Location: Steamboat Springs, Colorado, USA
Setting: Ranch
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Number of guests: 79
Wedding theme/style: Elegant, rustic, intimate.
Karli and Travis’ love story is rooted deeply in the community of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Karli, a seventh-generation local, and Travis found each other in this charming town. Their journey together reached a beautiful milestone when Travis proposed, leading to a wedding that celebrated not only their love but also the rich history and close-knit ties of Karli’s hometown.
Inspiration came from me being 7th generation from Steamboat Springs and honoring our community.
THE WELCOME DAY
The weekend began with an unconventional welcome reception at the Steamboat Pro Rodeo. Guests enjoyed a traditional BBQ meal, custom meal with drink tickets, and personalized koozies.
Karli wore a black and white dress from Keepsake The Label, while Travis opted for a denim button-down and black jeans. Both completed their looks with cowboy boots and hats.
THE VENUE
The wedding took place in Steamboat Springs at La Joya Dulce, an outdoor ranch that perfectly reflected the couple’s style. Meaning “Sweet Jewel,” this stunning luxury ranch wedding venue is nestled among rolling hills and verdant meadows and offers intimate mountain views and quaking aspen trees.
Rolling hills, wildflowers, the wind, and the bright stars at night—all create an unforgettable setting. This venue has been revitalized by owners Kathie and Wayne, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and ranch history, and has exceptional charm and appeal.
BRIDE & GROOM'S FASHION
Karli started the day in a stunning Newhite gown for portraits with her bridesmaids. The dress featured a sleek, strapless design with a long train that added a touch of classic elegance. Her hair was styled in soft waves, complementing the simplicity and sophistication of her gown.
For the reception, she changed into a short dress with puffy sleeves and a dramatic long train by Rime Arodaky, adding a modern and playful twist. She accessorized this look with a white cowgirl hat and matching white cowboy boots, which brought a fun and rustic element to her ensemble.
Travis chose a classic blue blazer paired with a white shirt. He added a touch of Western flair with a bolo tie and a black cowboy hat. His outfit was completed with black jeans and cowboy boots, creating a cohesive and stylish look that perfectly matched the day’s rustic chic theme.
THE WEDDING PARTY
The bridesmaids wore elegant blush-colored dresses that complemented the natural tones of the setting. The groomsmen sported sleek suits paired with cowboy hats, seamlessly integrating the wedding theme.
This combination of formal and rustic elements created a visually stunning photoshoot against the picturesque backdrop. The ranch even brought out horses, adding an authentic touch to the Western ambiance.
THE WEDDING DAY
Karli and Travis wanted to focus on the guests and make it a memorable event – in Steamboat fashion. On the celebration day, they opted out of having the ceremony since all their guests tuned into the live stream for their 2020 micro wedding during the Covid.
The reception was held at La Joya Dulce’s grounds, where the setting included lounge seating with a backdrop of the mountains, open-air dining, and elegant decor. The resting corner featured the bar and plush furniture in soft colors and cozy details, creating a welcoming space for guests to relax and enjoy the evening.
THE MOMENT ALONE
As the sun was setting down, Karli and Travis took a private moment to explore the ranch, capturing the essence of their love against the breathtaking views of their home city. This intimate time allowed them to reflect on their journey and the beauty of their surroundings, making for unforgettable photographs.
To this day, those are our favorite photos, and the breathtaking view as a backdrop is an added bonus!
THE RECEPTION
The dinner area was a vision of elegance, with long tables set against the expansive views of the ranch. The tables were adorned with delicate flowers, candles, and sophisticated tableware, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. The colors and decor harmonized with the natural beauty of the venue, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Elegant details delighted at every turn, from lounge seating with a backdrop of the mountains to an open-air dinner.
What made the day unique was making it truly a local experience. Being from Steamboat, Karli loved involving people she had known her whole life into the day.
They all have been a part of my life since I was a little girl. It was special being able to share that with friends and family that were a part of Travis and I's current life.
THE END OF THE DAY
Dinner was a delightful experience, featuring gourmet dishes by Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co. The evening continued with heartfelt toasts, dynamic dancing, and live music by Constant Change, a band with close ties to Karli’s family. Their performance added a personal touch to the celebration, making the night even more special.
Advice from the couple:
• Don’t sweat the small stuff! The day will come together perfectly no matter what goes on. Enjoy every minute of it, have a blast, dance your heart out, and soak in all the love everyone has for you as you step into this new chapter of your life.
VENUE La Joya Dulce | PLANNING & DESIGN Jacqueline Hallgarth | PHOTOGRAPHY Jenny Quicksall | DRESS Newhite | RECEPTION ATTIRE Rime Arodaky | CATERING & BAR Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co | RENTALS BBJ La Tavola, Hazel Grove | STATIONERY Swell Press | BAND Constant Change | TRANSPORTATION Steamboat Limo
