Some weddings are grand affairs with hundreds of guests, a packed dance floor, and a whirlwind of activities. But for Dana and Cade, their dream wedding was something entirely different—intimate, meaningful, and focused on celebrating their love with their closest family members. With the help of Brette at Wild Poppy Events, they were able to pull off the day they dreamed of.
A Scenic, Intimate Celebration
Dana and Cade tied the knot at Gold Mountain Ranch in Ouray, Colorado, an idyllic setting that provided breathtaking mountain views and an exclusive experience for their 12 guests. Choosing a micro wedding from the start, they intentionally kept their guest list to immediate family. The venue's 40-person limit helped ensure that their wedding remained small and personal.
“I’ve been to weddings where it feels like the bride and groom are just having to go to every table and say hello and don’t really get to enjoy their day or even eat, and I did not want that for us. We really got to enjoy every single guest that was there and celebrate together every moment. It was very special.” – Dana
A Classic Wedding with a Western Twist
The couple crafted a timeless wedding aesthetic with a classic yet western-inspired vibe. Cowboy boots made an appearance on all guests, including the bride and groom, adding a touch of rustic charm. Dana’s grandmother contributed special family touches to the tablescape, making the setting even more personal.
Thoughtful Wedding Traditions with a Personal Touch
Dana was given away by both her mother and father, and while she and Cade waited until the ceremony for their first look, they did share a sweet first touch before walking down the aisle. Their ceremony took place on the lawn overlooking Ouray’s breathtaking mountain landscape at 9,000 feet. The sun peeked through the peaks as they exchanged vows in a heartfelt, traditional ceremony—just without a bridal party. They sealed their love with a kiss and a celebratory dip!
A Reception Focused on Connection
Instead of a traditional reception with dancing and toasts, Dana and Cade opted for an intimate, three-course dinner at one large table. High Country Catering prepared an incredible meal on-site, allowing the newlyweds and their guests to focus on meaningful conversations and quality time.
One of the most unique elements of the evening was a special drinking glass given to the couple by Dana’s father. The glass, featuring two mouths, symbolized their new life together. In a touching moment, Dana and Cade shared a drink from it, making for a beautiful memory.
Capturing the Perfect Moments
Shell Creek Photography documented every stunning moment, including a breathtaking sunset session where Dana and Cade ventured to a secluded spot to take in 360-degree mountain views, a full moon overhead, and the last of the alpen glow illuminating the peaks. One of their favorite moments was dancing together on top of the world—just the two of them, lost in their love.
The Vendor Team
Even with a micro wedding, Dana and Cade ensured their day was an incredible experience by hiring a stellar vendor team:
Dana and Cade encourage couples to follow their instincts and create a wedding that feels right for them:“We knew we wanted to get married in the mountains or somewhere scenic, and we struggled with finding a venue that checked that box without being too big for our small guest count. When I found Gold Mountain, it was literally a dream come true. It was absolutely perfect in every way. I mean, have you seen the photos? Stunning!” – Dana
Dana says, "Go with your gut and have the wedding YOU want to have!" Dana and Cade’s wedding was proof that bigger isn’t always better. Their intentional, heartfelt, and beautifully intimate celebration will be cherished forever.
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Jennie Swenson is a former micro wedding bride, and she now supports countless couples in planning their own intimate celebrations through her blog, featuring real micro wedding stories and a curated vendor directory. Her practical advice and firsthand experience make her a go-to resource for those seeking to create memorable and meaningful micro weddings.
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