Missoula Independent
Page 2 Married in Montana 2012
Married in Montana
Contents:
Montana wedding traditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 A successful gift registry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Advice for the alter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 What your location says about you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Budget breakdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Bride and groom checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Cover Photo by Johanna B. Photography
317 S. Orange St. Missoula, MT 59801 Phone number: 406-543-6609 Fax number: 406-543-4367 E-mail address: independent@missoulanews.com
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Something old Montana traditions can add substance and style to your wedding by Skylar Browning
isions of a traditional wedding usually bring to mind flowing white dresses, picturesque churches filled with flowers and guests, lavish feasts and rollicking receptions that last long into the evening hours. Most Montana weddings during the 19th century featured none of those. In fact, things like railroad schedules and a minister’s travel itinerary often dictated when and how couples tied the knot. In Miles City in 1877, one year after the town was founded, 100 couples were married at the same time to take advantage of a priest’s presence. It’s not exactly romantic by today’s standards. “The traditional white wedding didn’t fully reach Montana until the 1950s,” explains Martha Kohl of the Montana Historical Society. “They existed before then, of course, and were popularized through movies and magazines in the 1920s and 1930s, but for most of the Montana population, they weren’t practical. Only those people with enough money and influence were treated to how we view weddings today.” In the absence of deep pockets and big-city access, Montana brides and grooms developed their own customs. Kohl chronicles those in a wonderful new book titled I Do: A Cultural History
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of Montana Weddings. Through research and personal interviews, Kohl recounts how hundreds of Treasure State couples exchanged vows over the last 150 years, from the rugged and isolated days of the gold rush to contemporary events fashioned straight from Brides magazine. While many of the wedding-day customs from yesteryear wouldn’t make sense today, Kohl’s book does offer some truly old-school ideas for those looking to add a little history to their big day.
The family gift Part of following classic Montana wedding traditions involves tracing specific heritages that were instrumental to the region. “We think of Montana as very homogeneous now,” says Kohl,“but the Montana Territory during the 19th century was very heterogeneous, with heavy European influence and Native cultures.” Crow weddings, for instance, included a ritual of the bride’s family and groom’s family exchanging gifts—not exclusively for the bride and groom, but for their respective families. For instance, the bride’s family would typically receive a horse. The groom’s family would be given blankets and dress-
es with bone elk teeth. The gifts would be exchanged over feasts. The idea is that a marriage joins families, not just individuals, so the circle of giving should reflect that greater union.
White washed The white wedding dress represents both purity and wealth. When Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840, her white satin dress adorned with orange blossom trim—a symbol of chastity and fertility because the trees produce flowers and fruit simultaneously—became the envy of every elite and privileged bride. Few in Montana followed the trend. For one, white dresses were impossible to keep clean, meaning they were only worn on the wedding day. In addition, white dresses were far too expensive for most brides to afford, even in Montana’s burgeoning gold rush and mining towns. Kohl notes that most brides got creative. Instead of white, women favored dresses that were “soft pink, pale green, cream or ecru.” The dresses were also designed so they could be slightly altered after the wedding day and repurposed for a dinner party or Sunday service, and worn repeatedly. Alternative-minded modern-day brides are actually bringing the practice back into fashion. Most notably, singer Gwen Stefani rocked a soft pink gown at her 2002 wedding and Glamour magazine this year declared pink wedding dresses “officially en vogue.” Youa Photography
When only the best will do.
Chef Ryan Boehme 541.4900 • 224 N. Higgins bravocatering.msla@gmail.com www.bravocatering.net Missoula Independent
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Unofficial officiant
Johanna B Photography
Kohl says one of the biggest differences between weddings today and those a century ago has to do with lead time. “Long engagements were looked down upon,” she says. “You had a shorter planning period, which is part of the reason weddings were smaller and less expensive than they are now.” It’s also part of the reason many Montana weddings weren’t officiated by an actual minister, priest or rabbi. With short engagement periods and officiants traveling through remote Montana towns infrequently, if at all, formal ceremonies were few and far between. The only legal requirement for a Montana wedding during the 19th century was, as Kohl writes, “‘public recognition’ of the marriage, regardless of who performed the ceremony or, indeed, whether the couple engaged in any formal ceremony at all.” In other words, friends or family were all that was required to make a wedding official. Today, that tradition continues with some couples deciding to have a confidant or favorite
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uncle—one ordained through any number of online ministries—lead them through their nuptials.
