Steamboat Springs isn’t just a premier ski destination; it’s also a prime spot for viewing Colorado’s fall colors. Naturally, it makes for a stunning rustic Colorado wedding location. La Joya Dulce, an exclusive luxury ranch, blends rustic elements with elegant touches. Capturing Marcella and Eli’s big day was a delight.
Their invitation suite featured deep, moody greens with gold specks, setting the tone for the celebration ahead. Next, I placed their wedding rings on the invitation, effectively highlighting the craftsmanship and integrating the wedding’s colors and theme. Finally, the wedding day timeline cards, creatively displayed on the grille of their vintage car “Dayzie,” added a distinctive touch.
Bridal Accessories for our La Joya Dulce Bride, Marcella
Upon entering the bridal suite, Marcella’s dress immediately caught my eye. It was hanging gracefully against a rustic wooden wall where the lace details strikingly contrasted with the warm wood. Additionally, a custom hanger with Marcella’s name, intricately crafted in wire, added a personalized touch.
Below the gown, vibrant floral arrangements awaited their moment in the spotlight. The bouquets burst with orange, deep burgundy, and soft pink, complemented by textured greens and blue thistles. Furthermore, proteas and ranunculus infused drama and elegance, echoing the season’s rich tones and the venue’s rustic charm.
Marcella’s golden shoes, adorned with delicate floral embellishments, reflected her refined taste. In contrast, the Converse sneakers hinted at her playful side. The jewelry box holding diamond earrings and her engagement ring symbolized their timeless love. Dayzie provided a picturesque backdrop for these bridal pieces.
Getting Ready with our La Joya Dulce Groom, Eli
Eli’s essentials—polished black shoes, a neatly folded tie, sunglasses, and a bottle of Knob Creek Bourbon—were ready. Subsequently, each groomsman received a personalized flask, a thoughtful gift from Eli. Meanwhile, I captured a moment as they held wooden gift boxes, reflecting their strong bonds. Finally, their toast, clinking red cups in the barn, filled the space with laughter.
Getting Ready with the Girls
Back at the house, which overlooks the beautiful Yampa valley, Marcella and her girls get ready. The first few photos are Marcella with her father, sister and mother. I love the matching plaid shirts with black leggings. Their coordinated outfits and the natural, leafy setting create a relaxed yet festive atmosphere, perfect for preparing for the festivities to come.
This sequence of shots captures Marcella getting ready with her sister and mother. Initially, we see smiles and glances of excitement as Marcella’s sister, clad in a rich green velvet bridesmaid dress, laces Marcella into her dress and adjusts her necklace. Subsequently, Marcella’s mother gently fastens a bracelet around Marcella’s wrist, sealing the moment with a kiss.
These photographs exquisitely capture why choosing the Rocky Mountains in fall for a wedding provides a spectacular backdrop that is as breathtaking as it is unique.
Nestled among the vibrant foliage, Marcella and her bridesmaids radiate joy and elegance, their green velvet dresses and colorful bouquets beautifully complemented by the golden hues around them. Meanwhile, the soft light filtering through the aspens adds an ethereal quality to each photo, capturing timeless moments against the spectacular fall scenery.
First Look
Marcella and Eli’s first look was a heartfelt moment filled with genuine emotion, set against the stunning backdrop of autumnal aspens. As Eli turned to see Marcella, his face lit up with joy, mirroring the warmth in her tearful smile. Consequently, this precious exchange, captured with the classic elegance of “Dayzie” and their wedding party watching in the background, beautifully encapsulated their love and the excitement of their wedding day.
Bridal Portraits Before the Ceremony
Prior to the ceremony, Marcella and Eli’s photos beautifully highlight their deep connection and love for each other.
Marcella’s bouquet was made by _. The floral arrangement is a vibrant tapestry of autumn colors, featuring a lush mix of orange, yellow, and deep red blooms, and is accented by unique textural elements. In particular, proteas, sunflowers, and rich foliage create a stunning visual impact, embodying the essence of a Rocky Mountain fall. Consequently, this floral masterpiece perfectly complements her elegant bridal look and the natural backdrop.
Moreover, the choice of green velvet bridesmaid dresses lends a sumptuous texture that contrasts strikingly against the softer, natural backdrop.
We love when couples want to get these photos done before the ceremony. Less of a rush for everyone and way more fun!
Wedding Ceremony with Rocky Mountain Background
This scenic wedding venue in the heart of the Rocky Mountains offers a breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills and lush autumn colors.
