A little bit country and a lotta bit rock’n'roll, Nicole DeJarnatt & Fred Blythe’s gorgeous Colorado wedding really hit all the right notes!  Throwing a light hearted outdoor summer affair, Nicole & Fred utilized the spacious grounds of Planet Bluegrass Ranch, to celebrate their day!  Guests were seated among the trees while the ceremony, dusted with yellow petals, was held al fresco!  After the couple made it official, guests were invited to play in lawn games such as croquet or even give the custom made hula hoops a go!  Strong vibrant hues greeted guests at every turn, while specially made spice packets from the couple’s friend’s shop, Savory Spice Shop, were the perfect unique guest gift!  Guests celebrated the night away, dancing to live music with Nicole & Fred, really getting into that Bluegrass feel!

What Storyboard Likes…

Down Home Goodness- I am loving Planet Bluegrass Ranch as a wedding space!  This gorgeous ranch is over 20 booming acres of awesome naturalness with a touch of rustic charm.  Having the opportunity to use a space like this gives a couple a lot of opportunity to do some really fun things with their day.  Nicole & Fred really encouraged their guests to play in lawn games, even giving custom made hula hoops a go!  Inviting guests to kick off their shoes, get some grass between their toes and spend the evening dancing away as they harnessed the essence that is Planet Bluegrass!

Bring It Color!- I love a couple that isn’t afraid of strong bold attention grabbing colors!  Nicole & Fred, under the stellar design eye of Cori Cook Floral Design, toyed with some very vibrant hues that rivaled their surroundings!  Nicole’s bouquet in particular is a work of art from the Cabernet & orange creamsicle dahlias to the perfectly muted white gooseneck and wax flowers, this bouquet is a bluegrass girl’s dream!  The Pièce de résistance for me are the stunning red poppies placed in an almost  trail like manner, leading your eye down to the beautifully wrapped lace handle.  Utilizing a piece of lace florish like that is utterly divine!

Just A Country Girl, In Some Country Boots- Let’s face it, Nicole is one stunning Bluegrass bride!  The choice of the fit & flare lace Watters gown was not only beautifully fitted to Nicole’s personality but spot on for the ranch affair!  Complimenting the lace frock were Nicole’s textured locks which were pinned into an updo, from which a simple yet impactful long veil tumbled from!  To finish her country look, Nicole choose a covet worth pair of Lucchese Boots, 1883 Precious Metal Python Print, to be exact!  These boots are stunning, much like our bride!

Novella of the Bride…

*A spot about the couple…

Fred and I met in summer 2008 at one of the first “Grateful Dead Tuesday’s” at Zio Romolo’s Alley Bar in Denver. Neither of us had ever been there before, so we like to say it was a fateful Grateful Dead night.  Vegetarians since the early part of our relationship, we like to say we’re each others’ “soy mate,” although we shared a hamburger on our very first date at a Colorado Rockies baseball game.

“Frecole” (pronounced freckle) is our celebrity name and pretty much what everyone calls us.

We love to travel both abroad and domestic, and our hobbies include skiing, camping, hiking, biking, attending music festivals, cooking and running an occasional 7K. We climbed Mt. Fuji together and plan to run a ½ marathon next fall.

Fred grew up in Enid, Oklahoma and earned his undergraduate degree from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. After graduation he headed out west to try his luck as a ski bum in Aspen, Colo. He realized he wasn’t cut out for couch surfing and decided to pursue his graduate degree at the University of Colorado at Boulder. He graduated with a master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting (MSBA). He spent 11 years in Vermont before the mountains of Colorado called him back home. In fact, the night we met, Fred had just closed on his new loft in Denver. He jokes that he got a girlfriend and a condo in the same week. Fred currently works as a Sr. Project Manager/Business Analyst for the Colorado Community College Systems by day and occasionally plays fiddle in a local bluegrass band, Modern Whiskey Market, by night.

Nicole is a Colorado native and grew up in Grand Junction, Colo. She attended Cottey College (an all-women’s school) in Nevada, Mo. and received her degrees in journalism and anthropology from the University of Colorado at Boulder. She currently works as a senior editor in the Denver newsroom at Business Wire.

