Summer Piney River Ranch Wedding

A Piney River Ranch wedding is certainly a “wow” factor. Clayton & Ashley’s summer celebration was one of those days. I was lucky enough to be the second shooter for this one, which meant I got to float around capturing all the in-between moments. Piney River Ranch is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re shooting inside a postcard. Towering peaks, glassy water, and picture-perfect wooden decks make it a dream venue through and through, and being up there with these two was pure happiness.

Piney River Ranch wedding ceremony on the alpine lakeside

Piney River Ranch Spotlight

If you’ve never been to Piney River Ranch, imagine the most jaw-dropping Colorado postcard you’ve ever seen… then step right into it. The whole place sits on the edge of an iconic alpine lake, wrapped up in mountains and endless evergreen forests. It has a perfect mix of western-chic and summer-camp charm. Truly the best of both worlds.

One of my favorite things about this Vail wedding venue is that you can actually stay on the property. They’ve got cozy cabins and glamping tents to make a weekend getaway instead of a single day that goes by too fast. Waking up in the cool mountain air, wandering down to the lake with a cup of coffee… it’s a vibe I’ll never stop loving.

And if you’re the kind of couple who likes a little adventure, this is basically your playground. Canoeing on the lake? Yep. Hiking through wildflower-filled trails? Absolutely. Fishing, horseback riding, wildlife watching—there’s always something to do, which makes those pre-wedding days feel extra special and memory-packed.

Plus, summer in Colorado is warm, breezy afternoons that are perfect for outdoor ceremonies, and golden-hour light for those portraits. Piney really shows off in July and August, and it gives couples the most stunning backdrop.

Piney River Ranch wedding portraits by the lake

Piney River Ranch wedding portraits by the lake with dogs

Clayton & Ashley’s Piney River Ranch Wedding Day

Clayton & Ashley’s day started slowly and sweetly. The wedding party brought all the color and personality. The groomsmen wore classic neutral suits, the bridesmaids showed up in vibrant dresses that popped beautifully against the scenery, and the couple’s dogs proudly trotted around in their little wedding accessories. Truly an elite wedding party combo.

Their ceremony on the deck overlooking Piney Lake and the Gore Range was everything you’d want in a Colorado moment. Inside the rustic lodge, the reception glowed with candles, greenery, mustard-gold runners, and bright, summery florals. Those cheerful tones brought the perfect burst of color against the wood and greenery, tying the whole day together with warmth and joy.