A Montana Wedding 2014 by Bozeman Daily Chronicle

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Table of contents: 8

Preface

About the Cover Couple

10 L o v e S t o r y 14

G e n e r a l Ti m e l i n e

Bride & Groom Attire

24 G ro o m Ti p s 30 Food & Drink 34 Desserts 36 Sur vival Guide 40 Hair 46 We dding Activities 48 Love Stor y 50 Photobooths 54 Having a Friend Officiate 56 Flowers 58 Love Stor y 62 L o v e S t o r y Greener Visuals wedding photography w w w. g r e e n e r v i s u a l s . c o m

66 Love Story 70 M ake it O f ficial 72 Announcements

on the cover

Reception St yles

Chris & Courtney met during leadership training with

78 Love Stor y

the Montana Conservation Corps in Bozeman. Both

80 Advertising Index

were participating as crew leaders, and during the three-month long training they laid the foundation for a friendship that later blossomed into more. Their wedding took place in August 2014 at the

Cr edits:

Springhill Pavilion near Bozeman. It was a day that was colorful, vibrant and full of surprises. Courtney offers some advice for couples getting ready to walk down the aisle. “The world will tell you what a wedding should look like. If possible, let go of the calling to look or be perfect and find what feels true to you.”

Editor: Erin Schattauer Photo Editor: Mike Greener Contributing Writers: Tif f a ny J e r r y Whitney Bermes Contributing Photographers

Read more of Chris & Courtney’s story on page 11.

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PREFACE By Erin Schattauer

Congratulations and welcome to this edition of A Montana Wedding! In these pages we celebrate all the beauty and magic Montana has to offer as you prepare for your wedding. With its grand mountains, lush fields, sparkling rivers and vast blue skies, there is no place that compares to Montana. That is why you are here. That is why you invite friends and family from as close as next-door and as far as across the globe to celebrate your big day here. The couples featured in this magazine are all unique, their stories all different, all personal, all special. But Montana is the thread that connects them. In talking to couples whose stories are included in these pages, I have been reminded of the magic that is Montana: hands held under a starry sky, love blooming during long day hikes and the first time you see the person with whom you want to share all of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventures. As you embark on this next great adventure, we invite you to find inspiration in all these wonderful things that make Montana special. Listen to the birds sing, feel the river water wash over your feet and smell the wildflowers. These details will set the scene and help provide vision for your wedding day, but in the end it is about you and the one you love. Cherish this day and celebrate. It is the beginning of a great adventure!

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It's your day. Cherish it and celebrate. It is the beginning of a great adventure. 9

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Chris

Courtney

Courtney remembers the moment she knew Chris would be her future husband. It was a first time she saw him, stand-

to know one another. Whether it was

ing in a group of people at their first

rafting, hiking, farm-to-table dinners

Montana Conservation Corps meeting

or field games, by the time the wed-

where they were both serving as crew

ding came around people had already

leaders.

shared fun experiences. They were

Courtney remembers scanning the circle of people and stopping when she saw Chris’s familiar looking face. “Oh, there’s the man I’m going to marry,” she remembers thinking. The more she got to know Chris,

getting to know us better by getting to know one another,” the couple writes. They describe their wedding as “colorful and full of surprises.” “We themed the wedding by chakra colors (energy centers in the body).

Courtney knew her initial feelings

The bridal brigade and groom gang

were right.

wore colors with respect to which part

For Chris, it was more of a gradual understanding that Courtney was his perfect match. “We moved in with each other after three months of dating. I admired her

of our lives they represented. From the ceremony to the food and prayer flag decorations, our wedding built and incorporated colors,” they write. The couple found focus when

independence. Everything she did ap-

planning their wedding by asking

peared beautiful to me. At some point,

themselves questions about why they

after a year of living and laughing

were getting married and what was

together, I just knew I could fall in love

important to them.

with this lady over and over again

“We wanted a big wedding for the

and that she indeed was the one I

rare opportunity to bring all the peo-

wanted to marry,” Chris says.

ple we love together in beautiful Mon-

The couple was married August 16,

tana. We wanted our circles to come

2014 at the Springhill Pavilion

together and celebrate love. When

near Bozeman, Montana.

you get clear on intention and what’s

The feelings of love and support from their community of friends and family were part of what made their wedding day so memorable. “We set a strong intention to widen

important to you then everything else will fall into place,” they write. For future brides & grooms, they offer this advice: “Remember to find moments to relax and nothing can go

our circle and create experiences

wrong, because at the end of it all it’s

prior to the wedding for people to get

you and the person you love together!”

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Planning Timeline 9 -12 months out: Announce your engagement. Take engagement photos. Send your engagement announcement information and photo to the Bozeman Daily Chronicle! (pg.72) Pick a date for your wedding. Decide on the type of wedding you want. Large or small. Decide on a budget and how expenses will be shared. Set up a folder to keep receipts and a ledger to help you stay on budget. Make a spreadsheet list of everyone you, your groom and your families would like to invite. Break the list into must invites, should invites, and would-benice-to invites. Tactfully remove the would-not-be-nice-to invites. Reserve your ceremony site. Book your officiant. Reserve your reception site. Book your photographer. Choose your color scheme. Hunt for your wedding gown and veil. Choose your maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen and ushers, if any. Apply for a passport and visa if you’ll need them for the honeymoon. 6 -9 months out: Send out save-the-date cards. Choose your flower girl and ring bearer, if any. Reserve your wedding night suite. Choose your bridesmaids’ attire -- dresses, shoes and accessories. Go for tastings and book your caterer. Book your florist. Book your band or deejay. Book your videographer. Start planning your honeymoon. 4 - 6 months out: Start shopping for each other’s wedding gifts. Reserve rental items. Finalize your list of guests to invite. Order wedding stationery -- invitations, thank-you cards, wedding programs, seating cards, RSVP cards. Address your invitation envelopes. Register for gifts.

