Jenna and Michael got married at Boettcher Mansion in Golden, Colorado, on a September day when Lookout Mountain couldn’t decide what it wanted to do. The weather rolled in, the weather rolled out, and somewhere in the middle of it we made some of our favorite photographs of the year.
Why we love Boettcher Mansion
Boettcher Mansion sits on top of Lookout Mountain, about twenty minutes from downtown Golden and a world away from it. It’s a 1917 Arts and Crafts lodge with stone fireplaces, dark timber, and a lawn that ends where the view begins. Inside, the light is warm and low. Outside, you’re standing above the Front Range.
We photograph here often, and it rewards knowing the property. The best portrait spots aren’t the obvious ones, and the light moves around the mansion differently depending on the season. When couples ask us where to be and when, we already have an answer.
The weather that made the day
Weather on Lookout Mountain has a mind of its own. The day gave us a little of everything, and a wall of fog came up the canyon and parked itself over the valley. Some couples would have panicked. Jenna and Michael trusted us when we said: this is a gift.
We had walked the property in advance and knew exactly where to take them when the sky did something interesting. Ten minutes at the overlook, and the weather gave them a portrait most couples could never plan for.
“Beau and Luke were amazing! We received all of the photos we wanted and then some all in a timely manner. He was able to capture the crazy weather that made our day even more special. We would definitely recommend him!” — Jenna D., The Knot
The ceremony and the party
The ceremony was outside at the mansion, and we worked it the way we always do: quietly, from the angles the guests can’t see. We build the timeline with our couples months ahead, so the wedding day itself has room to breathe. The formals took minutes. The rest of the day belonged to Jenna, Michael, and the people they love.
The reception stayed inside the mansion, and the dance floor did not empty. Their first dance is one of our favorite black and white frames of the season.
A few planning notes for Boettcher Mansion couples
If you’re getting married at Boettcher Mansion, build a little flex into your portrait time. The mountain weather changes fast, and the couples who leave room for it end up with the photographs everyone remembers. Sunset from the overlook is worth protecting on your timeline, and the interior light in the great room is beautiful for the first dance without any extra lighting.
We’re a preferred vendor at Colorado venues across the Front Range, and Boettcher Mansion is one we know by heart.
Thank you
A wedding day is a team effort, and this one had a great one.
Venue: Boettcher Mansion, Golden
Planner:
Florist:
Caterer:
DJ or band:
Cake:
Hair and makeup:
Officiant:
If you’re planning a wedding at Boettcher Mansion or anywhere along the Front Range and want photography that lets you actually live the day, we’d love to hear about it.
