After such a sweet and snuggly debut in 2025, our Bunny Sessions are hopping back into the studio! 🐰✨ Two of the bunnies who stole everyone’s hearts last year officially became part of our family — and they’re ready for their close-ups again! This spring we’re introducing two brand-new backdrop designs to keep things fresh, bright, and full of seasonal charm (see the attached photos!).

Because our event calendar is filling up quickly this year, we’re keeping Bunny Sessions extra exclusive and offering one special weekend only: March 21–22 — perfectly timed so you’ll have your images back before Easter.

We’ll also open a limited number of weekday sessions by appointment. If your schedule is flexible Monday–Friday, simply email me info@crystalinephoto.com 2–3 dates that work for you and I’ll follow up with a contract for one of those options.

Otherwise, you can click the link below to hop over to our booking calendar and reserve your spot for Saturday, March 21st or Sunday, March 22nd.

We can’t wait to create something adorable with you this spring! 🌷🐇

Bunny Session Packages

Hop A Long - 200.00

Includes the 45min session with the Bunnies

5 - Retouched High Resolution Digital Images

Online Gallery & A Free Thank You Gift

Cotton Tails - 350.00

Includes the 45min session with the Bunnies

12 - Retouched High Resolution Digital Images

4x4 Accordion Book with 14 Photos and a Photo Cover

Online Gallery & A Free Thank You Gift

Bunny Dreams - 450.00

Includes the 45min session with the Bunnies

All of the Digital Images from Your Session with 20 retouched ones!

4x4 Accordion Book with 14 Photos and a Photo Cover

1 - 11 x14 Canvas Print

Online Gallery & an USB of Your Photos

Click this link to pick a weekend time slot:
Book a weekend session on Saturday March 21st or Sunday March 22nd

Rocky Road, the bunny

Sherbet, the bunny

1. Colorado Sun Is No Joke

That dreamy mountain backdrop? Gorgeous.
But high-altitude sun is bright and harsh — especially in places like Boulder, Vail, or Breckenridge.

Midday ceremonies in full sun can cause squinting and strong shadows, consider an early morning ceremony or a late afternoon one. A little shade, a slight ceremony rotation, or timeline adjustment makes a huge difference in how flattering and comfortable your photos feel.

2. The Timeline Always Needs More Buffer Than You Think

Mountain traffic. Shuttle delays. A missing boutonniere.
Colorado weddings especially benefit from 15–20 minute buffers built into the timeline in between events. When you’re relaxed, your photos feel relaxed.

3. Getting-Ready Rooms Matter (A Lot)

Some mountain lodges are cozy… and dark.
Cabins in places like Estes Park can have amazing views but limited natural light inside.

The brightest room with the biggest window will always win for clean, flattering prep photos.

4. Wind Is Part of the Colorado Vibe

If you’re getting married outdoors — especially at elevation — wind is almost guaranteed.

Loose hairstyles, long veils, and flowy dresses photograph beautifully in motion… but it helps to:

• Bring extra bobby pins
• Secure veils well
• Be mentally prepared to laugh through it

Some of the most magical mountain photos happen in a little wind.

5. Golden Hour Moves Fast in the Mountains

In flatter areas, sunset lingers. In the mountains? The sun drops behind peaks quickly.

In places like Aspen or Telluride, we sometimes lose direct light earlier than the official sunset time.

Planning portraits before the sun fully dips keeps that warm, glowy look everyone loves.

6. Decluttering the Prep Space

Water bottles. Fast food bags. Suit garment covers. Random boxes and bags.

Designate one “stuff in the corner” in the room to store everything and then keep the most photogenic spots clean. It takes 2 minutes and elevates the entire gallery.

7. Ceremony Direction > Just the View

Yes, the mountain backdrop is stunning.
But if you’re facing direct sun while your guests are shaded, you’ll be squinting in every ceremony photo. If you’re in complete shade with a bright sunny backdrop sometimes we’ll have to choose between exposing the image for your faces or the background which will make you a silhouette in the photos. Without adding more light or talking directly with your photographer about how to handle this beforehand you might not be able to get a photo where the background and the subjects are both visible.

