Rocky Mountain National Park Wedding at 3M Curve

Bride and groom at Rocky Mountain National Park 3M Curve wedding by RMNP Wedding Photography Jennie Crate

Alex and Melanie are kind souls who have grown up together. They’ve known each other since high school, back when Alex sported long hair and a beanie. And yes, this fact made it’s way into every toast on their wedding day! I work with many couples who choose to marry in their late twenties and early thirties, after 10 years together. Many of them have a long and beautiful history . I think this kind of backstory adds a real depth to the story of a relationship and I love seeing that history manifest itself over the course of a wedding day.

The day of their RMNP 3M Curve Wedding, I drove up to Estes Park as a storm crept it’s way up the mountain range. Despite the ominous threat of rain, I found Alex and Melanie in relaxed and excited spirits. Alex chose to get ready with his parents and his brother and the laughs shared between them set the tone for the day perfectly. A few cabins over, Melanie relaxed in hair and make up by herself. Then she welcomed in her sister and mother when it was time to get dressed.

Not long after I arrived, the rain started to pour, but it truly felt like the weather goddess was on our side. Just as we were preparing for a first look indoors, the skies cleared. Melanie and Alex were able to share their first look by the rocks at Solitude Cabins.

A short time later, we hopped in our cars and met up with 15 of Alex and Melanie’s closest family and friends at 3M Curve in Rocky Mountain National Park. One of my favorite memories from their ceremony, was just before Melanie walked down the “aisle”. Their family was gathered around and in place, and Alex was waiting on top of the rocks. Then everyone realized at the same time that they really didn’t know how to signal the “start” of the wedding. But then someone said “we need music” and everyone started humming the traditional “Here Comes the Bride” song.

Melanie’s mom officiated the sweet and personal ceremony, and it wasn’t long before Alex and Melanie were officially pronounced married!

Right after family photos, we got hit with another rush of steady rain. We were beginning to think that our plans for photos in RMNP wasn’t in the cards. Then, as we headed back to the cars, the clouds parted and the sun came out. And boy, it couldn’t have been more perfect.

Post photos, we headed over to Taharaa Mountain Lodge, where Alex and Melanie hosted an elegant reception for 50 friends and family. They dined, danced, and toasted their way into married life and it was the perfect way to spend a summer evening in the mountains.

Congratulations Alex and Melanie–it was so wonderful to celebrate with you!