If you’ve ever been to a wedding where the couple’s theme is close to their hearts and full of personality, then Matt and Vanessa’s October wedding at Shupe Homestead in Longmont is a prime example. This wasn’t your typical wedding: this one had a weather twist, and not just in the meteorological sense (we’re talking weather nerd level here). As a couple that met (and met me) during the meteorology and climatology internship at UCAR, it only made sense that Matt and Vanessa’s wedding day would have a nod to their passion. Spoiler alert: they launched a weather balloon during their ceremony. Yep, you read that right.
But beyond the science nerdiness, this celebration was an absolute blast, filled with laughs, love, and a whole lot of heart.
First, a peek at their engagement session in Rocky Mountain National Parks (all my wedding photography packages feature a fee engagement session!)
Bear Lake is easily accessible and never ceases to amaze. Sprague Lake too!
Weather Nerds Unite at Shupe Homestead
Vanessa and Matt got ready on-site which is always a good option to have.
How fun is this creative portrait (created before their first look!).
Check out their adorable private first look:
Tucked away in Longmont, Colorado, Shupe Homestead is the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern elegance, making it an ideal venue for Matt and Vanessa’s weather-themed celebration. Shupe Homestead offers a beautiful outdoor ceremony space with sweeping views of the mountains: basically the perfect backdrop for any wedding, especially one where you’re planning to make some serious weather history. The fall colors? They were absolutely perfect, and the venue was the perfect setting to complement their weather-loving personalities and the stunning season.
Matt and Vanessa’s ceremony was equal parts emotional and, well, meteorologically epic. Officiated by none other than Rebecca: my former boss and their trusted friend, the ceremony featured heartfelt vows, a few tears, and, of course, weather references sprinkled throughout.
The Weather Balloon Launch – Seriously Cool
Right after the ceremony, Matt and Vanessa did something unique that was a true nod to their weather nerd roots: a weather balloon launch. And no, it wasn’t just a random gimmick. They had the full setup: a helium tank, a tracker, a computer—you name it. If you’ve ever wondered how weather balloons work, here’s the deal: These balloons are filled with helium and launched into the sky, carrying a small payload that measures temperature, humidity, and pressure as it ascends. It’s basically weather science for fun.
The balloons float higher and higher, collecting data until they reach the top of the atmosphere. It’s one of those things that’s a little bit “wow” and a lot “geeky fun”: something Matt and Vanessa will never forget from their wedding day. Definitely a unique way to kick off their married life!
No brides were harmed in the launching of this balloon…but the tracker did hit Vanessa in the face on its way up.
We snuck in portraits with the neighbor’s horses and the sunset afterwards.
Hilarious Toasts and Epic Dance Floor Vibes
After the excitement of the weather balloon, it was time to get down to business: celebrating. And what better way to do that than with family and friends who weren’t afraid to tell a joke or two? Matt and Vanessa’s family nailed their toasts, full of hilarious anecdotes, loving digs, and all the funny stories about the couple. It was clear that these two have an amazing support system who loves them so much.
But let’s talk about the dance floor. It was an absolute party. A good mix of Latin pop music and classic American dance hits got everyone shaking their booties. It was the perfect combination of energetic beats, and the guests embraced it all. From salsa to classic 80s jams, you couldn’t help but get in on the action. Honestly, if you didn’t get up at least once during the night, were you even at the wedding?
During the reception, we snuck outside for one of my trademark astrophotography portraits!
A Multicultural Celebration of Love
Another awesome part of Matt and Vanessa’s wedding was how they blended their cultural backgrounds into the celebration. With the couple’s shared love for science and fun, the wedding had a beautiful fusion of traditions, music, and humor. It was a celebration that honored their multicultural backgrounds while staying true to their quirky personalities. You could feel the love and connection across the generations, and everyone was all in for the fun and energy of the evening.
Why Meteorology Nerds are the Best
What made Matt and Vanessa’s wedding so incredible was the authenticity they brought to their day. Whether it was launching a weather balloon or incorporating meaningful cultural traditions, they made their wedding uniquely theirs. As a couple, they didn’t just go through the motions of a “typical” wedding: they created an experience that reflected their personalities, shared interests, and the people they love.
For all the science geeks out there who want to bring a little extra to their wedding, consider adding weather-related elements like a weather balloon launch, custom forecasts, or weather-inspired decor. And if you’re looking for a venue that’ll cater to your wildest ideas (weather nerd or not), Shupe Homestead in Longmont is the spot for you.