A slight angle adjustment can preserve the view and give you flattering light.

8. An Unplugged Ceremony Is Extra Important Outdoors

Outdoor Colorado ceremonies often have wider aisles and open spaces, which makes it easier for guests to lean out with phones.

An unplugged ceremony keeps your first kiss photo clear of iPads and arms in the aisle — and it lets your guests actually be present with you.

9. Steam the Dress (Mountain Wrinkles Are Real)

Traveling up I-70 with your dress in the back seat? It’s going to wrinkle.

Mountain air + travel + hanging overnight in a small closet can create creases that are very visible in photos.

Most venues or hotels have a steamer available — designate someone to handle it early so it’s not a last-minute scramble.

10. Trust the Process (Especially With Weather)

Colorado weather can change in 20 minutes. Sun. Clouds. Light rain. Back to sun.

Some of the most incredible skies happen right after a quick mountain shower.
If we pivot, adjust, or move quickly — it’s not chaos. It’s experience.

The couples who lean in, laugh, and trust the flow always end up with the most authentic images.

There are weddings… and then there are experiences. Lucas and Tea’s fall masquerade ball at Baldoria on the Water was nothing short of cinematic. From the rich autumn color palette to the elegant masked ceremony entrance, every detail felt intentional, romantic, and just a little bit mysterious.

A Grand Masquerade Entrance

Guests gathered beneath Baldoria’s covered outdoor terrace as golden October light filtered through the beams overhead. The space felt intimate yet grand — warm stone walls, string lights, and crisp fall air setting the tone for the celebration to come.

In keeping with the masquerade theme, guests wore elegant masks as they awaited the ceremony. Deep jewel tones filled the aisle — emerald greens, burgundy suits, black formalwear — perfectly complementing the season.

Tea made her entrance in a breathtaking floral-patterned gown that felt both timeless and unique. Her bouquet overflowed with rich red blooms and cascading florals, adding dramatic texture against the soft ivory of her dress. Lucas stood waiting in a classic burgundy suit, also masked, creating a striking and unforgettable visual as they locked eyes down the aisle. It felt like stepping into a modern fairytale.

Romance Wrapped in Autumn Color

After the ceremony, we stole away for portraits — and fall absolutely showed off. Surrounded by vibrant foliage in fiery reds, oranges, and golden greens, Lucas and Tea shared some of the sweetest, most natural moments of the day.

One of the highlights was capturing Lucas gently kissing Tea’s cheek as she smiled, framed by glowing autumn leaves. The colors were so rich and saturated they almost looked painted. The warmth of the couple against the fall backdrop was perfection, and Tea’s soft veil caught the light beautifully. It was romantic, joyful, and completely them.

Fall weddings in Colorado always bring magic, but this one felt especially cinematic.

An Elegant Reception Under the Chandeliers

As the sun set, the celebration moved inside Baldoria’s stunning reception hall. The dramatic chandelier suspended from the vaulted ceiling created an atmosphere that was both regal and inviting. The stone walls and warm uplighting gave the room a romantic glow that fit the masquerade theme seamlessly.

Lucas and Tea’s first dance was pure elegance. The sweep of Tea’s gown across the wooden floor, Lucas guiding her confidently, guests watching from candlelit tables — it felt like a ballroom scene from a classic film. The rich tones of the décor and attire carried through the reception, tying the entire day together beautifully.

A Celebration of Mystery, Romance & Joy

What made this wedding truly special wasn’t just the masks or the décor — it was how effortlessly Lucas and Tea infused their personalities into every detail. The masquerade theme wasn’t a costume; it was an experience. It encouraged guests to step into something whimsical and celebratory while still honoring the deep love at the center of the day.

From the dramatic ceremony entrance to intimate fall portraits and an unforgettable first dance, their wedding at Baldoria on the Water was layered with texture, color, emotion, and style.