Chivarees
described as “a noisy, burlesque serenade, used chiefly as a means of teasing newly married couples.” Chivarees could play out a number of different ways: sometimes the husband and wife would retire on their wedding night only to find their bed short-sheeted, corn flakes spread between the sheets, or the wife’s nightgown stitched shut and rendered un-wearable. Other times, a crowd would arrive at the newlyweds’ house and cause a spectacle so great—think fireworks, live music or just yelling their heads off—that the husband’s only recourse would be to buy a round of drinks at the local saloon. The intent was to embarrass the new couple, interrupt any attempt at intimacy and, probably, score a few free drinks in celebration. “Can you imagine how hard that would be to pull off today?” says Kohl. “It’s the sort of thing where you like it a lot more if you’re a guest and not the bride or groom.” That said, chivarees are a precursor to a wedding tradition that definitely lives on: the “Just Married” graffiti, streamers and tin cans connected to the newlyweds’ getaway car. Or, in the case of a Montana wedding, the getaway truck. 0
Kohl says one of Montana’s most entrenched wedding-related customs would be difficult to duplicate today, but we’re willing to spearhead the return of chivarees. Rooted in European traditions, a chivaree is
Martha Kohl’s I Do: A Cultural History of Montana Weddings, published by the Montana Historical Society Press, is currently available in bookstores for $22.95.
Local, seasonal food The easiest Montana wedding tradition to continue is serving locally harvested, seasonal food at the reception. Regardless of the bride and groom’s social status or heritage, locavores ruled the day. For instance, one modest 19th century wedding in Sun River included “buffalo hump and bread made of corn meal ground in a hand mill.” Crow ceremonies during the 1880s typically included “meat, pemmican and cherries.” Kohl writes that even during Prohibition, one Butte couple made sure to have homemade moonshine at their party. (Of course it was a couple from Butte.) Many local caterers pride themselves on offering menu items made from ingredients grown locally in western Montana. As for the moonshine? It could easily be replaced with a keg from one of the state’s 28 different craft breweries.
Alpenglow Wedding Photo
Missoula Independent
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Secrets to a successful registry The times are changing, but one thing remains the same recent study by the Pew Research Center confirmed what many already realized through family and friends: People are getting married later in life. The median age when people first marry is now at an all-time high of older than 26 for women and almost 29 for men. The numbers get more eye-opening when you dig deeper into the study. For instance, just 51 percent of all adults 18 and older are married today, compared to, for example, 1960, when 72 percent of all adults were married. What does this have to do with wedding-gift registries? Everything. Gift registries are changing with the times.With many couples now combining two adult households, there is less need for many of the basic items that were once a part of every gift registry. It’s not like Bob and Nancy don’t have a toaster. Couples today are in search of creative new registry items. Those can include theme-oriented gifts pertaining to lifestyle—say, camping equipment—or help with travel expenses for the honeymoon. Before jumping into some of those new
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ideas, let’s first cover one thing that hasn’t changed: etiquette. Be sure to purchase thank you cards and stamps when you register for gifts so you can
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respond promptly once a gift is received. It’s also considerate to register for a variety of gifts, ranging in price and function, to allow friends and family options in their selection.
Education Bob and Nancy may already have a toaster, but it could be that’s the only thing Bob knows how to use in the kitchen. Couples that cook together stay together, and the gift of cooking classes could be the key to a successful marriage. Along similar lines, consider wine-tasting sessions—a few bottles for an initial taste test would make for a fun primer. In Montana, fly-fishing lessons would seem to be a nobrainer, with plenty of top-shelf, award-winning guides to choose from and enough gear to fill four registries. As a bonus, it’s something both the bride and groom could benefit from—Field & Stream recently wrote that “women are born better natural fly fishers than men� and the sport would be better off with more of their influence, and most grooms aren’t probably as good as they think they are.At worst, it’s something to do together that the couple may not have otherwise made the time to do.
