Brown Palace & DU Wedding: Michael + Jen

She was as calm as a snowy winter's eve. Quite a juxtaposition from the weather outside: bright blue skies and screaming fall color. I can't remember a time I saw a bride so calm. So truly ready to get married! While I shot pictures, Jen casually slipped in to her dress, aided by only her mother and sister-in-law, Katie. And since Katie and I have been friends for years, it was hard to believe I was shooting a wedding: No job has been so easy...so fun.

We followed a small timeline of shots Jen had wanted in the Brown Palace before her small chapel ceremony at Denver University. Fortunately, we were able to take full advantage of the gorgeous sliver of Colorado weather in mid-November.

Opting for a first look was an advantage because of ambient light, but it melted my heart. Never have I see such pure love coming from an anticipating groom. As Jen took the long walk to the tiny chapel, her honorable fiance, Staff Sergeant, Michael, wore his heart on his sleeve. A day shy of Veteran's day, an oak tree rustled its red leaves quietly nearby as they shared their moment. And for a minute, I couldn't believe I was a part of it.

Jen and Michael, I hope you've enjoyed your first few weeks as a married couple! Thank you for allowing me to document your journey, your day, and your love. I wish you nothing short of happiness, longevity, and light! Hugs, Shannon

Jen and Michael's wedding was held at The Brown Palace in Denver, CO. Although photographing the dimly-lit interior is a challenge, the architecture is breathtaking.

While even I could hardly see Jen approaching...

...there was not doubt Michael could see her!

Pre-ceremony photos are awesome...especially in the winter months.

The wedding party! Classicly simple...a bride with her new groom, brother, and sister-in-law.

Jen's mother offered a small touch-up before heading into the chapel:

A hug from her brother, Chris, and it was ceremony time!

The wedding was held inside of the beautifully rustic Evan's Memorial Chapel at DU.

The inside was just as picturesque.

Having a reception at the Brown Palace makes the whole day feel magical.

The following image, which sums up the night, was taken by my awesome 2nd shooter, Jarrod. He is fabulous. As you can see!

To see more of Michael and Jen's Brown Palace wedding, feel free to CLICK HERE for a slideshow.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Credits:

2nd Shooter - Jarrod Renaud

Ceremony - Evan's Memorial Chapel, DU

Reception/Catering - Brown Palace Hotel, Denver

Flowers - Chuck Graham - Brown Palace Flower Shop

I wanted to give special thanks to my husband Jason, who came as my personal assistant and, coincidentally, third shooter that night! As this was my first wedding after our brand new baby, it was awesome having him there. And dang it if he didn't get some greats shots too. =) ♥ you babe.

Wedding: Hannah & Paul

In December, I had the pleasure of shooting, once again, with a fave. Mark Hayes is an amazing, amazing photographer, but he's also an amazing person. I am so inspired by him and hope that one day, I'll be half as good. If you aren't familiar with his photography, I highly suggest you check it out and click here.

The day was December 18th, and I had the pleasure of shooting the most beautiful wedding. Hannah and Paul Oliver chose amazing venues and all-around beautiful decor. Their attention to detail in everything they did blew me away.

Trinity Methodist Church held the ceremony and The Brown Palace hosted their reception. Their wedding was beautiful! And the perfect start to the Holiday season.

Here are some of my "2nd/3rd-shooter" pics:

The beautiful Brown Palace. Doesn't get any better for an indoor celebration!

Walking in & out with the two best men in her life...

I can't exactly explain what makes me love these next few images so much, but it's probably because my view through balcony rails framed it perfectly. As perfectly as my mind saw it. Because Mark held the grounds of the church, I was positioned high above the guests, to shoot down, onto the ceremony. During a brief musical interlude, I took a moment to see the wedding in a new light. And I shot creatively, with no rules on exposure or composition. I cherish images like these...because they express better than I can what I was feeling as I shot. And gives viewers a new way to look through my lens. Mmm, Love.

A second favorite! Right after the ceremony, I headed down the cathedral's stairs from the sanctuary so formal pictures could start, but suddenly realized a moment was being shared. Through the staircase railing--click, click. Perfect.

See what I mean about their attention to detail? Beautiful!

It's hard to explain, but something about this image gets me. It's like a secret handshake, or unspoken code of love. It's official. You had your cake and you ate it. Finito.

This is the best part about second-shooting: I get a totally different perspective. And I love it!

May you have a super fun marriage H&P! Many Blessings!

Note: Another outstanding individual and highly sought-out wedding photographer, Dain Linder was there too. His work is nothing short of genius. See for yourself: click here. Hannah's flowers were designed by The Brown Palace Flower Shop. Superb!

Cheers,

Shanon