*Theme & Venue Selection…

Unbridled glee! Our whimsical, festival-themed wedding (a.k.a. FRECOLE FEST 2012) at Planet Bluegrass Ranch was a picture-perfect day along the North St. Vrain River filled with bikes, lawn games, homemade hula hoops, fruit pie, a silo and live music. The overall tone of the wedding was completely relaxed allowing guests to enjoy the 20-acre ranch and all its natural beauty.

We have attended a handful of festivals at PBR (Rocky Grass, Folks Festival, Mabon, Kinfolk Fest) and wanted our wedding to have the same carefree tone, where our friends/family could enjoy each other’s company while listening to amazing music and dancing (and hooping) in the Colorado sunshine.

Planet Bluegrass holds a special place in our heart and has been the site of many of our relationship “firsts.” I introduced Fred to Planet Bluegrass on one of our first dates (Folks Festival 2008), and it’s also where we got engaged (Folks Festival 2011). And this summer, Fred’s bluegrass band has been accepted into the band competition during Rocky Grass Fest. He will be playing in the Wildflower Pavilion on the same stage where our wedding band performed just one year prior, which is a really cool way to celebrate around our one-year anniversary.

We looked at numerous venues in Colorado (always with PBR in the back of our minds) and in the end, we both felt strongly about giving our (and our families) hard-earned money to a place that we loved and believed in, and where we knew we’d return year after year. We take pride in knowing that our wedding helped support Planet Bluegrass, which brings amazing music to Colorado and helps nurture talented artists–big and small. Moreover, we introduced 175 guests from around the world and a handful of new vendors to the venue, which we hope will encourage a new generation of festival-goers.

Planet Bluegrass strives to “re-use, recycle, and compost whenever possible.” That “green” philosophy fit nicely with what we envisioned would be a sustainable event. Planet Bluegrass’ preferred caterer, A Spice of Life, also kept true to that vision. Not only did we have a 100% vegetarian menu, but A Spice of Life is also a Zero Waste facility, working with PBR to be as kind to the planet as possible.

Cori Cook Floral created an assortment of wildflower centerpiece arrangements and designed bold, colorful, loose and textured bridal party bouquets, which perfectly matched the happy and free-spirited feel of the celebration. The men’s boutonnieres incorporated sprigs of wheat in honor of the groom’s Oklahoma roots.

We worked closely with A Spice of Life catering to create a unique, completely vegetarian menu that even the most die-hard meat-and-potato-eating guests LOVED. (We have been vegetarians for 4.5 years and weren’t willing to compromise our beliefs by serving meat at our own wedding). The dessert table was an assortment of in-season fruit pies handmade by Shamane’s Bake Shoppe.

*A little help from their friends…

Our friend Sarah Gagne and her son, Rye Gray, helped us make all the hula hoops. We bought the tubing at Home Depot and using a YouTube tutorial, we filled them with water, marbles and beans; sealed them with a hairdryer; and wrapped them in colorful electric/duct tape with wild colors and patterns. At the end of the wedding, we happily gave the hula hoops away to our nieces/nephews and other children to enjoy.

Our dear friend and Savory Spice Shop–Boulder owner, Dan Hayward, donated hand-crafted seasonings to spice up guests’ night and served as the official party favors. The spice packets, which were hand-tied with twine and featured the couple’s name and wedding date, boasted landmark Colorado names like Wash Park and Colorado Plateau.

The bride’s family (step-dad and great uncle) made vintage signs using lumber from an old school house that paired nicely with the rustic ranch details, and complemented the bride and groom’s western footwear.

The matron of honor’s mom, Gayle Gerson, is a Grand Junction, Colo.-based artist who created a one-of-a-kind concert-like poster to serve as the official wedding invitations. The posters were hand-rolled and placed inside self-sealing poster tubes for delivery. Gayle has known Nicole since she was in 4^th grade and was also her high school English teacher.

