Manitou Springs Wedding at Craftwood Peak | Jenn & Tim
Jenn and Tim traveled from Texas to say “I do” in the charming mountain town of Manitou Springs. They chose Craftwood Peak by Wedgewood Weddings as the perfect backdrop for their intimate winter wedding. Their day was filled with heartfelt moments, from a quiet first look with breathtaking views of Pikes Peak to a cozy reception still twinkling with holiday lights.
Surrounded by their closest friends and family—including many of the kids and families Tim has coached over the years—their wedding was more than just a celebration; it was a gathering of the people who’ve shaped their story. With laughter filling the air, toasts that brought tears and joy, and a dance floor moment (shoutout to Jenn’s uncle for owning it!), this wedding was the perfect way to wrap up 2024.
Some weddings just feel right. Jenn & Tim’s winter wedding at Craftwood Peak by Wedgewood Weddings in Manitou Springs was one of those—cozy, joy-filled, and warm.
These two made the trip from Texas to get married in the foothills of the Rockies, bringing their closest friends and family along for the adventure. From our very first Zoom call, I knew their wedding day would be full of energy and connection. I started doing pre-wedding Zoom calls after a photography retreat I attended where one of the teachers mentioned how much it changed her business. It’s become one of my favorite ways to prep for a wedding, elopement, or session. It lets us map out timelines, answer questions in real time, and most importantly—help couples (and families) feel comfortable before our time together.
Before the ceremony, Jenn & Tim carved out a quiet moment for their first look, and let me tell you—it was worth it. We found the perfect spot with panoramic views of Pikes Peak, giving them a chance to take it all in before the whirlwind of the day. A first look isn’t just about photos (though, yes, they were stunning)—it’s about slowing down, breathing, and getting a moment together before the celebration begins.
As the sun set, Jenn & Tim exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony on the patio before heading into their reception. Craftwood Peak still had its holiday decor up—twinkling lights, warm tones, and that perfect post-Christmas charm. The dinner was a sit-down meal filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and stories shared between friends.
A special highlight? Tim is a coach, and a lot of the kids and families he’s mentored traveled to celebrate with them. You could tell how much that meant to him—it wasn’t just a wedding, it was a reunion of the people who had been part of his journey.
The dance floor took over once the formalities wrapped up, and Jenn’s uncle absolutely stole the show. Watching guests cheer him on made it clear—this was a wedding where people showed up for each other. And in a fun little moment straight out of a Hallmark movie, the neighbors next to the venue watched the wedding unfold from their big picture window, enjoying the celebration from afar.
Why Craftwood Peak is a Dream Wedding Venue
For couples looking to get married in Manitou Springs or the Front Range in general, Craftwood Peak by Wedgewood Weddings is a gem. It’s intimate, charming, and perfectly blends mountain town character and elegant design. Plus, the views? Unreal. Whether you want a winter wedding with a cozy atmosphere or a summer celebration with greenery all around, this venue delivers.
Jenn & Tim’s wedding day was proof that a great wedding isn’t about how big it is—it’s about the people, the energy, and those in-between moments that make it unforgettable. Their Manitou Springs wedding was everything it needed to be: warm, joyful, and absolutely them.
Planning your wedding in Manitou Springs or beyond? Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy winter wedding or a sun-soaked summer celebration, I’d love to help you document every moment. Let’s chat about your vision and make some magic together
Heartfelt Colorado Wedding at Pinecrest Weddings
Jess and Philip’s Colorado winter wedding at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center was a heartfelt celebration just days before Christmas. With family and friends traveling from across the world, their love story—rooted in long-distance devotion—unfolded beautifully against the stunning Colorado mountain backdrop. From an intimate first look to golden-hour portraits near Palmer Lake, every moment was filled with warmth and connection. Their reception was a joyful celebration, complete with heartfelt conversations and an unforgettable dance floor. Step into this romantic Colorado wedding!
