A Gypsy Rocking Dancing Celebration of Love: Cole & Mike

August 5, 2011

Cole & Mike were married at The Mercury Cafe in Denver which is is actually they first met. When I asked the couple how they’d describe their wedding they replied, “A gypsy rocking vintage dancing celebration of love!”

“I don’t know if we could ever NOT do things differently, but with our wedding, this was especially important,” Cole continued. “The venue itself created a unique atmosphere. It’s this gorgeous ballroom above a local-healthy-organic-delicious cafe, and they have dancing there almost every night of the week. The place is strung with lights all over, and the walls are painted with gorgeous murals. The whole place is a bit bohemian and romantic, and in a lot of ways it dictated the style we went with-a very eclectic and romantic theme. The only thing that was really consistent throughout was. . . peacocks.”

“We had peacock feathers and peacock colors counteracting all the red tones in the room. I started collecting glass bottles a year before the wedding, and I had quite a mix on the tables, which I loved. Our family friends made these amazing peacock-fan candelabras  for the altar too! It’s funny, because we didn’t think of ourselves as ‘Rock n Roll’ until we started thinking about our outfits.”

Cole wore a stunning black and ivory Ian Stuart gown but it was actually the third one she purchased (third time lucky hey!?) “I didn’t feel comfortable wearing a white or even off-white dress. I knew I wanted something black and ivory, but I didn’t find anything I wanted. I actually purchased two VERY cheap dresses that weren’t quite right before I found this one. Only problem? I tried it on without checking the price. Yowza! Luckily, the sample was much smaller than most and was very close to my size. I inquired at the bridal shop, and they told me they would sell me the sample at 60% off. My Dad, who had cried when I tried it on, offered to buy it for me. I was so touched, and I cherished every moment I wore the dress!”

“The funny thing is, Rock n Roll Bride convinced me to get my dress!” she continued. “While I was still debating whether I should get it, I was searching for pictures of other brides who were wearing it. Lo and behold, Rock n Roll Bride came up! The bride was soooo gorgeous and so glam in that dress, I fell in love all over again! So thank you!”

The couple chose a friend who officiate their ceremony which they felt made this part of the day even more special. “We’ve known him since before we knew each other, and he’s been through a lot with us. He was incredible. He stayed with us leading up to the wedding, and that gave us time to talk about relationships, marriage, and what we expect in our shared future together. We wrote our vows with him, and he really captured the essence of who we are as a couple, as well as the expectations we were both bringing to the altar. My advice would be to choose someone who really knows you as a couple to do this job. I think it makes all the difference.”

“We had the most. incredible. ceremony. ever. My made of honor, who happens to be an AMAZING vocalist, sang several songs throughout, accompanied by my longtime family friend, Dan. My bridesmaid Lara did a reading by Kahlil Gibran, and my brother did a reading by Madeleine L’Engle, who was one of our favorite authors growing up.  We have a very emotionally-open family and circle of friends, and the love and warmth in the room was so raw and present. Maybe it’s because we’re all ‘creatives”, but I feel like this was one of the most emotionally honest gatherings I’ve ever been to. It was breathtaking to feel that kind of love and support so open and free.”

Beautiful! Thanks so much to Cole & Mike and their photographer Josh for sharing this fabulous day with us.

Photography Credit: Josh Tilton
Venue: The Mercury Cafe, Denver
Bride’s Dress: Ian Stuart “Puerto Rico”
Bride’s Shoes: Nine West
Bride’s Headpiece: Love Culture
Groom’s Outfit: Custom-made by Sarah Campbell
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: DIY
Cake: The Mercury Cafe
Cake Topper: DIY (friend)
Flowers: DIY
Band: The Fishtank Ensemble