From Dawn to Dusk: Early October Micro-Wedding in Crested Butte

Bride recites her private vows to her groom while standing near the edge of a pristine lake with snow-dusted mountains behind them.
 

Journey Through Epic Views with K + W for their Micro-Wedding Painted with Crested Butte’s Fall Colors

In the crisp air of early October, K + W found the perfect backdrop for their intimate elopement in colorful Crested Butte, Colorado. From the calm waters of a remote lake to the perfect pockets of yellow aspen trees, this day was stunning from sunrise to sunset.

In the soft glow of dawn, these star-crossed lovers met up at a serene lake to recite their personal vows in private and take incredible photos. In classic Andrea Enger elopement style, the pair got ready on opposite sides of their SUV, keeping their outfits a surprise. There, against the stunning scene, W awaited his beaming bride. While a bit of fog always adds to the ambiance, I wasn't missing it on this day because the lake's reflection was unbelievable!

Amidst the fall colors, mustardy orange foliage and forest green trees painted a picturesque background for our love birds. Their first look, a magical moment amongst the snow-kissed mountains, set the tone for a day filled with love and breathtaking scenery. W said he prayed for a "life partner with red hair," and the heavens gifted him with K, plus the perfect background to make her red hair even more vibrant.

After capturing their first exchange of vows and some epic moments by the lake, they stopped for a picnic with their favorite treats like conchas, donuts, and coffee. With full hearts and bellies, they explored the golden aspens and took in the breathtaking views unique to Crested Butte in the peak season.

They spent the afternoon with their family at the cabin, and later in the day, with the help of Kaitlin Young, this stunning bride got ready to say "I Do" for the traditional ceremony. As the autumn sun shined brightly above, a rainbow joined Katie's mom during the processional, and then her father walked her down the aisle. With their fur baby close by, the duo exchanged vows & rings in front of their closest friends and family. Dazi played a significant role as their witness, leaving a pawprint on their hearts and marriage certificate (a delightful Colorado privilege).

As the sun slowly sank behind the mountains, they danced, sang, and toasted to their union next to one of nature's marvels. As self-proclaimed foodies, they indulged in a delicious private chef dinner by Crested Butte Catering Co—an exquisite finale to a day brimming with adventure and awe.

Check out my recommended vendors, venues, and BnB’s in my complete

…and be sure to see how this venue totally transforms in different seasons:

Kyla + Levi’s Summer Ceremony in July

Engaged couple stand on opposite sides of their SUV, peeking over the top as they prepare to meet for their first look.
On the edge of the alpine lake, the groom awaits his bride as she walks towards him from behind. Her red hair pops against the green reflection of the trees on the lake.
The groom holds his bride closely by the waist and takes in her beauty as she wipes away a her first happy tear of the day.
A wide shot of the couple at the lake, surrounded by the warm colors of fall on the slopes and snow-kissed peaks. The lake's reflection perfectly mirrors this epic background.
A black and white shot of the pair holding hands and smiling at each other, knowing this is exactly how they pictured their wedding day.
The groom, in his striking blue suit and fall-colored boutonniere, recites his private vows from a personalized wooden vow book.
The bride wrapping her arms around her groom as they share a beautiful kiss by the lake.
Bride and groom walk along the coast while smiling brightly at each other. The bride, in her A-line gown, holds her red, orange, and peach bouquet.
Shot from the distance, the couple hold each other at the very each of the lake, so much so that they reflect off of it.
The couple celebrate their union at this stunning Crested Butte lake, walking towards the camera with their hands (and bouquet) in the air.
With the sun rising on the mountain behind the, the groom spins his bride as they dance on the edge of the lake. This is what elopement dreams are made of.
The couple, and their pomeranian mix, Dazi, sit on a blanket for a lakeside picnic. They brought coffee and their favorite treats including conchas and donuts.
These coffee lovers toast their cups of coffee during their alpine elopement picnic. They smile at each other knowing this is probably the best coffee they've ever had.
The groom dips and kisses his red-haired bride as they journey through the bright yellow aspen trees in Crested Butte.

Congratulations, K + W!

Dress: Impression Bridal

Suit: Suit Supply

Hair & Makeup: Kaitlin Young

Catering: Crested Butte Catering Co

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Ready to Celebrate Your Day Your Way?

Elopement Photographer Andrea Enger (Portrait by Realm Studios)

If you’re ready to get the ball rolling to secure your photographer, let’s do it!

You can do that by filling out the form below, emailing me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or by calling or texting me at (720) 739-0784. I look forward to hearing from you!

If you’re still in the research phase, I hear ya! Here are some more resources that my couples have found helpful. I hope you do, too!

Colorado Elopement Guide

Elopement Planning Toolkit (free download)

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