It’s not every day that I’m contacted before a proposal even happens, but that’s exactly how this story begins. LaRose and Scott’s Vail Chapel wedding had one of the sweetest, most unexpected lead-ups. The groom’s mom reached out to me ahead of the big moment, already thinking steps ahead. Unfortunately, I wasn’t available to photograph the proposal itself *sigh*, but the story doesn’t end there. The second Scott popped the question, she followed up and hired me on the spot. She had already shared my work with both Scott and LaRose, and thankfully, they were just as excited.
Their relationship began in a very on-brand for Vail way—on a ski slope, of course. Set up by Scott’s roommate (and LaRose’s coworker), the two met for a blind ski date at the base of Chair 11. From there, things unfolded naturally: more time together, moving in, building a life side by side—and now, a wedding.
We had the chance to capture their engagement photos this past winter, bringing everything back to where it all started. While their wedding would come in April (with a bit of weather irony we’ll get into later), this winter session felt like the perfect prelude.
A Full Vail Chapel Wedding Weekend With a Little Bit of Everything
LaRose and Scott didn’t just plan a wedding day. They created a full Vail experience for their people. The weekend kicked off with a welcome evening at Tavernetta, with incredible food, great wine, and warm energy. It was the perfect way to ease into the weekend.
Because this group clearly understands the importance of balance, the night didn’t end there. They kept things fun (and slightly competitive) with an after-party at Deca + Bol, because nothing bonds a group like bowling and a little late-night chaos.
Then came the wedding day at Vail Chapel. This is where things got a little ironic in the best way. LaRose had envisioned a snowy, white spring mountain wedding, which, given the winter we had, felt… optimistic. Snow had been pretty minimal all season, but somehow, the night before, Vail delivered just enough of a dusting to transform everything. It was subtle, but stunning. By the time the ceremony began, the sun was back out.
After the ceremony, the couple built in a late afternoon break, arguably one of the most underrated decisions in a wedding timeline. It gave everyone a moment to reset, freshen up, and gear up for what would be a truly memorable reception.
A Reception That Was Anything But Ordinary
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to completely rethink a wedding reception, this was it. LaRose and Scott hosted their celebration at Chasing Rabbits, and instead of choosing just one space, they went all in and took over the entire venue!
What makes this place so fun is that it’s not your typical ballroom situation. It’s a collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed rooms, each with its own vibe, and they used every single one. Cocktail hour flowed through the Library and Speakeasy, which has that moody, secret club feel.
Dinner moved into the Dining Room, where the atmosphere shifted into something a little more refined. And then, as the night picked up, everyone made their way into the Arcade for dancing and the after-party. This is where things really came alive. And because LaRose clearly understands the assignment, she changed into a chic white pantsuit for the party portion of the night. Practical, stylish, and a quiet power move.
Overall, the reception stood out because of how thoughtfully it was designed. Each space had a purpose, each transition felt natural, and the whole evening kept guests engaged from start to finish. It was creative, immersive, and genuinely memorable.
Colorado Winter Wedding Weekend in Vail
Vendors
Photographer | Whitney Rae Photography
Wedding Planner + Production Assistant | Becca Gould, Veils of Vail
Bride’s Getting Ready Lodging | Sonnenalp Vail
Groom’s Getting Ready Lodging | Four Seasons Vail
Ceremony Venue & Sound | Vail Interfaith Chapel
Reception Venue | Chasing Rabbits
Hair + Makeup | Sammyxbeauty
Hair + Makeup | Rocky Mountain Hair Co
Florist | Vintage Magnolia
Wedding Cake | Cornerstone Chocolates & Confections
Phone Audio Guest Book | After the Tone
It’s not every day that I’m contacted before a proposal even happens, but that’s exactly how this story begins. LaRose and Scott’s Vail Chapel wedding had one of the sweetest, most unexpected lead-ups. The groom’s mom reached out to me ahead of the big moment, already thinking steps ahead. Unfortunately, I wasn’t available to photograph […]
Taylor and Stephan’s story with me started through a trusted recommendation from their incredible Vail-based planner. From there, it didn’t take long to realize we were all very much on the same wavelength. They were drawn to the fact that I’m local—which, in a place like Vail, isn’t just a fun bonus, it actually matters. […]
There’s a reason an Aspen wedding sits high on so many dream lists—and no, it’s not just the celebrity sightings (though let’s be honest, that doesn’t hurt). Aspen has earned its reputation as one of the most iconic wedding destinations in the U.S. by doing something few places can: effortlessly blending luxury with the kind […]
If you’re dreaming about a Crested Butte wedding, you’re probably not looking for the obvious choice, and that’s exactly the point. While places like Aspen and Vail offer polished, high-end experiences, Crested Butte takes a different approach: less scene, more substance. It doesn’t try too hard and ends up being unforgettable because of it. Known […]
If you’re dreaming about a Steamboat Springs wedding, I understand why. Something about this mountain town feels like champagne in cowboy boots. It’s scenic, luxurious, and wildly beautiful in every season. As a luxury Colorado wedding photographer working with both local and destination couples, I’ve photographed celebrations at ranches, mountaintops, private estates, and ski resorts […]
Perched high above the Vail Valley, the Vail Mountain Wedding Deck offers sweeping alpine views and a quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere. At over 10,000 feet, you quite literally rise above it all. With the Gore Range stretching endlessly behind you and Colorado’s beloved 14er, Mount of the Holy Cross, anchoring the horizon, the […]
entries
popular
view the highlights
Creating artful & honest wedding imagery for couples in Colorado and worldwide— rooted in presence, emotion, and refined storytelling.