Some love stories are so beautifully woven together that you can’t help but be in awe of the journey that brought two people to their wedding day. Jess and Philip’s story is one of those—filled with adventure, faith, and a deep-rooted love that spanned continents before bringing them together at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center in Palmer Lake, Colorado, for a breathtaking December wedding.
A Love Story That Crossed Continents
Jess and Philip’s love story wasn’t born from swiping right or casual meet-ups—it was something far more intentional. Their families had known each other, and in a world where love can sometimes feel fleeting, their story was anything but. When the time was right, Philip traveled all the way to Turkey just to meet Jess for their very first date. Imagine that—flying across the world just for a chance to see if there was something real between them. Spoiler: there absolutely was.
What followed was a long-distance relationship that tested their patience, strengthened their faith, and solidified their commitment to each other. They spent months navigating time zones, airport goodbyes, and the longing that comes with being so far apart. But in the end, they knew there was no distance too great for a love like theirs.
A Cozy December Wedding in the Mountains
There’s something magical about a winter wedding, especially one held just days before Christmas. Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center provided the perfect setting—rustic yet elegant, tucked away in the foothills, surrounded by towering pines and mountain views that stretched for miles.
The day started with a quiet stillness in the air, the kind that only a crisp winter morning can bring. Jess and Philip’s first look was one of my favorite moments of the entire day. It was just the two of them, away from the noise, standing in a peaceful embrace. No words were needed—just the way they looked at each other said everything.
Their ceremony was filled with the most beautiful touches—a heartfelt exchange of vows, scripture readings that spoke of love and commitment, and everyone singing together as one. With family and friends gathered from all over the country—and even across the world—it felt like a true reflection of their journey. Every moment was rich with meaning, every glance filled with the weight of knowing this was the beginning of forever.
Horses, Sunsets, and the Most Breathtaking Couples Photos
After the ceremony, we stepped outside for couples portraits that could have been straight out of a storybook. One of the most unique parts of this location? The pasture we passed on our way to our intended location was filled with horses. We couldn’t help but stop. It added such an unexpected touch of rustic charm to their wedding day (and gallery). The horses wandered in the background as Jess and Philip held each other close, soaking in the quiet moments after saying "I do."
As golden hour approached, I made our way to a nearby scenic overlook, and let me tell you—the sunset did NOT disappoint. The sky lit up in the most incredible shades of orange and yellow as the sun dipped behind the mountains. They stood hand in hand, watching the last light of the day fade into the horizon, and I couldn’t help but think how perfectly that moment reflected their journey—waiting, trusting, and then stepping into something beautifully unknown.
A Celebration Filled With Love and Dance Moves
Once we returned to the venue, the reception was in full swing. The warmth inside was a beautiful contrast to the crisp winter air outside, and the love in the room was palpable. Guests gathered around tables, sharing laughter, heartfelt toasts, and stories of the couple’s journey.
But when the dancing started? Oh. My. Gosh. Jess’ dad and brother stole the show! Their dance moves had everyone on their feet, cheering and clapping along, and before long, the entire room was alive with celebration. It was the perfect mix of heartfelt and lively—a true reflection of who Jess and Philip are.
As the night came to a close, I looked around at all the love surrounding them and knew this wasn’t just a wedding—it was a homecoming. Two hearts, once separated by an ocean, now standing side by side, beginning the next chapter of their story together.
Capturing Your Colorado Wedding Story
Being part of Jess and Philip’s wedding was an absolute honor. From the stunning scenery to the deep-rooted love they share, every moment was a reminder of why I do what I do.
If you're planning a Colorado Springs wedding or a Colorado mountain wedding, I’d love to be there to document your day in a way that feels true to you. From helping you find the perfect location to capturing those quiet, intimate moments, I’m here to make sure your wedding day is everything you dreamed it would be.
Let’s chat about your wedding! Reach out today and let’s create something beautiful together.
