Montana Wedding 2018/2019

2018/2019 a WeDDing PLanner a sPeciaL PuBLication oF the BoZeman DaiLy chronicLe co V e r P h oto co u r t e s y o F s a r a h Z i m m e r m a n - s e co n D s h o ot L au r i e L a r s o n

1808045

Close to Bozeman • Gorgeous mountain views Inspiring country setting • Easy access Historic local landmark • Seating up to 299 guests New building has men’s, women’s, & ADA restrooms Private bath for the bride & new bridal lounge

Bridal . Maids . Prom . Tux 714 Stoneridge Drive Suite 3A Bozeman Montana • 59718 (406) 577-2259

eskaybridal.com

| 2018

Table of contents: 08 20 12-18 MONTHS BEFORE A Wedding Planner The Venue

The Caterer

9-12 MONTHS BEFORE The Bride’s Look

The Groom’s Look The Registry The Photographer The Dessert The Flowers

tay L o r e D P h o t o m e m o r i e s

E D I TO R / W R I T E R : K AT H E RYN H O U G H TO N L AYO U T & D E S I G N : C H R I S T I N E D U B B S ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: CINDY SEASE

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Designing the Ceremony Day of the Event Checklist

T H E B O Z E M A N D A I LY C H R O N I C L E , 4 0 6 - 5 8 2 - 2 6 1 6

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Getting the Word Out Build a Detailed Schedule

F O R I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T U P C O M I N G P U B L I C AT I O N S C O N TA C T

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS susan K aDams PhotograPhy 4 0 Wat t P h o t o KoDi Dustin PhotograPhy BecKy Wharton oF BecKy Wharton PhotograPhy Lauren LiPscomB oF Lauren L. PhotograPhy t i F Fa n y P h o t o g r a P h y r. J. Kern LoVeLight PhotograPhy c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y erin BurKe missy short PhotograPhy misa-rae PhotograPhy cait carr PhotograPhy sarah Zimmerman Laurie Larson K at y s h ay P h o t o hot shooter PhotograPhy tay L o r e D P h o t o m e m o r i e s BranDon Keim PhotograPhy e r i n K ay e P h o t o g r a P h y reBecca nicKLin tina o’DonneLL PhotograPhy s a r a h h ay P h o t o g r a P h y cait carr PhotograPhy

6 MONTHS BEFORE

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THE WEDDING EVENT PLANNING PAGES Destination Wedding The Dollars of Matrimony Making it Official After the Wedding

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LOVE STORIES Melody & Dan Niki & Cristel Sydney & James Jackie & Austen Vera & John Reese Katie & George

PHOTO CREDIT: SARAH NOTARIUS

OTO CREDIT: SARAH NOTARIUS

OTO CREDIT: DAVEY JOHNSON

OTO CREDIT: ZAK JOKELA

An exquisite Montana wedding venue with unobstructed views of the Bridger Mountains.

PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN KA

PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN KA

With lush lawns, wide open spaces, a winding creek, bridal salon, grooms quarters and indoor, outdoor ceremony sites, The Rockin’ TJ Ranch offers the perfect location to host your Montana wedding. Our experienced team is available to help with every detail to ensure your special day is a first-class and stress free celebration.

Call or visit our website today, to schedule your on-site or virtual tour! www.rockintjranch.com

406-585-0595

651 Lynx Lane Bozeman, MT 59718

PHOTO CREDIT: SARAH NOTARI

2 1 1M8 onths to

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BecKy Wharton oF BecKy Wharton PhotograPhy & Lauren LiPscomB oF Lauren L. PhotograPhy WeDDing Dress: anna BÈ BriDaL

You’ve already made the most important decision of the wedding: who’s standing across from you. For the rest, think about getting some professional help. A wedding planner can be the glue throughout the process, from narrowing down vendors to acting as the peacekeeper as family weighs in on how the day should look.

Take time to know each other

Know your options

Know whether you and your planner have shared visions. Meet potential planners in person, or if you’re starting from afar, Skype so you can get to know their background and what they excel at.

Champagne + Linen (www.champagneandlinen.com) is a trio of wedding designers and planners based in western Montana. They offer packages from planning the entire event to coordinating day-of details.

“We’re a modern approach to the classic wedding,” said Ariel Avery, co-owner of Champagne + Linen. “Look at planners’ website and make sure their style aligns with what you want your wedding to feel like. We wouldn’t want to book a couple that’s completely different than our overall esthetics.”

Alicia Houghtaling with Champagne + Linen added when personalities align, “that’s when we’re able to get creative and add touches that really represent the couple.”

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“We can meet couples somewhere in the middle,” Houghtaling said. “They may have the venue, photographer and catering booked and want more help with their design.”

Other planners want to be there from start to finish.

W e D D i n g P L a n n e r : c h a m Pa g n e + L i n e n

t i F Fa n y P h o t o g r a P h y

| 2018

A Wedding Planner

2018 | r . J . K e r n | W W W. K e r n - P h oto. c o m .

W e D D i n g P L a n n e r : B e a u t i F u L Ly B o r n e V e n t s

t i F Fa n y P h o t o g r a P h y

K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y | K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

W e D D i n g P L a n n e r : c h a m Pa g n e + L i n e n

Venue:roy’s Barn

Start early Leslie Lukas of Lukas Trudeau Design Co. (www. lukastrudeau.com) said it’s never too late to engage with a planner, but having a full year has its benefits.

“Our area is a huge destination location, so if you have your sights on having your wedding in the area, your planner can help lock in a competent and well-respected vendor team,” she said.

Get the specifics Be sure you’re comfortable with your planner’s communication style. Lukas said know from the start how often you’ll meet in-person and what their response time will be to emails or calls.

Creating a plan An initial consultation typically happens soon after you reach out to a planner and often includes questions about your style, budget and what you want the overall feel of your wedding to be. Lukas said after that, she draws up a proposal followed by a contract that outlines what the planner is going to do and payment terms. She said that typically includes a checklist of tasks with a corresponding timeline.

Balance creativity with flexibility Planners throughout Montana said couples are weaving elements unique to them into the traditional rhythm of a wedding. It’s great to have an image of what you want but also be ready for some suggestions. Planners will know what’s possible within your budget and timeline and do their best when they have some room for creativity.

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LoVeLight PhotograPhy

| 2018

Venue: BriDger BoWL

The Venue

There are hundreds of options for where to have your Montana wedding, whether it’s a log cabin on snow-covered slopes, a decked out barn with the Bridger Mountains as the backdrop or a chic affair in the woods. Aside from whether a venue aligns with your budget and guestlist, there are a lot of things to keep in mind when you start to shop.

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2018 | P r i m a r y s h o o t e r : c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y seconD shooter:erin BurKe V e n u e : g a L L at i n r i V e r h i D e aWay

missy short PhotograPhy V e n u e : s P r i n g h i L L PaV i L i o n

misa-rae PhotograPhy hart ranch WeDDings anD eVents

Ask these questions: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

How many weddings have you hosted?

What are the available dates?

