As a Denver wedding photographer, there are weddings that stay with me long after the day ends—and Mari and Nikki’s celebration at The Curtis Hotel was one of those unforgettable moments. This day was a vibrant, hilarious, deeply personal experience filled with color, laughter, and love. It was a party, a celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, and a reminder that weddings should be as unique as the couples they’re honoring. I teamed up with Jennifer Garza Photography to capture their day.

Getting Ready in the Kiss Suite—Because, Obviously

The couple got ready in one of The Curtis’s most iconic rooms: the KISS-themed suite. The rock-and-roll vibe, bold art, and moody lighting made it the perfect space to laugh, drink, and prep for one epic day. These rooms offer more than just beds—they’re experiences. With plenty of space for wedding parties, the energy was electric before the ceremony even began.

Rainbows, Nostalgia & Movie Moments

Every detail of Mari and Nikki’s wedding was dripping in intention and fun. Their theme blended rainbow pride with nostalgia—from reception tables themed after their favorite flicks to the couple even having custom film posters made with their faces edited into iconic movie roles.

Their wedding party entered the reception via a hilarious movie trailer-style video, and then Mari and Nikki turned the energy up with a surprise Smirnoff Ice challenge, “icing” their whole crew. Yes, everyone knelt and chugged. The room was roaring with laughter and love.

First Dances, Pop Rocks, and Wedding Magic

Mari and Nikki’s first dance started off sweet and romantic… before flipping into a high-energy, choreographed routine that lit up the dance floor. Their reception was full of interactive stations and surprises, including:

• A photo booth by What Snappin for guests to capture memories.
• A kids’ play area for little ones to enjoy
• A custom beer pong table (yes, it had their names on it!)
• A full oxygen bar from Summit Oxygen Inc for that fun Denver altitude fix
• Champagne with pop rocks for a little fizz and flair
• Pac-Man arcade games, nostalgic favors, and more
• Music kept the night going with DJ Husctle

Their wedding wasn’t just an event—it was an experience.

A Boudoir Surprise That Stole the Show

As both a wedding and boudoir photographer in Denver, I was so honored to photograph not just their wedding day, but a special pre-wedding boudoir session with Nikki. In a sweet surprise twist, Nikki printed out Polaroid-style boudoir images and secretly handed them to Mari throughout the day. From getting ready to the reception, these little intimate love notes added a layer of tenderness and joy that only boudoir can bring.

It was a beautiful reminder that boudoir isn’t just sexy—it’s deeply personal, and a powerful way to connect with your partner on such an emotional day.

🏨 Vendor Spotlight: The Curtis Hotel – Denver

If you’re searching for a unique, photo-friendly, and personality-packed wedding venue in downtown Denver, The Curtis Hotel delivers. Here’s why I loved photographing at this one-of-a-kind property:

Capacity:

• Holds up to 200–220 guests with space for a dance floor and stage.

Parking:

• Onsite parking garage attached to the hotel
• 50% discounted parking for wedding and event guests

Getting Ready Suites:

• Two stylish suites for getting ready, each with a king bed, pull-out sofa, and space for 8–10 people
• The KISS Suite (a favorite!) features two bathrooms, making it perfect for larger wedding parties

A Photographer’s Dream:

• Every floor is themed—from horror to sci-fi to rock & roll—offering photo ops around every corner
• Recently renovated for a modernized, boutique-meets-quirky aesthetic that really stands out in photos

Venue Rental Includes:

• Tables, chairs, linens/napkins, silverware, glassware, china
• Full setup/teardown, servers, and staffing
• 4,200 sq. ft. ballroom and 2,500 sq. ft. rooftop terrace
• (1) complimentary night for the couple, discounted room block for guests, and parking discounts

History & Specialties:

• Hosting events since 2007
• Welcomes weddings, corporate events, social celebrations, retreats, and more

📍 Location: Downtown Denver
🌐 Learn more about The Curtis Hotel here »

Love Is Love, and It Looks Like This

Mari and Nikki’s wedding was everything I love about being a Denver LGBTQ+ wedding photographer. It was bold, colorful, unapologetically fun, and filled with the kind of love that lights up a room. Their wedding was a celebration of who they are—and that’s exactly what a wedding should be.

If you’re planning your own wedding and want a photographer who celebrates your love, your story, and your personality—I’m your girl.

Let’s Capture Your Day, Your Way

Whether you’re planning a big hotel bash, an intimate backyard ceremony, or want to pair your wedding with a surprise boudoir gift, I’d love to help you tell your story.
📸 Contact me here to book your Denver wedding photography or boudoir session »