As the barn doors opened, Marcella took a breath-taking first look at her wedding ceremony venue, walking hand-in-hand with her father. Their faces, lit up with joy and anticipation, mirrored the beautifully lit venue that awaited them. This poignant moment, framed by elegant draperies and a warmly lit backdrop of chandeliers and guests, was a blend of emotional warmth and meticulous planning coming to life, marking the beginning of her unforgettable journey down the aisle. This was my favorite moment to capture.
Look how Eli is glowing as his bride comes down the aisle and how he lovingly accepts her hand.
Eli is beaming as Marcella and her father reach the end of the aisle.
At last, the ceremony venue is filled with Marcella and Eli’s closest friends and family.
Then, under a floral-draped arch, Marcella and Eli exchanged rings and vows, with their heartfelt commitment set against the vast, golden Rockies.
Enjoy the Moment! Dip the Bride
A word of advice: Take a few minutes and practice this dip before the big day. Your photographer is going to be at the end of the aisle. Obviously, make sure you dip your bride with her side toward your photographer.
Elegant Fall Wedding at La Joya Dulce
The lush, dramatic floral arrangements added a touch of romance to the setting. I loved the contrasting colors of the flowers against the greenery.
Two areas stood out as the favorite hangouts for guests. The first, a seating area furnished with green velvet chairs and a matching couch with gold legs, exuded luxury and comfort.
The second area that captured everyone’s attention was the red VW bus, covered in fall foliage and twinkling lights. This unique, whimsical touch served as both a popular photo spot and a gathering place for guests. Autumn leaves decked out the bus, creating a cozy and inviting space that perfectly captured the season’s essence. This playful space contrasted beautifully with the green velvet lounge.
How to Include Your Dog on Your Wedding Day
Marcella and Eli’s green cake echoed the floral arrangements, but what truly made it special were the adorable replicas of their three beloved dogs, adopted from Colorado Puppy Rescue. This personal, heartwarming touch symbolized the couple’s love for their furry family members and brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
After walking down the aisle as husband and wife, Marcella and Eli enjoyed a few precious moments alone in their beautifully decorated venue. I cherished capturing this intimate interlude, photographing the quiet connection they shared.
I just love capturing a couple’s authentic moments in an artistic way.
For the large family photos, we gathered everyone together, their smiles reflecting the love and warmth of the day. The open space allowed for dynamic compositions, ensuring that everyone was captured in the best light. These outdoor shots were not just pictures, but memories that Marcella and Eli will treasure for years to come.
Bride & Groom Formal Portraits
In these enchanting photos, Marcella and Eli share joyful moments under a beautifully adorned arch, first smiling brightly, then sharing tender kisses.
La Joya Dulce ‘Dayzie’
One of the standout moments from Marcella and Eli’s wedding day was the photoshoot with “Dayzie,” a stunning replica of a 1939 Jaguar SS 100. This elegant vehicle, with its sleek curves and classic design, looked like it had rolled straight out of a Gatsby novel, adding a touch of timeless glamour to the day. Despite its vintage appearance, Dayzie is a modern automatic, making it a perfect, practical addition to weddings at La Joya Dulce. As Marcella and Eli posed beside this iconic car, the combination of its polished exterior with the vibrant fall backdrop created a series of breathtaking images.
Dayzie wasn’t just a prop; it was the perfect getaway car, symbolizing the start of their journey together in style.
Wedding Reception at La Joya Dulce
As the barn doors swung open, Marcella and Eli made their grand entrance, seamlessly transitioning into their first dance, igniting the celebration with joyful energy.
The guests were undeniably captivated by this first dance.
Surrounded by friends and family, Marcella and Eli reveled in laughter and love as heartfelt toasts flowed. Each speech, brimming with anecdotes and well-wishes, not only brought smiles but also deepened the sense of joy and community celebrating their union.
The red VW bus, transformed into a photo booth, quickly became the highlight of the evening, drawing guests in with its whimsical charm and festive decor.
Marcella and Eli joyfully cut their cake, sharing a playful moment as they fed each other amidst laughter and cheers. The cake cutting not only symbolized their first joint task as a married couple but also infused the celebration with fun and sweet anticipation.
Every time I look at this group shot, I find something else that makes me smile.
Throughout the night, the delightful mix of formal attire and whimsical photo booth props seamlessly blended elegance with playful entertainment.
The wedding guests eagerly embraced their playful sides, delighting in being silly for the photographer’s lens, which added a lighthearted and joyful dimension to the celebration.
As the evening unfolded, the party seamlessly transitioned into the night, filled with dancing, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
xo, Riveted Photography
Steamboat Springs Wedding Photographer: Riveted Photography // Venue: La Joya Dulce