Charities
Youa Photography
Couples who already have everything they need may want to ask for contributions to charities. Luckily, in Missoula there are approximately 2 trillion nonprofits to choose from when considering a charitable donation. (Actually, the real number is closer to 600 registered nonprofits in Missoula and more than 6,000 in the state of Montana.) You can find lists of registered nonprofits through the Montana Nonprofit Association, Missoula Nonprofit Network or Sustainable Business Council, among other resources. Alternately, services like JustGive.org allow guests to purchase a gift card that can be used at nearly 1.8 million charities nationwide, including hundreds in western Montana.
Eco-friendly Back to the toaster: Bob and Nancy may have a household of appliances and furniture, but much of it was purchased before manufacturers and designers jumped aboard the environmental movement. (Honestly. The Prius wasn’t introduced in the States until 2001; your refrigerator is probably from 1978.) A gift registry is a perfect opportunity to start a more eco-friendly lifestyle, and options abound now for all your kitchen, dining and home décor needs. Locally, look to sustainable vendors like House Studio Design, Abode Sustainable Building Supply and Design, The Green Light, HomeResource and Energy Star-marked appliances at any of the box stores for ideas on an eco-upgrade. One last suggestion: Be sure to recycle or repurpose anything you replace, like that old toaster.
Art That hand-me-down mirror has worn out its welcome. You’ve outgrown that tapestry that covers the corner you never look at. The concert posters in the study nook no longer count as “hip.” While the kitchen is fully stocked with eco-friendly appliances and the bedroom is decked out with new linens, it’s time to look at the walls.Art works as a gift registry item for multiple reasons. For one, it’s fun to pick out new pieces as a couple. For another, it supports a vital part of the community often overlooked in opportunities that call for splurging. Also, varied price ranges in western Montana allow for guests either to select individual works or to go in together for a group gift with more expensive items.
Time together The most important thing for newlyweds is finding some quality time together after all the hustle of the wedding and the exhale of the honeymoon. Dates make a perfect gift and can come in all sorts of packages. The easiest and most affordable idea is a gift certificate to a favorite local restaurant, or a weekend getaway to one of Montana’s many resorts or hot springs. A couples massage is another simple solution. 0
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Advice for the altar Experts and newlyweds reveal the dos and don’ts of saying “I do” he last thing a bride and groom would seem to need during the planning of their wedding is more advice. From the moment someone drops to a knee and slips a ring on a finger to the last second before walking down the aisle, everyone including your crazy Aunt Sally and her 16 cats has more than a few words of wisdom about how to plan the perfect wedding. Don’t even get us started on Mom; she certainly has a few opinions— and a flow chart showing exactly how to implement them. Fret not, love bugs.We surveyed local wedding experts and newlyweds about the secrets to setting up your big day.To keep this manageable and as stress-free as possible, we asked just two simple questions: What’s the most important piece of advice you can offer to prospective brides and grooms, and what’s the one thing you’d warn them about? The answers are provided below,
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free of flow charts or any of Aunt Sally’s feline friends. Also, for more expert advice, check out the bride and groom checklist at the back of this issue.
j “Splurge on the things that matter to you. If there is a photographer you love or a cake you are dying to have but it doesn’t fit in your budget, find other places to cut corners.That way you don’t have any regrets.” Expert: Heather Phillips Credentials: Owner, Heartstrings Paper and Press (www.heartstringspaperandpress.com), which creates custom wedding invitations, save-the-date notes and RSVP cards.
j “Having been to approximately 10,000 weddings over the years, I can tell
you the only one who ever knows anything went wrong is the bride—and maybe her mom.Try to remember that if you’re starting to stress out.” Expert: Mike Williams Credentials: Owner, Mike Williams Photography (www.mikewilliamsphotography.com). Maybe 10,000 is an exaggeration, but Williams has been shooting weddings since the mid-’80s.
