Your local toolkit:
Table of Contents
1. Welcome
2. Overview
3. Activities
4. Rocky Mountain National Park
5. Eating and Drinking
6. Accommodations
7. Seasons
8. Photography
9. Sample Itinerary
10. Closing
Welcome to my backyard!
Estes Park feels like a second home to me.
I still fondly remember traveling to Colorado to tour CSU with my father when we decided to run up to Rocky Mountain National Park for a quick trip. Like many surprised travelers, we were woefully underdressed for the snow and wind, but we powered through all the famous spots that I now take my clients to this day.
Zac and I toured many different wedding venues, but I knew in my heart that Estes was the spot to proclaim our vows. In 2022, at 8,000 feet, I married the love of my life next to the wild turkeys, looming Sheep Mountain, and quick breeze of the canyon.
I’ve created this guide to help you enjoy this down-to-earth town that I know you will love as much as I do. My long-term goal is to live here and be amongst the friendly locals. For now, I'll be the nosy neighbor from Longmont.
Getting to know Estes
Doorway to the Rockies
Whether you're up for a hearty hike, casting a line in clear waters, or simply cruising along scenic roads, you can connect to the ethereal here.
And the town itself? It's got a genuine, welcoming feel, with local shops and a sense of community. It gets busy though, so planning ahead for meals is a smart move.
Now, the air's a bit thinner. Take it easy, drink plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, dress in layers, and listen to your body. You can even purchase Oxygen at the grocery store.
ACTIVITY IDEAs:
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Booking your Permits
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Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Driving- asdf
- Walking- lkj
- Hiking- klj
Enjoying Your Senses
After a beautifully tiring day in the mountains, it's time to refuel at some favorite restaurants and bars.
I like off-the-beaten-path places since they're harder to find on google and quieter with the crowds, but strolling along the main strip (especially on the backside by the water) will fill everyone with delight.
Drinking:
- Snowy Peaks Winery (I'm a happy member here)
- Coffee on the Rocks (for the geese lovers)
Eating:
- Wayfinder - stream-side formal American
- Bird's Nest - sandwich cafe and venue
- Jim & Bird - fine eatery
- Twin Peaks Owl - jaw-dropping steakhouse
- The Rock Inn - rustic tavern
Time of year
Spring
Waterfalls
Spring
Waterfalls
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Summer
Wildflowers
Summer
Wildflowers
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Fall
Aspen
Fall
Aspen
Get ready to get stopped by elk and tourists!
Winter
Snow
Winter
Snow
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Book your photographer
I. 1 Hour
- Perfect for those portraits where you only want one or two backgrounds for your memories
II. 2 Hour
- My client's favorite for seeing more of the beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park
- Plus, it's great if you're bringing pets since we'll have time to start outside of the park where animals are allowed.
III. 3 Hour
- This is the best option for seeing all the main parts of the park: Bear Lake, Moraine Park, M Curve, Sheep Lakes, and Trail Ridge Road
YOUR SAMPLE ITINERARY
1 Day
Quick trip
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2 Days
More time for pausing
- khj
3 Days
The best weekend
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Testimonials
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Gifts
First Looks
Wedding License
Sunset and Late-Night Photos
The celebration is just beginning!
Your reception
Reception entrances are always a blast, especially when you choose some fun music to make your grand entrance!
Once you're seated, I'll grab a few shots of the two of you at the head table – maybe a cheers or a sweet kiss!
Dinner time is when I like to give you two a little breathing room to relax and enjoy the delicious food you carefully selected.
It usually works best if your photographer(s) are served right after the bridal party, so we're all fueled up and ready to go.
Some venues prefer vendors to eat last, but chatting with your caterer about the dinner timing beforehand will be super helpful to ensure everything flows smoothly.
The toasts
Checking in with your speakers prior to the wedding day goes a long way just so you can get a feel for their nerves or not. They want to make you happy and often feel pressure to make it perfect, leading them to procrastinating. So, reassuring them can be the encouragement they might need to get writing.
Handwritten Speeches
3-5 Minute
Limits
Prior
Check Ins
Mingling
After we're done eating, I'll join you if you walk around tables to say hi. Feel free to pull me in for group photos or special pics with a friend.
Traditions
Bring in as many traditions as you want or as little as you want! Just make sure the DJ knows the plan and keeps me in the loop so I'm ready to go.
Dancing
Get your groove on
Ambient
All the feels
Flash
All the mems
weather
Most of the time, I'll keep your back to the sun, but I'll take a few in the direct light for unique shots.
WEATHER
Beautiful lighting for soft and romantic. It's easy to work with for camera settings.
WEATHER
Ask your venue what the rain plans are and I'll scope out back-up options for us. Love me some indoor shots anyway.
weather
Bring back-up shoes and coats to keep warm between shots. Have a friend bring an umbrella possibly!
After your wedding day,
Open your inbox to a one-of-a-kind gallery.
- 1 week preview
- 1 month preview
- 2 months final
Photo legacies
Your gallery also connects you to my online store, where you can find quality prints and products to display your photos at home.
Life gets busy quickly, and it's easy to put things off, so I'm happy to get the ball rolling into your beautiful heirloom album.
Vendor recommendations
Lastly, please reach out if you want any advice or perspective on any part of planning. I'm happy to share my experience!
Choose people who make you feel cared for.
