This queer Colorado elopement had a firefighter bride in a hot pink suit!

Queer colorado elopement on Offbeat Wed 10 — Photography by Amanda Matilda Photography

When you already know your love story belongs to the mountains, why not bring it full circle? For Avery and Maira, Ouray, Colorado wasn't just a gorgeous backdrop; it was the very place where Avery popped the question on a hike back in May 2022. So when it came time to say “I do,” returning to those same epic peaks felt not just fitting but sacred.

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The day began at the couple's charming Ouray rental home, a white-and-wood dream cabin perched among the trees with string lights and cozy touches everywhere. Inside, Maira stunned in a minimalist yet ethereal gown from Unbridaled Austin by designer Jenny Yoo, the flowing skirt pooling gently on the wood floors. Avery brought pure energy in a hot pink Express suit that practically vibrated with joy, the color popping against the cabin’s neutral, rustic backdrop.

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Both brides laced up matching white sneakers… perfect for an adventure elopement! Maira’s bouquet was an explosion of color: bright reds, vivid yellows, deep blues, and lush greens, all swirling together like a portable rainbow. The flowers were a brilliant contrast to the deep greens and golds of the turning aspen trees outside.

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Their first look happened beneath golden-leaved trees, with mountain peaks dusted in early snow peeking over their shoulders. Avery’s face absolutely lit up at the sight of Maira, and they melted into each other in a hug that said everything words couldn’t.

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From there, photographer Amanda Matilda Photography (who’d originally captured Avery’s surprise proposal!) whisked them back to the exact rocky overlook where Avery had asked Maira to marry her. The aspen trees shivered gold in the breeze, and Avery and Maira hiked hand-in-hand across rugged trails, their laughter echoing into the mountains.

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Adding a dash of hometown pride, Avery (a firefighter!) arranged portraits with the local Ouray Fire Department. The shots of Avery and Maira grinning in front of the fire trucks, Avery’s pink suit practically gleaming, brought so much personality and hometown sweetness to the day.

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Before the ceremony, they made a pit stop at Imogene’s Rooftop Bar, sipping celebratory drinks with friends while overlooking the quaint mountain town. The golden hour light washed everything in soft warmth, and the vibe was pure small-town magic.

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The ceremony took place at the charming gazebo in Fellin Park, surrounded by towering pines and the fading light of the day. A small circle of family members and one close friend (chosen with deep intention to officiate) stood close as Avery and Maira exchanged deeply emotional vows. Their rings from Alexis Russell Jewelry glinted in the late afternoon sun.

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Tears flowed freely, hugs were tight, and the celebration was intimate and full of the kind of laughter that only comes from lifelong bonds. Afterward, the couple and their guests made their way to a breathtaking overlook, snapping group photos with jaw-dropping mountains stretching endlessly behind them.

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The newlyweds returned to their rental for a simple but sweet cake-cutting moment. The cake, adorned with fall florals, was as cozy and colorful as the rest of their day. After a few more candid, joyful moments captured by Amanda, the couple headed off to a private dinner with their inner circle, hearts full, smiles wide, and the mountains standing eternal witness to their love.

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The whole day was effortless, intimate, electric, and colorful, a true reflection of two souls deeply in love with each other and with the wild beauty of Colorado that had watched their story unfold from “Will you?” to “I do.”