Are certain times of the year more expensive?

How many weddings have you hosted?

Do you have any references from previous events?

Is there onsite parking or a shuttle service?

How many guests are allowed?

How many guests can fit comfortably on site?

Will we have exclusive use of the venue?

How early can we get on site to decorate?

Can we move stuff around?

Can we hold the ceremony and dinner there?

What’s access like for large rental drop-offs for things like tables or an arbor?

• Are you licensed to provide alcohol?

• How long will we have the space reserved?

• Is there a music time cut-off or any noise restrictions?

• How many restrooms are there and will they come stocked?

• Can we hire our own vendors?

• Do you provide any rentals like tables, chairs or linens?

• Do you provide signs for things like parking and the ceremony site?

• Are there any activities on the property?

• How many people can the dance floor hold?

• What’s the plan if it rains or snows?

• How soon would we have to clean up the site?

• How much is the deposit?

• Will there be a service charge on top of the bill?

• Do we need liability insurance?

• What’s the cancellation policy?

Remember, a wedding planner tends to have the state’s venues memorized. Tell them what you want out of a space and they should be able to hand you a list to choose from 13

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| 2018

2018 |

Great Photos Aren’t Taken, T hey’re Made!

Wedding Photography • Photo Booths • Prints • Photo Albums Roy Marino - Owner- Lead Photographer • Tyler Pasenko - Associate Photographer • Tom Pallach - Associate Photographer

(406)465-1358 hotshooterphotography.com 1807923

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susan K. aDams PhotograPhy

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c at e r e r : s a D i e ’ s c at e r i n g

The Caterer

Let your menu reflect your relationship and personality, says Sadie Morales with Sadie’s Catering (www.sadiescateringmontana.com). “Brides and grooms often ask the same question. ‘What can I get that everybody likes?’” Morales said. “My answer is, ‘What makes you happy?’ Your wedding should be a reflection of what you love. Have fun with your menu.”

She said for a recent wedding with a guestlist of 200, that was an entire vegan menu that included things like a tapas station, sesame chive falafel with chickpeas, tahini and preserved meyer lemon garlic sauce.

Part of the reason that menu worked is because the couple went with a buffet, which Morales said is becoming more popular among Montana weddings. It gives guests options, is easier to fit in a budget and leaves out the hassle of calling the caterer after last-minute changes to the guestlist.

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As Montana often acts as a destination venue or home to transplants, many couples want to give their guests a taste of the state they’ve grown to love. Morales said this wedding season, that’s been grilled bison tri-tip or dishes with huckleberry glazes. No matter the menu, there’s one thing couples can count on: “The local produce is amazing,” she said.

2018 | P r i m a r y s h o o t e r : c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y seconD shooter: erin BurKe c at e r e r : s a D i e ’ s c at e r i n g

susan K. aDams PhotograPhy

susan K. aDams PhotograPhy

c at e r e r : s a D i e ’ s c at e r i n g

c at e r e r : s a D i e ’ s c at e r i n g

Know what you’re buying

Some caterers serve the meal, come with their own décor and bus dishes when dinner is complete. Others put the food in hot dishes and dash. Ask the caterer what’s part of their package and what costs extra.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

What are the menu selections?

Does the menu change with seasons?

Can we schedule a tasting?

Can you provide alcohol?

Do you have a serving staff ? If so, what’s the server-toguest ratio?

Is there a minimum that has to be spent?

Can you host a cocktail hour? Will the bar remain open after the dinner and is there a fee for that?

Is there a cake-cutting fee?

Is the gratuity added on the bill?

What additional fees are added on the bill?

When do you need a final headcount?

Do you provide serving utensils, plates, silverware, napkins, tablecloths and glasses?

• • • • • • • • • • •

How much time do you need to set up the meal?

What time do you recommend serving the meal?

How does your typical schedule look?

When do you need final meal picks?

Can you send us a contract? When do you need that signed and returned?

What deposits do we have to put down to hold our date?

Can you handle dietary restrictions? Have you ever dealt with dietary restrictions?

If you plan to have various serving stations is there a fee for each station?

Who will be the point of contact on the wedding day?

Do you offer bussing services?

How long do you stay through the process?

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| 2018

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• Wedding & Entertainment Specialists for All Occasions • DJ’s and Photo Booths • Event Planning and Coordination

406-580-0355

mach1music.net

406.587.5626 A BANK FOR ALL OF US. 18

BANKOFBOZEMAN.COM

NMLS #403335

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instylearrivals.com

Cluney Photography

Jessie Moore Photography

2018 | Cluney Photography

Western elegance Under the Big sky

Haley at Sales@buckst4.com or 406-581-3337

46625 Gallatin Rd Big Sky, Montana www.buckst4.com 406.581.3337

1808855

WE PROMISE MUCH AND DELIVER

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4 0 W a t t P h o t o | www . 4 0 w a t t p h o t o . c o m

1M2ontoth9s

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PhotograPhers: BecKy Wharton oF BecKy Wharton PhotograPhy & Lauren LiPscomB oF Lauren L. PhotograPhy WeDDing Dress: anna BÈ BriDaL

Bride’s missy short PhotograPhy Dress: PLume

Look

Whether you have your heart set on a silhouette or don’t know where to begin, finding the right dress takes time and expertise. Picking the dress can be one of the most exciting parts of preparing for the wedding. It can also be stressful.

You likely have little to no experience trying on wedding dresses and it’s the most expensive piece of clothing many women ever own.

Leaving plenty of time to shop can help level that stress.

Dresses can take four to six months to be manufactured and another six to eight weeks to go through alterations. Karyn Carpenter, owner of Eskay Bridal in Bozeman (eskaybridal.com) said it’s important to book an appointment.

“Our store and 99 percent of stores like us have consultants to work with you,” Carpenter said. “Our best chance to find that perfect fit is if we know you’re coming and have someone who can completely focus on you.”

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P r i m a r y s h o o t e r : c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y

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seconD shooter: erin BurKe Dress BriDaL accessories: aFter 5 + WeDDings

cait carr PhotograPhy W W W . c a i t c a r r P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y | K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

Some (admittedly lucky) brides find their dress on the first try. Others have a series of appointments until they’re sure. While it’s great to have family and friends there for support, Carpenter suggests keeping that list intimate, to about four people. Picking out a gown can be overwhelming enough — invite 20 people and you’ll get 20 opinions.

Carpenter said keep in mind, “there’s no rules.” It’s good to arrive at shops with ideas in hand. But the vision of what you want may not live up to your expectations.

That’s where consultants come in.

“Don’t be afraid to try different silhouettes and be open minded. Dresses look different on hangers, the beauty of a consultant is we know what they’ll look like when they’re on you,” she said. “You’re never too old to wear a veil and you may look great in a mermaid gown even if you never would have picked it out to try on.”

When it comes to your wedding day, don’t let the fear of snagging your dress or getting it dirty hold you back.

Eskay offers cleaning and repair services and Carpenter said there’s nothing the store hasn’t been able to fix yet.

