A colorful Sonnenalp ceremony next to Vail Creek

Brittany and Aaron came up to Estes Park a few days before their wedding to do a last minute engagement session, and then I met up with them in Vail soon after for their big day. It was a fantastic afternoon and evening at the always gorgeous Sonnenalp Resort, which sits on the banks of the Vail Creek.

The wild flowers were blooming like crazy as they said their vows, and the snowmelt from the Gore Range and the high peaks of the Rockies gurgled in the background. It was stunning.

The Sonnenalp is one of my favorite venues in Vail because of its proximity to the creek, the interesting rooms, and short distance to a bunch of great gardens and open spaces that are perfect for bridal party and couples portraits.

I had a great time shooting this wedding, and it was clear that Brittany and Aaron are very much in love, and super proud of each other. I love seeing this.

Aaron was pretty emotional when he saw his beautiful bride for the first time.

There are a number of great places to make a first look happen here, but we had to be super careful because it was a busy Saturday afternoon and Vail was busy. Thankfully we scouted out a private place at the edge of the garden.

Aaron stood on the side of the creek and Brittany came up to surprise him.

The Sonnenalp has a fantastic ballroom downstairs with lots of space, and it’s a great place for a beautiful wedding reception. Brittany and Aaron chose to package in the Dreamtime Photo Booth with their wedding photography, and it was set up just outside the room in a covered area next to the creek.

Guests had a blast using the photo booth and the cool summer air was refreshing.