When John and James began planning their fall wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort, they knew they wanted something that perfectly balanced natural beauty with unexpected celebration—and that’s exactly what they created. Their November wedding day was filled with golden desert light, heartfelt moments, and one of the most memorable reception surprises I’ve ever witnessed.
Getting Ready at Gateway Canyons
The day began at their private casita on the resort campus, where John and James got ready together—a choice that set the tone for their entire celebration. There’s something incredibly special about couples who choose to share those anticipatory moments before the ceremony, and these two were all smiles and laughter as they helped each other with final details.
Desert Adventure Session
Before the ceremony, we ventured into the surrounding desert landscape for portraits. The late afternoon light painted the iconic Palisade formation in warm amber tones, creating the dreamiest backdrop for their photos. Fall is arguably the best season for a wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort—the temperatures are perfect, the light is magical, and the desert takes on this incredible golden quality that makes everything look ethereal.
A Ceremony Full of Heart
Back at the resort, their crew led the processional before John and James made their entrance hand-in-hand. Their friend Jimmy officiated, striking that perfect balance between humor and emotion that had guests both laughing and reaching for tissues.
One of the most touching moments came when both sets of parents warmed the couple’s wedding rings in their hands before John and James exchanged them—a beautiful way to literally carry their families’ love into their marriage. After their first kiss as husbands, guests showered them with flower petals as they processed out as newlyweds.
The Reception Surprise
Cocktail hour on the Entrada patio gave guests a chance to mingle in the fresh air before everyone moved into the ballroom for the reception. But this is where John and James’ fall wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort went from beautiful to absolutely unforgettable.
At one point in the evening, the newlyweds asked everyone to look under their seats. Guests found dollar bills taped there and exchanged confused but excited glances—until John and James announced their surprise: three performances by drag performer Miss Zarah! The energy in that ballroom was absolutely electric. It was such a perfectly “them” way to celebrate, and their guests were absolutely here for it.
Dancing Under the Stars
We ended our time together with a quiet moment under the star-filled Colorado sky—just the newlyweds, the desert silence, and a few final portraits before I left them dancing the night away with everyone they love most.
Why Gateway Canyons Resort is Perfect for Fall Weddings
If you’re considering a fall wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort, let me tell you why this venue is absolutely stunning this time of year:
The light is unmatched. Those golden afternoon hours create the most beautiful glow against the red rock formations.
Weather perfection. Fall temperatures in this part of Colorado are ideal—warm enough for outdoor photos and cocktail hours, cool enough that everyone’s comfortable.
Natural drama. The desert landscape provides incredible backdrops without needing much additional décor.
Versatility. From intimate casitas for getting ready to grand ballroom spaces for receptions, the resort handles every part of your day seamlessly.
John and James created a celebration that was authentically them—full of love, laughter, unexpected joy, and breathtaking natural beauty. Their fall wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort reminded me exactly why I love documenting love stories in Colorado’s incredible landscapes.
Planning a fall wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort or another Western Slope venue? I’d love to chat about capturing your celebration! [Get in touch here].