Lucas and Tea — thank you for trusting me to capture such a bold and beautiful celebration. Your wedding was proof that when you lean fully into your vision, magic happens.

Vendors Who Made This Day Possible:

Venue & Caterer: Baldoria on the Water
Photography: Crystaline Photography & Video

Engagement sessions are a beautiful way to capture the love, connection, and quiet moments that define your relationship. They offer a glimpse into your life together—how you laugh, how you move through the world side by side, and what makes your bond uniquely yours. Whether we incorporate a favorite activity you love to share or wander through downtown Denver among striking urban architecture, these sessions are designed to feel natural, meaningful, and true to you. The city provides stunning backdrops and an intimate sense of adventure, allowing your love story to unfold effortlessly.

These sessions are also an important part of the wedding journey, giving you and your photographer the chance to connect before the big day. In a relaxed, unhurried setting, you’ll grow comfortable in front of the camera and with each other, making the experience feel more like a date than a photo shoot. Many couples meet me just before sunset and head out to dinner afterward—already dressed up and glowing—turning the evening into a memorable celebration of this season in your lives.

Your engagement photos become cherished keepsakes, woven throughout your wedding experience. From your wedding website and invitations to décor and personal details on the day itself, these images serve as a timeless reminder of your love—captured just as it is, right before your next chapter begins.

One of the first big decisions couples face when planning a wedding is choosing the type of venue that fits their vision, lifestyle, and priorities. Should you choose an all-inclusive venue that provides most of what you need in one place, or a more flexible DIY venue where you build your wedding team from the ground up?

Both options can create beautiful, memorable weddings—but they offer very different experiences both during planning and execution. Here’s what couples should know before deciding.

What Is an All-Inclusive Venue?

An all-inclusive venue typically provides many of the core wedding elements in one package, sometimes with the options to substitute outside vendors for certain services and sometimes you will be required to only use vendors from the preferred vendor list. The venue often includes catering, tables and chairs, linens, bar service, staffing, and sometimes décor, coordination, and other vendor partnerships.

For many couples, this approach feels appealing because so much of the groundwork is already done.

Benefits of All-Inclusive Venues

Convenience
Most of the logistics are handled for you, which can dramatically reduce planning time and decision fatigue.

Simplified budgeting
Bundled pricing makes it easier to see your overall costs up front instead of juggling dozens of separate invoices.

Built-in experience
These venues work with the same teams regularly, so their processes are often streamlined and efficient.

Less day-of stress
With fewer moving parts, there’s usually less for couples and families to manage on the wedding day.

What Is a DIY or À La Carte Venue?

DIY venues give you a beautiful space and the freedom to bring in the vendors you choose. You select your caterer, rentals, planner, florist, DJ, photographer, and any personal touches that matter most to you.

This approach is more hands-on—but also far more customizable.

Benefits of DIY Venues

Creative freedom
You aren’t limited to preset menus, décor, or vendor lists. You can truly design a wedding that reflects your style.

Vendor choice
You can work with people you connect with, whether that’s a family-owned caterer, a specific photographer, or a planner you love.

Flexible priorities
You can allocate your budget where it matters most to you—whether that’s food, photography, entertainment, or guest experience.

Choosing the Dream Team
Having the freedom to choose your own vendors allows you to work with professionals whose style, experience, and approach truly align with your vision. Many independent vendors operate with a strong emphasis on client relationships and craftsmanship. All-inclusive venues, by design, often rely on streamlined staffing models to accommodate a higher volume of events, which can impact how personalized each experience feels.

