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Adventure Wedding in the Mountains of Ouray & at Gold Mountain

When Cadi & Henry first reached out to me, they were clearly excited for & had a vision for an intimate adventure wedding somewhere in the mountains. They weren’t quite sure yet on the exact place they wanted to go to & were deciding between Colorado, Wyoming, & Montana. Despite the quickly approaching date, they were determined to bring their dream to life & I was full of ideas to help! Their plan was to blend the essence of an elopement with the joy of having their closest loved ones present to witness their vows & share in their festivities. Inspired by my photos of intimate weddings in Jackson Hole & elopements in Colorado, they envisioned a similar vibe for their own special day.

Cadi & Henry finally landed on Gold Mountain Ranch in Ouray, Colorado. I’m not over exaggerating when I say this is one of my favorite wedding venues in one of my favorite mountain towns of Colorado! Ouray is located in western Colorado & this venue just might be the best in Ouray. Gold Mountain Ranch overlooks the town & is perched high up on the side of a mountain.

Cadi & Henry’s love story began almost like a romance movie—in the airport, meeting as strangers. Henry first noticed Cadi walking around the airport, & then saw her again at his gate. They then boarded the same plane! They ended up sitting together & what started as a chance encounter turned into the beginning of a beautiful adventure together.

Getting Ready & a First Touch at Gold Mountain Ranch

Before their big adventure wedding & Jeeping in the mountains, Cadi & Henry enjoyed a slow, meaningful morning getting ready for their day at Gold Mountain Ranch. The ranch offered an ideal blend of charming interior spaces & mountain views just outside the doors. The day started with quiet moments in these beautiful surroundings, allowing them to soak in the anticipation and excitement.

As they prepared separately, Cadi & Henry shared a tender first touch, holding hands around a corner & exchanging heartfelt words while saving the magic of the first look for the ceremony. This intimate moment, set against the serene atmosphere of Gold Mountain Ranch, reflected their deep connection & set the tone for a day filled with relaxation & anticipation, leading to an unforgettable adventure in the mountains.

Adventure Wedding Ceremony in the Mountains of Ouray

Cadi & Henry had an absolutely gorgeous wedding ceremony location in the mountains of Ouray. I helped them choose a wedding ceremony location that would be accessible in spring at higher elevations, because even in June, there’s still snow to be found in the mountains! Colorado West Jeeps transported them & their guests up to this beautiful mountain valley. Surrounded by tall peaks & bright green aspens, Cadi & Henry said their personal vows in front of their friends & family. Afterwards, they had an AMAZING catered picnic at this remote meadow. Honestly, it was such a fun way to celebrate & enjoying great views with these beautiful views was truly special. After spending some time getting ready at Gold Mountain Ranch & having their ceremony, it was time to go off on an adventure! We headed up to even higher elevations & were able to find snow in the passes around Ouray.

Reception at Gold Mountain Ranch in Ouray

Let’s just say that Cadi & Henry’s wedding reception at Gold Mountain was nothing short of gorgeous. They had an amazing cake, beautiful florals all throughout, a mobile bar parked outside, & overall just had a ton of fun with each other & with their guests– & I was there to capture it all!

Dreaming of a wedding in the mountains of Ouray? Let’s make it unforgettable together. Click the button below to connect with me!


Malachi Lewis is an adventure elopement photographer at Shell Creek Photography.

Malachi Lewis

Photographer & Planner