Intimate Lionsgate Event Center Wedding | Rebecca and Erik
Rebecca and Erik’s wedding at The Gatehouse at Lionsgate Event Center in Lafayette, Colorado was the perfect balance of history, elegance, and personality. Once a dairy farm, Lionsgate has been transformed into a fairy-tale setting, and The Gatehouse itself is full of character with antique French stained glass, Argentine ironwork, and a grand Victorian staircase. It’s a venue that offers both historic charm and modern sophistication, which made it the perfect backdrop for a wedding day full of deeply personal touches.
From custom-designed rings sculpted by Erik himself, to a Norwegian-inspired processional where the two walked down the aisle together, their celebration at Lionsgate was every bit as meaningful as it was beautiful.
Getting Ready at the Gatehouse
The day began inside the Gatehouse bridal suite, adorned with chandeliers and floral wallpaper. Rebecca’s mixed-gender wedding party, wearing deep purple dresses or purple shirts, helped her get ready in the charming space. As a thank-you, Rebecca gifted each of them customized white and purple bags along with jewelry she had picked especially for them.
Meanwhile, Erik reflected on the details he had poured into the day, including the couple’s rings. “My ring features incomplete hearts that flow into complete ones,” Rebecca explained, “and both incorporate subtle versions of our initials.” Erik had sculpted both designs himself, making them one-of-a-kind symbols of their relationship!
A First Look and Garden Portraits
At Rebecca and Erik’s wedding at The Gatehouse at Lionsgate Event Center, the couple shared a first look behind the brick walls of the historic building. A first look is a private moment when the couple sees each other before the ceremony begins. It often gives couples the chance to connect, exchange emotions, and capture stunning portraits in the gardens or unique architectural spots around Lionsgate before the day becomes a whirlwind.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen how first looks can help calm nerves, create space for more portraits, and even give couples extra time to enjoy cocktail hour with their guests. But a first look isn’t required, many couples still love the tradition of seeing each other for the first time while walking down the aisle.
If you’re deciding whether or not to include a first look in your Lionsgate Event Center wedding, check out my full guide here: Solve Your Wedding Day Worries with a No-Stress First Look
A Scandinavian Tradition at Lionsgate
For their ceremony, Rebecca and Erik blended their love story with Erik’s Norwegian heritage. “During the processional, Rebecca and I followed a Scandinavian tradition,” Erik shared. “We both exited different sides of the Gatehouse, walked toward each other, and then walked up the aisle together to the officiant.”
They also included a handfasting ceremony, using a purple and blue rope. Handfasting is an ancient Celtic ritual that symbolizes the binding of two lives together. The couple’s hands are literally tied with cords as they make their promises to each other, a tradition so old it’s actually where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from. For Rebecca and Erik, choosing wedding colors in their rope made this spiritual and symbolic act even more personal.
Guests were encouraged to wear purple too, making the entire ceremony space feel unified in their theme.
A Personalized Reception at Lionsgate Event Center
After their vows, the reception began with a grand entrance and first dance. Dinner was provided by Olive Garden, followed by heartfelt toasts, dancing, and desserts from Button Rock Bakery and Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Every detail reflected Rebecca and Erik’s personalities. Their cake was topped with a custom metal dragon sculpture, two dragons kissing to form a heart. They also had custom LEGOs figurines made, representing each other, adding a playful touch to the table.
As the night wound down, Rebecca and Erik slipped outside for sunset portraits before returning for their grand send-off. Guests lined up with glowing fiber optic wands, waving them as the couple made their exit in a tunnel of sparkling lights.
A Wedding That Felt Like Them
Rebecca and Erik’s Lionsgate Event Center wedding was as personal as it was beautiful. “We bring out the best versions of each other,” they shared. “That’s the best thing about us as a couple. We work as the best team and as one.” From honoring Norwegian traditions to designing their own rings, they created a day that was both meaningful and unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that combines historic elegance with personal touches, The Gatehouse at Lionsgate Event Center is an unforgettable place to say “I do.” As a Colorado wedding photographer, I love capturing couples in this stunning setting. If you’re planning your own wedding at Lionsgate, or anywhere in Colorado, I’d love to help you tell your story. Jump over to my contact page, and say hello!
Venue : Lionsgate Event Center
Florist : Garden Path Co
Bridal Shop : Bridal Elegance of Colorado
Groom Attire : Men’s Wearhouse
Desserts : Button Rock Bakery & Nothing Bundt Cakes
DJ : Carlos Banuelos – Social Chemistry Events
Officiant : Julie Adriansen
Caterer : Olive Garden
Liquor : Party Liquor
xx,
Jennifer Lourie
