A Destination Wedding with Boho Vibes

Avery & Matthew

 

From the bride…

We got engaged on the top of a mountain in Santa Fe, after a run. We love running together, so this moment was perfect. Matthew proposed right after we met a couple who was celebrating a 75th birthday. They took a picture of us while he was proposing. They had no idea, I had no idea. It was perfect, and caught on camera!

 

WHY DURANGO

Ten years ago, we met in Durango and fell in love. We lived in Durango, on and off, for about eight years. We love the outdoor recreation opportunities, the supportive community, the food, and all the friends we have made along the way. We love Durango.

 

THE VISION

Our vision was a mixture between mountain and city, along with some boho vibes.

 

THE VENUE

For the ceremony, we chose the Lion’s Den for the beautiful views of our favorite town. We held the reception at the Strater Hotel for its downtown, close to everything, historic charm.

 

 

 

THE CEREMONY

We incorporated an Indian tradition called Saat Phere (7 circles). The fire symbolizes eternity. And tradition states you walk around the fire 7 times.  Each time you walk around the fire you are promising honor the vow that you’ve made.  If you go around in the circle that means that it is now an unbreakable vow. We decided to each take turns with a Vow so while we were both agreeing and promising to uphold each Vow, only one of us spoke per vow. We each decided to relate that vow to something in our lives that was an example of that vow in practice.

 

 

We kept things simple and allowed the views to speak for themselves. The most memorable moment was saying our vows. We took turns speaking and walking in a circle to signify our promise to the vows we made, each alternating when to lead and when to follow.

 

 

THE RECEPTION

The reception was held in the ballroom of the Strater Hotel. We served crafted, signature drinks named after our puppy and the Animas River. I really enjoyed having a table for just us during dinner. Following dinner, we got to walk around and mingle with everyone. It was really fun and it felt like we had more time with our guests.

 

 

 

My favorite memories were all the speeches from friends and family, as well as everyone dancing.

 

 

LOOKING BACK

We would have included a goodbye or closing activity the next day with family and friends, especially for those who lived far away.

 

 

 

THE WEDDING TEAM

Venue, Caterer, & Lodging: The Strater Hotel {website}. We loved working with Emily Spencer at the Strater Hotel and knew everything would be taken care of.

Photographer: Colt & Hannah {website}. We loved Colt and Hannah’s story and how they arrived in Durango. We loved their pictures and adventure sessions, and the fact that they were just starting a business and we love supporting small businesses!

Hair Stylist: The Chair

Reprinted from the 2020 Magazine