So give it your all on the dance floor and enjoy those sunset photos in a field.

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K at y s h ay P h o t o | K at y s h ay P h o t o. c o m

sarah Zimmerman | seconD shooter Laurie Larson

W e D D i n g D r e s s : e s K ay B r i D a L

WeDDing Dress: BoLee BriDaLs (san Jose, ca)

hot shooter PhotograPhy W W W . h o t s h o o t e r P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

Tips and Trends • “Lace is never going to go out of style,” Carpenter said.

It’s elegant, timeless and works with any Montana backdrop.

• After years of strapless dresses taking the stage, sleeves are making a comeback. From illusion sleeves to solid long sleeves with a cap, you can’t go wrong.

• A fur or flannel wrap can keep you warm for a fall or winter wedding.

• Bohemian is in, offering brides a look inspired by nature with soft and flowing gowns.

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• Ivory is still the top color of choice, which is softer than pure white dresses.

• Ball gowns are making a comeback among weddings.

• A lot of women are weaving greens and flowers into their hair or opt for a flower crown instead of the traditional tiara.

• Veils are always a classic go-to. “There’s something about a veil when you put it on that gives you goosebumps every time,” said Megan Jacks, owner of After 5 and Weddings.

misa-rae PhotograPhy

2018 |

g r o o m s at t i r e : a F e r 5 & W e D D i n g s

missy short PhotograPhy suits: aFter 5 & WeDDings

Groom’s Look

Megan Jacks, owner of After 5 and Weddings, said the couple getting married is the centerpiece to the wedding — whether it’s two brides, two grooms or a man and woman, it’s important to coordinate the look even if you’re keeping the final pick a surprise.

“Think about the whole picture. You don’t want one person to be super casual and one super formal,” Jacks said.

The groom and groomsmen attire shouldn’t be a lastminute detail. Jacks said if there’s a bridal party, soon after their colors are set, it’s time to start shopping for the fellas whether they’re buying or renting.

Chances are, a Montana wedding means men will be in suits rather than tuxedos. Jacks said all men seem to look good in grey. Navy blue is another favorite color choice. The groom can stand out with a suit that’s a lighter or darker shade than the rest of the party. For fellas who can’t imagine a full day in suits, there’s the classic jeans and boots paired with a jacket or tweed vest.

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K at y s h ay P h o t o | K at y s h ay P h o t o. c o m

LoVeLight PhotograPhy

K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y | K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

Grooming for Grooms Jacks said men can’t go wrong with accessories. Bow ties and suspenders are a hit right now. Men can add a touch of their personality with unique boutonnieres or patterned pocket squares. Grooms can also use those accessories to stand out by going with a different pattern or style than the rest of the party.

“Leather offers a cool texture. You can use leather suspenders to coordinate with your shoes which can also make a nice gift for your groomsmen ahead of time,” Jacks said.

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• If it’s an outdoor wedding in the heat of summer, wait to put that suit jacket on. If it gets too hot, consider skipping the jackets all together – a sweaty wedding party doesn’t necessarily scream romance.

• Leave room for some personality, whether that’s an undershirt or fun socks. It can make for fun photos and loosen up the groomsmen.

• Don’t go with an outfit that feels like something you’d never wear. You want to feel comfortable on your wedding day.

• While a clean shave and recent haircut is good, don’t go for a new facial hair look on your wedding day.

Remember hair tanlines are a thing and you don’t necessarily want to surprise your partner on the day of “I-dos” looking like a different man.

missy short PhotograPhy

2018 |

K at y s h ay P h o t o | K at y s h ay P h o t o. c o m B r i D a L Pa r t y : e s K ay B r i D a L

susan K. aDams PhotograPhy PoPPy BriDe

hot shooter PhotograPhy W W W . h o t s h o o t e r P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y seconD shooter: erin BurKe

the Wedding Party

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The registry is fun in that it pulls you beyond planning for your wedding day — how can family and friends help set you up for the future? Is there an empty room in the house they can help fill? Get down to the details with a registry. What combined items do you have and what’s missing? Give guests plenty of time between sending out that list and the big event.

Shopping in-person

The Online Registry

• Picking a physical store can be a fun way for you and your partner to fill in the gaps in your home, whether that’s hardware, home or garden. You’ll need to set up an appointment to register.

• Once you register, print that list and make sure there’s no duplicate requests.

• Go beyond plates and silverware. Does your house have space for a garden or another fun craft? Do you spend more time camping or throwing parties?

• Cover multiple price points to give guests options.

• Keep in mind stores’ return policies

• Try to pick stores that offer online ordering to make it a bit easier for your guests, especially those traveling.

• Online stores like Amazon offer endless categories.

They also make it easier to add or cancel gifts and see what’s already been purchased.

• Websites like TheKnot.com offer free registry services.

If you already have more than enough in the house, think about what can help build memories with your human. Skip the shops and set up a honeymoon registry. Sites like TheKnot.com lets someone cover drinks on a plane, dinner on the beach or a day trip to explore your honeymoon destination. Or maybe there’s one big gift that people can chip in with by creating a wedding fund for a camper for two that guarantees adventure.

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r . J . K e r n | W W W. K e r n - P h oto. c o m .

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The Registry

2018 |

Announcements

Submit your engagement and wedding announcements online by visiting www.bozemandailychronicle.com/ milestones. Scroll down the page to “Submit a Milestone” and click on the specific announcement you would like to share. Announcements are $95 and include a photo. Be sure to spell all names correctly; they are printed as they appear. Announcements are limited to 150 words.

Submissions and payments must be made no later than Wednesday at 5 p.m. to ensure it appears in the upcoming Sunday paper. Announcements are printed in the Sunday Bozeman Daily Chronicle and will be included in the Milestones sections of the Chronicle website.

The Chronicle reserves editorial discretion over all submissions. Have questions? Call 406-582-2642

Submission Guidelines WHEN WRITING ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS, PLEASE INCLUDE: • The first and last name of both the bride- and groom-to-be • The first and last name of the person announcing the engagement and his or her relationship to the couple • The city of residence for both the bride- and groom-to-be • The first and last name of the parents of the bride- and groom-to-be and their cities of residence • The wedding date (if known) • Also, be sure to include the name of the photographer if you are submitting a professional photo WHEN WRITING WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENTS, PLEASE INCLUDE: • The first and last name of the bride and groom • The couple’s city of residence • The date of the wedding • The location of the wedding • The name of the wedding officiant • The location of the reception • The names of the parents of both the bride and groom • Also, be sure to include the name of the photographer if you are submitting a professional photo

BranDon Keim PhotograPhy B r a n D o n K e i m P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

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| 2018

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Picking a photographer is a big deal. Unlike vendors that deliver a product for the big day, a photographer is part of the event. This person (or team of people) will capture one of the most intimate days of your life and chances are they’ll help choreograph how that looks. You want to pick someone you’re comfortable with.

Before booking a photographer based on their website, ask to see a portfolio. You want to see a variety of shots, from that picture of grandma on the dance floor to quiet moments between couples. Shop around. Know what their package includes – do they edit the photos or is that extra? Is there an option to get a book of the prints?

