Veronica and Daniel
As born and bred Miamians, Veronica and Daniel know a thing or two about partying. After he popped the question on a sunset cruise, for example, Daniel brought her home to a surprise: Veronica's family and closest friends were waiting there to celebrate the news and party into the wee hours.
Nonetheless, when the college sweethearts (she's a lawyer, and he's the president of a real estate firm) decided to get married in Aspen, their favorite summer vacation spot, they didn't want it to feel like South Florida transplanted to Colorado, says Veronica. "Aspen in the summer is earthy and green and beautiful, and I wanted to play off of that." But a few weeks before the big day, disaster struck: Their carefully chosen venue pulled out, leaving them scrambling to find a new location. In the midst of the stress, Veronica poured her energy into planning an unforgettable dinner on the Friday before the wedding. "That's why the welcome party was so special," she says, laughing. "At that point, it was the only thing that was definitely happening!"
For their revamped day-before-the-big-day, they booked a private residence that combined Daniel's minimalist approach with Veronica's boho style, all while taking inspiration from Aspen's natural surroundings.
On June 27, 2014, nearly 200 loved ones gathered in the backyard for a meal of grilled meats, mac and cheese, kale salad, and, for dessert, a pie bar. During dinner, the couple's uncles toasted the pair, remembering loved ones who had passed away—Veronica's father and Daniel's grandfather—just as a light sprinkle of rain gave way to a crystal-clear rainbow overhead. Afterward, everyone took to the dance floor and the DJ started playing. Loud. So loud that the police stopped by, asking them to turn it down. "They said, 'Sorry, ma'am, you're in a valley, so the sound echoes. People on the other mountain can hear your music!'" Veronica recalls. Not ones to stop the vibe of a great party (and already masters of contingency plans) they moved the DJ inside, and the beat went on into the early morning.
The Flowers
"I wanted the flowers to look like someone had gathered them from a field," Veronica says of the spiky banksia, peonies, roses, protea, pieris buds, and poppy pods.
The Dress
Veronica's dress was a wedding gift from her friend, the owner of the label Alexis. "I went to her showroom, and she'd laid out these amazing crochets and fringes and macramés. She said, 'Have a field day!'" she recalls. "I felt so beautiful and comfortable in this dress!"
The Bar
The bar, emblazoned with the wedding logo, offered up cigars and cocktails.
The Signature Drinks
Guests sipped on Moscow Mules made with Woody Creek Distillers potato vodka, a local favorite, and served in traditional shiny copper mugs.
The 'Maids
In lieu of 'maids, Veronica called her besties her "unofficial bridal party." Here, they pose in a custom-built teepee, which was used as both a lounge area and a makeshift photo booth.
The Details
A Moroccan tea table capped off an inviting seating area next to the teepee.
The Set-Up
Long wooden farm tables were adorned with runners created from Moroccan wedding blankets.
The Views
Long farm tables were set up in the only flat part of the lawn, facing the forest in one direction and the valley in the other. Sheepskin blankets added a soft touch
The Finishing Touches
Silver-painted antlers and boxes filled with blooms and succulents topped tables.
A Communal Table
No place cards here: Attendees got food and grabbed chairs at their leisure.
The Personal Touches
Guests had their fair share of seating options. A stone bench was made cozy with pillows and blankets that now adorn Veronica and Daniel's home.
The Dessert
Whole pies featuring local Colorado fruits, such as cherries and peaches, capped off the feast. The caterers packaged leftover slices in triangular containers so guests could take them home.
Sources
Event Planning: Bluebird Productions
Catering: Caribou Club
Flowers: Bare Root Flora
Photography: Jessica Lorren Photography
Videography: Elysium Production
Music: Dj Sinatra by 4AM DJ's
Rentals: Eclectic Hive; Premier Party Rentals
Veronica's Dress: Alexis
Veronica's Accessories: [shoes] Belle by Sigerson Morrison; [bracelets] Natalie B Jewelry
Hair and Makeup: Lutz Karpf
Daniel's Attire: [shirt and shoes] Lanvin; [jeans] AG jeans; [vest and scarf] Loro Piana; [belt] Bottega Veneta
Lighting: Halcyon Productions
Transportation: Corporate Transportation Specialists
Cigars and Box: La Flor Dominicana