Cowboy Boots Meet Mountain Elopement Adventures | Hayley & Richard

Hayley and Richard’s love story is the kind that feels like it belongs in a country song. They didn’t point to a single moment when they knew they were in love; it was something that happened all at once. Their kindness and care for each other was a “breath of fresh air” and made falling for each other feel completely natural.

Just a few days before their elopement, Hayley and Richard shared the exciting news of their engagement with their family and friends. Little did their loved ones know that they would soon be hearing an even bigger announcement: that these two had tied the knot in a stunning, intimate elopement ceremony in Estes Park, Colorado.

The day itself was pure magic. August in the mountains has a way of offering the perfect backdrop for love, and their wedding day didn’t disappoint. The weather was sunny, with just the faintest hint of rain in the air to keep things cool and dramatic. Hayley and Richard set the tone by getting ready in the coziest little camper, adding a sense of adventure to their special day. They even hand-made a string of cans to tie to their truck after their ceremony as a nod to southern romance.
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Everything about their day felt deeply personal and meaningful. They brought touches of home with them, including their favorite shooters and a cowhide rug they had purchased at a fundraiser event. These details made their mountain elopement uniquely theirs, blending their southern roots with the rugged beauty of the Rockies. It was a celebration that felt authentic to who they are as a couple—unpretentious, heartfelt, and full of life.

One of my favorite moments of the day came at the top of our hike to Dream Lake. There, surrounded by towering peaks and breathtaking views, we celebrated their union with funfetti cupcakes. It was such a fun, lighthearted touch—exactly the kind of moment that reminds you what weddings are all about: savoring love, connection, and the simple joys of life.

Hayley and Richard’s day was a beautiful mix of southern charm and mountain spirit. From cowboy boots to alpine lakes, every detail felt like an extension of their love story. It’s couples like these who remind me why I love what I do. Capturing their story, from the quiet moments to the big celebrations, was an honor I won’t soon forget.

Thank you, Hayley and Richard, for letting me be part of your incredible day. Your elopement was a perfect reminder that love is about being true to yourselves and creating memories that feel entirely your own. Here’s to many more adventures—together.

Ready To Plan Your Elopement?

Meet Larissa + Bailey! As two born and raised Coloradans who have photographed 200+ couples in 100+ locations across Colorado, we specialize in creating a different kind of wedding day that is just as adventurous as you are. We use our experience and knowledge to craft a different kind of wedding day that feels completely authentic to you. Want to hike to a high alpine lake? We can give you trail options for that! Want to canoe along the banks of a mountain lake? We can tell you the best lakes to do it on! Want to watch the sunset from the top of the world? We’ll lead you to our favorite spots for sunset! Book your Estes Park elopement photographer today!