How late do they stay after the ceremony?

Bozeman-based photographer Tori Pintar (toripintar. com) said couples should have fun at their wedding and photos are a piece of that.

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“You have limited time in the day and you get to choose how you want to celebrate,” Pintar said. “You don’t have to fit into what you’ve seen at every wedding. If wedding party photos won’t mean a lot to you in the long run, don’t spend too much time on them. Take photos that you feel have value in the long run.”

e r i n K ay e P h o t o g r a P h y

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The Photographer

missy short PhotograPhy

c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y

2018 |

seconD shooter: erin BurKe

hot shooter PhotograPhy W W W . h o t s h o o t e r P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

A photographer’s advice •

•

•

•

Book early. Pintar said that’s anywhere from six to 18 months out. Though popular dates like Labor Day or busy months like July and August need at least a year’s notice.

Know your photographer’s style. Pintar leans toward candid documentary and tends to work with couples who like that style.

Have a photo schedule. Pintar said leave more time for the photos that will matter to you in the long run.

Make sure your wedding party and family members know when photos are happening so you don’t have to spend time searching for them.

Do a first look. “Try to plan time so you’re not feeling rushed. A first look is a great way to do that,” Pintar said. First looks can calm your nerves and be the quiet before the chaos to soak in your partner’s presence, which also makes for beautiful photos.

•

If you want to save the anticipation of seeing each other for the ceremony, you’re going to have to plan another time to break away from wedding guests. That might mean missing cocktail hour or slipping away between dinner and dessert.

• Trust your photographer. Hopefully you’ve picked someone who feels like an old friend. That will come in handy when they ask you and your party to pose in different ways, move decorations around or stand in the light.

• Be prepared to be stolen away for sunset photos.

“No matter what the weather’s doing, at that point you’re in a different mindset and on the high of being married. That translates into cool photos and moments. And when you do get an amazing sunset, Montana really delivers.”

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The Dessert

missy short PhotograPhy

The dessert is another piece of art in the wedding. Just ask Jasmine Lilly of Jasmine Lilly Creative (www.jasminelillycreative.com), whose background is in studio art and graphic design.

“Everything I do is very much about the art of translating peoples’ love into a visual language,” Lilly said. “People want to make their wedding feel like their own, not a copy-and-paste version of what a wedding should look like.”

She said desserts are an opportunity to be playful. More people are opting for dessert buffets with a variety that feels fresh and exciting instead of a stand alone tiered 34

cake. Lilly encourages couples to have a cake or some central focus point on the table to balance the space.

“There’s a wonderful relief about a celebratory cake that couples can cut into,” Lilly said. “The band starts in and it becomes after hours when the cake gets cut, signifying the next stage of the party.”

2018 |

susan K. aDams PhotograPhy D e s s e r t : s a D i e ’ s c at e r i n g

reBecca nicKLin, caKes From caBin riDge caKesFromcaBinriDge.com

K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y | K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m misa-rae PhotograPhy

c a K e : co n n i e Wa L K e r co n n i e Wa L K e r _3 @ m s n . co m

Keep in Mind • •

•

•

Six to eight months out is a safe window to book a baker.

Be flexible. Bakers will know what’s in season and what won’t work. “Communicate what you want and love and are excited about, then let your baker overperform. It’s what they do when you give them creative freedom.”

Know what they’re supplying and what’s up to you.

For example, will they have a cake cutting set and dessert stands?

Have a few gluten-free options available for guests.

•

•

•

Timing and heat will always be an issue for desserts on the wedding day. “I think three to four hours is max for letting dessert sit out and that can push it as well,” Lilly said. “Sometimes I have to set up during the reception or else risk the integrity of the food.”

The dessert table is a piece of the art. Know whether you’ll be in charge of designing that table or whether your baker has that covered. Various heights and stands can make the table look lush. “To put a ton of energy and effort to make beautiful little pastries and not have that effort in the dessert table feels wrong.”

Pick what you love. Bozeman’s own Granny’s Gourmet Donuts has taken over dessert tables in recent years.

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Flowers can help set the look of a wedding, but be careful not to let them take over. There’s a fine balance between a bouquet adding to your look and hiding your dress. While beautiful flower arrangements can transform a table, you want to make sure they’re not blocking conversations. Wedding professionals can offer quality advice and design.

Sam Stoffers with Budget Bouquet (budgetbouquetandmore.com) said be flexible.

“Weird weather can put local stuff behind schedule,” she said. “Really rigid guidelines could limit you and your pricing. It’s good to be open minded to alternative options.”

She said couples can bring photo ideas but it’s important to let a florist take that design and add to it with what’s available.

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She said while white, blush and burgundy bouquets have been popular, she thinks colorful flowers arrangements are making a comeback. So are Bohemian wedding bouquets, which are full of whimsical details, wildflowers and feathers.

“They’re less overly designed, more garden collected looks with very unique flowers and a lot of texture,” Stoffers said.

Langorh’s FLoWers

K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y | K o D i D u s t i n P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

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The Flowers

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e r i n K ay e P h o t o g r a P h y FLorist: BLoom

LoVeLight PhotograPhy FLorist: “i Do” FLoWers

4 0 Wat t P h o t o | W W W. 4 0 Wat t P h o t o. c o m FLoWers: LaBeLLum

c a P t u r i n g h i s c r e at i o n P h o t o g r a P h y seconD shooter: erin BurKe FLorist: Lori myers

Tips and Trends •

• •

If you have your heart set on your favorite flowers, remember seasons pay no attention to your wedding date.

Order early. Reach out to a florist at least six months ahead of your wedding. A year is safer.

It’s good to get ideas online, but when you deliver those to a florists they’ll know what flowers will be in season. “Pick what looks best that week,” Stoffers said.

• • •

•

Avoid reaching out to a florist in February. Chances are they’ll be stretched thin that month.

Keep location in mind. A tropical arrangement would clash with a barn setting.

Florists will make recommendations that aren’t listed online and have back up options to avoid shipment issues.

If it’s an outdoor wedding, don’t leave flowers out in the sun hours before the event.

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Save-the-Dates:

• Save-the-dates are less formal than an invitation, but can give guests an idea of when to carve out some time six to eight months before the wedding.

• Include the couple’s name, the wedding date and location. If you’re still picking a venue, a city will be enough to help people plan.

• Be clear about who is invited by including names of the guests on the envelope — friends with kids will appreciate knowing whether they need to find a babysitter.

• Don’t expect guests to RSVP in this phase.

• Let guests know a formal invitation will follow. And if you have one, include a link to a wedding website.

Electronic save-the-dates are becoming more popular, but a lot of family members will appreciate something tangible to put on the fridge. Consider leaving electronic versions for bachelorette and bachelor parties or wedding showers.

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The Formal Invite

Invitations should follow the theme of your wedding and give guests an idea of what to expect. Get creative. Pull ideas from places like Pinterest but add your own twist.

