Some weddings are filled with elegance and tradition, while others are an all-out adventure from start to finish. Ben & Alyssa’s winter wedding in Steamboat Springs was exactly that—a weekend packed with powder, unexpected weather, and an unforgettable celebration.
The weekend began on Friday with the perfect warm-up: a ski lap with all of the couple’s friends and family. With bluebird skies and soft slushy snow, the energy was high, and the excitement for the wedding ahead was palpable. From seasoned skiers to first-timers, everyone embraced the mountain spirit, making for the perfect afternoon for these two before the big day.
As the wedding day arrived, so did the storm. Originally, the plan was to exchange vows at Thunderhead Lodge Wedding Venue, high above Steamboat at 9,000 feet. But with strong winds and heavy snowfall rolling in, Mother Nature had other plans. The couple made the call to pivot—relocating their ceremony to the base of the mountain.
Before that, they shared their first look at a rustic barn in town. Snow swirled around them as they embraced in the quiet of the storm. It was a moment of stillness in an otherwise wild day, and it was nothing short of magical. The unexpected change of plans led to an intimate and emotional first look, proving that sometimes the best moments are the ones you never planned for.
With guests bundled up in layers and the mountains standing tall behind them, the couple exchanged vows at the base of Steamboat Resort. Despite the weather shift, the moment felt perfect—proof that love isn’t about a location, but about the people who stand beside you.
After a day filled with adventure and unexpected twists, the night ended in the best way possible—an insane dance party. With warm drinks in hand and music that kept everyone on their feet, guests celebrated well into the night. The storm outside only made the party inside feel even cozier and more electric.
What a weekend for Ben & Alyssa, reminding us that the best weddings aren’t about perfection—they’re about embracing the moment, whatever it may bring. Also, a huge shoutout to Alex with Soul Spark Events for helping navigate this tough winter wedding day.
Trent & Stacy Gillespie are a husband & wife photography team who specialize in artistically documenting weddings through beautiful and bold photographs. Located in Colorado, they're available for local & destination weddings.