Some weddings just feel like magic from the start, and Jackie and Nick’s day was one of them. One of the big reasons is that Jackie is my baby sister. Well… she's not so much a baby anymore, but we are ten years apart, and feels like yesterday when we were bringing her home from the hospital. It was an honor to help tell the story of her wedding day held at Ralston Crossing in Arvada, CO—just down the street from their home—the setting was as personal and heartfelt. Very “Jackie.” Photos are a combination of film and digital, and we alloted extra time with the horses of course!

Jackie has always been obsessed with horses. It’s not just a passion; it’s her life. She teaches kids how to ride, and the joy she finds in those moments shines through in everything she does. So, of course, her beloved horses had to be part of the day. In true Jackie style, she made the most unforgettable entrance: riding in on horseback like a queen from a storybook. It was such a bold, beautiful moment that truly captured her spirit. Ever since I can remember Jackie knew she would turn her passion into a job. Riding from when she was 6 years old. So proud that she made her dream come true!

The western boho theme was woven into every detail of their day. Think earthy tones, wildflowers, and cowboy boots. When we went dress shopping with Jackie the main concern was “will I be able to jump up on and ride my horse in this dress.” She found one that passed the text! And looked stunning while doing it! She paused a ways before getting to Nick, carefully jumping off her horse and was then handed her beloved chihuahua and her bouquet as our mom walked her down the rest of the aisle.

Photographing your sister’s wedding is a unique kind of honor. I got to witness the big moments and the in-between ones. This is the joy and privilege of being a photographer at anyone's wedding. We get to see behind the scenes, capturing the moments that not everyone gets to see. And it is also a reminder of why it’s important that you feel comfortable and get along with your photographer! A special thanks to friend and photographer Caroline Brackney, who filled in the spots I couldn’t and helped out with family photos (so I could actually be in them!).

Ralston Crossing gave their day a cozy, intimate feel, and being so close to home made everything even more meaningful. It wasn’t just a celebration of their love but also a reflection of the life they’ve built together in their community.

We took a tiny photo break for them to “smoke their first joint together as husband and wife.” Hey - we are in COLORADO! And a few more flash photos next to my dad’s 56’ Ford Thunderbird. We couldn’t resist.

As you can see above our family knows how to party. We did a special toast to our dad who passed a year and a half prior and sang “Friends In Low Places” as a tribute. Our cousin LaDonna made the cake and cookies! And I will be honest - I was sad when the night was coming to an end.

To Jackie and Nick: Capturing your wedding day was an experience I’ll never forget. Your love, energy, and authenticity made every moment special, and I can’t wait to see what’s ahead for you two.

Here’s to the most perfect day, and to many more adventures to come!