There are some wedding days that feel like pure magic from start to finish, and Megan & Ryan’s celebration at Vail Wedding Deck and Minturn Saloon was just that kind of day. As a photographer who adores adventurous, non-traditional couples, I couldn’t have dreamed up a more perfect blend of breathtaking mountain scenery, heartfelt moments, and joyful surprises. If you’re searching for inspiration for your own unique Colorado wedding, let Megan & Ryan’s story sweep you away!
A First Look in the Woods
The morning began with a gentle excitement as Megan and Ryan prepared for their first look. Tucked away in the woods, a charming wooden bridge arched over a bubbling creek—a scene straight from a storybook. As Ryan turned to see Megan, the world seemed to pause, leaving only the sound of the water and their laughter. This quiet, intimate moment set the tone for the day: authentic, relaxed, and entirely their own. As a photographer, I live for these unscripted exchanges—where couples can truly be themselves and soak in the magic of their day.
Soaring to New Heights – Gondola Ride to the Vail Wedding Deck
After their first look, the adventure continued as we hopped aboard the gondola, ascending high above Vail’s lush valleys. The ride itself is an experience, offering sweeping views that build anticipation for what’s to come. Arriving at the Vail Wedding Deck (also known as the Holy Cross Event Deck), the group was greeted by a panorama of rugged mountain peaks—a backdrop that never fails to take your breath away. We captured group photos filled with laughter and love, each frame set against the grandeur of Colorado’s wilderness.
Saying “I Do” with Mountain Majesty – The Vail Wedding Deck Ceremony
There’s something truly special about exchanging vows surrounded by the vastness of the Rockies. Megan and Ryan’s ceremony at the Vail Wedding Deck was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The sweeping views of the Holy Cross Wilderness stretched endlessly behind them, reminding everyone present just how extraordinary love—and life—can be. Every emotion, from joyful tears to belly laughs, was magnified by the sheer beauty of the setting. For couples dreaming of a wedding that feels both intimate and epic, this venue delivers in every way.
A Surprise Second Line – New Orleans Spirit in the Mountains
Just when guests thought the adventure was winding down, Ryan had one more surprise up his sleeve. After the ceremony, everyone took the gondola back down the mountain and gathered in Lionshead Village. Suddenly, the sound of brass and drums filled the air—a band appeared, ready to lead the group in a Second Line parade! This nod to New Orleans tradition (in honor of Megan’s family) added an unforgettable burst of energy and joy. Watching Megan’s face light up as she realized what was happening was pure magic. The march through the village, complete with waving handkerchiefs and dancing (and pedicabs for those who needed), brought everyone together in celebration and set the tone for the rest of the night.
Reception at Minturn Saloon – Mining Town Charm
The festivities continued at Minturn Saloon, a venue brimming with old mining town character and warmth. With its rustic wood interiors, quirky decor, and welcoming vibe, Minturn Saloon was the perfect spot for Megan & Ryan’s reception. Guests mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed delicious food in a setting that felt both nostalgic and uniquely Colorado. The laughter echoed off the walls, and the dance floor stayed packed well into the night. This was a party that honored tradition while embracing the couple’s adventurous spirit—a true reflection of who they are.
Capturing Genuine Moments – Why Your Story Matters
As a wedding photographer, my greatest joy is capturing the moments that matter most—the glances, the tears, the bursts of laughter that make your day uniquely yours. Megan & Ryan’s wedding was filled with these moments, big and small. From the quiet intimacy of their first look to the raucous joy of the Second Line and the warmth of Minturn Saloon, every image tells a story of love, adventure, and community. If you’re planning your own wedding at Vail Wedding Deck, Minturn Saloon, or anywhere in Colorado’s wild beauty, know that your story deserves to be told in a way that’s true to you.
Megan & Ryan’s wedding was a celebration of love, adventure, and the power of bringing people together in unforgettable places. From the serene woods to the mountaintop vows, a surprise parade, and a reception full of mining town charm, their day was a reminder that the best weddings are the ones that reflect who you are. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as unique and genuine as your love story, I’d be honored to help you capture every moment. Let’s make your Colorado wedding an adventure you’ll never forget!
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