j “Make sure the bride does her homework and has clear ideas of what she wants.When it comes to florists or bakers, it’s important that the bride knows her budget, knows what colors she wants and has swatches so they can get an idea of her style. It’s easy to do research online and download a few pictures.” Expert: Dawn Podolske Credentials: Owner, The Flower Bed (www.theflowerbedandgallery.com). Podolske has been working weddings for 27 years.
j “Couples tend to get tangled up in trying to please everybody. It’s your day, so have it your way.” Expert: Paige Pitzer Credentials: Owner, Riversong Gourmet (www.riversonggourmet.com). Pitzer, who specializes in seasonal and locally grown ingredients, has been catering weddings for five years.
j “Guests will stiff you on a gift for sure, and a lot more than you think! Don’t count, for instance, on that gift money to pay for anything.” Expert: Adam DeFalco Credentials: Married this past October to Jill in a destination wedding held in Florida.They hosted a large party a few weeks later for more than 150 friends and family. Deserae Pollock Photography
A new journey begins… and Blue Mountain Clinic Family Practice is with you all the way.
Beautiful
Caras Park
Pavilion
A perfect setting for a wedding or reception, the Caras Park Pavilion lies in the heart of Downtown Missoula and next to the Clark Fork River. Call the Missoula Downtown Association at 543.4238 for reservations missouladowntown.com
photo by Ruebens Photography 610 N California
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j “The pictures last forever. Nothing else you’re buying does. If you’re going to skimp on anything, make sure it’s not the photos.” Expert: Jamie Lynn C re d e n t i a l s : Owner, Jamie Lynn Photography (www.jamielynnphotographymt.net). She’s been shooting weddings for 11 years and personally tied the knot within the last year.
j “Even if things don’t go exactly as you planned, a wedding magically does its own thing.They have a certain momentum to them, and if you did the planning beforehand, it will all work out.” Expert: Jeremy Jauchius Credentials: Catering manager, Whitefish Mountain Resort (www.skiwhitefish.com). Jauchius has worked weddings since 2001, and personally tied the knot this past summer.
j “Think about your first dance. It’s crazy to realize this, but very few moments of the day are actually centered on just the two of you. Those three or four minutes are an excellent chance to calm down and focus on the person you just married.” Expert: Heather Adams Torma Credentials: Personal dance instructor and owner of Downtown Dance Collective (www.ddcmontana.com). She’s been helping couples prepare for their first dance for more than 10 years, and personally tied the knot 18 months ago.0
Alpenglow Wedding Photo
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Location is everything What your wedding venue says about you
erhaps no other decision about your big day says more about you, and the tone of your wedding, than the setting. With such a pivotal choice ahead, we take a tongue-in-cheek look at what your venue says about you—and then offer a few local suggestions should you find the right fit.
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Meadow/Field You have a sandal tan. You have a ski rack on your Subaru. Your dog is the ring bearer. A bluegrass band is playing during the reception. If you’re anywhere near a river, creek or lake, there’s a 55 percent chance someone will go skinny-dipping. There’s a 70 percent chance it’ll be you. Local suggestion: It’s Big Sky Country, so options aren’t exactly lacking. From Greenough Park to Glacier National Park, there are fields aplenty.
Park You want the feel of outdoors, but the comfort of basic facilities.You want onlookers to wish they were invited. You like the informal and accessible atmosphere. Local suggestion: Caras Park.
House of worship
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You feel strongly that this is how it’s done.Your grandmother feels strongly that this is how it’s done. You want rice tossed at you after the ceremony. You like organ music.You’re a virgin. Local suggestion: Like casinos, there’s one on almost every corner in western Montana.
