Modern Lines & Mountain Heart: Sloane and Barrett’s Tapestry House Wedding
When an Architect and a Wildland Firefighter get married, you know the day is going to be a perfect balance of intentional design and raw, natural energy. Sloane and Barrett chose the Tapestry House by Wedgewood Weddings in Laporte, Colorado, for its unique ability to feel both historic and grounded.
As a Fort Collins wedding photographer, I’ve spent countless hours documenting the beauty of Northern Colorado, but seeing Sloane’s sharp, modern eye for detail paired with Barrett’s rugged outdoor spirit made this day truly stand out. From the cowboy hats to the sunset over the historic manor, every moment felt like a testament to their life in the West.
The Aesthetic: Structure Meets Nature
Sloane’s appreciation for the venue’s Victorian architecture was evident in every detail. As an architect, she was drawn to the leading lines of the 1880s manor and the structured elegance of the property. She wanted a day that felt organized but not stiff. Barrett, whose career as a wildland firefighter takes him into the most rugged parts of the country, wanted to ensure the day felt connected to the earth.
They achieved this balance by leaning into a “Western-Chic” style. There wasn’t a stiletto in sight; instead, the wedding party rocked cowboy boots and Stetson hats. It was the perfect blend of high-end design and Colorado grit.
The Morning: Historic Prep and Emotional First Looks
The day began in the upper levels of the Tapestry House manor. For a photographer, these rooms are a dream. The natural light pours through original windows, highlighting the intricate woodwork of the grand staircase.
One of the most poignant moments of the morning was the First Look. We utilized the wrap-around porch for Sloane and Barrett’s reveal. The contrast of Barrett’s light-toned western blazer and cream cowboy hat against the teal and white Victorian trim of the house was stunning. Seeing a couple lean so heavily into their personal style while honoring a historic setting is exactly why I focus on modern, honest, and story-driven imagery.
We also captured a deeply emotional moment inside the manor’s foyer, where Sloane shared a private moment with her father. The warm wood paneling of the grand staircase provided a regal, timeless backdrop as they held hands before the ceremony began.
A Ceremony Under the Canopy
The Tapestry House is famous for its “Natural Cathedral”—a grove of old-growth trees that shelters the outdoor ceremony pavilion. As the guests took their seats on the white garden chairs, the atmosphere was one of quiet reverence.
For a firefighter who spends his days in the forest, getting married under a canopy of ancient oaks felt like home. The light here is a photographer’s best friend; the trees act as a natural diffuser, creating soft, flattering light even during the height of the afternoon. As they exchanged vows, the rustle of the leaves provided a soundtrack that no indoor ballroom could ever replicate. It felt as intentional and unforgettable as a Colorado State Park wedding.
Exploring the Grounds: Portraits that Tell a Story
After the ceremony, we took advantage of the five-acre property for portraits. Sloane and Barrett wanted images that didn’t feel “posed,” but rather like a stroll through their own private estate. We wandered the stone paths and tucked into the hidden garden nooks.
Sloane added a stunning fur wrap to her bridal look for the later portraits, which added a layer of luxury to her Western aesthetic. Whether they were walking hand-in-hand through the fall leaves or sharing a quiet moment on the porch, their connection was the focus. This “walk and talk” style of photography is a hallmark of my story-driven approach, allowing couples to feel present in the moment rather than performing for a lens.
A Celebration of the Journey
The transition to the reception was a high-energy shift. With Barrett’s fire crew and Sloane’s design colleagues in attendance, the converted historic barn was filled with laughter and a rowdy sense of community. For a couple that often spends months apart during the peak of fire season, this night was about more than just a party; it was a celebration of coming back together.
We ended the night with a spectacular Golden Hour session. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky turned a vibrant orange and purple, casting a glow over the entire manor. We captured a wide-angle shot of the couple on the walkway with the glowing house behind them—a perfect ending to a day that bridged the gap between history and a brand-new future.
Why Tapestry House Was the Perfect Choice
For busy professionals like an architect and a firefighter, the Tapestry House by Wedgewood Weddings offers an all-inclusive experience that doesn’t sacrifice personality. It allowed Sloane and Barrett to focus on the things they cared about—their friends, their family, and their style—while the venue team handled the heavy lifting.
If you are looking for a venue that offers historic elegance and mountain charm, there is no better spot in the Front Range.
🏔️ Ready to Document Your Own Colorado Story?
Whether you’re planning a grand celebration at a historic manor or a rugged mountain elopement, I’d love to be the one to capture the honest, unscripted moments of your day.
For more details on this specific venue, guest capacity, and my favorite photo spots, head over to my Tapestry House Venue Spotlight.