Bridesmaid and childhood friend Jennifer Schmidt of Jen’s Hems in Grand Junction, Colo. designed and created the colorful flower girl dresses, which included a touch of vintage French Alsace lace along the neck line. The lace was taken from a passed-down wedding dress that belonged in the bride’s family. The lace was also incorporated in the bridal bouquets and in Nicole’s wedding bracelet, which was also handmade by friend and Kansas City-based jewelry designer Laura J. Timmons of Vintage Moon Creations.

Nicole’s former boss and friend, Laura J. Holloway, received her online certification/ordination and served as the couple’s officiant for the wedding celebration.

*Memories for a lifetime…

We were fortunate to have so many friends and family actively involved in the wedding. Fred’s favorite moment was dancing with his nieces and nephews and introducing them to his passion for bluegrass. My favorite memory was the toasts that our MOH/best man gave; they were outstanding and very personal. I have been friends with the MOH since 4^th grade and Fred met his best man in 5^th grade so they truly know us and love us and support our marriage 100%, which was very apparent in their touching tributes, which I have printed and plan to frame for the house.

Vendor Love

Venue: Planet Bluegrass Ranch/Wedding Dress: WTOO Waters Bridal Lycette Gown/Alterations: Nadine Hooper of Boulder Bridal/Bridal Shoes: Lucchese Boots – 1883 Precious Metal Python Print/Veil: Nadine Hooper of Boulder Bridal/Bridal Jewelry: Vintage Moon Creations/Bridesmaid Dresses: Alfred Angelo #7143/Flower Girl Dresses: Jennifer Schmidt of Jen’s Hems/Hair & Makeup Stylist: Jen Murphy/Groom’s Suit: Perry Ellis/Groom’s Hat: Goorin Bros./Groom’s Boots: Ariat via High Country Western Wear/Invitation-Poster Designer: Gayle Gerson/Transportation: CU Buffs Bus via the University of Colorado/Photo Booth: The ModPod (Elevate Photography)/Music Ceremony: Eamon Alger/Music Reception: PKB – Pete Kartsounes Band /Lighting-Sound: PBR Sound Engineer/Rentals: Flex Rentals/Florist: Cori Cook Floral Design/Caterer: A Spice of Life /Party Favors: Savory Spice Shop/Microbrews: Palisade Brewing Company/Baker: Shamane’s Bake Shoppe /Signs: Our Hobby to Your Home/Officiant: Laura J. Holloway-Pivot Communications/Photographer: Elevate Photography

Rebecca Regan & Pete Freeman’s wedding day is one of sophistication & polish.  From the perfect setting, Boettcher Mansion, to the choice of pies over cake, this day is filled with well chosen classics.  The florals serves as a string that ties it all together, combining more organic blooms along with traditional blossoms.  While the ceremony took place in mother nature’s amphitheater, the reception was held indoors in one of the mansions statement rooms.  All the while a sweet & reserved Rebecca & Pete celebrated their love together, with their closest friends & family.

What Storyboard Likes…

Woodsy Elegance-Boettcher Mansion served Rebecca & Pete well, setting the stage for a gorgeous fete among the trees, all the while showcasing a level of polish and sophistication.  From the strong stone walls to the Tudor style peaks, this lovely venue really delivered an English manor feel that served as the hallmark for their day.

Fitted Lace- While I must admit I am a huge fan of gowns that lend themselves to a more couture flair, I will always love a hip hugging silhouette made of lace!  Rebecca’s sweet gown with lace cap shoulders definitely sets a tone of sophistication & refinement.  The gown perfectly compliments Rebecca’s seemingly shy, reserved nature, allowing more so for the look itself to do that talking.

Wedding Pie- Whether your a cake person or not, there is always room for pie!  Rebecca opted out of wedding cakes and into delicious, yummy down home pies!  From scrumptious chocolate pecan to all American apple there is no shame in forgoing a giant cake when you can fill its place with pies that are truly divine!