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All Events Catering 1609 West Broadway Missoula, MT 59808 406-728-3400 all-events-catering.com
Curves of Missoula 1204 West Kent Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-543-9735 curvesmissoula.com
Forest Grove Lodge 11073 Mullan Rd. East Superior, MT 59872 406-822-6637 forestgrovelodge.com
Misty’s Salon and Spa 3101 South Russell Missoula, MT 59802 406-543-0717 mistyssalon.com
Alpine Meadows Ranch 469 Bunkhouse Rd. Darby, MT 59829 858-442-8863 alpinemeadowsRanch.com
Dax Photography 2412 River Rd. Suite D Missoula, MT 59801 406-531-9336 daxphotography.com
Grouse Mountain Lodge 2 Fairway Drive Whitefish, MT 59937 406-862-3000 grousemountainlodge.com
Montana Center for Facial Plastic Surgery 2975 Stockyard Drive Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-7546 montanaface.com
Beach Transportation 825 Mount Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-549-6121 beachtrans.com
Deschamps Photography 127 N. Higgins Ave. Suite 307C Missoula, MT 59802 406-544-7224 deschampsphotography.@gmail.com
Heart Strings Paper and Press Missoula, MT 406-550-0637 heartstringspaperandpress.com
Mountain MoJo Photo 406-293-1257 mountainmojophoto.com
Bed, Bath and Beyond 3207 Paxson Missoula, MT 59801 406-327-9503 bedbathandbeyond.com
Deserae Pollock Photography 105 South 3rd West Missoula, MT 59801 406-239-4956 dezphotos.com
Hixson Family Photography 4615 Orchard Ave. Missoula, MT 59803 406-531-3556 hixsonstudio.com
Noteworthy Paper and Press 101 South Higgins Ave. Missoula, MT 59802 406-214-7591 noteworthystore.com
Bitterroot Banquet & Ballroom 406-239-6661 partydecor@centric.net
Dollar Rent-A-Car 1905 West Broadway Missoula, MT 59801 406-542-2311 dollar.com
Holiday Inn Downtown 200 South Pattee St. Missoula, MT 59802 406-721-8550 holidayinn.com
Party Shots Photobooth 1206 West Kent Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-203-4200 partyshotsbooth.com
J. Willis Photography 715 Kensington Suite 8 Missoula, MT 59801 406-240-1113 jessicagoulding.zenfolio.com
Posh Paper Weddings Wedding Event and Design 206-327-0100 poshpaperweddings.com
Bitterroot Flower Shop 811 South Higgins Missoula, MT 59801 406-542-0309 bitterrootflowershop.com City Country Photography 406-546-7241 citycountryphotography.com Cold Stone Creamery 3275 N. Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808 406-549-5595 coldstonecreamery.com
Missoula Independent
Eastgate Rental 500 East Spruce Missoula, MT 59802 406-549-5114 eastgaterental.com Famous Dave’s 2915 North Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-7427 famousdaves.com/Missoula
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Missoula Textile Services 1201 Burlington Missoula, MT 59801 111 East Spruce Missoula, MT 59802 406-543-7798; 406-543-5171 missoulatextiles.com
Photos from the Hart 5185 Pertile Lane Lolo, MT 59847 406-241-9458 RMF Entertainment 2409 Dearborn Suite J1 Missoula, MT 59803 406-531-2321 rmfentertainment@hotmail.com
Rococco Bridal 1900 Brooks St. Missoula, MT 59801 406-327-0291 rococobridal.com Royal Prestige 5500 Douglas Ave. Des Moines, IA 50310 515-270-0777 royalpresige.com Ruby's Inn & Convention Center 4825 N. Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-7829 rubys.montana.com Scenic Route Films 406-552-2055 scenicroutefilms.com Shear Art Salon 1804 North Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-214-3112 shearartsalon.com Skin Chic 2901 Brooks St. Suite C-4 (Southgate Mall) 406-541-8466 skinchic.com
State Farm Nate Sanders 825 West Spruce Missoula, MT 59802 406-721-5050 natesanders.ujms@statefarm.com The Spa at the Peak 5000 Blue Mountain Rd. Missoula, MT 59804 406-251-8200 peakmissoulaspa.com The Wingate Inn 5252 Airway Blvd. Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-8000 wingatehotels.com/missoula Tuxedo Gallery 742 S. Higgins Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-728-4530 tuxedogallery.net Windermere Real Estate Laura Branson/Jennifer Peacock 2800 South Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59801 406-541-6550 windermere.com Youa Photography 211 North Higgins #302 Missoula, MT 59802 406-544-1700 youaphotography.com
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All Events Catering 1609 West Broadway Missoula, MT 59808 406-728-3400 all-events-catering.com
