A Love Story in the Mountains: Madelyn & Ryan’s Wedding at Taharaa Mountain Lodge

On July 20, 2024, Madelyn and Ryan Hianik celebrated their love with an unforgettable wedding at Taharaa Mountain Lodge, nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Estes Park, Colorado. Their story is one of serendipity, long-held connections, and a pandemic-era romance that blossomed into a lifelong partnership.

How They Met

Madelyn and Ryan’s journey began in the 5th grade, where they both attended the same school in Illinois. Despite having crushes on each other, life led them down different paths. After graduating and moving to separate colleges, they unknowingly ended up in the same city again—Denver, Colorado—where their love story truly took off. In April 2020, amid the early days of the pandemic, they reconnected on the dating app Hinge and decided to go on a hike together. That hike became the start of something special. As they walked together, Ryan felt like home, and the moment they realized it was more than just a friendly reunion was a turning point in their relationship.

The Proposal

Ryan’s proposal to Madelyn was nothing short of magical. It took place during one of their monthly date nights, in November 2022. Ryan planned a special night at The Ramble Hotel in Denver’s RiNo district, a spot that holds significance for Madelyn, who is an architect and admires unique, beautiful interiors. After spending the day adventuring at a coffee shop, Ryan whisked Madelyn away to the boutique hotel she had always wanted to visit. Upon entering the stunning corner room, Ryan knelt on one knee and asked Madelyn to marry him. They shared the joyous moment by FaceTiming family and friends, before celebrating the night with an intimate dinner at Coperta.

Why They Chose Estes Park

For Madelyn and Ryan, Estes Park holds a special place in their hearts, particularly for Madelyn’s family. Madelyn’s father has been visiting Estes Park since he was a child, and over the years, the family spent many vacations hiking and staying in cabins at the YMCA, making the destination an obvious choice for their wedding. Surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains and filled with cherished memories, Estes Park provided the perfect backdrop for their special day.

Why They Chose Taharaa Mountain Lodge

The couple chose Taharaa Mountain Lodge for many reasons. The beautiful lodge, perched high in the mountains, exudes a cozy cabin atmosphere and boasts spectacular architecture. For their wedding weekend, the couple had the entire hotel reserved, making the occasion feel both intimate and grand. The couple raved about the delicious dishes served, especially the New York strip steak, and they were grateful for the attentive, accommodating staff, who ensured every detail was perfect.

Wedding Inspiration and Details

Their wedding day was inspired by the natural beauty of the Colorado mountains, with wildflowers woven into the day’s décor to reflect the July season. The groomsmen added a touch of rustic charm with wooden bowties, while the bridesmaids wore dark mauve to complement the maroon suits of the groomsmen. Madelyn and Ryan stood out in a palette of white and tan, adding an elegant contrast to the rich hues of their bridal party. Their signature cocktail, the St. Germain Spritz, was a refreshing choice for the summer celebration, adding a personalized touch to the festivities.

Favorite Memory

For Madelyn, the most unforgettable moment of the day was walking down the aisle with her father and seeing Ryan at the end, waiting to marry her. Overcome with emotion, she felt at ease, ready to begin the next chapter of their lives together. Their wedding was not only a celebration of their love but a reflection of the special bond they share.

The Celebration

The couple’s wedding day was truly a magical event, surrounded by family and friends in a place that will forever hold special meaning for them. Estes Park, with its awe-inspiring landscape and warm atmosphere, was the perfect setting for the union of two hearts destined to be together.

Vendor Highlights

The couple worked with a talented team of vendors to bring their dream wedding to life. Their special day was beautifully captured by Elizabeth A Photography, and their floral arrangements were created by Fanciful Floral & Wedding. Other notable vendors included La Momo Maes Bakery for the cake, Suit & Tie for entertainment, and Colorado Bridal Co. for hair styling.

To view more of their stunning wedding day and explore the charm of Taharaa Mountain Lodge, visit our Instagram page @taharaamountainlodge.