July 25, 2027
ESTES PARK, COLORADO
A NOTE FOR OUR GUESTS
We’re still planning all the little details! This website will be updated as we get closer to our wedding day, so be sure to check back for additional information. Formal invitations with RSVP details will be sent at a later date.
Time Until We Get Married
OUR STORY
HOW WE MET
Justin hacked the mainframe and was able to contact Fabienne on the Bumble app where women are the ones that message first.
THE FIRST DATE
On a first date we met at Atmosphere Gastropub right across the street from Fabienne's first apartment.
THE "LONG" DISTANCE
For 6 months Justin got deployed to Germany, which was scary but actually turned out to be amazing. Fabi's mom's side of the family is in Germany so Justin got to meet them. They also got to travel together through Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Czechia, Austria, and Iceland. (Thanks Justin)
THE PROPOSAL
Picture this: We're in the beautiful tropical paradise of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. We grabbed drinks at Le Papillon before our dinner reservation, hoping to watch the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific. As the sky turned brilliant shades of orange and red, a group of curious monkeys wandered into the restaurant, stealing the show by running around and even knocking over dinner napkins.
While I was completely mesmerized by the monkeys, Justin was quietly panicking. Not only was he trying to time the proposal perfectly before the sun disappeared, but the monkeys had also attracted quite the audience.
Justin asked me to close my eyes. When I opened them, he was asking me to spend forever with him.
To top it all off, the sweetest bartender brought us glasses of champagne to celebrate the beginning of our next adventure together.
TIME TO GET MARRIED!!!
Mia Approves
Black Canyon Inn
TRAVEL
DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
74 Miles from Estes Park
Denver International Airport is the closest major airport, located about 74 miles (approximately 1.5–2 hours) from Estes Park. Rental cars are recommended for guests planning to explore Rocky Mountain National Park or the surrounding area.
GETTING AROUND ESTES PARK
Small Mountain Town
Estes Park is a small mountain town, and many restaurants, shops, and attractions are just a short drive away. If you're planning to explore before or after the wedding, we recommend renting a car. Parking will be available at Black Canyon Inn for guests who choose to drive.
LOCAL TRANSPORT
UBER & LYFT
Rideshare services are available in Estes Park but can be limited, especially in the evening. We recommend planning transportation in advance whenever possible.
WHERE TO STAY
When choosing where to stay, we recommend considering the location in relation to Black Canyon Inn, where our wedding will be held. There are also plenty of lodging options along Big Thompson Avenue, with convenient access to restaurants, shops, and other things to do around Estes Park.
We've highlighted some options below to help you get started, but there are plenty of other great places to stay throughout the area. We encourage you to compare locations and prices across hotel websites and booking platforms to find the best option for your budget, preferences, and travel plans.
Black Canyon Inn
Our Wedding Venue
Stay right at the wedding venue for the most convenient experience. Black Canyon Inn offers beautiful mountain views and spacious condo-style accommodations.
$$$$ • Luxury Option • No Driving • Wedding Discount Available •
5% OFF — USE CODE: 5WED
Estes Park Condos
Sister Property of Black Canyon Inn
A wide range of comfortable condo-style accommodations just a short drive from the venue. With a variety of sizes and layouts, these are a great option for guests looking for a little more space and flexibility.
$$$ • 8 Minute Drive • Wedding Discount Available •
10% OFF — USE CODE: WED
Expedition Lodge (Wedding Room Block)
A Comfortable, Budget-Friendly Option
We've arranged a room block at Expedition Lodge with a special rate of $229 per night, before taxes and the nightly amenity fee.
To book, please call the lodge directly at (970) 586-5363 and mention the Manen Wedding room block.
Booking deadline: June 24, 2027
Rooms are subject to availability, so we recommend booking early. A $10 nightly amenity fee per room and applicable taxes apply.
You may also wish to compare rates on other booking websites to see whether a lower price is available for your dates.
$$ • 5-Minute Drive • Pet Friendly
Estes Park Resort
A Luxurious Getaway by the Lake
For guests looking for a more upscale stay, Estes Park Resort is a beautiful option right on Lake Estes. We loved the area and especially enjoyed dinner at their restaurant, The Ember, during our visit. It is one of the pricier options, but the location and setting are hard to beat.
$$$$ • 5-Minute Drive • Lakefront
Blue Door Inn
A Simple & Affordable Option
A simple, affordable option close to downtown Estes Park and just a short drive from the wedding venue.
$$ • 5-Minute Drive
The Stanley Hotel
For the History Buffs & Ghost Hunters 👻
Want to stay somewhere with a little more history? The Stanley is one of Estes Park's most iconic landmarks and could be a fun option for guests interested in history, architecture, or the hotel's famous ghost stories. The property is historic and may have ongoing construction or renovations, so we recommend checking the latest details when booking.
$$$ • 5-Minute Drive • Historic Hotel
YMCA of the Rockies
A Mountain Getaway for Groups & Families
Located a little farther from downtown Estes Park, YMCA of the Rockies offers a variety of accommodations and can sometimes be a great value. It's a nice option for guests who don't mind being a little farther from the action and want to enjoy more of the surrounding mountain setting.
$$ • 15-Minute Drive • Great for Groups & Families
Airbnb & Vacation Rentals
Great for Families & Groups
Estes Park has plenty of cabins, condos, and vacation rentals for guests who would prefer a little more space or want to stay together as a group.
We've put together a few options to help you get started, but availability and pricing can change, so we recommend exploring what works best for your group.
$$–$$$$ · Great for Groups & Families
We're so grateful you're making the trip to Estes Park to celebrate with us. While you're here, we hope you'll make a little mountain getaway out of it.
WHERE TO EAT
The Ember Restaurant & Bar
Dinner & Drinks
A great spot for a nicer dinner with beautiful views overlooking Lake Estes. We ate here during one of our trips to Estes Park and really enjoyed it!
The Egg of Estes
Breakfast & Brunch
A casual local breakfast spot serving all the classics. A great choice for fueling up before a day of exploring Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park.
Inkwell & Brew
Café
A cozy downtown coffee shop along the Riverwalk that's perfect for grabbing coffee, tea, or a light bite while exploring town.
Himalayan Curry & Kebob
Indian & Nepalese
A casual downtown spot serving flavorful Indian and Nepalese dishes. A great option when you're ready for something different after a day in the mountains.
EXPLORE ESTES
THE STANLEY HOTEL
Explore one of Colorado's most famous historic hotels, known for inspiring The Shining. Tours, cocktails, and beautiful views make it a fun stop while you're in town.
RIDE THE HISTORIC TRAMWAY
Take a scenic ride to the top of Prospect Mountain for panoramic views of Estes Park and the surrounding Rockies.
DOWNTOWN/RIVERWALK
A Note About the Mountains
Estes Park sits at about 7,500 feet above sea level. Drink plenty of water, take it easy when you arrive, and don't forget sunscreen. July days are typically warm, but mountain evenings can get chilly, so we recommend bringing a light jacket.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
In the mood to explore or hike?
Sprague Lake (easy)
flat 0.8 mile loop
Nymph, Dream and Emerald Lake (moderate)
3.3 miles
Longs Peak (expert)
Climb the challenging 14,255-foot peak via the Keyhole Route for experienced mountaineers.