Reserve a time and place for your rehearsal dinner. Arrange accommodations for your out-of-town guests. Buy shoes and accessories. 2- 4 months out: Order your wedding cake. Order/make party favors. Order room decorations. Shop for honeymoon attire. Book transportation for the wedding day. Check marriage license requirements. Order your wedding rings. Plan pre- and post-wedding activities for your out-of-town guests. Buy gifts for your bridal party. 6 - 8 we eks out: Mail your invitations. Record the RSVPs on your wedding guest spreadsheet. Start sending thank-you cards to early gifters. Decide on your hair style and makeup. Schedule hair, makeup and nails for your wedding day. Buy toasting glasses, a cake knife, a ring pillow, a guest book, etc. Change your name and address on drivers license, social security card, insurance policies, subscriptions, bank accounts, etc. Reserve wedding attire for the groom, groomsmen, ushers, father of the bride and ring bearer. Mail rehearsal dinner invitations. Get your marriage license. Find the proverbial “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Finalize your menu and beverage order. 2- 6 we eks out: Finalize ceremony details with your officiant. Go in for the final fitting of your wedding gown and veil. Arrange the final fitting for your bridesmaids’ dresses. Finalize your rehearsal dinner plans and arrange seating. Start packing for your honeymoon. Contact guests who haven’t responded.

Write out a detailed wedding day timeline for your bridal party and vendors. Give the timeline to your vendors. Pick up your wedding bands and check for fit. Meet with your photographer and outline the special photos you want. Meet with your videographer and outline the special events or people you want videotaped. Meet with your band/DJ and outline the music you want played during special events like the first dance, father daughter dance, etc. Remind bridesmaids and groomsmen when and where they can pick up their attire. Decide on ceremony seating for your special guests, and give the list to your ushers. Plan your reception room layout and seating arrangement. Re hearsal day: Rehearse the bridal party entrance order, exit order, standing arrangement and musical cues. Give the best man the officiant’s fee and any other checks to be delivered the day of the wedding. Provide your bridal party with the finalized detailed timeline. Review ceremony seating with the ushers. The final we ek: Pick up your wedding attire and make sure everything fits. Tell your caterer the final guest count. Review the detailed timeline with your vendors, and modify if needed. Confirm your honeymoon reservations and accommodations. Finish packing for your honeymoon. The BIG day: Give the groom’s ring to the maid of honor. Give the bride’s ring to the best man. Follow your detailed timeline. Get to the altar. Relax and enjoy your wedding.

2014

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B It begins with the dress

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The bride He popped the question, you said, "I do" and the journey to the big day begins.

THE

BA X T E R lthough the wedding to-do list is typically filled with a variety of different tasks, for many brides the

first, and perhaps most important, is finding the perfect dress. According to formal wear consultant Anne Porter, who runs Persnickety Formal Wear in Bozeman with her daughter, the best place to start is the Internet. Porter said looking at dresses online can help a bride determine which styles and colors she likes and can give her an idea of where to start when she goes shopping. Porter said the next step is to try dresses on. She recommends bringing only a few people along on the shopping trip – the mother of the bride and one or two close friends. She said bringing too many people can result in opposing opinions and tends to make the decision more difficult for the bride. In addition to bringing only a small group of people, Porter also recommends trying on just a handful of dresses. She said the bride should narrow her selections down to the top six, try them on and select the best one. She said the bride should plan to be in the store for about an hour. For Montana weddings, Porter said the trend continues to be lace dresses. “Montana is all about the lace,” Porter said. “Lace and boots.” As for color, Porter said Montana weddings “seem to be 99 percent ivory.” By next year, Porter said she expects to see more high-low gowns (short in front, longer in back) so that brides can show off their boots. No matter what style of dress the bride is after, Porter said it is important to plan ahead and start shopping early. “I would say start at least six months prior to the wedding,” Porter said. “It takes at least three months if you’re going to order one in.”

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G Dressing to Impress

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hile the bride may spend a considerable amount of time deciding on and acquiring the perfect wedding dress, the groom’s job of selecting a suit is typically a quicker task. However, according to Porter, it’s not necessarily easier.

“There really is a science to fitting

without pleats are also in this year.

know what you’re doing.”

Additionally, she said more grooms

With a variety of different styles and fits, accessories and colors, Por-

are selecting a slim fit. Porter said when selecting a suit,

ter said when it comes to selecting

it’s important that it not clash with the

groom attire, there are a number of

bride’s gown. She recommends bring-

choices to make. One of the main considerations is color. As with the ladies, Porter said it is best for the groom to try on some different suits. For grooms, she also recommends planning about an hour and trying on different styles and colors. This year in Montana, Porter said heather gray, charcoal gray, slate blue and tan have been popular colors for suits.

ing in a photo of the dress to ensure the suit includes the right colors. She also suggests giving the groom one distinguishing feature – something as simple as a different colored pocket square or a vest instead of suspenders. She said this will allow the groom to stand out from the groomsmen. For any fitting, whether it be bride and groom or bridesmaids and

“You still get the traditional guy

groomsmen, Porter said it is essen-

that wants black,” Porter said. “If

tial that each person be measured

you’re doing an evening wedding or

by a professional. This will help

a really formal wedding, I think the

reduce the chance of someone in

black is nice.”

the wedding party ending up in the

According to Porter, “bow ties are

back” and suspenders and pants

men,” Porter said. “You have to

wrong size.

2014

The groom " There really is a science to fitting men."

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G r o o m t i ps The wedding spotlight casts its beam directly on the bride. She’s been dreaming of this day for as long as she could remember. So she takes the reins in planning, in coordinating, in pulling off the day of her dreams. But it takes two to tango. And grooms play an equally important role in pulling off a wedding to remember. Here are some tips for the grooms to help make their wedding day the best it can be.

