Erin + Matt | Small summer wedding at Garden of the Gods Park

Their Story:  “Matt and I met when he scheduled a haircut with me. We became fast friends and have been inseparable since.  Two and a half years before we met, I was in an accident where my then-boyfriend and I were broadsided by a drunk driver. I lost my boyfriend and my leg.  Today, life is good. Matt supported me in every way imaginable, through my prolonged healing process. He even created multiple blinged-out prosthetic leg covers so I could feel sassy again. This man loves with his entire being, has a wicked sense of humor, and always makes me feel safe.  When we decided to marry, we both agreed that we wanted to exchange our vows in Colorado. I have a lifetime of memories associated with this state; Matt more recently became enamored of it. We were thrilled to find Custom Weddings of Colorado. With their network of professionals and framework in place to guide us throughout the process, beginning to end, our dream of an intimate outdoor Colorado wedding will be realized. We look forward to a beautiful life together.”

© Rebecca Marie Photography

© Rebecca Marie Photography

Wedding Details: we first started working with Erin and her mother (who was beyond ecstatic about their engagement) through our ceremony site report in which they identified their top priorities as scenic mountain views, easily accessible, and a great get-to destination.  They wanted an easy planning experience, which I couldn’t agree more and one of the main reasons WHY I offer this intimate wedding package:  planning a small wedding shouldn’t be more complicated that what you need (we help you stay focused on priorities).  We guide couples through the process providing little “chunks” of “homework” so that nothing is overwhelming.

Erin’s family has a cabin near Colorado Springs, so they decided to stick close and have the wedding ceremony at Garden of the Gods Park.  So that all of their 26 guests could stay together, they decided “home base” their wedding activities at the Lodge at Flying Horse which is a resort property that features a restaurant with a semi-private dining area.   
​
For the other details and logistics:  Matt’s Scottish heritage was honored with him and his groomsman wearing an Isle of Sky Kilt with pink/purple and green with a Prince Charlie jacket.  Thus, the florals and cake reflected the pink and purple colors.  Photographer Rebecca Marie was able to capture her feminine vintage look.  

© Rebecca Marie Photography

© Rebecca Marie Photography

Tips and Ideas:  Even though Garden of the Gods is a free ceremony only “venue”, there are ways to make the day feel more upscale.  Choosing the Lodge at Flying Horse was obvious and made it a destination of its own:  features villas, hotel rooms, golf, dining, athletic club, multiple pools (great for kids!) and spa.  Though, it is about a 40-minute drive to Garden of the Gods. So, we had to extend the logistics to allow for some drive time not only to and from Garden of the Gods, but it is also recommended that you allow time for parking.  Since most of the guests were staying at the Lodge at Flying Horse, we were able to carpool and convoy down as a group which helped keep everyone together.  And, let's not forget their fantastic first-look, which is advised when there is such a drive time at a “rogue” ceremony spot.  Though, we can certainly plan and coordinate a wedding without the first look.  For a customized small wedding planning experience with logistical expertise, reach out to Wendee!  🎉 

Intimate Wedding Package

Next Gallery >>>

Book a Small Wedding Package with Wendee

Next Gallery >>>

Small Wedding Package with photography, planning, florals, cake, and onside coordination:  Custom Weddings of Colorado
Photographer: Rebecca Marie    |    Officiant: Friend of the Couple    |     Hair & Makeup: Jessica with Eleposh    |     Lodging: Lodge at Flying Horse
​Dinner: The Steakhouse at Flying Horse