How the Pandemic Turned Their Wedding Into a Beautiful Adventure | Tori & Marcus

When Tori and Marcus’ thoughts for a big wedding were derailed by the pandemic, they decided to create a day that truly reflected their love for adventure and each other. Instead of a large celebration, they opted for an intimate elopement in the breathtaking beauty of Estes Park.

Tori & Marcus’ Story

Marcus and Tori’s love story began at Northern State University, where they first met during their freshman year in Jerde Hall (rest in peace!). She was a volleyball player from the city in Florida, and he was a football player from a farm in Nebraska—two worlds that couldn’t have been more different. Despite this, they bonded over shared quirks, like their love for Percy Jackson, Culver’s runs, and Marcus’s habit of leaving candy wrappers in Tori’s room. Though they started as close friends denying their feelings, everything changed during their junior year when they finally admitted what everyone else already knew. Their first date—a dinner and movie—was hilariously memorable, thanks to Marcus coming down with food poisoning. From there, their friendship-turned-romance blossomed, strengthened by laughter and an undeniable connection.

Fast forward to summer 2018, Marcus and Tori embarked on a three-week European adventure after a year of long-distance love. From exploring Amsterdam’s canals to hiking in Zakopane and marveling at castles in Slovakia, the trip was unforgettable—though Tori couldn’t help but wonder when the proposal would come. Finally, on their last evening in Budapest, Marcus proposed during a sunset bike tour along the Danube River. Overlooking the water at Vigadó Square, he popped the question, and the night ended with wine on a rooftop overlooking the city. It was perfectly timed, authentically them, and absolutely worth the wait.

Their Mid-Pandemic Intimate Wedding

The day began at Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, where Tori and Marcus exchanged vows surrounded by towering pine trees and snow-capped peaks. With only their closest loved ones present, the ceremony was simple, heartfelt, and deeply personal. Tori’s lace gown and warm-toned bouquet perfectly complemented the autumn landscape, while Marcus’s beaming smile said it all—this day was everything they could have hoped for.

After a celebratory toast with their guests, the couple laced up their hiking boots and set out on an afternoon trek to one of Rocky Mountain National Park’s most majestic lake. The trail, lined with shimmering aspens and towering pines, offered plenty of moments for quiet reflection and shared joy.

At Dream Lake, the serene water mirrored the surrounding peaks, creating a stunning backdrop. Tori and Marcus danced on the lakeshore, their laughter filling the air. The moment was intimate, magical, and completely their own—a celebration of love amidst the grand mountains.

As the sun set, casting warm hues across the sky, they reflected on the beauty of the day. The pandemic may have changed their original plans, but it also gave them the opportunity to create something even more meaningful—a day focused on their love and shared adventure.

If their story resonates with you, we’d love to help you craft an unforgettable Estes Park elopement experience. Let’s turn your wedding day into your own beautiful adventure. Reach out today to start planning!

Their Estes Park Wedding Vendor Team

Hair & Makeup | Estes Park Bridal Company

Florist | Painted Primrose

Bride’s Wedding Dress Designer | Jenny Yoo

Ready To Plan Your Elopement?

Meet Larissa + Bailey! As two Colorado Natives 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!