Maddie and Simon | Pre-Wedding Portraits at Long Lake
Savannah Chandler Photography | Brainard Lake Wedding Photographer
Maddie and Simon had a unique idea for their Colorado mountain wedding portraits – knowing that they wanted to head into the Brainard Lake recreation area but wouldn’t have the time on their actual wedding day, Maddie pitched the idea of taking photos in their wedding attire BEFORE their wedding day.
I think this was a Genius idea.
Maddie scheduled her Hair and Makeup trial for the day of our shoot – so her look would match the wedding day. Simon scheduled his suit to be re-pressed after our shoot as well as a steam on Maddie’s dress. We brought a shower curtain to lay under Maddie’s dress if anywhere was muddy (we didn’t end up needing it, but just in case). They got to bring along their puppers who wouldn’t be a the wedding.
All the logistics worked out better than I could have imagined.
We met at the upper Long Lake trailhead, and meandered towards some of the lesser visited meadows facing out towards the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The wildflowers in the area were absolutely insane – I don’t think I’ve ever been to Long Lake when there’s been such a diverse carpet of blooms before.
Along with getting them some stunning mountain portraits, Maddie and Simon wanted to say their personal vows to one another without the pressure of being in front of everyone on their wedding day.
Brainard Recreation Area | Permits and Logistics
Permits: Under 8, no Permit needed.
8 – 12, Large Group Permit Required
13+ groups are not permitted in Brainard Recreation Area
Parking: Long Lake, Upper Trailhead (closest)
Brainard Lake, Main Lot (1 mile hike to Long Lake trailhead each way)
A timed entry is required for all parking. Upper trailhead parking sells out very quickly.
Entry Fee: $12 per vehicle, plus $2 reservation fee
America the Beautiful Pass accepted, still must pay the $2 reservation fee