We loved capturing this beautiful summer Dao House wedding in Estes Park this past June. Even though most couples spend over a year planning their wedding, it’s only when you’re living the day that you truly understand what the experience feels like. Michelle and Jeremy embraced that reality with grace when an unexpected storm rolled into their wedding at Dao House Retreat in Estes Park. The storm wasn’t part of their plan, but neither was letting it dampen their spirits. With their closest friends and family by their side, they celebrated what truly mattered—their love and commitment—just with a little extra sprinkle of good luck from the weather.
In the early afternoon, they shared an emotional first look just outside the main lodge of Dao House with the mountains towering in the background. The moment Jeremy turned to see Michelle for the first time, the weight of the day hit them both, and they shared a quiet, heartfelt moment, filled with anticipation and excitement for what was to come.
After their first look, we wandered to a magical woodsy spot tucked away on the Dao House property, where colorful wildflowers were in full bloom, providing the perfect backdrop for newlywed portraits. We were not expecting to find wildflowers, so that was a special treat for us as photographers. Soon after, we made our way to Lily Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park, where the scenery was simply awe-inspiring. The crowds cleared out as the clouds rolled in, but the still waters created a peaceful and ethereal setting, allowing us to capture some of the most stunning portraits of the day.
As the ceremony time approached, we kept an eye on the radar, trying to gauge if the looming storm would hit or pass by. It was one of those unpredictable mountain weather moments where you just have to roll with it, which we seem to encounter often at Dao House. Despite the uncertainty, Michelle and Jeremy decided to move forward, embracing whatever the day had in store. As the ceremony began, the rain did too, a steady drizzle that didn’t stop them or their guests from fully being in the moment. Instead of dampening the day, it added unplanned spontaneity, making the ceremony feel even more real and connected.
We love when couples fully embrace their day, no matter what unfolds, because it brings authenticity to every moment, making the experience richer and more meaningful. When unexpected things happen—like a surprise rainstorm or a last-minute change in plans—it’s often in those unscripted moments where the real magic happens. That’s exactly why a documentary-style approach to photography is so powerful. It’s about capturing the day as it truly unfolds, not just the perfect, posed moments, but the real, raw emotions that define the day. When couples let go and roll with whatever comes their way, it allows us to tell a more genuine story that feels true to them and their experience.
Back at the Dao House’s main lodge, the reception kicked off with a bang as the newlyweds made a grand entrance, immediately grabbing a shot ski with their wedding party to get the celebration started. Michelle and Jeremy shared their first dance shortly after, setting the tone for an evening filled with heartfelt moments and high energy. After touching toasts from loved ones, the dance floor opened up, and things quickly got wild when guests lifted the bride and groom onto chairs, dancing in circles around them in celebration. Check out some of our favorite moments from their wedding day!
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