Costs: What Couples Often Don’t Expect

No matter which route you choose, it’s important to look beyond the headline price. Both all-inclusive and DIY venues can have additional fees that impact your total investment. These may include:

• Setup and cleanup charges
• Service fees and gratuities
• Overtime for staff or vendors
• Rental upgrades for furniture, décor, or linens
• Bar packages and corkage fees
• Power, lighting, and sound equipment
• Parking or transportation costs
• Insurance or permit requirements

Understanding what is included—and what isn’t—can help avoid surprises later. I always suggest touching base with required vendors at any venue beforehand to understand their pricing as well. A lot of times the all inclusive venues sound great in theory, but once you get into the the actual pricing you find that planning your wedding yourself can offer a great deal of savings.

From a Vendor’s Perspective

After working in both all-inclusive venues with the ability to customize some things like your photographer choices and fully customized venues for many years, one thing is clear: there is no universally “better” option—only what’s best for each couple.

All-inclusive venues tend to shine for couples who:

• Have limited time to plan
• Want a streamlined, low-stress process
• Are comfortable choosing from curated options

DIY venues often work best for couples who:

• Enjoy the planning process
• Want a highly personalized celebration
• Care deeply about specific vendors quality and details

Some couples find that all-inclusive packages fit their needs perfectly. Others discover they want more flexibility than those packages allow. Neither choice is wrong—it’s simply about what kind of experience you want while planning and on your wedding day.

So… Is an All-Inclusive Venue Right for You?

If you value simplicity, efficiency, and having most decisions made for you, an all-inclusive venue can be an excellent option. If you dream of a wedding that feels deeply personal, with hand-picked vendors and custom touches, a DIY venue may be more your style.

The best weddings happen when the venue and planning approach support the couple—not the other way around.

And no matter which route you choose, the right team will help bring your vision to life beautifully.

There is something magical about summer in the Colorado foothills—especially when it unfolds at Willow Ridge Manor in Morrison. Surrounded by sweeping mountain views, red rock formations, and endless sky, this wedding was the perfect blend of natural beauty and heartfelt celebration.

From the moment guests arrived, they were welcomed into a space that felt both elegant and inviting. The sun-filled reception room, lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and a classic chandelier overhead, offered panoramic views of the rolling hills beyond. Soft ivory linens, gold Chiavari chairs, and lush floral centerpieces in blush, peach, and white created a romantic, timeless atmosphere that felt effortlessly refined. Every table was styled with intention, allowing the scenery outside to remain part of the décor.

The ceremony took place outdoors beneath a rustic wooden arbor overflowing with florals and greenery. Set against towering pines and the foothills of Morrison, the couple exchanged vows in a setting that felt intimate yet expansive. As the bride and groom stood hand in hand beneath cascading roses and greenery, their joy was unmistakable—radiant smiles, emotional glances, and the kind of laughter that only comes from being completely present in the moment.

The wedding party perfectly complemented the natural tones of the venue. The bridesmaids wore soft blush dresses that echoed the floral arrangements, while the groomsmen were dressed in light neutral suits with warm brown shoes—effortlessly stylish and perfectly suited for a Colorado summer wedding. Against the red rock and lush green hills, the entire group looked like they stepped out of a modern mountain wedding editorial.

One of the most striking moments of the day was the full wedding party portrait taken on the red rock outcroppings just outside the venue. With sweeping views of the foothills behind them, it was the kind of image that could only be captured in Colorado. The couple stood at the center, relaxed and glowing, surrounded by the people who love them most—a true reflection of the joy and connection that filled the entire day.

From start to finish, this wedding was beautifully seamless, in large part because everything was handled in one place. The couple chose our companies to provide photography, photo-booth and DJ services which allowed their day to flow effortlessly from ceremony to celebration. With the same trusted team managing every major element, there was no scrambling, no miscommunication—just a smooth, joyful experience for the couple and their guests.

As the evening unfolded, laughter, music, and celebration filled Willow Ridge Manor. Guests danced, mingled, and created memories inside the glowing reception space, while the surrounding mountains quietly watched the celebration below.

This Morrison, Colorado wedding was a perfect reminder of why summer weddings in the foothills are so special. Between the natural beauty, heartfelt moments, and thoughtful design, this day was nothing short of unforgettable—and it was an honor for Crystaline Photography & Video to capture every smile, every tear, and every joyful moment along the way.