Take an active part in the planning

look, there are many options, ranging

It’s easy to get lost in the shuffle

go, however, keep it tasteful. Wed-

of what the bride’s wishes when it comes to wedding planning. But the

and slacks. No matter what route you ding photos last a lifetime.

– from the location and the number of

Choosing the right crew

guests, to the reception food and the

Who do you want standing by your

day is about both of you! Take the time to give your input on everything

color scheme. Your wedding will be more meaningful to you if you take an active role in planning.

Spend some time on your look Your bride has already spent a big chunk of change on her dress. Add in help with hair, with makeup and with accessories and she has gone the extra mile to look glamorous for your big day. Don’t be afraid to do the same. Get a professional shave and hairstyle. Try a manicure and a facial. Get a teeth whitening. In the same vein, take an active part in helping your groomsmen look their best.

Picking the right outfit What do you want to wear on one of the most important days of your life? That question can be quite daunting. But there are a few things you can keep in mind when coming up with the best outfit for you and your bride. Whether you’re leaning toward ultra-formal or wanting a more casual

from a standard tux to a sport jacket

side as you take your vows? Choosing groomsmen can be a daunting task. Many wedding blogs suggest making your decision at least 10 months in advance of your big day. Go with those you know. Brothers, old friends, your fiancé’s brothers, cousins or nephews – all are safe bets to be by your side. Once you’ve decided on your crew, put them in nice suits and given them the “groomsmen” label, what comes next? Have a talk with your groomsmen about your expectations – for their look, for their role in your wedding, for their responsibilities throughout the celebration and expectations of their behavior.

Keep a checklist The wedding day has arrived. That means there are dozens of things to do. Do you know what time photos will be? How about what you need to pick up on your way to your wedding venue? Did you remember to put on all the pieces of your tux? Creating a list will help you remember every last detail to make sure the day runs as smoothly as possible.

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From food trucks to fully catered 31

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The vows have been said. The knot has been tied. The union has been sealed with a kiss. Now it’s time to party! But what are you going to feed your hungry loved ones who are celebrating your special day with you? Here is a look at some of the options for reception food fare.

Food trucks

Potlucks

influx of food trucks serving a vast array

on the invite list for your wedding?

of dishes. From Cambodian and tacos,

A family-style potluck reception is an

to artisan pizzas and hamburgers, one

option that is right up your alley.

In the last year, Bozeman has seen an

option wedding parties are choosing

Before asking your guests to be chefs

more often to is have mobile food op-

for the day, consider if a potluck wed-

tions come to them.

ding is practical for your gathering. It’s

When picking the right food truck for

simple for guests who are coming from

your wedding, there are a few things

nearby to bring a dish. But if your guest

to consider.

list includes many out-of-state visitors, a

Keep in mind what season your wedding is. With food trucks, wedding guests

potluck reception might not be realistic. Have a theme for your dinner.

will be standing in line to get their

Whether it’s a home-style barbecue or

dinner. Speaking of lines, think about

an Italian feast, give your guests some

the size of your reception when deciding

direction when asking them to pitch in

whether or not to have a food truck. Lines

with food.

will move slower with food trucks than with other reception food options. And don’t just think of the menu when choosing the right food truck for your wedding. Take into consideration your décor and your theme and pick a truck that will fit in.

Do you have some phenomenal cooks

And be organized. Be sure to communicate with guests who will bring what so you don’t get duplicate dishes.

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Fully catered

There is a long list of items to keep in

mind when choosing the best caterer for your wedding. Get some background on the caterer. In addition to what styles of food they offer, find out how long they’ve been in business, what their wedding experience is and if they help with any other parts of the wedding, like event design. It’s also wise to know if caterers can accommodate any guests who might have dietary restrictions, like food allergies or preferences. Also ask caterers if they handle rental equipment, such as tables and chairs, and what their policy is on after-dinner cleanup. Book early. Whether you’re going with hors d’oeuvres, a buffet or a sit down dinner, or whether you want full or partial service from your caterer, whether there will be 50 people or 500, lock down your caterer as soon as possible.

2014

Something sweet

rom full bars dedicated to the sweet tooth to traditional tiered cakes, a dizzying array of desserts awaits soon to be bride and grooms.

Elle Fine of Elle’s Belles Bak-

ery in Bozeman sees it all. Each year, trends flow back

“Grooms cakes are cool in that they can show the per-

and forth, from rustic elegant

sonality of the groom or the

cakes to fondant cakes to

couple together,” Fine said.

full dessert tables. Lately, Fine has seen a lot of people

She’s baked grooms’ cakes that resemble dead deer and

return to the idea of having

big horn sheep skulls, sports

one big cake. Edible sequins

themed golf and football

and painted cakes are also

cakes, one that looked like a

having a moment, and Fine

jet and another that had an

doesn’t see them going away

Angry Birds theme.

anytime soon. Also popular

Another idea is having a

are cakes that have an earthy

second round of desserts later

elegance with leaves and

in the night. With dancing

fresh herbs as décor.

and other activities at wed-

Alternative ideas are also popular. S’mores bars are

ding receptions, people often grow hungry again later in

popular. On hot summer days,

the evening. Fine suggests

some people opt for gourmet

doing a small course later in

popsicles. Others ask for their

the night and including min-

family recipes to be recreated

iature desserts.

for the dessert table. Fine specializes in the unique. She’s baked cakes

Fine’s advice for choosing the perfect desserts: ask for what you want.

that look like a raft, a trout

“Don’t be afraid to say this is

and a tree trunk. She’s cre-

my dream cake, this is what I

ated a Game of Thrones cake

want,” she said. “I think there

and several that incorporate

are so many beautiful options

other themes.

out there, and so many things

Another dessert option is

the groom’s cake.

people can do.”

