Pickleball Elopement in Colorado
Some elopements are marked by epic hikes and remote vistas, others by quiet exchanges of vows in hidden corners of nature, but Maya and Andy’s elopement was something entirely unique—a perfect blend of adventure, playfulness, and heartfelt moments. Their day revolved around two constants in their relationship: a shared love for pickleball and the kind of bond that transforms even the simplest activities into cherished memories.
From the moment Maya and Andy reached out to us at Castlehouse Videography to capture their elopement, we knew this wasn’t going to be your traditional celebration. With their personalities shining through in every detail of their itinerary, we were thrilled to document a day that was as vibrant and full of life as they are. Here’s a little glimpse into how their beautiful day unfolded.
A Morning of Fun on the Court
The day started at Garden of the Gods Resort, with Maya and Andy doing something that brought them joy long before they decided to tie the knot: playing pickleball. From 9 to 10 a.m., they laughed, rallied, and celebrated the little victories on the court as the sun lit up the towering red rock formations around them. It wasn’t about competition or perfect form; it was about being in the moment and enjoying a sport that had become such a significant part of their relationship.
As photographers and videographers, capturing this playful energy was such a treat. The bright pickleball court against the backdrop of Colorado’s iconic landscape created a unique juxtaposition—a reminder that love can be both grounded in everyday joys and elevated by extraordinary moments.
A Quiet Brunch Together
After their lively morning, Maya and Andy took some time to themselves with a quiet brunch at the resort. While we weren’t able to document this portion (the location didn’t allow photography during meals), we loved the idea of them enjoying a calm and intimate meal together. It was a moment to pause, reflect, and soak in the fact that they were about to embark on one of the most meaningful days of their lives.
There’s something to be said about making space for quiet moments in the midst of all the excitement. While elopements often focus on adventure and movement, we always encourage couples to carve out time to connect privately—it’s a beautiful way to ground the day in your shared love.
Getting Ready at the Airbnb
By mid-afternoon, we joined Maya and Andy at their Airbnb as the next chapter of their day unfolded. This was where the transition from casual morning fun to heartfelt ceremony began. At 2 p.m., the hair and makeup artist arrived, and the Airbnb buzzed with quiet anticipation.
Andy spent this time perfecting a musical piece he’d planned to play during their first look, a detail that spoke volumes about the thoughtfulness and creativity he brought to their relationship. Meanwhile, Maya prepared with a calm excitement that seemed to reflect her confidence in the journey they were about to embark on together.
When the hair and makeup artist completed her work, we couldn’t help but marvel at how stunning Maya looked—not just in the polished sense, but in the radiant, glowing-from-within way that comes when someone is deeply happy and completely themselves.
A Musical First Look
At 4:30 p.m., it was time for one of the most special moments of the day: the first look. Andy stood on the porch of the Airbnb, guitar in hand, playing a melody that felt like it was written for this exact moment. The sound of his music filled the air as Maya stepped onto the porch, her dress swaying softly in the breeze.
We love capturing first looks because they’re always so unique to each couple. For Maya and Andy, it wasn’t just about seeing each other for the first time in their wedding attire—it was about creating a shared moment of connection through music and emotion. Watching Maya’s expression shift from anticipation to pure joy as she listened to Andy play was one of those moments that remind us why we do what we do.
Exploring Garden of the Gods with Their Dogs
With their first look complete, it was time to head to Garden of the Gods for the main event. Accompanied by their two dogs, who were very much part of their family and day, Maya and Andy explored the iconic red rock formations, pausing for photos and taking in the beauty of their surroundings.
The dogs added an extra layer of charm and unpredictability to the day, which only made it more special. From paw prints in the red dirt to a few playful barks during quiet moments, they reminded us all that love isn’t just about the big, planned gestures—it’s about the little, unscripted moments that make a day truly your own.
A Ceremony to Remember
As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, Maya and Andy found the perfect spot to exchange their vows. With the towering rocks of Garden of the Gods as their backdrop and their dogs by their side, they promised a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership.
The vows were deeply personal, filled with humor and tenderness that reflected who they are as a couple. Maya spoke about how Andy’s patience and creativity had transformed her view of love, while Andy shared how Maya’s vibrant spirit brought light into his life. It was a moment of raw emotion, one we felt honored to capture on film and in photos.
After exchanging rings, Maya and Andy helped their dogs leave their own “signature” on the day by pressing their paws into a patch of soft dirt. It was a lighthearted touch that perfectly encapsulated their family dynamic—equal parts love, playfulness, and togetherness.
Celebrating with Cake and Letters
With the formalities complete, Maya and Andy spread out a blanket for a quiet post-ceremony celebration. They toasted with champagne, cut into a small cake, and read letters from family members who couldn’t be there in person. Each letter was filled with heartfelt messages of love and support, bringing tears, laughter, and a deep sense of connection to the moment.
We often hear couples worry that eloping means missing out on the communal aspect of a wedding, but Maya and Andy’s celebration proved that you can create meaningful ways to include loved ones, even from afar.
Sunset Magic
As the day drew to a close, the sunset bathed the landscape in hues of gold and pink, creating a dreamlike backdrop for their final photos. Maya and Andy held hands, laughed, and reflected on the journey that had brought them to this moment. Their dogs, tired from a day full of adventure, lay peacefully nearby, completing the picture of a family that’s ready to take on life’s next chapter together.
Reflecting on a Unique Day
Maya and Andy’s elopement wasn’t just about the details—it was about the love that tied everything together. From the playful pickleball game to the heartfelt vows and everything in between, their day was a reflection of who they are as a couple: fun-loving, deeply connected, and unafraid to do things their own way.
For us at Castlehouse Videography, capturing days like this is more than just a job - it’s a privilege. Maya and Andy’s elopement reminded us that love takes many forms, and when you let your personality shine through, it creates something truly unforgettable.
If you’re planning your own elopement—whether it’s filled with adventure, tradition, or a little bit of both—we’d love to help you tell your story. Let’s create something as unique and beautiful as your love. Reach out to learn more about our Colorado elopement photography and videography services…
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We’re here to support you in your journey. Whether it’s just the two of you eloping at the top of the mountain or with your family at an accessible alpine lake, we’re here to help make it happen. To provide truly authentic experiences and the highest quality elopement films, we only accept a very limited number of intimate weddings and elopements each year.
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