Jake and Chelsea’s Beautiful Walker Homestead Wedding
Some weddings just hit different, and Jake and Chelsea’s magical day at the Walker Homestead in Iowa City was one of those. Nestled in the rolling hills of Iowa, the Walker Homestead is a working farm and event venue that blends rustic charm with modern elegance. With it’s picturesque vineyards, open fields, and inviting barn, it’s a slice of heaven perfect for a love story like theirs.
But this wasn’t just any wedding for me—it was personal. Jake wasn’t just the groom; he was my former boss and one of the people who made this photography business of mine possible. Years ago, Jake gave me the space to dream and the support to build my craft. His thoughtful encouragement paved the way for me to turn this passion into a full-time gig, and let me tell you—getting to be the one to document the biggest day of his life? That was an honor I won’t soon forget.
Jake’s thoughtfulness and belief in others aren’t just things I’ve seen firsthand—they’re qualities Chelsea loves deeply about him, too. They’re both public servants through and through, the kind of people who won’t just hand you the world but will show you how to build it yourself. That mindset defines them and their relationship, and it was woven beautifully into their day.
Flying from Colorado Springs to Iowa for this wedding felt like coming full circle. Watching Jake stand at the altar waiting for Chelsea was a surreal moment—this man who once gave me the freedom to chase my dreams was now chasing his own, marrying the love of his life. And when Chelsea walked down the aisle, glowing with all the confidence and grace in the world, it was clear these two were made for each other.
Some weddings just hit different, and Jake and Chelsea’s magical day at the Walker Homestead in Iowa City was one of those. Nestled in the rolling hills of Iowa, the Walker Homestead is a working farm and event venue that blends rustic charm with modern elegance. With it’s picturesque vineyards, open fields, and inviting barn, it’s a slice of heaven perfect for a love story like theirs.
But this wasn’t just any wedding for me—it was personal. Jake wasn’t just the groom; he was my former boss and one of the people who made this photography business of mine possible. Years ago, Jake gave me the space to dream and the support to build my craft. His thoughtful encouragement paved the way for me to turn this passion into a full-time gig, and let me tell you—getting to be the one to document the biggest day of his life? That was an honor I won’t soon forget.
Jake’s thoughtfulness and belief in others aren’t just things I’ve seen firsthand—they’re qualities Chelsea loves deeply about him, too. They’re both public servants through and through, the kind of people who won’t just hand you the world but will show you how to build it yourself. That mindset defines them and their relationship, and it was woven beautifully into their day.
Flying from Colorado Springs to Iowa for this wedding felt like coming full circle. Watching Jake stand at the altar waiting for Chelsea was a surreal moment—this man who once gave me the freedom to chase my dreams was now chasing his own, marrying the love of his life. And when Chelsea walked down the aisle, glowing with all the confidence and grace in the world, it was clear these two were made for each other.
The Walker Homestead was the perfect backdrop for their celebration. From the sweeping vineyard views during their heartfelt ceremony to the cozy barn reception, everything felt so intentional. The venue’s farm-to-table cuisine and warm, inviting vibe set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Now, let’s talk about the reception because, friends, it was wild. The dance floor? Absolutely on fire. The music didn’t just bring people together—it united them in a full-blown party that had everyone hyped. People of all ages were out there tearing it up like it was the best night of their lives—and honestly, it probably was. It was one of those dance parties where you can’t help but laugh, cry, and jump up and down all at once.
Jake and Chelsea’s wedding day wasn’t just a celebration of their love; it was a testament to the impact they have on everyone around them. These two inspire others with their kindness, their drive, and their ability to bring people together. And for me, being there with my camera in hand felt like the best way to say thank you for everything Jake’s done for me.
If you’re planning your own wedding, can I just say—let’s make magic like this together. Whether it’s a celebration at the Walker Homestead or a mountain-side ceremony back in Colorado, I’m here to capture it all. Let’s create something unforgettable. Hit me up, and let’s get started!