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Surviva l K it: Beauty & Wardrobe Ballet slippers or flipflops Blotting papers

Small sewing kit with safety pins

Stain remover wipes tissues

Bobby pins Breath mints

Buttons to match the ones on your dress Compact steamer Contact lenses (spares)

Deodorant

(if you need to patch tears in your dress)

NA ME:

cell phone:

Best Man

Backup Taxi / Limo Service

NA ME:

cell phone:

Backup Band or Deejay

24 Hour Drugstore

NA ME:

cell phone:

Aspirin

Backup Florist

OTHE R:

Backup Ipod/Ipad/ chargers!

NA ME:

cell phone:

Cell phone and charger

Eye-makeup remover

Cuff links (extras)

Face powder

Granola bars

Lint brush

Pepto-Bismal

Lipstick/lipgloss

Straws to avoid smudging lipstick

Panty hose

Umbrellas

Perfume

H20

Personal kit

Backup Caterer

Maid of Honor

Bandages

Earring backs

Nail glue/polish

White gaffer’s tape

Misc

Curling iron Dental floss

White chalk to disguise dress stains

Phone Number List

And if all else fails,

“P o u r yo u r s e l f a d r i n k , p u t on some lipstick, and pull yo u r s e l f t o g e t h e r !”

- Elizabeth Taylor

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Wedding hair ideas Bad hair days. We’ve all had them. Those dreaded days where no matter how much you brush, curl, tease and spray, nothing can make your hair look right. They are unwelcome on any regular day of the week and are one of the last things a bride wants to deal with on her wedding day. With a bit of preparation however, and some help from a stylist, the dreaded bad hair day does not have to make an appearance at your wedding. According to Katie Wing, owner of The Loft Spa in Bozeman, “it’s really important to start planning early.” She recommends planning the wedding day hairstyle at least three months in advance and meeting with a stylist for a trial run. “The trial runs gives you the opportunity to go through the look and see what’s working and what might need to be changed for the day of,” Wing said. She suggests that brides bring “as much inspiration as they’re able to provide for us” to the trial run, including photos of the dress and any potential hairstyles as well as the veil, tiara or any other headpiece. Veils and other headpieces should also be brought in on the day of the wedding. For brides who aren’t quite sure what look they hope to achieve, Wing suggests looking at images online and in magazines to get some inspiration and to discover current trends. In Montana, Wing said brides typically go for a polished, but loose, romantic style, though “it’s really individual to each bride and the look they are going for.” “We see more loose styles and a lot of advanced braiding techniques,” Wing said. “Montana brides typically go for a look that is true to themselves, romantic and playful.” In fact, Wing said that is the key for any bride to achieving the best wedding day hairstyle. “Find a look that’s slightly out of your comfort zone, but that is true to yourself,” Wing said. “It’s your special day, so you should go a little bit fancy, but always stay true to who you are.”

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a Treat your guests to more than just cake

2014

Adventures in the Big Sky Montana is known for its outdoor activities. From fishing and rafting to hiking and skiing, it’s no wonder that visitors to the “The Last Best Place” want to get out and see what this state has to offer.

Out-of-state wedding guests are no excep-

As with activity lists, for group outings,

tion. Although the main purpose of their

Cook said it is important to consider the

visit may be to celebrate the marriage of a

guests. She said it is important to ensure

friend or loved one, chances are, they want

the planned activity is not only something

to get outside and explore. And depending

the bride and groom want to do, but also

on the number of events surrounding the

that it is suitable for everyone who plans

big day, there is often plenty of down time

to join in.

that will need to be filled. To help guests plan activities before (and in some cases, after) the big day, Ab-

According to Cook, some popular activities that couples recommend or participate in with their guests include kayak-

bey Cook, event coordinator and manag-

ing, hiking, zip lining, rafting, fly fishing,

er for Icing on the Cake Events, suggests

museum visits, whiskey tasting, shopping

that the bride and groom provide guests

at farmers’ markets or traveling to Yellow-

with a list of activities. The list should

stone National Park.

include information for each activity including hours, cost, who to call for more information, the website (if available) and

“I’ve seen a lot of different styles in choices of activities,” Cook said. “Everything from the most epic – ice

transportation options. The list should

climbing – down to learning to fly fish

include a variety of activities to accom-

on the Yellowstone.”

modate guests of all ages. Cook said another option is for the bride and groom to plan a group activity with their guests. “I’ve had bridal parties do a coordinated hike on the day of their wedding,” Cook said.

No matter what the plans entail, Cook said it is important that guests have time to get settled in before activities start. “Just be considerate of your guests needs and wants and give them a couple of hours to get settled in,” Cook said.

For more activity ideas in your area, visit your local chamber of commerce.

Chronicle File Photos

2014 48

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2014

Rachel & James A 20-foot bridge initially is what brought Rachel and James together. It was that bridge that separated the Kappa Sigma fraternity house where James lived at the University of California, Irvine from the Delta Gamma house, which Rachel was moving into when James first remembers seeing her. James says it was fate and convenience that strengthened their friendship and led to what would be a beautiful relationship. In the years that followed, Rachel and James learned the importance of frequent dates, laughter, respect and support for one another. They also learned some fabulous dance moves, according to James. James moved to Bozeman when he decided to go back to school, and Rachel later joined him. While neither ever thought they would end up in Montana, they soon came to love it and feel lucky each day to be living in such a beautiful place. Over the Christmas 2013 holiday, the couple drove to California to visit family, taking with them their new addition, a black lab named Deacon. Dec. 22, 2013 is a day Rachel will never forget. “We had just finished up eating breakfast with James’ family and we were headed back to Half Moon Bay. James was not nervous at all and I would have never guessed what the rest of the day had in store for us. To tell you exactly how ‘normal’ he was in the car ride over, he cut me off from radio duty and was making fun of my loud hip hop music. I definitely had no idea that that there was a diamond ring sitting under his car seat wrapped in a big sweatshirt. When we got to the beach, again, it was just a normal, but perfect day. I remember staring at the ocean and feeling him pull on my arm a little bit and when I turned around, he was on one knee. Of course I said yes! My family was close by and it was the perfect proposal with the most perfect ring.” James jokes that he probably kept the U.S. Postal Service in business with the amount of times the engagement ring was shipped. With the diamond coming from his uncle in Cleveland and the setting from Bozeman, the ring traveled across country several times before landing on Rachel’s finger. While Rachel voiced her dislike of James’s go-to outfit of blue jeans and running shoes early on in their relationship, James points out that they were both wearing jeans and running shoes on the day he proposed. The couple is planning an upcoming wedding.