The invitation should include: • Name of the couple, time, date, ceremony and reception location.

• Whether it’s black tie or casual outdoor affair with a general timeline of events.

• Let guests know where to park or whether there’s a shuttle. Include some directions for those who may not rely on Google Maps. Those details can also go on a wedding website.

Make it as easy as possible for guests to RSVP to save you time and hassle by including a response card and inner envelope • Include a stamp on the inner envelope and have it addressed back to you.

• Make sure it’s easy for guests to fill out and avoid having to decipher a lot of handwriting.

• If there’s dancing at the wedding, ask people to give one song pick that will get them on the dance floor.

missy short PhotograPhy

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Save-the-Dates & Invitations

2018 |

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| 2018

Designing the Ceremony tina o’DonneLL PhotograPhy

While the ceremony may be the quickest part of the day, it’s typically the most vivid part for couples. There’s no perfect length or a bullet-point list of things to include. Every couple interviewed for this magazine said the most important thing is to personalize the ceremony in a way that honors your past and future together.

“I think communicate with your partner what the ceremony means to you and what you want to get out of it,” said one of our featured love story brides Niki.

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Her wife Cristel added if you’re doing personal vows, avoid writing them 15 minutes before the ceremony.

While emotions will be running high on your wedding day, it’s a gamble as to whether that will help the writing process.

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hot shooter PhotograPhy W W W . h o t s h o o t e r P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

tina o’DonneLL PhotograPhy Venue: roy’s Barn in BoZeman

r . J . K e r n | W W W. K e r n - P h oto. c o m 4 0 Wat t P h o t o | W W W. 4 0 Wat t P h o t o. c o m

V e n u e : g a L L at i n r i V e r h i D e aWay

Tips for building a ceremony from couples and planners • • •

•

Customize your ceremony.

Pick an officiant who knows you, whether that’s a longtime friend or a childhood pastor.

The ceremony can be as long or as short as you want. Don’t feel like you’re stuck with traditional readings or scripture — include what’s important to you.

Have an honest talk with your partner about what you’re both comfortable saying in front of a crowd.

While personal vows can be touching, neither of you want to feel like you’re playing a role in a play.

•

•

•

•

If you do write personal vows, have an idea of how long you want them to be so one speech isn’t pages longer than the other.

If you have a candle lighting ceremony and wedding outside, factor in wind. Something as simple as a lighter not working can be a mood killer. In fact, keep weather in mind for any type of ceremony.

Couples can choose to have an intimate ceremony with a handful of friends and family members with a large after party.

Think about sound during your wedding. Consider whether you have enough guests that microphones will be necessary.

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a d l i u B ailed De t e l u d e h Sc Have a day-of planner, or at the very least ask a friend to be in charge.

You don’t want to have to answer questions like where to store your bouquet after the ceremony.

Creating a day-of schedule that lists what’s happening when and who’s in charge of making sure that happens will be key — who will grab your stuff when the ceremony is over? Who makes sure your grandparents gets a ride to the site? If someone has to make an ice run or find a missing tux, chances are if you plan well you won’t have to hear about it until after the day is over. misa-rae PhotograPhy

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hart ranch WeDDings anD eVents

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Wedding Day Checklist

missy short PhotograPhy

The day is finally here. While the big decisions are already made, there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure everyone with a job assignment has that day-of schedule within reach. Turn off your phone or at the very least, hand it over to a friend — everyone you need will be there and there will be plenty of photos.

Don’t forget • • • • • •

Marriage certificate Wedding rings Wedding party gifts Comfortable shoes Lint brush Nice hanger for wedding attire photos • Iron or steamer for suits

Emergency repair kit • • • • • • • • • • •

Sewing kit with needles & thread Tide-To-Go pens White Gaffers tape (for dress tears) Safety pins Band-Aids Double-sided tape Tampons Antacid tablets Pain relievers Umbrella Scissors

For touch ups • • • • • • • • • • • •

Perfume and/or cologne Face powder Mouthwash Deodorant Comb Eye makeup remover Have ready: Itinerary Vendor contact information Vendor checks Water Snacks

Take time to absorb the reality of agreeing to forever with your human without the eyes of a crowd watching. That could come through a first look or opting for a sweetheart table during the meal so you can talk with your beloved, have your cake and eat it too.

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A TheMontana Wedding Bridal Event 2019 The fourth annual A Montana Wedding: The Bridal Event – Southwest Montana’s one-stop location for all wedding needs – will be held Saturday, February 16, 2019 at The Commons at Baxter and Love Lane.

Doors will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees can expect to see fashion shows, sample cake and catered fare, see makeup and hair style demonstrations, and visit vendor booths featuring area caterers, florists, dress shops, photographers, venues, music, event coordinators, health and beauty experts, gift retailers, jewelers, travel agents and more.

“The Montana Wedding event provides a one-stop shop for you to connect with every vendor to make your day perfect. With over 80 vendors, you’ll find a host

of goods, services, and information that will make for a gorgeous and memorable wedding,” said Chronicle Advertising Director Cindy Sease.

It’s all under one roof, with a variety of offerings.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www. montanaweddingevent.eventbrite.com.

If you own a business that caters to brides or wedding parties, booth space is limited. Reserve space now by contacting Cindy Sease at 406-582-2616 or csease@dailychronicle.com.

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Destination Wedding

hot shooter PhotograPhy W W W . h o t s h o o t e r P h o t o g r a P h y. c o m

Between national parks, rivers and outdoor places to play, it’s easy to pick Montana as a destination wedding. But creating the day of your dreams from afar can be intimidating.

“Get a part-time planner, especially if they have a warehouse of supplies they can bring so that’s one less thing to think about before heading to Montana,” said Sydney, one of our featured love story brides.

Her husband James added it’s a good idea to plan a visit to the state a few months before the wedding day to make sure you’re on the same page with vendors.

You also may want to build in some extra time for planning, says Alicia Houghtaling of Champagne + Linen, who said about half the planning company’s clients are from out of state. Co-owner Ariel Avery said if that’s not possible, find well-established vendors with a variety of packages, like a venue

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that offers catering. Plus, those longtime wedding professionals will know other trusted vendors.

“You’ll pay a little bit more money but it will save you a huge headache in the future,” Avery said.

As for helping guests with where stay and what to do when they arrive, a wedding website is key. Sydney and James said their site on TheKnot.com listed places to stay from high class to within price range for a family of five. A lot of their guests made the trip a vacation, so the couple included photos of them at their favorite Montana spots with directions to those places, from the geysers of Yellowstone to hikes for the more ambitious.

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The Dollars of Matrimony

On average, Montanans spend $16,201 for wedding ceremonies and celebrations, according to TheKnot.com. But remember, that price will change with location and your wishlist.

Soon after deciding you’re getting married, start building that budget. Know what you’re willing to pass on and what’s top on the list. Maybe you opt to pay the extra for a live band and ask friends to help make your desserts to balance the budget.

Here’s a look at the average costs of a Bozeman wedding with 100 guests provided by www. costofwedding.com with an estimated cost per guest at $128.