Vendor Love

Venue: Boettcher Mansion
Caterer: Occasions by Sandy
Florist: Fleur de Liz
Baker: Das Meyer Pastry Chalet
DJ: Quality Sounds
Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals
Event Planner: Particulars
Photographer: Ashley Davis Photography

Leading up to the wedding day, typical brides are down right narcotic about what the weather just might be.  Stressing over a storm system on the other side of the country, freaking out about cloud cover that they can not control.  Rain is typically the end all be all of the worry producers.  Joey Walker & Stephen Collins’ wedding day was graced with rain, graced because up unto that point, the area had been having a super dry summer.  As life would have it, the skies opened, the couple & guests embraced the quenching of the earth and rain was celebrated along side the couple.  Yellows & grays supplemented the already lovely Lyon’s Farmette, while rustic elegance was the overall feel for the day.  The couple cemented their day, binding their love in a Buddhist ceremony while rain drops kissed the tops of the heads of those their to celebrate.

Novella of the Bride…

Joey has her MA in Counseling Psychology, and loves NY Times Crossword Puzzles, yoga, hiking, cooking, and meditation. Stephen is the CEO and founder of a 3D software company in Boulder, who loves to study history,  to be active, hike with the dogs, and he makes a mean Margarita! Our relationship began when Joey was a hostess at The Kitchen Cafe in Boulder, CO, and Stephen was a regular patron. We slowly got to know each other, and over time (and one marathon conversation), found that we had many shared passions, similar worldviews, and both had the hope to start a family someday. We share a deep love of our families and friends, and find that spending time with those we love enriches our relationship and gives us lots of support.

The theme was really taken by the beautiful natural atmosphere of the Lyons Farmette. We wanted a rustic elegance, that was very simple and beautiful. The colors were yellow, cream and grey, and stripes kept showing up as a stylistic theme. We wanted our wedding to feel like a cozy and intimate gathering, although we had about 150 guests. Food is a major shared passion of Stephen and mine, and we wanted the meal to play a big part of the night. Our caterer was fantastic and incorporated produce from The Farmette, as well as sourced all ingredients locally. Special touches were our Buddhist wedding vows, and the fact that it poured rain from our cocktail hour on into the night! It had been a notoriously dry summer in Colorado, so we like to think that our wedding rain helped out the land! The farmers had tears in their eyes because they were so grateful for the rain. Our guests said that the rain was actually their favorite part- so thank goodness we had rented a tent at the last minute, or else everyone would have been drenched!

We chose the Lyons Farmette because we wanted to be outside and enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado, as well as giving our guests a unique experience. We loved the Farmette because of the precious animals, luscious vegetables and colorful flowers. But honestly, what made the location so special, was the kindness of Betsey and Mike, who are the owners. Not only did they invite us in their house when we toured, we sat with them as they ate their pancakes and eggs, and then got a tour of their home, which is on the property. They were engaged and loving from the start, and we felt that we had such true supporters in them. They helped us so much, and we will forever be grateful to them!

Joey’s {bride} mother passed away not two months before the wedding, so it was a very painful time- although the paradox of joy was also felt, by the support of other family members and friends.It seemed as though everyone who could offer to help, did so.  Afternoons were spent around the dining room table, filling goodie bags with jelly beans for the guests, and folding the handmade programs. Also, one of the bridesmaids offered Salsa dance lessons to the bride and her father for their special father/daughter dance. It was a lesson to remember and brought lots of laughs.

Bride’s Favorite Moment: “When I close my eyes and envision my favorite moment, I recall the feelings that I had when my father walked me down the aisle. It was such a pure, emotional moment, and I felt that my mother was there too. When I walked down the aisle and saw Stephen’s face smiling at me, I felt full of love and joy, and so happy that we had our closest friend’s and family there to witness us on that day. It was a profound experience of letting go and feeling so grounded during my transition to becoming a wife!”

We loved each and every one of our vendors so much- and the lasting friendshps that we made with them is truly what aided in making our wedding such a huge success. We felt so connected to everyone that was with us, and are so grateful that we can call them our friends. Choosing to go with vendors that we had instant connections with really made planning so much easier. We felt like everyone had our back!

