By Linne Halpern
Photos by Jason and Daris Photocinema
When the week leading up to your wedding consists of skiing every day and catching up with family every evening, you know you’ve done something right. Such was the case for Claire Fraley and Alex Miller, who brought their loved ones together for an intimate celebration in Telluride.
The duo met in medical school in their home state of New Mexico (Claire is a pediatric oncologist and Alex is an ER doctor), and bonded over a shared love of skiing and outdoor adventure. Hailing from the Four Corners city of Farmington, Claire grew up spending time in Telluride — attending camps in the summers, honing her ski skills in the winters and forging a special love of the town that led her to dream about someday tying the knot amidst the San Juan Mountains. Luckily, Alex was on board.
To make this dream a reality, the couple decided on a small wedding with family, followed by a larger reception in Alex’s hometown of Santa Fe. Alpino Vino offered everything they were looking for in a venue — stunning views and on-mountain experience coupled with outstanding food and elegantly cozy vibes. They worked with wedding planner Kathleen Bonneau of Telluride Presents to bring their vision to life, including warm winter florals by Natalie McClain of Adela Floral.
Leading up to the ceremony, Claire and Alex were able to enjoy the slopes with parents and siblings. The day before, they headed out with Jason Hicks of Jason + Daris Photocinema to capture some vintage-style ski portraits. Claire donned a snow suit that previously belonged to her mother-in-law, even finding a Ski Santa Fe lift ticket from 1997 still attached to the jacket. And come the wedding morning, they couldn’t resist getting a few final turns in before it was time to get ready back at their Mountain Village accommodations.
In a truly one-of-a-kind moment, the couple and their guests took a snowcat up the mountain to Alpino Vino, dressed in their wedding finest. Champagne greeted everyone on the deck before the ceremony began. The couple’s beloved Episcopal pastor from their home church, who’d previously married both of Claire’s brothers, presided over the nuptials, adding to the sincere feel of the day. The highly personal ceremony was followed by a delectable, celebratory meal — an extravagant five-course dinner with custom wine pairings that Claire describes as “the main event.”
Mostly, Claire remarks, she is grateful to have marked such a milestone in the place that served as backdrop for so many of her favorite childhood memories. “To be on the mountain, with those views, surrounded by just our families was so special. It felt like the perfect way to welcome Alex into my family, and to share such a meaningful place with his family too,” she says.
The end of the memorable evening came with a return snowcat ride down the mountain, coincidentally driven by a man that Claire and her mom had met on a chairlift days earlier, poignantly illustrating the familiarity and charm that makes a Telluride celebration so unique. And after a night spent at The Peaks Resort & Spa, Alex was ready to get back on his skis, while Claire opted for a different kind of Telluride morning — at the spa.
For more information about weddings in Telluride, click here.
In the breathtaking backdrop of Telluride’s majestic San Juan Mountains, Claire and Alex’s wedding was nothing short of a dream come true. From the enchanting slopes to the cozy embrace of Alpino Vino, every moment was crafted to perfection, reflecting their shared love for adventure and the great outdoors.
As they exchanged vows amidst the snow-capped peaks, surrounded by their closest family and friends, Claire and Alex embarked on a new chapter of their lives together. Their intimate celebration, expertly planned by Kathleen Bonneau of Telluride Presents, was a testament to their love story and the cherished memories they’ve created in this picturesque corner of Colorado.
Captured through the lens of Jason Hicks of Jason + Daris Photocinema, every detail of their special day spoke volumes about their journey together. From vintage-style ski portraits to heartfelt moments shared on the mountaintop, their wedding was a true reflection of their personalities and the bond they share.
As they embark on this new adventure as husband and wife, Claire and Alex are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate their love in a place that holds such significance in their hearts. For Claire, whose childhood memories are intertwined with the beauty of Telluride, it was a poignant reminder of the love and joy that this town has brought into her life.
For those seeking to create their own unforgettable memories in Telluride, whether it’s a wedding, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, the charm and beauty of this mountain paradise await. And with the help of experts like Mountain Rose Realty and Anne-Britt Ostlund, finding the perfect retreat in Telluride has never been easier.
So here’s to Claire and Alex, and to all the dreamers and adventurers who find their bliss amidst the towering peaks and snow-covered slopes of Telluride. May your love story continue to unfold in this magical corner of the world, where every moment is a celebration of life, love, and the beauty that surrounds us.
For more information about Telluride Real Estate and homes for sale in Telluride, CO, contact Anne-Britt Ostlund at Mountain Rose Realty. Your dream home in Telluride awaits, nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the San Juan Mountains.
The Mountain Rose Realty Magic
In the heart of Telluride’s stunning landscape lies a gem of real estate expertise: Mountain Rose Realty. With a deep understanding of the local market and a passion for helping clients find their perfect mountain retreat, Mountain Rose Realty stands as a beacon of excellence in Telluride real estate.
Led by the dedicated and knowledgeable Anne-Britt Ostlund, Mountain Rose Realty offers personalized service tailored to each client’s unique needs and desires. Whether you’re searching for a cozy cabin nestled among the pines, a luxurious ski-in/ski-out chalet, or a charming downtown residence, Anne-Britt and her team are committed to turning your real estate dreams into reality.
With a keen eye for detail and a wealth of experience in the Telluride market, Mountain Rose Realty provides unparalleled guidance and support throughout the buying or selling process. From the initial consultation to the final closing, clients can trust in Anne-Britt’s expertise and professionalism every step of the way.
As you embark on your journey to find the perfect property in Telluride, let Mountain Rose Realty be your trusted partner. With their in-depth knowledge of the local market trends, access to exclusive listings, and dedication to client satisfaction, you can rest assured that your real estate goals are in the best hands.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply seeking your own slice of mountain paradise, Mountain Rose Realty is here to make your dreams a reality. Contact Anne-Britt Ostlund today to begin your Telluride real estate adventure and discover the extraordinary opportunities that await in this captivating mountain town.
With Mountain Rose Realty by your side, the journey to finding your dream home in Telluride is as exciting and rewarding as the destination itself. Let Anne-Britt and her team guide you through the process with professionalism, integrity, and a genuine passion for helping you find the perfect property to call home.
