An Intimate Lakeside Rehearsal Dinner in the Mountains

Inspired by their love of nature and mountain views, McKenzie and Brandon traveled to Telluride, Colorado, for their nuptials. The New Mexico-based pair and 12 of their family members stayed in a cabin surrounded by the beauty of the San Juan Mountains at the Observatory at Alta Lakes for the wedding weekend. On June 27, 2014, the duo and their guests kicked of the celebratory weekend with an intimate lakeside Italian feast.

McKenzie saw the rehearsal dinner as a great opportunity for her to rock a flower-crown—made of hot cocoa garden roses, grevillea, scabiosa, jasmine, and echinacea pods. The flower-crown was paired with MAC's satin red A83 lipstick, and an off-white LC Lauren Conrad knit dress.

McKenzie and Brandon were sure to take in the beauty of their venue and snap some pre-dinner portraits, with their photographer, Heather Payne.

Dinner was set up along the Alta Lakes—providing the couple and their guests with a breathtaking view to gaze upon during the festivities.

All 14 guests dined at one table, set with organic arrangements including pink flowers in vintage canisters and a lush bay leaf garland running down the center of the table.

Overflowing centerpieces of a variety of roses (hot cocoa, cinnamon spice and distant drum), bay leaves, pomegranates, ranunculus, scabiosas, wildflowers, and passion vine served as centerpieces.

The table was covered with embossed sky-blue linens and crystal glasses. The feast included manicotti, lasagna, tossed salad, focaccia bread, and tiramisu, served on simple white plates with copper rope flatware.

Most guests saved their speeches to the happy couple for the wedding day; however, McKenzie's brother simply couldn't wait until the following evening's reception. "McKenzie's older brother became so overwhelmed with the joy of the occasion, he made a sweet speech," says Brandon.

Photography: Heather Payne

Location: The Observatory at Alta Lakes

Event Planning and Flowers: Kelly from Philosophy Flowers

Catering: La Piazza

Videography: Ready Set Film

Calligraphy: Brown Linen Design

Music: Jacob McCoy Burton 

Rentals: Viking Rentals; Diamond Rental; La Tavola Fine Linen 

Hair and Makeup: Allure by Abby

Watch McKenzie and Brandon's Wedding Video