Durango Sunset Hour Wedding

Carter & Ryan | Durango, Colorado

From Carter…

Through rain, hail, sunshine, rainbows (yes, a double rainbow), and the most stunning Colorado sunset, we had the perfect day. Surrounded by the beauty of Durango—the town where we were both born, raised, and are lucky enough to call home—we celebrated with family and friends who traveled from coast to coast to be with us. We wanted a day that felt authentically “us,” so we focused on the details that mattered most: having both of our parents walk us down the aisle, a sit-down dinner, and a lively dance party for everyone to enjoy!

THE PLANNING

We attended the Durango Wedding Expo the last two years, it was a great opportunity for us to get ideas and meet vendors in person. We also loved seeing all the local inspiration in the Durango Weddings Magazine.

“Just two weeks before our wedding, our dog Atlas passed away unexpectedly. We always called him our sunflower, and we had planned for him to be a part of our special day. Although he wasn’t there in the way we had hoped, a small sunflower tucked into my bouquet served as a sweet reminder that, in spirit, he would always be with us.”

THE CEREMONY

Minutes before the ceremony started, a light rain began to fall, but as soon as the ceremony began, the clouds parted and the sun shone down on us. As I walked down the aisle, our eyes met, and Ryan teared up (even though he insisted he didn’t). I held back my own tears, doing my best to keep it together.

ADVICE

Focus on the things that truly matter to you. Embrace them fully and don’t let anyone steer you away from what feels right! It’s easy to get caught up in trends, other people’s opinions, and the endless decisions that come with planning, but remember to stay true to the details and moments that are meaningful to you and your partner. Keep redefining the important aspects, moments, and the overall vibe you want for YOUR wedding day.