Sadie and Ryan’s wildflower elopement in Ouray felt simple, beautiful, and personal. But before we get to the mountains, let’s rewind to how this all started.
Matching on Bumble in 2021 led to a FaceTime date (because, hello modern love) before finally meeting up in person. Their first real date was at a taco bar—and little did Sadie know, that same spot would become the place where Ryan got down on one knee a couple of years later in February of 2024. Sadie told me she realized she loved him one night when he sang and played ukulele for her. Ryan swears he knew on their very first date. Honestly, after spending time with them, I believe him—they have a great connection.
When it came to planning a wedding, they knew they wanted something different. They’d been to plenty of big weddings, and while they’re fun, the whole “show” didn’t feel like them. Instead, they wanted a day that reflected their relationship. Plus, skipping the big wedding meant they could save that money for the things that lit them up—traveling together and building a home. They kept the parts they loved (celebrating with family, good food, and dancing) but stripped away everything else.
Ouray, Colorado
Sadie and Ryan kicked off their elopement morning at the Imogene Hotel—a cozy little historic spot right in the heart of Ouray. These old mountain-town hotels know how to set the mood for a day like this. A little bit vintage, a little bit romantic, and totally fitting for their low-key, intimate vibe.
They chose the San Juan Mountains for all the reasons you’d probably guess: wildflowers spilling across meadows, alpine lakes, and massive, jaw-dropping mountain backdrops that make you feel both tiny and alive at the same time.
Because the mountains love to keep us on our toes, their wedding day came with a steady drizzle of rain. But it was perfect. Instead of fighting it, we grabbed the cutest clear umbrellas and leaned right in. There’s something so cozy about rain in the mountains.
An Intimate Wildflower Elopement
After a slow morning in town, we headed up into the mountains where Sadie and Ryan shared private vows by the edge of an alpine lake. Then it was time for the ceremony itself, and Ryan’s sister had the honor of marrying them. Having a family member officiate always makes it feel so personal.
Because this was their day, they didn’t hold back on adding in the fun little things that felt true to them. At one point, they snuck away for a pizza break! The rain came and went, umbrellas in hand, but instead of dampening the mood, it just added to the laughter.
We wrapped up with portraits in the middle of the wildflowers, the mountains towering all around. Sadie and Ryan cut their cake right there in the blooms, making for the dreamiest ending.
Celebrating Beyond the Mountains
Don’t worry—Sadie and Ryan still wanted the fun part of weddings, too. A couple of weeks after returning home, they planned to throw a big reception in Syracuse with food trucks, drinks, and plenty of dancing. The best of both worlds: an intentional, wildflower elopement and then a laid-back party where all their friends could join in the celebration.
If reading about their day has you dreaming up your version of an intimate elopement, I’d love to help make it happen. From location scouting to navigating those “what if it rains?” moments, I have you covered so you can focus on each other. Find more inspiration on this blog post or reach out here to start planning your adventure!
Vendors
Hair | Salon Envy
Hotel | The Imogene Hotel