Vendors Who Made This Day Possible:
Venue - Willow Ridge Manor
Caterer - Rocky Mountain Catering & Events
Floral - Rocky Mountain Catering & Events
Photography & Photo-Booth: Crystaline Photography & Video
Entertainment & Photo-Booth: Digital DJ
Flower Wall Rental - Tie the Knot Bridal Creations

A new year is the perfect opportunity to elevate your professional image. January is an ideal time to refresh your brand—from your website and marketing materials to your social media profiles and résumé.

To help you start the year confidently, we’re offering our January Headshot Special for just $150 at our Arvada, CO studio. This quick and efficient 30-minute session includes updated poses on two classic backdrops, designed to give you clean, professional headshots that feel current and polished.

Your session includes multiple images to choose from, plus five fully edited and retouched high-resolution digital photos, complete with a copyright release for easy use across business cards, websites, social media, and advertising materials.

Availability is limited—call 303.432.2954 to reserve your session and start the year looking your best.

Last fall, our whole team had the privilege of covering one of our absolute favorite weddings of the year—a stunning mountain celebration that still has us smiling every time we think about it. Things have been a little wild around here lately, so I’m only just now getting the chance to share how incredible Kailyn & Nathan’s big day truly was.

They planned the destination wedding of a lifetime, inviting their closest friends and family to join them high in the mountains surrounding Vail. Guests flew in from all over the country, turning the weekend into a heartfelt reunion wrapped in crisp autumn air and golden leaves.

And when it came to coverage, they went all-in with the full dream team: two photographers, two videographers, our photo booth, and my husband behind the booth as their DJ. It was one of those weddings where every moment felt cinematic—and we had the crew to capture it all.

One of the most memorable details? The florals. Kailyn crafted every single arrangement herself, and her creations rivaled some of the most elaborate professional designs we've ever seen. Everywhere you looked, there were personal touches, lush colors, and little details that felt unmistakably “them.”

It was a day filled with beauty, joy, and so much love—and we’re so grateful we got to be part of it.

Vendors Who Made The Day Possible:

Venue: Vail Golf Club - https://www.vailrec.com/vail-golf-nordic-clubhouse-events

Wedding Planner: Ethereal Events - http://www.etheraleventplanning.com

Entertainment: Digital DJ - http://www.digitaldjcolorado.com

Rentals & Decor: Colorado Party Rentals - https://cpartyrentals.com

Photography, Video & Photo-booth: Crystaline Photography & Video - https://www.crystalinephoto.com

Transportation: Summit Black Car - https://summitblackcar.com

Thanks again to all those families that participated in our holiday themed mini sessions in 2025! Looking forward to bringing more fun themed studio sessions in 2026! Look out for our Spring bunny shoots and more!

I love end of summer senior portrait sessions! And getting to see my friend’s grown up children. I can’t believe how fast it goes, seems just like yesterday I was photographing Rebecca and her son when he was n elementary school and now he’s ready to take on the world!
We had a great time hiking around the red rocks to capture this rock star’s final year of high school! September and October is the busiest time of year for senior portrait photographers as most deadlines for yearbook submissions are in October. We field a lot of calls form panicking parents who still need to get their photos done! If you are one of those parents I still have weekday availability and possibly some very early Saturday mornings… feel free to give us a call to discuss options for your high school senior.
Enjoy a few of my favorite photos from this session.

Thank you to everyone who has signed up to participate in the 2025 Fall Mini Sessions! we’re going to have a great day of family portraits! If you have reserved your spot by signing the contract and paying the fee you do not need to do anything else. An email of confirmation has been sent to you and you will also receive a reminder email a day or two before the 18th with the location and helpful tips and reminders. Photos will be edited for color and exposure corrections and presented online for you to choose the ten images included in your fee and for purchasing additional digital images and prints if you so choose. We will also host the images with Minted.com in case you would like to use any of the photos on one of their amazing products such as holiday cards.