• Attire and accessories: $1,499 • Beauty and spa: $156 • Entertainment: $617 • Flowers and decorations: $1,621 • Gifts and favors: $637 • Invitations: $609 • Jewelry (including engagement rings and wedding bands): $3,411 • Photography and video: $2,869 • Consultant or day-of coordinator: $824 • Venue, catering and rentals: $9,421

Guests

Keep in mind how many people you want on your guestlist, or more specifically, how many you can afford. That number will be a big factor in the price of your wedding.

• The average cost of a guest is between $184 and $225 if you include things like feeding, housing and treating them.

• Weddings with 50 guests or fewer average between $9,372 and $15,619.

• Weddings with 50 to 100 guests can average between $13,719 and $22,865.

• Weddings with 101 to 200 guests averages between $21,062 and $35,103, according to costofweddings.com.

Be upfront about what you plan on covering and what you expect guests to pick up. If they’re traveling, will you foot the bill for their stay? Will your bar be open or fixed? Those are important pieces to let guests know early on.

Family Support

The tradition of a bride’s parents paying for the wedding has become more rare as the cost of weddings has increased and the act of marriage has grown to include all forms of love between two people. See where your parents are able to chip in and what’s left for the two of you to cover. You’ll breathe easier on your wedding day if you’re not dealing with maxed credit cards when the party stops.

Tipping tips

It’s not common to tip business owners, but keep their staff in mind. If you loved the owner’s work, take time to give them a solid review online.

If the caterer covered service and bartenders, tip between 20 and 25 percent on top of the total cost. That’s going to be split between servers, the bartenders, cooks and the catering manager.

• Waitstaff: 20 percent • Bartender: 20 percent — remember, they’re putting up with your drunk friends and family.

• Entertainment: between 10 and 20 percent • Officiant (if they’re not a close friend): $100.

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Making It Official In Montana, you can get your marriage licenses from the Clerk of District Court.

• Montana residents can obtain a marriage license and get married in any Montana county. Non-residents must obtain a marriage license in the county in which they’re getting married.

• Montana’s marriage license fee is $53.

• The state’s minimum age to marry is 16 with judicial approval.

• There’s no waiting period in Montana to get married.

• Women (younger than 50) have to submit a Rubella blood test.

• Each spouse must be present for the application.

• Picture ID and proof of age is required.

• Marriage licenses are valid for 180 days from the date of issuance.

• Contact your local county clerk of district court office well in advance of the wedding to find out what days and what hours the clerk will be available.

A Montana marriage can be solemnized by: • • • •

Clergy from any state.

A judge (or retired judge) of a court of record.

A mayor, city judge or justice of the peace.

A tribal judge.

Changing your name

If you decide to change your name after the wedding, you can start with a new Social Security card by filling out an application at the Social Security Administration’s website. It can take about 10 days for the IRS to update your information.

Once that’s done, head to your Department of Motor Vehicles with your new Social Security card and driver’s license in hand to get a new license. These two forms of identification will be helpful when you go to update your name on things like bank accounts, credit cards or your passport.

Also keep in mind updating your name for your payroll department, voter registration, insurance companies, utility companies, mortgage and mailing address.

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missy short PhotograPhy

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After the Wedding • • • • •

Make sure rentals got back to vendors to avoid surprise bills later.

Rate your vendors online.

Order your wedding album or video.

Take down your wedding registry website.

Get your dress or suit professionally cleaned before you store it.

•

• •

Start those thank-you letters on one of your first weekends home as a married couple – it will be a relief to get that out of the way and a good way to begin life as a couple finally outside of planning the wedding.

It will be easiest to write the thank-you cards either as you open gifts or right after.

Use your RSVP list to avoid forgetting anyone.

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Melody & Dan A Family Affair

Like anybody who grew up together, Melody and Dan’s early memories of each other are in flashes. He lived in Bozeman, she lived in Manhattan and their parents were friends. Melody remembers Dan around 10 playing basketball outside his house. For Dan, their friendship started at summer camp.

“She was a lot of fun, good humored and we got along well,” he said.

“He’s always been hilarious, but also kind of shy,” Melody said. “Once you started talking to him, he always made you laugh.”

The two shared a few classes at Montana State University. While the friends focused on surviving statistics, Melody had another priority — she was pregnant.

“Dating wasn’t on my radar at that point,” she said.

Melody had her daughter, Colbie, in 2009. As she learned how to be a mom, she finished her degree and moved onto a master’s.

Over the years, Dan and Melody sporadically reconnected. During Melody’s first semester of grad school in 2014, Dan asked her to coffee. She was dating someone else but agreed to catch up with an old friend. Coffee turned into talking for hours.

“A few weeks later when Dan finally asked me on a date, I had to tell him I was already seeing someone,” Melody said.

The unexpected coffee outing stuck in her mind as a “what if.” So two years later when Melody was single and wrapping up grad school, she wished Dan happy birthday over text and worked hard to keep the conversation going.

“When I finally got up the courage to say, ‘We should get coffee again sometime,’ he promptly answered with, ‘How about dinner on Thursday?’” she said.

Melody eased Dan into Colbie’s life. Her only other relationship didn’t click for Colbie, who until that point said she preferred life as a mother-daughter duo.

“But they became best friends and I was the third wheel,” Melody said.

Dan bought a home in 2017 and the trio planned a sleepover in the living room to celebrate. As rain fell on the tin roof, Dan knelt beside Melody and proposed. Then he turned to Colbie and asked whether he could be her stepdad. Both ladies agreed without pause.

“We’re every bit a family, it didn’t make sense to propose any other way,” Dan said.

Planning the wedding was also a family affair. There was one nonnegotiable detail of the day for Dan - breakfast for dinner.

His mom led a team of friends through her biscuit and gravy recipe, which was a hit.

The couple gave their “I dos” at the Y Knot Barn in Pony, Montana. After, Dan kneeled beside Colbie and promised her the type of father he would try to be. In August, the family of three stood before a judge as Dan officially adopted Colbie.

“I saw how I could be a part of their life, which is still a little overwhelming and I still take very seriously,” he said.

“So much of his character was that Colbie was a part of this in the very beginning,” Melody added. “That’s been part of us growing together.

“We’re every bit a family, it didn’t make sense to propose any other way

On the Wedding Team 62

Photographer: Sarah Hay Photography

Groom’s suit: Kohl’s

Dessert: Homemade pies from Kelly Krueger

Makeup: Alexa Hueser at Indulgence Beauty Bar & Salon

Rentals: Gallatin Event Rental

Rings: Etsy, Melody’s is a herkimer crystal and Dan’s is a

Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal

meteorite.

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Niki & Cristel Mountain Top Romance When Niki and Cristel met at work, they quickly became friends and started adventuring together along with Cristel’s two sons. A year into exploring the mountains surrounding their shared town of Helena, they knew it was more than friendship.

When Cristel was ready to propose, she wanted to do it in the wilderness. Niki, who has more experience navigating mountains, had a planned to summit Granite Peak. Cristel came along with an engagement ring hidden in her 40-pound pack.