Strike a pose: Photo booths evolving in digital age In today’s world of digital technology and social media, having a photo booth at your wedding reception can mean more than a traditional booth that produces photostrips showcasing three or four poses. Professional photo booth companies are widening their portfolios to offer cuttingedge technologies like “green screening,” instant uploads to social media and live slideshows. Other concepts gaining popularity involve creative use of video. Guests can take a short, silly video that is made into a printed action flipbook in minutes. Animated GIFs are also trending. These are short video loops that guests create and upload to social media for the bride and groom. Other booth technologies involve superimposing guests in front of a funny, virtual backdrop that matches your event’s theme. Interactive touchscreen kiosks are another offering allowing guests to upload photostrips or individual poses directly to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. If your crowd is dispersed across your wedding venue, images from the photo booth can be projected remotely to a distant location such as a patio or upper level. Of course, some couples stick with the classic photo booth that prints long, skinny, old school photostrips. Not only do guests love the instant keepsake, but there is something magical and timeless about pulling the curtain to strike a pose. By Tara Martin Big Sky Photo Booth

2014

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For some couples, having a faith leader or judge officiate isn't their style

lillian b photography w w w. l i l l i a n b p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m

2014

Having a friend officiate

am Wong never thought he would lead a wedding ceremony, but when a couple of his friends started talking about getting married, the topic came up. He met the couple while working in

process of becoming ordained. Wong

Yellowstone National Park. He shared

suggests researching ministries to find

dinners, hiking trips and other adven-

one that is right for you.

tures with them as their love grew. So

It’s also important to check state

when it came time to find someone to

and county offices during the process

officiate their wedding, they asked him.

because restrictions vary by place. In

For some couples, having a faith

Duluth, Wong had to present his cer-

leader or judge officiate isn’t their style.

tificate from the Universal Life Church

So they are opting to have a friend or

at the county courthouse. That was not

someone close to them perform the

required for the wedding he officiated

wedding ceremony.

in Gallatin County.

Wong has now performed ceremonies

The couples also put it in Wong’s

for two sets of friends – one in Duluth,

hands to find the ceremony. He

Minn. and the other in Bozeman.

searched in books and on the Internet

While he never thought he would of-

until he found one that he felt was

ficiate a wedding ceremony, Wong soon

applicable to the couple. He took the

learned that it’s something anyone can do.

basic outline of the ceremony and per-

“If you’re lucky enough to have your good friends ask you, you’re right for the job,” he said. He researched the topic online. He

sonalized it. The result was a beautiful and unique ceremony. For Wong, it’s a personal experience.

was ordained through the Universal

He said he wouldn’t feel comfortable

Life Church. It was free to register, but

officiating for just anyone and he

this credentials cost around $30.

wouldn’t do it for money.

There are several other online ministries that will help you through the

“It definitely felt natural marrying those two couples,” he said.

2014 56

T o r i P i n ta r p h o t o g r a p h y

lockie photography

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2014

Wedding Flowers for all Seasons Top Spring Picks: Parrot Tulips, Freesia, Lilacs, Lisianthus, Alstromeria Lilies, Baronia, Genista, Blooming Branches Top Summer Picks: Garden Roses, Calla Lilies, Fresh Lavender, Gerbera Daisies, Asiatic Lilies, Stock, Tuberose, Hydrangea, Queen Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lace, Cottage Yarrow, Babies Breath Top Fall Picks: Antique Hydrangea, Protea, Kale, Leucadendron, Dahlias, Mambo Spray Roses, Chrysanthemums, Statice, Fall Foliage Top Winter Picks: Oriental Lilies, Premium Roses, Orchids, Star of Bethlehem, Carnations, Hypericum Berry, Snow Berry, Wax Flower, Blue Eucalyptus

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2014

Brian & Cierra Cierra first caught Brian’s eye the night she walked into a Boston bar with a group of friends. He spent the evening thinking about

made with three diamonds: Brian’s

talking to her. Later, he got up from his

great grandmother’s engagement

seat and when he came back, there she

stone, his grandmother’s engagement

was sitting at the table next to his. They

stone and a new one.

struck up a conversation and agreed to go on a date. Their first date was in November 2008 to a Ladies United for the Preservation

knew she wanted to get married in Montana. They invited 115 guests to take part

of Endangered Cocktails gathering,

in their “relaxed Montana wedding,”

a fundraiser for a women’s veterans

which was held at a vacation rental

organization. The theme was 1940-50s

home in Bigfork.

and Brian remembers Cierra going “all out,” fixing her hair in victory rolls. Both were going to school in Boston

Sharing Montana with their friends and family, some who had never been to the Treasure State, was one of the

at the time. When Brian graduated

most memorable parts of the wedding.

in May 2009 and moved to Washing-

Some of the guests spent a week at the

ton D.C., Cierra still had a year left

vacation rental and explored the area.

in school, so the couple maintained a long distance relationship until Cierra graduated a year later and moved to D.C. too. In October 2011, the couple moved to

The ceremony was held in the backyard of the vacation rental. Brian surprised Cierra by having her favorite cupcakes overnighted from D.C. A cookie table, a Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh where Brian grew up. It was

tradition, included treats made by fam-

during that move the Cierra says she

ily members.

knew Brian was the one. In early 2012, the couple put a down payment on a house. It was in front of that house where Brian would later get down on one knee and propose. The engagement ring was custom-

Cierra, who grew up in Kalispell,

A friend set off fireworks and the couple and their guests danced and celebrated until 3 a.m. “I couldn’t imagine getting married anywhere else,” Cierra said.

