mountain ranch wedding

This wedding was all about the love for living in Colorado!   Because many  loved ones were coming from out of state to help celebrate the day, the focus was to share the beauty that we are lucky enough to be surrounded by on a daily basis. The feel  for the day was natural and rustic, with some fun vintage touches.  The beautiful Spruce Mountain Ranch, with the sweeping views and breathtaking lodge, was undoubtedly the perfect spot!

It was so important that the day really represented both the bride and groom--personalities, histories, and families.   For the ceremony, the Ringbearer's pillow was made by the Oma (grandmother) of the bride and embroidered with Edelweiss flowers, to represent her German heritage and her cousin sang an Italian love song (in Italian!) in honor of the groom's Italian heritage.  The groom's brother officiated and the vows were written by the bride and groom themselves,  making  that moment so special and completely them.

For the reception, the centerpieces were comprised of a variety of antiques, many from our inventory at Long Ago Love Events, but also some which were borrowed from both families.  They included my the bride's father's bronzed baby shoes, pictures from groom's grandparents' wedding day, and a grandpa's tin lunchbox.  We also did quite a few DIY projects which included programs, favors, signage, and décor.  The dessert bar we put together was made up of all the bride and groom's favorite treats from growing up--parents, grandparents, and family friends all contributed!

Photos by Cassidy Brooke Photography

--chalk love--

Okay, I have a chalkboard obsession.  It is an art form that is so basic, yet I love how it can have a beautiful and rustic sophistication.  There are a million ways to incorporate chalkboards into home decor and events--holiday sayings, signs, announcements to guests, a playful prop for a photobooth... you get the idea.  

Chalk tips:  

I have started to play with writing in chalk (you can see my first attempt in the picture above!) and I've discovered the most important part is starting at the middle of the word and working outward.  It helped me a ton with keeping my letters straight and my words centered.  Chalk is very forgiving--if you mess something up, you can simply erase and try again.  :-)

Word to the wise: chalk markers can make your writing and art really pop, but it is MUCH more difficult to erase and can even ruin the chalkboard.  I prefer using traditional chalk (chalk markers just don't have the same effect) and then taping parchment paper (the kind you can buy on a roll to wrap food in) over the board so the chalk doesn't smudge before you're ready to display it.  This also allows you to make your boards pretty in advance, so you're not scrambling on the day of a special occasion.  :-)