Vendor Love

Venue: Lyon’s Farmette
Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier
Bridesmaid Dresses: BHLDN
Shoes: Tory Burch
Hair Stylist: SideDoor Salon
Caterer: eat PRIVATE CHEF & CATERING co
Baker: Nathan Miller
Florist: Living Interiors
Musicians: Kevin Sousa
Band: Conjunto Colores
DJ: DJ Michael Jones
Photographer: Ashley Davis Photography

Becci and Hugo have known each other since they were 12. Growing up together in England, they have been together for many years. This celebration was a commitment to each other and to their children. They are both casual but have real class & elegance.  Hugo is the head chef and part owner at the Kitchen Restaurants in Boulder and Denver. Community is very important to them as well as family and friends which were on hand to witness & partake in the celebration of their family.  Pastures of Plenty was chosen as their venue as it is a working local farm with which Hugo and Becci have a special relationship with, along with other farmers in the community, as they use their produce and meat in the restaurant. Pastures of Plenty specifically, is one of the produce vendors for the Kitchen Restaurants. Hugo and Becci have known Lyle and Sylvia, the owners, for a long time and were instrumental in ushering in the Farm to Table movement in Boulder, Colorado!  Hugo and Becci have two boys together and made sure that there were lots of activities for the many children at the wedding including a bouncy slide, plastic swords, big bubbles!   The kids were celebrated & included resulting in their having as much fun as the adults!

What Storyboard Likes…

The Attitude- Its pretty evident from this gorgeous wedding that our couple’s main focus was putting together a laid back casual atmosphere that guests would be utterly at ease in while enjoying that last bit of warmth that the end of summer/early fall gives us.  The feeling starts with our couple’s cool casual wedding day chic style, flowing all the way to the kids obvious enjoyment playing with bubbles!

The Tent- Where you hang your hat, as they say, is indeed important, but equally as important is where you place your bum!  This swanky yet relaxed casbah is major swoon worthy.  The extra pieces of draped lighter fabric to the vault of the tent give  a more opaque feel that really bring a sense of lightness & movement to the room.  Countering that loftiness, a strong yet not obtrusive chandelier hangs in the center giving the eye some fun to play with. Bringing things back down to earth, the natural wood tables & matching chairs ground our casbah while touches like kitchen towel napkins & small terracotta potted plants give the guests a down home feel to life bringing you back to the overall casual feel to the wedding!

The Picnic Blanket Ceremony- Wood benches are always a sweet homey touch at a weddings, so why not take things one step further, truly letting your guests feel comfy & at home while watching you celebrate your love. Its pretty evident from the photo that more then a few guests were equally tickled by this seating option, allowing them relax while joining in!

The Food Display- I am a big big fan of caterer’s that put forth extra effort to be a part of the decor show too!  We are truly loving the natural wood elements that Big Bang Catering is playing with, everything from wood slabes to hand carved out oblong bowls.  Each serving area is perfectly finished with elements of fruit & floral really elevating the overall look of the foodie offerings, making them a natural co-star to the big day!  Might I even say, we imagine with presentation like this, the food tastes that much more amazing!

Vendor Love

Venue: Pastures of Plenty
Caterer: Big Bang Catering
Florist: Sturtz and Copeland
Baker: Nathan Miller Chocolates
Wedding Dress: Vintage find by Bride
Shoe Designer: Jimmy Choo
Music: Selasse
Photographer: Ashley Davis Photography

I really appreciate couples who, like me, saw their wedding as an opportunity to have some truly stunning photographic moments, setting up a wonderful world to be photographed within!  Gracie Ge & Kai Shu wanted just that opportunity & took to the stunning property of the Castle Cliff Estates.  Our bride & groom, especially against such a prestigious backdrop, truly convey sophisticated beauty.  I adore that Gracie, rather then opting for a more uptight do, allowed her locks to take on soft finger waves, which gently floated in the wind.  While the inspiration for this shoot was classic elegance, there is a sweet realness & genuine touch to each photograph.  I love the elevated feel, yet graciousness that each moment offers!

Vendor Love

Event Venue: Castle Cliff Estates
Photographer: Sala Photography
Wedding Dress: Sweetheart Strapless Fallie A Line with Appliques Style N9829