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"It was important to have a wedding that celebrated our loved ones."

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2014

Levi

Christina

In Levi’s Words,

e met at a Kundalini yoga retreat in 2011 outside of the town of Espanola, New Mexico in the Jemez Mountains. Christina was my first partner for the first day of White

Tantric Yoga, a partnered meditation that lasted over 12 hours.

Two years later, at the same retreat, I saw Christina again and knew that she was the woman I was going to marry. After the retreat, I white-knuckled it

across the United States. It was important for us to have a wedding that celebrated our loved ones. We wanted to include everyone in the ceremony in

home to Bozeman where I quit my job

some way, and we wanted to keep the cer-

then drove to Vancouver, Canada to

emony short and sweet, but very personal.

see Christina. I got there on a Sunday and we kissed

The most touching part of the whole day for me was when Christina left my side

for the first time. On Monday, I told her that

at the altar, because she had supposedly

I loved her and she reciprocated.

forgotten her vows, only to walk over to the

On Tuesday, I proposed and she said yes.

microphone and start singing “At Last” by

On Wednesday, she jokingly said we

Etta James. What was so touching and so

should just get married right then, and I

incredibly special about the song was that

un-jokingly said of course we should. That

she had conquered her fear of singing in

same day we bought rings and on the fol-

front of others just to share this with me on

lowing Sunday, a week after my arrival,

our wedding day.

we were married in the backyard of a mar-

With yoga being such an important part

riage commissioner’s condo. It was the first

of our union, it was crucial that we conduct

of what would be three weddings.

a group meditation and blessing. The med-

This year, we made the pilgrimage to

itation we chose is made stronger when

New Mexico, now as man and wife, and

practiced on the full moon, and to make it

were married for the second time in a tra-

even more sublime (unbeknownst to us) our

ditional Sikh ceremony.

wedding occurred on the super moon.

For our third wedding, close family friends

Though we originally intended for this

were gracious enough to host us on their

wedding to be more of a party, the ceremo-

beautiful property in the Gallatin Valley.

ny ended up being our favorite part of the

Friends and family members made the trip from Mexico, Canada and destinations

wedding, and something that will endure in our hearts.

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Jill & Adam

In Adams’s Words,

'll never forget the first time I met Jill. It was 2006, my first summer in Yellowstone National Park and my first time west of the Mississippi River. The guy responsible for my applying and moving to YNP told me it would change my life.

When I saw Jill, I knew she was special. I had heard about her when I first

we had get serious about life and leave

arrived to Yellowstone as an employee

Yellowstone. We moved to Denver with

in 2006. All I knew was that she was

a goal of moving back to the Yellow-

gorgeous and from Michigan. When she

stone area, preferably Bozeman at some

came for a visit, I was excited to finally

point down the road. We landed jobs

meet this "gorgeous" girl from Michigan,

and built our resumes over the next five

but at the same time reminded myself throughout the night to act cool. I saw her for the first time standing in the doorway of the Lake Employee Pub. Seeing her changed everything. We were introduced by a mutual friend. I kept my distance and "acted cool," knowing our paths would cross again. After that weekend, she decided to spend another summer in the park. She moved in next door to me and worked the same job and shifts with me for the rest of the summer. We quickly became friends. We walked to and from work together every day. We backpacked

years, while frequenting Yellowstone and Bozeman on vacation, until we finally had to get back to the mountains of Yellowstone that brought us together. We moved to Bozeman in the spring of 2012. That fall, at a National Forest Service cabin in the company of some of our closest friends, I asked Jill to marry me. We decided to have our wedding in Montana for several reasons, but I think more than anything we decided to have it here because it represents all of the things that brought us together. We're both from Michigan, and a very

on the weekends and talked for hours

large percentage of our family and

under the stars.

friends live in the Midwest. We thought,

In August of that summer we decided

Eventually, there came a point where

why not give them a reason to come

to officially start dating. Two weeks

here and experience our love affair

later, I told her I loved her for the first

with this great state and tie our favorite

time. We've been together ever since.

things into the entire weekend. It's home.

lillian b photography w w w. l i l l i a n b p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m

2014

"When I saw Jill I knew she was special."

B R E AT H TA K I N G

BEAUTIFUL

B AC K D R O P

F OR

BEGINNING.

Known for geysers, waterfalls and wildlife, Yellowstone is the site of some of nature’s most beautiful displays. Why not make it the site of your most beautiful day? Whether your ceremony is held outdoors in nature’s full glory or in the historic Union Pacific Dining Hall, it’s sure to be the wedding of your dreams. Our wedding specialists at the Holiday Inn West Yellowstone make sure every detail is perfect – from flowers and music to special requests. And of course, Yellowstone is a destination full of activities that your wedding guests will delight in. So dream big and watch it all come true in the magic of Yellowstone.

Go to VisitYellowstonePark.com or call 877-404-4583 to get one step closer to the perfect wedding you’ve always imagined.

The Holiday Inn West Yellowstone is owned and operated by Hospitality by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, Inc. ©2014 DNC Parks & Resorts at West Yellowstone, Inc. 315 Yellowstone Ave., West Yellowstone, MT 59758

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2014

Make it OFFICIAL Marriage licenses can be

Out-of-state applicants who can’t appear

obtained at Montana county

the ceremony can fill out a Montana Mar-

courthouses.

at the Clerk of District Court’s Office before riage Application before a clerk of district

From the date of application, you have 180 days in which to use it. A license is valid in any county in Montana, but not in another state or country. When you go to apply for a license, don’t forget to bring: Both the bride and groom. A valid form of identification (driver’s license, passport or birth certificate). If either person was previously married,

court or notary public in another state. After the application is complete, paperwork and the $53 license fee can be sent to the courthouse in the county where the wedding is being held.

