Alaina & Clayton’s Wedding at Denver Botanic Garden

On a beautiful September 21, 2024 afternoon, Alaina and Clayton were surrounded by their family and friends to celebrate their love and union as a couple at the Denver Botanic Gardens.

I was able to second shoot their wedding with a talented photographer named Kiku and had a blast shooting this wedding beside her with this couple.

The day started with me shooting the groom photos and going straight to their first look and family shots. I got to chat with Clayton before Alaina arrived and loved hearing their love story from his perspective. He said that he was definitely going to tear up many times during the day and after hearing him say that, I could see and feel the love that he and Alaina shared by capturing their interactions with each other and seeing the look in each other’s eyes when they looked at each other. 

I enjoyed getting their small moments together and seeing how much love they shared with their families and friends as well. I was in charge of the groomsmen photos and had such a great time with them after we took their family photos. 

I was able to get a feel for their vibe as a group and immediately smiled as I saw how close and goofy these guys were. I enjoyed getting the classic group shots but one of my favorite shots I got were the funny individual ones. I suggested them to think of a funny or memorable pose that they used to do with Clayton in the past and the guys immediately started to pose when they thought of a specific memory. They made jokes and laughed the entire time, and I enjoyed seeing them light up and interact with each other. 

The ceremony was after all the family and bridal shots, and it was such a sweet ceremony to witness. They had their friends ordain the wedding, each parent participated in saying a speech, and they included a traditional Japanese tea ceremony too. I loved capturing the reactions from their guests and getting the candid moments of them throughout the ceremony. 

Overall, I had a blast capturing their love, moments with friends and family, and getting to document this special moment for them. I am excited to capture more love stories like theirs, and am thankful I was asked to work with Kiku on this wedding.

Date: September 21, 2024

Venue: Denver Botanic Garden