Curves of Missoula 1204 West Kent Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-543-9735 curvesmissoula.com
Forest Grove Lodge 11073 Mullan Rd. East Superior, MT 59872 406-822-6637 forestgrovelodge.com
Misty’s Salon and Spa 3101 South Russell Missoula, MT 59802 406-543-0717 mistyssalon.com
Alpine Meadows Ranch 469 Bunkhouse Rd. Darby, MT 59829 858-442-8863 alpinemeadowsRanch.com
Dax Photography 2412 River Rd. Suite D Missoula, MT 59801 406-531-9336 daxphotography.com
Grouse Mountain Lodge 2 Fairway Drive Whitefish, MT 59937 406-862-3000 grousemountainlodge.com
Montana Center for Facial Plastic Surgery 2975 Stockyard Drive Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-7546 montanaface.com
Beach Transportation 825 Mount Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-549-6121 beachtrans.com
Deschamps Photography 127 N. Higgins Ave. Suite 307C Missoula, MT 59802 406-544-7224 deschampsphotography.@gmail.com
Heart Strings Paper and Press Missoula, MT 406-550-0637 heartstringspaperandpress.com
Mountain MoJo Photo 406-293-1257 mountainmojophoto.com
Bed, Bath and Beyond 3207 Paxson Missoula, MT 59801 406-327-9503 bedbathandbeyond.com
Deserae Pollock Photography 105 South 3rd West Missoula, MT 59801 406-239-4956 dezphotos.com
Hixson Family Photography 4615 Orchard Ave. Missoula, MT 59803 406-531-3556 hixsonstudio.com
Noteworthy Paper and Press 101 South Higgins Ave. Missoula, MT 59802 406-214-7591 noteworthystore.com
Bitterroot Banquet & Ballroom 406-239-6661 partydecor@centric.net
Dollar Rent-A-Car 1905 West Broadway Missoula, MT 59801 406-542-2311 dollar.com
Holiday Inn Downtown 200 South Pattee St. Missoula, MT 59802 406-721-8550 holidayinn.com
Party Shots Photobooth 1206 West Kent Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-203-4200 partyshotsbooth.com
J. Willis Photography 715 Kensington Suite 8 Missoula, MT 59801 406-240-1113 jessicagoulding.zenfolio.com
Posh Paper Weddings Wedding Event and Design 206-327-0100 poshpaperweddings.com
Bitterroot Flower Shop 811 South Higgins Missoula, MT 59801 406-542-0309 bitterrootflowershop.com City Country Photography 406-546-7241 citycountryphotography.com Cold Stone Creamery 3275 N. Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808 406-549-5595 coldstonecreamery.com
Missoula Independent
Eastgate Rental 500 East Spruce Missoula, MT 59802 406-549-5114 eastgaterental.com Famous Dave’s 2915 North Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-7427 famousdaves.com/Missoula
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Missoula Textile Services 1201 Burlington Missoula, MT 59801 111 East Spruce Missoula, MT 59802 406-543-7798; 406-543-5171 missoulatextiles.com
Photos from the Hart 5185 Pertile Lane Lolo, MT 59847 406-241-9458 RMF Entertainment 2409 Dearborn Suite J1 Missoula, MT 59803 406-531-2321 rmfentertainment@hotmail.com
Rococco Bridal 1900 Brooks St. Missoula, MT 59801 406-327-0291 rococobridal.com Royal Prestige 5500 Douglas Ave. Des Moines, IA 50310 515-270-0777 royalpresige.com Ruby's Inn & Convention Center 4825 N. Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-7829 rubys.montana.com Scenic Route Films 406-552-2055 scenicroutefilms.com Shear Art Salon 1804 North Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-214-3112 shearartsalon.com Skin Chic 2901 Brooks St. Suite C-4 (Southgate Mall) 406-541-8466 skinchic.com
State Farm Nate Sanders 825 West Spruce Missoula, MT 59802 406-721-5050 natesanders.ujms@statefarm.com The Spa at the Peak 5000 Blue Mountain Rd. Missoula, MT 59804 406-251-8200 peakmissoulaspa.com The Wingate Inn 5252 Airway Blvd. Missoula, MT 59808 406-541-8000 wingatehotels.com/missoula Tuxedo Gallery 742 S. Higgins Ave. Missoula, MT 59801 406-728-4530 tuxedogallery.net Windermere Real Estate Laura Branson/Jennifer Peacock 2800 South Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59801 406-541-6550 windermere.com Youa Photography 211 North Higgins #302 Missoula, MT 59802 406-544-1700 youaphotography.com
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Courthouse You don’t like to wait.You don’t have time for theatrics (or you’re planning on a big shindig later).You’re expecting. Local suggestion: It costs $20 to be married by the Justice of the Peace at the Missoula County Courthouse.