Day one was grueling. Instead of keeping to the 26 switchbacks leading toward a break spot called Froze to Death Plateau, most of the party decided to take a “short cut” — which meant heading straight up the mountain. Cristel stuck to the switchbacks. But the plateau, a mile wide and six miles long with dips, hid her hiking crew. Cristel followed the curve of the trail, missing the point she was supposed to veer off to meet the group waiting for her.

“It was so heavily forested, pretty soon your mind starts playing tricks on you,” Cristel said. “I started running down the switchbacks hoping at each turn I’d see someone.”

“She was running in the wrong direction,” Niki added.

Cristel ran more than eight miles before deciding to turn around as the sky darkened. Meanwhile, search and rescue told Niki they couldn’t send a team until morning.

Niki gave Cristel Jolly Ranchers before the trip, which she began to leave in her path along with arrows made out of

sticks pointing in the direction she was going. She knew Niki was looking for her and wanted to leave a trail.

“I kept thinking, ‘I’m bear bait and this is going to be the saddest story. They’ll find my bag and Niki will see the ring.

I can’t leave her like this,’” Cristel said.

After roughly seven hours alone on the trail, Cristel heard Niki calling for her. When the two reached each other they both cried out of relief.

The next morning, Niki was ready to attempt to finish the summit while Cristel wanted her to stay behind.

“I said, ‘If I give you something will you not go?’” Cristel said. “So I gave her the ring — we’re in a tent so there’s no kneeling — and I’m crying and she’s crying as she says, ‘Yes. But I’m still going.’”

The crew’s hike got stormed out but everyone made it home safe and the two began planning their wedding.

For their intimate ceremony, the couple hiked to a meadow on Mount Helena where a pastor from home married them before their family. Violins played in the background as the couple gave their vows to each other and to Cristel’s sons. They found ways to tie the religions of their families and friends into the ceremony, representing Judaism, Christianity and Buddhism. Then they headed to their venue where more friends waited for a night of dinner and dancing.

“The main message was, ‘Love is love,’” Niki said.

“And everyone felt that,” Cristel added.

“The main message was, ‘Love is love,’” Niki said.

“And everyone felt that,” Cristel added.

On the Wedding Team Photographer: Taylored Photo Memories

Rings: Jensen Jewelers and Eaton Turner Jewelry

Cakes: Cakes by Piper

Venue for reception: Windsor Ballroom through

Rentals: A1 rentals

Millennium Real Estate

Wedding Dresses: Linda’s Bridal Images & Mr. Tux

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Sydney & James A Destination Wedding The first time Sydney and James saw each other, she was talking to a volleyball coach in the Montana State University Billings gym as James passed by with a basketball under his arm. He was 6 feet tall with blond hair and blue eyes and, as James put it, Sydney was a standout on the volleyball team in more ways than one.

It didn’t take long for the two to find each other on campus and after a few run-ins, James asked Sydney out.

“I knew this could be serious and wanted to make sure we had a legitimate date,” James said.

But to Sydney, a formal date sounded intimidating. A few days after agreeing to the idea, she turned James down.

That is, until she ran into him in the cafeteria.

“In case you’re wondering, it is super awkward canceling on someone over text and then running into them in person,” she said with a laugh. “He cut me off in the cafeteria and talked me into reconsidering. The rest is pretty much history.”

On weekends, the couple often made road trips to James’ hometown, Bozeman. After a few weeks of dating, James announced to his mom he was with the woman he’d marry.

“It was super dorky and I’m not typically that guy, but I just knew. I think we both did early on,” he said as Sydney agreed.

The couple left Montana to attend chiropractic school in California. In their last year of school, James proposed along a San Diego cove with Sydney’s family and his mom watching from a cliff above.

Sydney’s parents had a property in Bozeman, which they easily picked as their wedding location. The fields and trees gave the venue a country feel. They used twinkle lights and white decor to add a timeless touch. If they had any reservation about planning a wedding from afar, the hospitality of every person they came into contact with put them at ease.

For the ceremony, the couple wanted to share their sense of community. The groomsmen wore floral ties and casually rolled their sleeves. They were married by their best friend from school and exchanged personal vows.

Even their menu reflected a bit of their past. Their three-tier flaked Cinnamon Honey Oat cake held Sydney’s parents wedding topper.

“We also supplemented our sweets with Bozeman’s finest, Granny’s Donuts because they are clearly the best in the donut business,” Sydney said.

Their menu included a huckleberry honey glazed chicken and their drink list of course featured a local beer from Map Brewing.

“We have always felt a connection in Bozeman, but now it is unmatched,” Sydney said.

“It honestly was the best day of my life,” James added.

“Not because of all the little details. Leading up you don’t know the love you’re going to feel that day, for each other and from the people helping with it. “

“I knew this could be serious and wanted to make sure we had a legitimate date,” James said.

On the Wedding Team Photographer: Sarah Zimmerman - second shoot Laurie Larson Florist: Tracey Ledahl assisted by Katie Baker

Hair and makeup: Ethereal Hair and Makeup

Part-time wedding planner: Time of Your Life events

Bridesmaids’ makeup: Running Bare Aesthetics

Cakes: Sweets by Sam, Sammy Walter

Band: Bozeman DJ

Rentals: Denny Wertz

Rings: Hers, James Allen and his, Jared

Wedding Dress: BoLee Bridals (San Jose, CA)

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Bridesmaids’ dresses: Show me your mumu Groom’s suit: all amazon (tie, shirt, pants and shoes)

2017 |

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Jackie & Austen In Typical Montana Fashion Austen was playing guitar and drinking a beer on his front porch when Jackie arrived with a few mutual friends. Jackie was immediately intrigued, though it took a while for Austen to catch on.

“I’m a slow learner,” Austen said with a shrug of his shoulders as Jackie grinned.

Jackie was in her final year of school at Montana State University and Austen had been a year into the real world when he invited her on a ski trip to Oregon.

“I think he thought I could drive a stickshift and he’d have help driving there,” Jackie said. “That wasn’t the case, which he found out half way there.”

With their splitboards packed in the truck, they began the 11-hour journey from Bozeman to Portland, Oregon to do something they both already loved in a new place.

“I invited her as a friend but a few days into the trip my mind started to change,” Austen said. “She was sweet and I started to get to know her personally and it dawned on me at some point.”

A few years into dating, Austen knew he’d propose, he just didn’t know when or where. The two planned to join Jackie’s parents on a trip to France when Austen heard they booked a sunset tour at the Eiffel Tower — an obvious answer to his when and where.

“It was two months before the trip and I was like, ‘I should buy a ring,’” he said with a laugh.

The couple wanted an outdoor Montana ceremony and fell in love with Rainbow Ranch in Gallatin Gateway.

They exchanged their vows in private during the first

look tucked in the woods, promising forever out of sight of their guests.

“It was so special to have that time together before things got rolling and it just felt more intimate to express our promises to one another in a place that both of us love to spend so much of our time,” Jackie said.

