STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. – Valerie S. Schechter and Brian M. Arel were married on Sept. 30 on Howelson Hill in Steamboat Springs, Colo.

Family and friends boarded the chairlift to the the top of the hill, the sky clear and blue, the temperature warm. The bridegroom’s aunt, Corinne McIntosh of Winthrop, officiated at the ceremony. Music on the hill was provided by Tom Wood, a friend of the couple. Following a buffet dinner in the lodge, music and dancing was provided by another friend, Jim Adelman.

The bride was escorted by her parents, Caryl Lightfoot and Joel Schechter of Los Angeles, Calif. She wore a white, street-length lace dress, and flowers adorned her hair. Lisa Goon of California, sister of the bride, was matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Carol Zamzow and MaryEllen Biven, longtime friends of the couple.

Standing with the bridegroom was his brother, Mark of Sabattus, and his best friend, Doug Herning of Steamboat Springs, Colo. Nieces Madison and Nicole Goon and Hannah Arel escorted the couple’s dogs, Riley, a border Collie, and Emma, a Great Pyrennees. Nephews Jacob Arel and Jackson Goon were ring bearers.

Mrs. Arel is the daughter of Caryl and David Lightfoot and Joel and Jacqueline Schechter of California. She attended schools in California and graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara. She is owner of Just Gardens in Steamboat Springs.

Mr. Arel is the son of James and Suzanne Arel of Auburn and graduated from Edward Little High School in 1985 and SMVTI in 1988. He is co-owner and project manager of Fair and Square Construction Company in Steamboat Springs, Colo.

The couple recently returned from a honeymoon trip to Jamaica and reside in Steamboat Springs, Colo.