Guanella Pass, Co Fall Engagement Session | Hayley and Nate

Colorado is the ideal destination to experience fall in all its golden glory, and Guanella Pass is one of the most iconic spots to soak it in. Brimming with bright yellow aspens and vibrant orange hues, this scenic byway is a dreamy location for any fall engagement session, especially if you're bringing your dog along for the ride (which Hayley and Nate absolutely did with their sweet pup, Percy!).

But before we get into the gorgeous views, let me tell you a little bit about these two.

From Bumble to Best Friends

Hayley and Nate first met on Bumble back in January 2017, but the universe had already given them a nudge. Nate actually saw Hayley in the cafeteria at their massive 10,000-person company the day before she popped up on his app! After a week or two of chatting, they grabbed afternoon drinks for their first date, and apparently it went very well, Nate called his mom right after and gushed about her.

Later that same night, Hayley invited him to a friend’s birthday party at a bar. He showed up solo and immediately jumped into the group, dancing on stage with her friends like he’d known them for years. That easygoing, confident, and fun energy totally won her over. Things moved quickly, and just a few weeks later, Nate invited Hayley to meet his mom and grandma. From there, it was full speed ahead, they’ve been together ever since!

The Proposal at Red Rocks

When it came time for the proposal, Hayley sort of saw it coming… because she helped design the ring! But Nate still managed to surprise her in the best way. She had asked for a proposal that felt spontaneous, but still wanted to be prepared for photos (totally valid, by the way!).

So Nate came up with a plan: he told her they’d be checking out potential proposal locations all week, and that she’d need to be ready every time… just in case. Fortunately, he only made her dress up once, because he proposed the very first time they went out! The two (plus Percy!) hiked through a snowy Red Rocks Park in March, and that’s where Nate popped the question. Hayley got her surprise and her dreamy photos. Win-win.

Fall Magic at Guanella Pass

It was such a pleasure finally getting to meet Hayley, Nate, and Percy in person after all the stories, and we had the best afternoon adventuring through Guanella Pass. Often considered a gateway to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, this alpine byway winds through two National Forests and climbs to 11,669 feet, offering a front-row seat to golden aspens, mountain views, and even the occasional beaver or mountain goat.

Between Percy’s happy tail wags, the crisp fall air, and the unbeatable scenery, it was everything a Colorado engagement session should be.

These two will be tying the knot next year at The St Vrain in Longmont, Colorado, and I already know it’s going to be one for the books. The industrial vibes of their venue will be such a fun contrast to their vibrant, colorful outdoor session in the Rockies. Counting down the days!

Whether you’re dreaming of fall colors, wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, or bringing your pup along for the adventure, I’d love to help you plan the perfect Colorado engagement shoot.

Do you want to bring your dog to your engagement session? Check out other sessions with dogs below for inspiration!

xx,

Jennifer Lourie