The ceremony was short and sweet, set on the edge of the Gallatin River shaded by pines.

The couple wove details of loved ones no longer living into the celebration. Their steel blue and blush tones were a tribute to Austen’s mom, and Jackie’s dad surprised them both as he strolled down the aisle using Austen’s father’s walking stick.

After the ceremony, guests were ushered into cocktail hour in front of the barn and reception area. Table assignments carried names after Montana and Colorado rivers the couple knew from their childhoods. Jackie and Austen opted for a sweetheart table so they had time to soak in their experience and a clear spot for guests to stop by.

Continuing the theme of true Montana fashion, they served a signature cocktail, Huckleberry Moscow Mules and a friend made a cake topper that included their three dogs. As desserts disappeared into the night, guests hit the dance floor to their three-piece Livingston band, the Max. “Really we just wanted everyone to have fun,” Austen said. “We enjoyed seeing the look and feeling of love from everyone out in the crowd. That was one of the more surreal parts for us.”

“I invited her as a friend but a few days into the trip my mind started to change,” Austen said.

On the Wedding Team

Photographers: Becky Wharton of Becky Wharton Photography & Lauren Lipscomb of Lauren L. Photography Florist: Budget Bouquet & More Cake/Desserts: Cakes By Jenn Rentals: Montana Party Rentals Catering: Rainbow Ranch Lodge Wedding Dress: Anna Bè Bridal Veil & Dress Alterations: Lumi Bridal Hair/Makeup: Ethereal Hair & Makeup Artistry with assistance from Running Bare Aesthetics

Bride and Bridesmaid Shoes: Canty Boots Bridal Party Attire: Morning Lavender Groomsmen Rentals: After 5 & Weddings Groom Attire: Ted’s Clothiers, After 5 & Weddings Band: The Max Rings: Miller’s Jewelry & Megan McGaffigan Fine Jewelry Ceremony & Reception Venue: Rainbow Ranch Lodge Wedding Favors: La Chatelaine Chocolat Co. Beer: Map Brewing

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Vera &John Reese Fast Love & an Elopement Vera and John Reese lived an hour and a half away from each other their entire lives in Georgia. But they didn’t cross paths until they arrived to work at 320 Guest Ranch in Big Sky, 2,000 miles from home.

Vera was unloading a truck at a staff bunk house when John saw her for the first time. When he eventually got to talk to her, in true romantic fashion, he sent a Snapchat that very night to two of his friends back in Georgia announcing he would marry her.

“I, however, took a little more time to fully grasp the sincerity of his intentions,” Vera said.

Their seasons only overlapped for two months, so John knew he had to win her over quick.

He started by offering to carpool to town for errands, which inevitably turned into dinner. Then he would steal her away to his favorite fishing spot any chance he got. They fell in love with Montana and each other as they explored places like Big Timber, Livingston and the Taylor Fork area.

“It wasn’t just dating,” John said. “I had every intention of marrying her, whether I told her that right away or not.”

Less than a year after meeting, John proposed to Vera on her birthday during a cabin weekend getaway. Though the timing surprised her, she already knew well before he asked that her answer would be yes.

They knew they wanted to get married where they met, and soon decided they wanted to elope.

“We wanted our wedding to be about the promises before God that we would be making to each other and having that be the center and the focus of our day,” Vera said.

The officiant said they needed two witnesses, which turned into a small ceremony with their family. They picked that favorite fishing spot for the day.

Their wedding checklist was simple. They borrowed John’s grandfather’s Bible and Vera carried her great grandmother’s blue handkerchief. He pulled together his groom’s attire from three local stores and Vera found her dress and White Buffalo Turquoise earrings the week before from a secondhand store.

Vera spent the day getting ready with her family and John with his mother. And they kept the tradition of not seeing each other from the night before until the ceremony in a field by the river’s edge.

“We both get a sense of freedom in the open space, a place we feel at home though it’s away from our families and decided it was a good place to try and start our life together,” John said.

“God brought us together for the start of our courtship here in Montana,” Vera added. “And we are delighted to have it kick off in the same wonderful, last best place.”

Though their Georgia accents remain, the two still call Montana home and it’s where they plan to stay.

“We both get a sense of freedom in the open space, a place we feel at home though it’s away from our families and decided it was a good place to try and start our life together,” John said.

On the Wedding Team Photographer: Cait Carr Photography

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Katie & George FindingForever

Katie and George were looking for a part-time summer gig when they ended up meeting each other.

It didn’t take long for them to discover there were two teachers working at Cabelas.

Katie’s a first grade teacher at Billings Public Schools and George teaches second grade with Huntley Project Schools. Opting to spend a lifetime in classrooms stocked with kids between 6 to 8 years old takes a unique personality.

They worked on separate ends of the store, but George began making up excuses to end up at Katie’s checkout.

“We’re kindred spirits,” George said as Katie rolled her eyes. “I knew after about three months it was too good to be true and I wasn’t going to let her get away. But what I like to tell people is she took me to see the Packers play and two months later I proposed.”

On their second anniversary, Katie came home to their room covered in roses as George got down on one knee and told her he wanted to spend forever with her.

They picked Bridger Bowl as their wedding venue to have the mountains and chairlifts as their backdrop.

“I always knew I wanted to get married in June,” Katie said. “It’s my favorite time of year when the land is green and there’s still snow in the mountains.”

With the date and venue set, the couple decided to have some fun with their photos. To save time and

stress during their wedding day, Katie and George opted to do their first look two days before the wedding starting at Missouri Headwaters State Park.

“It was fun to do destinations throughout the day and that took off some pressure on the day of the wedding since George had already seen me in my wedding dress,” Katie said.

They posed in front of the river as a nod toward George’s love of fishing. Katie brought along her family goats and they found barn animals to pose with throughout the day as a tribute to their Montana childhoods.

Doing the majority of the photos ahead of time gave them more time to enjoy the wedding day, which was reserved for having fun. Their ceremony was traditional with Katie’s childhood pastor as the officiant. The couple planned their first dance to the song Yours by Russell Dickerson.

But when they made their way toward the dance floor, Fishing in Dark came on instead.

“I was out there dancing and just started to pretend I was reeling her out there,” George said. “She wasn’t too impressed but I liked it. And it’s actually one of my favorite memories from the day.”

They day felt special because they made it their own.

And when things didn’t go as planned, they danced anyway.

“I always knew I wanted to get married in June,” Katie said. “It’s my favorite time of year when the land is green and there’s still snow in the mountains.”

On the Wedding Team Photographer: Lovelight Photography

Rings: Jensen(Bride) Buffalo Chips(Groom)

Florist: “I Do” Flowers

Venue for reception: Bridger Bowl’s Deer Park Chalet

Cakes: TeaCity Cupcakes

Paper (Save the Dates, Invitations, Programs):

Wedding Dress: Poppy Bride Hair/Makeup: Blonde Owl Studios

Brook Kinna Designs Officiant: Jody McDevitt, First Presbyterian Church

DJ: Joe’s DJ services

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