Looking forward to seeing everyone! If you missed this opportunity we will be releasing our indoor studio sessions with holiday backdrops soon or feel free to reach out to us about doing a full outdoor session at a location of your choice and on a date and time that will work for you schedule. Thanks. ~ Jamie

Guide for Grooms

Your wedding day is one of the biggest moments of your life, and standing by your side will be the guys who’ve been there through it all—your groomsmen. Whether they’re childhood friends, college roommates, or family members, these are the people who’ve had your back long before you put a ring on it. And while the wedding is a huge milestone for you, it’s also a time to show appreciation for the people who’ve helped you get here.

Choosing the right gifts can feel like one more thing on an already overwhelming to-do list, but it doesn’t have to be. The best gifts aren’t just another item to check off your wedding planning list—they’re meaningful, memorable, and practical.

Here’s how to find the perfect groomsmen gifts without overthinking it.

Make the Gifts Personal

A great groomsman gift should feel like it was chosen specifically for the person receiving it. While you could go for something generic, a personalized touch makes all the difference.

Engraving initials, monograms, or even an inside joke from your friendship turns a simple gift into something they’ll actually want to keep.

A good place to start? Personalized accessories—things like engraved watches, custom wallets, or a sleek pocket knife with their name on it. These items are stylish, useful, and make your groomsmen feel like they’re getting something made just for them.

Make the Groomsmen Gifts Functional

A cool gift is great, but a cool gift that they’ll actually use? That’s the ticket.

Some of the most well-received groomsmen gifts are the ones that fit into their everyday lives seamlessly.

If your guys enjoy a good drink together, custom barware like an engraved groomsmen whiskey decanter is a solid choice. If they’re more into coffee, a high-quality, personalized tumbler or espresso set can be just as thoughtful.

Want to get them something that they can wear during the actual wedding? A personalized groomsmen cufflinks gift set may be a great option.

The key is to think about their lifestyle. What would make their day-to-day life a little better? Do you live somewhere where you’re constantly blinded by the sun? A sleek pair of groomsmen sunglasses for the whole wedding party are an affordable and simple choice.

And if none of those strike your fancy, there’s always the functional classic…personalized socks!

Go for Timeless Gifts

Trendy gifts come and go, but some things never go out of style. Classic, high-quality gifts that last beyond the wedding weekend are always a smart move. You do want them to actually use it, right?

A great example? Personalized groomsmen watches make for everyday utility, or something like a leather travel bag—practical, durable, and something they’ll appreciate every time they pack for a trip.

Keep it Cohesive

While each of your groomsmen is unique, you want your gifts to feel intentional and tied together. That doesn’t mean they all have to get the exact same thing, but they should all feel like they came from the same place.

For example, if you’re gifting personalized tumblers, you could pair them with their favorite coffee or a set of whiskey stones. If you’re giving engraved pocket knives, consider including a sleek keychain or multi-tool to match. This makes the gift feel complete and more thought-out.

Add a Thoughtful Note

No matter what you choose, the best way to make your gift meaningful is to pair it with a personal note. A short, handwritten message thanking each groomsman for being part of your wedding—and your life—makes the gift much more memorable. It doesn’t have to be long or poetic, just something that shows your appreciation.

You can also add more personalization to each gift with things like childhood photos, their favorite snacks, alcohol nips or anything that is ‘them’. There really are no rules, so don’t get too hung up on thinking there is some perfect way to do it. Just do what is for them.

When in Doubt, Keep It Simple

At the end of the day, the best gifts aren’t about spending the most money or finding the most unique item on the planet. They’re about showing appreciation in a way that feels personal and sincere.

If you’re looking for something that checks all the boxes—personalized, useful, and stylish— check out Groomschoice for a selection of high-quality groomsmen gifts that fit any style.

Your groomsmen have been there through thick and thin—it’s only right to send them off with a gift that says, “Thanks for being part of my story.”