Kale and Gabe didn’t want a big, traditional wedding—and honestly, thank goodness, because their mountain elopement in Ouray turned out to be one of the most fun, heart-filled days I’ve ever photographed. The San Juan Mountains were showing off big time, and I don’t think they could have picked a better place. These two are total high school sweethearts—together for 11 years (!!!) They got engaged at Hurricane Pass while off-roading, which made coming back to the mountains for their wedding feel extra full-circle.
The outdoors is kind of their thing—whether it’s fishing, camping, off-roading, or just packing up for a picnic in the hills with their pups. So when it came to their wedding day, a big traditional event didn’t feel like them. What they really wanted was something intimate and genuine, tucked away in the mountains they love so much. And even though they dreamed of running off just the two of them, bringing their closest people along made it even sweeter and the perfect balance of adventure and family.
Mountain Elopement Ceremony Moments
Their ceremony felt extra special from start to finish. Gabe’s dad was the one who officiated, which added this sweet layer of family connection—you could tell how much it meant to everyone. Kale wore these beautiful moccasins as a nod to her Native American roots. Then, right after the vows, her mom stepped in and led a blanket ceremony, wrapping them both up in tradition, blessing, and love.
It was meaningful in that quiet, powerful way. Every little piece felt so intentional, so true to who they are as a couple. Family, heritage, love… all woven together into one really beautiful moment.
The Colorado Weather Twist
Because what’s a true Colorado mountain elopement without the weather keeping us on our toes? The morning started all sunshine and blue skies, and then—out of nowhere—hail. Yep, actual hail right in the middle of their first ceremony attempt. We all scrambled for cover, laughing the whole time, while the mountains reminded us who’s boss.
Once it cleared, we headed back out and started over. That little reset turned into one of those “we’ll never forget this” moments, the kind of thing that made the day feel even more real and alive. Pure resilience, joy, and very true to Colorado style.
An Ouray Mountain Adventure
Once the ceremony wrapped up, Kale and Gabe kicked off the formalities and just took off, running through the meadows and trails without a care in the world. They were laughing so hard it was contagious—I swear my cheeks hurt from smiling so much.
Those golden hour portraits were this living, breathing snapshot of who Kale and Gabe really are together—playful, free, and so in love. The night ended with nothing but them, the mountains, and that perfect kind of freedom you can only feel when you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
More like this: Crested Butte Wildflower Elopement
Vendors
Hotel | The Western Hotel & Spa
Flowers | Hosanna Floral
HMUA | Rachel Maier
