1. Real Weddings

Lori & Josh: A Rustic Wedding in Crested Butte, CO

It didn't seem like Lori was in the mood for romance. Her boyfriend, Josh, had an engagement ring burning a hole in his pocket for a few months. Lori

It didn't seem like Lori was in the mood for romance. Her boyfriend, Josh, had an engagement ring burning a hole in his pocket for a few months. Lori was extraordinarily busy last summer working several jobs almost every day of the week, he explains. So when the opportunity came to go on a real date, he jumped. THE BRIDE Lori Katz, 25, recreational therapist THE GROOM Josh Goldman, 25, pursuing a masters in social work THE DATE July 3 Lori and Josh had dinner in Boulder at Bacaro Ristorante, but afterward Lori foiled Josh's proposal plans. He suggested a walk by Boulder Creek (too cold!), then a jaunt over to Flagstaff Mountain (even colder!). By the time they got home, Josh was ready to give up for the night. As luck would have it, Lori walked in just as he was about to throw in the towel -- or at least put the ring in a drawer. Josh seized the moment to ask her to marry him.

The ceremony took place on a patio beside a pond, with a gorgeous vista of snowy mountains evident in the distance. Lori and Josh exchanged vows beneath a vividly hued huppah in a ceremony performed by the cantor from the groom's synagogue back in Illinois, a close family friend. The pair chose to further personalize their ceremony with unusual music selections. The groom and the wedding party walked down the aisle to John Denver's Annie's Song, and Lori to Tupelo Honey by Van Morrison. The songs, favorites of the couple, were a hit. Lori walked down when the lyrics were saying 'she's as sweet as tupelo honey' -- perfect! says the groom.
Afterward, guests headed into the log cabin-style lodge for the reception. The rough-hewn wooden walls contrasted brilliantly with the zingy color in the centerpieces -- low, square vases filled with wheat grass and gerbera daisies -- and in the cake, which was covered with flowers. The best man (Josh's brother) and the maid of honor (Lori's sister) kicked off the festivities with raucous (but touching) toasts.
Lori wore a white satin A-line gown with an embellished bodice by Priscilla of Boston. Lori's bridesmaids looked lovely in periwinkle satin dresses by Priscilla of Boston.
Lori and Josh chose to capitalize on the outdoor setting with a colorful, natural style that was anything but overdone. Roses and gerbera daisies in peach, orange, pink, yellow, and other brilliant hues had a just-picked look, and decor was kept lush and low so as not to compete with the mountains.
Each slice of the three-tier white chiffon cake was served with a chocolate-covered strawberry on the side.