After the license is obtained, a marriage can be solemnized by: • Clergy • Judge or retired judge of a court of record • Public official with power to solemnize marriage • Mayor • Cit y judge or justice of the peace • Tribal judge

After the ceremony, the person who performed the ceremony must return the

the name of the ex-spouse as well as the

license to the clerk of district court’s office

date of divorce or death, which must be

within 30 days. Once it is returned to the

written on the application. A dissolution

couple, the license can be used as proof of

decree or death certificate are not required.

name change with Social Security and for

$53 cash. Checks, debit cards and credit

your driver’s license and for other identifi-

cards are not accepted.

cation needs.

Where to go:

Gallatin County

Park County

Madison County

Law and Justice Center 615 S. 16th Ave. Bozeman, MT 59715

Cit y-Count y Complex 414 East Callender Street Livingston, MT 59047 (406) 222-4110

Madison Count y Courthouse 110 East Wallace Virginia Cit y, MT 59755 (406) 843-4230

Mike caitlin Photography

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A n nou ncements Submit your announcements online at milestones. bozemandailychronicle.com. Announcements are $95 and include a photo. Be sure to spell all first and last names correctly; we will print them as they appear. Announcements are limited to 150 words. To submit your announcement in person, stop by the Bozeman Daily Chronicle. Forms are available at the front desk. Drop off your announcement, payment and a clear photo (300 dpi) by Wednesday at 5 p.m. to ensure it appears in the upcoming Sunday paper. Photos may be picked up after your announcement is printed. Announcements are printed in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and will be included in the Milestones section of the Chronicle website. The Chronicle reserves editorial discretion over all submissions.

S ubmission 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 cit y of residence for both the bride- and groom-to-be • The first and last names of the parents of the bride- and groomto-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 cit y 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 the groom. • Also, be sure to include the name of the photographer if you are submitting a professional photo.

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R Receptions

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2014

Reception styles You’re officially Mr. & Mrs. Time to kick up your heels!

edding receptions can be the most memorable part of the night for your wedding guests. But what style fits your

tastes best? Here are some things to keep in mind while planning your perfect reception.

Small-scale receptions Receptions don’t have to

and waitresses, guests are al-

include catered sit-down dinners

lowed to mix and mingle more.

with a 10-piece band. They can

And for guests who come with

be as big or as small as you want.

a bit more of an appetite, they

For a smaller, less expensive

can hop up and get seconds

option, try an afternoon tea,

any time they want.

perfect for following morning

A way to get the best of

or early afternoon weddings,

both worlds is to include a

that features different varieties

cocktail party buffet prior to a

of hot teas as well as cham-

sit-down dinner.

pagne, and finger-food like

Music

sandwiches, tarts and cake. For evening weddings, host a champagne and cake reception, or a cocktail party, both of which tend to be more relaxed than a larger reception. They don’t require seating charts.

Buffet-style and formal sit-down dinners

When you eliminate waiters

Do you have a favorite local band that you want to serenade you and your guests? Or maybe you’d like a DJ who can play all the tunes you know will get your guests out of their chairs and onto the dance floor. Aside from personal taste, consider your reception venue. Does it have the capacity to

A formal sit-down dinner is

outfit an entire band? Maybe

a classic and elegant reception

a string quartet is more your

style that treats your guests to

style. Or a DJ who can pick the

several plated courses.

tunes for you.

While sit-down dinners have

Other less expensive options

their perks, buffet-style recep-

include compiling your own

tions offer guests a little more

playlist of music for both ambi-

flexibility than a formal dinner.

ance and dancing.

2014

Greener Visuals wedding photography w w w. g r e e n e r v i s u a l s . c o m

2014

Cammie & Will

In Cammie’s Words,

ill and I met during a typical Bozeman summer filled with floating the Madison, Music on Main and camping at Hyalite. He worked at a burger place on Main Street and I delivered food. We

sparked a conversation about which Elle’s Belles cookie is the best and both agreed on snickerdoodle.

A few years later, a great opportunity

son, we read the vows we had written for

took us to Chicago. Though we knew we

each other.

would miss our Montana family, it was time for a change and we knew that we

on the mansion’s porch. For dinner,

would always be welcomed back.

guests were served a buffet of dill salm-

Will proposed to me at sunset on a

on, herbed flank steak and roasted Brus-

California beach while we were on

sels sprouts. For dessert we opted for an

vacation. I knew we would get married

assortment of pies from Elle’s Belles. Not

someday, but I was completely surprised

only had one of Elle’s cookies started our

and overjoyed.

first conversation, but we thought pies

We both agreed the only place that felt right for our wedding was Bozeman. The next year was a whirlwind, and as

would look beautiful and bring a vintage feel to the dessert table. Decorations were simple with brightly

if wedding planning wasn’t a big enough

colored wild flowers, milk glass and hob-

job, we also welcomed an awesome little

nail vases and vintage spice tins.

boy to our family. Will and I had similar visions for our

In the year leading up to our wedding, Will and I had a great time looking

wedding and we both agreed that we

in thrift stores for old wedding photos,

wanted it to be casual and incorporate

which we placed on tables. There were

our shared appreciation for history with

photos from the ‘60s that had hilarious

a vintage style.

hairstyles and haunting photos from the

Bozeman’s Story Mansion was the

‘20s. Though we didn’t know the people

perfect setting. Everything about the

in the pictures, the common thread was

mansion was exactly what we were

that we were all embarking on the same

looking for, with its sweeping lawn for

journey: marriage.

our ceremony to the historic interior for our reception. The weather was perfect on Aug. 31, 2013 and together with our 9-month old

Afterward, we enjoyed cocktail hour

With family all over the country and a home in Chicago, we could have gotten married anywhere, but Bozeman was the only place that felt right for us.

