Raleigh & Joel | 6.24.17

Raleigh & Joel got married in the Golden Hotel on a gorrrrrgeous day at the end of June. Here's a quick summary... due to an (unfortunately, unforeseen) mishap with the hair & makeup artist, Raleigh had to go to her first look with Joel only half done up. It always amazes me how my brides take 'flaws' during their day. They are always extremely graceful, and accept the quirks of the day. 

You can definitely tell during the first look pictures that Joel didn't give a darn about his bride being half done up. And for good reason... Raleigh was gorgeous even before getting herself (half) done up. 

The rest of the day went without a hitch. I even got two... yes, TWO... chances at couples portraits. The time I get with the bride & groom is my absolute favorite part of the day, and whenever I get two chances at it... yeah, I'm basically in heaven. 

Plus, downtown Golden is a pretty remarkable backdrop. You have a gorgeous mountain view and a bustling city all within walking distance. Raleigh & Joel decided to get married at the Golden Hotel because it was right next to Clear Creek. Clear Creek has special meaning to them, because they met after Joel accidentally knocked Raleigh into the river. They have been inseparable adventure buddies ever since. 

Tear Worthy Moment: Okay, so you know the emotional significance of Clear Creek. Their first look by Clear Creek added another level of significance and emotion. It was. so. sweet.

Favorite Detail: The white anemones (totally had to Google how that's spelled) on the cake. First time I saw white anemones during the year, and then suddenly they were everyyywhere. Raleigh, you trend setter, you. 

A Raleigh & Joel Kind of Love: The kind of love that travels all over the place, hikes up the tallest mountains, and cuddles close at night. The adventure buddy kind of love. 

Congratulations, you two! After a slightly stressful morning, your day was remarkable and, dare I say, perfect.