It’s a magical time of year for those parts of the world that are lucky enough to celebrate a true autumn, but there’s no doubt that with the crisp air, kaleidoscopic leaves, and moody weather, the mountains are the best place to be right now! Chrystan and Kirk knew they wanted to get married in the woods, so they took advantage of nature’s seasonal decor for their fall wedding at the Tierra Retreat Center in Leavenworth, Washington. They were married in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater in the woods and celebrated afterwards at the venue’s lodge where Bumble Bea’s Garden used dahlias, peonies, snapdragons, and even orchids, in the couple’s rich color palette of burgundy, ivory, and gold, to complement the venue and setting perfectly! Grab a cup of hot cider or something pumpkin and get ready for all the fall beauty in these photos from Tiffany Sukola Imagery!
How did you meet?
My best friend had a birthday party at her new boyfriend’s house. When I arrived I met all of his friends including his best friend, Kirk. I didn’t have too many friends there and my best friend was busy so I turned and asked Kirk for his name. We exchanged phone numbers and were friends for years before we finally had our first date. Our friends broke up but were cordial to each other since they were both in the wedding!
What is your proposal story?
We had a campervan that we took on multiple week trips to national parks. On our trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Kirk had a surprise in store. He picked a beautiful hike in Grand Teton that was full of wildflowers and waterfalls. At mile 7 we stopped for a picnic and to take some pictures. Kirk brought his tripod and GoPro which was odd but I went along. After the 3rd or 4th picture he said, “this one is a video” and got down on one knee and proposed. After an excited “yes!” We started the hike back down. We must have not been paying attention because we ran out of water before we got back. We were so tired and dehydrated but nothing could ruin such an exciting day.
What was the most important to the two of you while planning? Was there anything that you chose to splurge on or skip?
100% the food. This is where we spent the most money, went over budget, and didn’t look back. We had a delicious spread of vegetables and fresh focaccia bread and butternut squash ravioli. The best part was a fresh prime rib carving station with homemade horseradish. Everything was so good that many people had seconds and we barely had any left overs. Same for the cupcakes. We picked three different flavors and had people taking 2 or 3 back at a time. We only had 4 cupcakes leftover and they were delicious.
What were your favorite parts of the day?
One of my favorite parts was 6am yoga with my mom and best man in the yoga yurt. It was pouring rain but so warm in the yurt. My mom led the yoga and it got us all relaxed and energized for the day. Another special moment was our first look. It had rained all week and all morning and just as I walked outside, the sun came out. No one could believe that the sun was finally shining and at such the perfect time. It stayed out until after the ceremony and it really felt like it came out just for us.
What did you do for favors?
In lieu of favors we donated to the National Parks foundation.
Do you have any advice for couples planning their weddings now?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. Many things that you think are a big deal, no one else does. And you cannot control the weather so don’t even worry about it.
Why a Mountain Wedding?
We love camping and being in the woods. There was no cell service and everyone had to be present and in the moment with us. Our engagement was in the mountains because it’s part of our identity, just like our wedding.