2014

" together with our 9-month-old son, we read the vows we had written for each other." 79

2014

After 5 & Weddings // 71 (Megan Jacks) www.after5andweddings.com 406.586.3124 Alara Jewelry // 3 (Babs Noelle) www.alarajewelry.com 406-522-8844 Bar W Ranch // 27 www.thebarw.com 406-863-9099 1915 Barn // 82 (Dean Drenzek) www.1915barn.com (406)585-0244 Baxter Hotel // 21 (Katie) www.thebaxterhotel.com 406-586-1314 Belton Chalet // 82 www.beltonchalet.com 406-888-5000 Bequet Confections // 13 www.bequetconfections.com 406-586-2191 Big Sky Photo Booth // 50 (Tara Martin) www.bigskyphotobooth.com 406.579.5202 Big Sky Resort // 39 www.bigskyresort.com 800-548-4486

advertising index

Blooming Blessings // 44 (Christine) (406) 539-5553 Bozeman Furniture and Appliance // 52 (Rikki Bushnell) www.bozemantv.com 406-587-0342 The Brides Shoppe // 27 www.thebridesshoppe.net 406-761-6338 Bridger Bowl // 73 (Doug Wales) www.bridgerbowl.com 406-556-5672 Bucks T4 Lodge // 4 www.buckst4.com 406-995-4111 Budget Bouquet // 2 (Rhonda Alexander) www.budgetbouquetandmore.com 406-585-9492

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High Country Gifts & Engraving // 45 (Kathy Maden) kmaden@highcountrygifts.com 406-586-3991

Country Flower // 83 (Susan McGee) www.countryflower.com (406)587-7679 Cupcake Mountain Cupcakery // 61 www.bozemancupcakery.com (406) 577-2787 Damasco’s // 53 (Tina Caracciolo) www.damascos.com 406-388-2724 Deep Creek Range // 28 www.deepcreekgrange.com 406-223-3554 Downtown Bozeman Association // 65 (Ellie Staley) www.downtownbozeman.org 406-586-4008 Erotique // 13 www.erotiquestyle.com 406-586-7825 Eskay Bridal // 5 (Karyn Bondaud) www.eskaybridal.com 406-577-2259 Fairmont Hot Springs // 65 www.fairmontmontana.com 406-797-3241 Famous Dave’s // 16 (Pat Ryan) www.famousdaves.com 406-586-0597 Fin Restaurant // 29 (Selene) www.finonmain.com 406-586-0483 Gallatin River Hideaway // 42 www.gallatinriverhideaway.com 406-582-8087

Hilton Garden Inn // 72 (Colee Wingo) bozemanhgi.com 406-219-9002 Holiday Inn Express & Suites // 53 Belgrade, MT www.ihg.com 406-388-7100 Holiday Inn west Yellowstone // 68 www.holidayinn.com/WestYellowstone 406-646-7365 Jewelry Studio // 29 (Charles Saatjian) sjewelrystudio.com (406) 586-7191 Joe’s DJ Service // 29 (Joe Trudgeon) www.joesdj.com 406-539-3602

Noteworthy // 69 www.noteworthystore.com 406-541-6683 Owenhouse Ace Hardware // 82 www.owenhouse.com 406-587-5401

2014

Cateye Cafe // 38 (Tina Caracciolo) www.cateyecafe.com 406-587-8844

Painted Pony Press // 36 (Jenny Schwartz) www.paintedponypress.com 406.582.2699 Persnickety // 64 (Ann Porter) www.persnicketyformalwear.com 406-586-7682 Ridge Athletic Clubs // 44 www.ridgeathletic.com 406-586-1737 Rockin’TJ Ranch // 44 (Teresa) www.rockintjranch.com 406-585-0595 Rocky Creek Resort // 36 www.rockcreekresort.com 406-446-1111 The Sacajawea Hotel // 61 www.sacajaweahotel.com (406) 285-6515 SW Montana Plastic Surgery // 12 www.swmontanaplasticsurgery.com 406-585-2700

John Bozeman’s Bistro // 28 (Perry Wenzel) www.johnbozemansbistro.com 406-587-4100

Travel Cafe // 73 www.travelcafeonline.com 1-800-247-3538

Karst Stage // 17 (Dan Martin) www.karststage.com (406) 556-3540

Vino Pertutti // 61 (Coleen) vinopertutti.com 406-586-8138

Kleffner Ranch // 64 www.kleffnerranch.com 406-495-9090

Whitefish Mtn Resort // 27 skiwhitefish.com 877.SKI.FISH

Labellum // 60 (Remy Greco-Brault) www.labellumflowers.com 406-551-2251

Zebra Catering // 65 (Ashley) www.zebracocktaillounge.com 406-570-1375

leslie Lukas Weddings & Events // 13 www.leslielukas.com 406-570-3624

The Woodlands // 17 www.montanawoodlands.com (406) 763-4542

Montana Bridal Tour // 28 (Abby Turner) www.bozemanbridaltour.com 406.924.9884 81

The Historic

Belton Chalet Weddings Weddings • Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners Hotel • Private Cottages • Adobe House Exceptional Montana Cuisine Professional Event Planning

Winter Wedding Special Packages! 406-888-5000 • events@beltonchalet.com For more information or to book your event.

Downtown Bozeman Store • 587-5401

12575 Hwy 2 East • West Glacier beltonchalet.com

West Main Store • 582-7330

Lodging and Events in a Country Setting • Year-round Facility

• Parties up to 120

• Full Kitchen

• Clean & Comfortable

• Ample Parking

• Indoor/Outdoor

• 5 Bed/5.5 Bath

• Business Events

4062 Johnson Road, Bozeman • 1915barn.com • 406-585-0244 82

COUNTRY FLOWER 8TH & MAIN • 587-7679 WWW.COUNTRYFLOWER.COM

George Dunlap photography