Hotel ballroom You prefer one-stop shopping, where everything is orchestrated and provided by a professional staff specifically trained to host an important event like your wedding.You also don’t like to travel far from the party to your wedding night suite. Local suggestion: Dozens of local hotels—from downtown to the Reserve Street corridor—offer excellent wedding packages.
Destination wedding You want a small guest list.You like to travel.You want your photos to look amazing.You’re getting married during winter. Local suggestion: Call a travel agent to ensure flight and room deals for you and your guests.
Resort or lodge You want the amenities of a destination wedding—in your own state. Local suggestion: Options include Whitefish Mountain Resort, Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, Montana Island Lodge, Marshall Mountain, and Sugar Loaf Lodge and Cabins. Deserae Pollock Photography
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Historic spot You want something with tradition that’s non-traditional. You’re nostalgic. You have something new, something borrowed and something blue, but that “something old” is proving elusive. Local suggestions: Historic Fort Missoula hosts weddings in Heritage Hall, in the Villa and on the Parade Grounds. In Darby, the Alpine Meadows Ranch offers unique accommodations designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.Victor is home to the McBarn, a 100-year-old barn nestled on a 5-acre estate.Also in the Bitterroot, there’s the Daly Mansion, which dates back to the 1880s. Options up north include Belton Chalet and the Izaak Walton Inn.
Country Club You want something that displays a bit more status. You—or your parents—have a connection to the actual club. You—or your parents—like golf.You wear shirts with collars. Local suggestion: Missoula Country Club.
Deserae Pollock Photography
Pintler Suites Pintler Suites, located in the heart of Philipsburg, offers newly renovated studio and two-bedroom suites & all the charm of an historical building!
136 East Broadway • Philipsburg, MT PintlerSuites.com (406) 544-6530 For Reservations Missoula Independent
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Mountain top See “Meadow/Field,” except you don’t like crowds. You have very few elderly friends or family on the guest list. You like squeezing in a workout, even on the holiest of days. Local suggestion: Consider a forest fire lookout tower.
Museum/Gallery You know who Clyde Aspevig is. You turn your nose up at traditional venues like an art critic does when he sees a cheap Van Gogh wannabe. You want your guests to have an instant conversation piece. Local suggestion: The Missoula Art Museum.
Parents’ house Your parents’ house is bigger than the usual Northside bungalow.You actually like your parents—as well as a comfortable, down-home feel to your wedding day. You want to save some money.You are a huge fan of Father of the Bride and, maybe, Rachel’s Getting Married. Local suggestion: You’re on your own here, but you may want to familiarize yourself with rental companies like Hamilton Party Rental and Eastgate Rental in Missoula.
Journeys Photography
Missoula Independent
Page 18 Married in Montana 2012
College campus You met during finals week, over an empty keg and two passed out frat guys.Your car has a University of Montana Foundation license plate.You go to every game at Washington-Grizzly Stadium and are very concerned about the special teams play. You attend reunions. You graduated. Local suggestion: UM offers event coordinators to help choose a room layout, decorations and catering menu.
