meant the world to them. They found a way to create a day that was uniquely their own in a beautiful natural setting. Including a separate day for themselves was the perfect way to have the best of both worlds. A day with loved ones and a day to themselves. If you’re torn between how to combine all the things you want to do for your wedding day, think about splitting it into two days! There’s always a way to make it all happen!
This intimate summer elopement in Steamboat Springs was a day filled with love, adventure, and the beauty of nature.
As an elopement and wedding photographer, I am constantly reminded what a privilege it is to capture the magic of this day, and hope it inspires others to celebrate love in their own unique way!
If you’d like to see more elopement photography or inquire, please fill out a contact form. I look forward to helping you create your own unforgettable moments!
Shoutout to the amazing vendor team that worked on this beautiful wedding day!
Photography: Valerie Rae Photography
Videography: Benjamin Duke
Florals: The Glacier Lily
Planning: Heavenly Days Events
Ceremony: Pearl Lake State Park
Reception: Aurum Food and Wine
Cake: Steamboat Baker
Makeup: Water Side Day Spa
