As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the chance to capture celebrations of all sizes, but there’s something truly special about small weddings that always stands out to me. When a couple chooses to keep their guest list small, the entire day feels more intimate—and that intimacy shows up beautifully in photos! I’m able to document genuine interactions, quiet in-between moments, and real emotion without the rush that often comes with larger weddings. It’s less about managing a packed timeline and more about telling a meaningful, personal story.

One thing I notice right away is how relaxed my couples are. Without the pressure of a huge production, they can actually be present with each other and their guests. That shift makes a huge difference in the images I capture! Instead of stiff, posed shots, I get authentic laughter, heartfelt hugs, and those fleeting glances that say everything without words. It allows me to work more creatively, exploring different angles, lighting, and locations without feeling rushed.

Intimate weddings also tend to prioritize quality over quantity, which really elevates the overall experience. Couples often invest in details that matter to them, whether that’s a stunning location, thoughtful decor, or a carefully curated meal. From a photographer’s perspective, these intentional choices add depth and character to the gallery. Every element feels cohesive and reflective of the couple’s personality, which makes the final images even more meaningful.

Let’s talk about some of my favorite intimate wedding venues in the great state of Colorado:

A rented Airbnb – The DIY all-inclusive venue you didn’t know you should consider! You can bring in just about anything you need, and there are so many rentals that come furnished with some really incredible art and furniture–not to mention the views! Whether it’s a beachfront villa, a mountain escape, or a cabin in the woods, there’s so many benefits to renting out an entire property and being able to customize all the decor to your specific tastes. You can coordinate with vendors to meet you at the property, and have all the benefits of a custom affair without having to host everyone in your own space.

Backyard Wedding: Whether yours or a loved one’s, sometimes the most special and intimate weddings happen in a backyard! The ability to have total control over the space is a bonus that cannot be overstated, and you’re making such wonderful memories in a space you can revisit time and time again. A backyard wedding offers a warm, intimate atmosphere that’s hard to replicate in traditional venues. It often costs less, giving you more flexibility to personalize details like décor, food, and the overall timing of your special day. Plus, being in a familiar space can make the day feel more relaxed and meaningful for both you and your guests!

Rocky Mountain National Park: The national park is an incredible place for an intimate, outdoorsy wedding day with either your nearest and dearest, or just you and your spouse! There are two amphitheaters, several lakes, valleys, and meadows to choose from for your special day. Perhaps the most popular (and stunning) choice is Lily Lake, whose dock has 360 degree views of the mountains. The perfect space for an intimate elopement, you can have 10 in the ceremony, with views people will talk about for years to come. Something important to keep in mind with RMNP weddings: you do have to file for a permit. The link can be found at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/weddings.htm

North Star Gatherings: Just 45 minutes from Denver, this venue is solar-powered and a beautiful blend of nature and architecture! The house was built by two college sweethearts on top of the now-defunct North Star Mining Claim that overlooks the Continental Divide, and they’ve been hosting intimate weddings since 2019. 

Denver Botanical Gardens – Some of my favorite photos I have taken have been here! The orangery’s large windows provide incredible lighting for the guests to appreciate the vibrant flora and fauna. One of the things I love the most about this venue is that there’s such a great variety in plant life and architecture throughout the gardens, it makes it feel like you’re in so many different parts of the world at once! The Renaissance-style building has a unique and beautiful background for photos, making this one of my favorite seasonal venues. There are several spaces to choose from with various maximums on guests, but this is my favorite space for a small and memorable ceremony. 

At the end of the day, what I love most is how personal these weddings feel. I’m not just documenting an event, I’m capturing a deeply intentional celebration. There’s a sense of calm, connection, and authenticity that’s hard to replicate in larger settings. And when I deliver those galleries, I know I’m giving my couples something that truly reflects not just how their day looked, but how it felt.