Sarah and Ethen’s wedding was an adorable and awesome celebration. It was fun, personal, and had all the vibes I love: a quirky theme, an unforgettable venue, and a couple who knew how to let their personalities shine. They went all in with a Lord of the Rings theme, which is obviously my jam (if you know me, you know LOTR is my fave), but they kept it chill and unique without going overboard. It was the perfect mix of fun, history, and good vibes.
Before we jump into the wedding, let’s talk about the engagement session. We took it to Chautauqua Park in Boulder, and wow, it was beautiful as always. There is a reason I shoot there pretty often. Not only does it have those epic views of the flatirons, but the place is full of history. Chautauqua was founded in 1898 as part of a cultural movement designed to offer lectures and educational experiences outdoors. It was the perfect spot for Sarah and Ethen’s engagement shoot.
We spent the session soaking in the scenery, laughing at Ethen’s cheesy jokes (he’s got a serious dad-joke skills), and capturing all the sweet, fun moments between the two of them. If you’re looking for a photographer who can make the whole process feel laid-back and fun, I’ve got you. I always make sure couples feel comfortable in front of the camera, and with me, there’s never any awkward posing. Engagement sessions should feel like an adventure, and I love that Sarah and Ethen made the most of it.
Now, let’s talk about Sarah and Ethen for a second. Not only is Ethen a talented musician, but he also has an absolutely hilarious YouTube channel. Ethen’s videos are a mix of humor, music, and all-around fun vibes. If you haven’t seen them, you’re seriously missing out. I’m pretty sure his YouTube channel has the power to make you laugh so hard you snort. Mix in Sarah’s stories about working in jails as a social worker and they’re quite the dynamic duo—full of love, humor, and all the right energy.
Fast forward to the wedding day at the Denver Botanic Gardens in June, and this place is honestly so good for a wedding. I love documenting weddings and all kinds of portrait sessions here. I have a yearly photography permit I love it so much. It’s beautiful, tranquil, and rich in history. The Gardens were founded in 1951, covering 23 acres of pure natural beauty. It’s one of Denver’s hidden gems, and it offers a totally serene, gorgeous setting for any couple who’s into nature and greenery.
But the real magic? The Woodland Mosaic Solarium. This gorgeous Victorian-style structure was initially ordered by Euro Disney in the late ‘90s, but for reasons still unknown, they canceled the order. The solarium sat in its packing crate for almost two decades before being donated to the Gardens in 2012. It’s the only one on public display, and trust me, it’s as amazing as it sounds. Between the wrought-iron scrollwork, the glass windows, and the history behind it, the Solarium is the kind of venue that makes you feel like you’re stepping into another world. It’s perfect for small weddings under 30 people
Sarah and Ethen didn’t go for the traditional “separate” getting-ready approach—they got ready together on-site at the Gardens, and it set the tone for the entire day. They were chill, enjoying the moment, and it was clear that they just wanted to soak up every second together. I’m all about that vibe. Wedding days can be overwhelming, and I love when couples keep things fun and stress-free.
Sarah’s dress was beyond beautiful—green and white, complementing her purple hair like some kind of magical elf from the Rivendell. The gown was elegant yet playful, the kind of dress that made you stop and say, “Wow.” It was absolutely perfect for a couple who appreciates nature, fantasy, and all the little details that make life interesting.
I’m not going to lie—I teared up a little during Sarah’s first look with her dad. It was such a sweet, emotional moment. Seeing Sarah’s dad’s reaction when he turned around and saw her in her wedding dress was everything. The joy, the pride, the love—it was a moment I’ll never forget. It was so special to witness, and I loved how it set the tone for the rest of the day.
Now, for the ceremony. The Woodland Mosaic Solarium is a piece of nature’s magic right in the middle of the city. Sarah and Ethen’s vows were exchanged under that historical glass dome, and it was the perfect setting for a couple who’s as into nature and fantasy as they are. We had little Lord of the Rings nods throughout the ceremony—small but meaningful. Officiant Stephanie Latta did an amazing job making everyone laugh and cry. Truly a joy to work with and I’d recommend her to anyone looking for a secular or non-religious ceremony.
Sarah and Ethen had a HARPIST play the music for their ceremony. How cool is that?!? Mary Keener of Denver Harpist was excellent, and I highly recommend her if you’re looking for a classy and unique live music element for your celebration.
Sarah’s mom performed a hand-fasting ceremony which was so sweet. A handfasting ceremony is a symbolic ritual where a couple’s hands are bound together with cords or ribbons, representing their union. Traditionally, it’s a way of physically and spiritually “tying the knot,” symbolizing the couple’s commitment and the joining of their lives. Often seen in Celtic or pagan traditions, it’s a beautiful way to add a meaningful, personal touch to a wedding ceremony (and paired perfectly with the elvish vibes.).
Alright, real talk: one of the best wedding food decisions ever—breakfast burritos. After their ceremony, Sarah and Ethen kept it low-key and totally them by serving up some delicious breakfast burritos from Heirloom Catering. This was the kind of decision that had everyone stoked. Breakfast burritos aren’t just breakfast; they’re a all you need for a memorable meal.
A squirrel delighted us all with an appearance.
Let’s not forget about the wedding favors. Sarah’s little DIY gifts were cute as heck: mini flower pots with fake succulents, each labeled with their names and wedding date. It was the kind of thoughtful touch that was perfect for a couple who cares about every detail, big and small. Guests loved them, and they fit the theme of the wedding perfectly.
This sign was one of my favorite details, naturally.
We finished off the morning with some beautiful portraits around the gardens.
Why Choose a Garden Wedding in Denver?
If you’re on the hunt for a Denver wedding venue, trust me when I say that the Denver Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your list. Between the lush greenery, the amazing variety of ceremony and reception spots, and the overall peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect place for couples who want a relaxed, beautiful, and memorable wedding day. It’s the kind of venue that makes your day feel like it belongs in a fairytale, with just the right amount of magic and charm.
Sarah and Ethen’s wedding was everything I love in a celebration—personal, fun, and full of little touches that made the day uniquely theirs. From the Lord of the Rings theme (obviously) to the laid-back breakfast burritos and their perfectly personal wedding favors, this was a wedding that was about the couple, their love, and what makes them them.
If you’re still looking for a photographer who makes wedding planning easy and fun, I’m your girl. I work hard to make sure couples feel at ease, and I make sure that every moment is captured in a way that feels as natural and unique as your love story. Because, weddings should be fun, not stressful. And I’m here to make that happen.
Second Photographer: @mike_kory
Officiant: Stephanie Latta