Bar You’re a bartender. You’re a barfly. You want to make your friends very happy. You probably have a drinking problem. Local suggestion: Invite us. 0
Deserae Pollack Photography
IT TAKES STRENGTH TO MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK. Start off strong with ShapeShifters!
PLATES GLASSES FLATWARE LINENS
Find your stellar honeymoon spot!
TABLES CHAIRS CANOPIES FOOD & BEVERAGE SERVICE
704 Baker Avenue • Whitefish, MT 59937 Tel: 406-862-5994 Toll Free: 877-523-5994
www.fivestarrentals.com Missoula Independent
Page 19 Married in Montana 2012
Money matters A general breakdown, regardless of your total budget, on where the money goes
oney. The word makes skin crawl, veins bulge and heads ache. It’s the last thing you want to worry about when planning a wedding and yet experts agree it’s absolutely vital for a bride and groom to agree on a rough budget before tackling all the to-dos for the big day. To make the money conversation a little easier, consider the breakdown on the opposite page. Regardless of whether you plan to put the Kardashians to shame or keep things simple, these figures will give you an idea of what couples typically spend on what.
M
Johanna B Photography
Deserae Pollack Photography
Deserae Pollack Photography
Start your new life off on the right path Kandahar Lodge Small Wedding Venue or Romantic Getaway
Your future together holds many changes, and they¶ll SroEaEly inYolYe some Eig ¿nancial decisions. Let us help! You can count on our honesty and reliability to guide you through whatever lies ahead. Missoula Independent
Page 20 Married in Montana 2012
kandaharlodge.com 800-862-6094 406-862-6098 Whitefish, Montana
More than you expect 523-3300 / www.missoulafcu.org
Be Enchanted
Be Our Guest
Reception: 48% Site rental, staff and tip, cake, food, decor, drinks, rentals
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F U N IS 402 Strand Ave (4 blks West of the DQ on Higgins) 543-8222
FINDING THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR YOUR BIG DAY AWARD-WINNING CATERING | MOUNTAIN-TOP VIEWS AFFORDABLE ON-SITE LODGING FOR YOUR GUESTS ... planning your summer event now!
FUN IS...W HITEF ISH A Christ-centered family of believers Worship 10am • Pastor Justin Cloute
mountzionmissoula.org
FUN | 877-SKI-FISH | SKIWHITEFISH.COM Missoula Independent
Page 21 Married in Montana 2012
For the bride and groom An easy list of what to do and when to do it
12 Months Set the date Choose a wedding theme and style Make a budget Research reception venues Determine number of guests Make appointments with potential wedding planner, photographer and/or videographer, and band or DJ Research and book location for rehearsal dinner, if applicable
11 Months
Deserae Pollack Photography
Missoula Independent
Page 22 Married in Montana 2012
Select a wedding planner Decide on decorations Meet with caterers and arrange for tastings Select and book a caterer Book band or DJ Choose ceremony musicians and make music selections Book photographer and/or videographer, make photo list Interview florists Select and reserve ceremony venue Schedule rehearsal time Choose reception venue and make deposit Secure parking and transportation for guests at reception Start looking for a bridal gown
Choose wedding party members and ask them to participate Meet with officiant to discuss ceremony Determine honeymoon budget Mail save-the-date cards, especially for a destination wedding
10 Months Choose and order bridal gown Obtain permits for an outdoor wedding at a public place (park, recreational area) Discuss attendants’ duties with wedding party
9 Months Register for gifts Coordinate with vendors to incorporate your theme and style Decide on the food and liquor served at the reception Prepare a playlist of reception music Select and order your headpiece, veil, gloves and shoes Confirm orders and delivery dates for wedding attire Research airline, hotel and rental car information for guests
8 Months Get fitted for your bridal gown, invite maid of honor to attend Choose and order bridesmaids dresses and accessories Research wedding ring styles Select florist and discuss wedding theme and style
Expert Suggestion: “Take the time to spell-check invitations and all other correspondence you are sending out. Mistakes can be costly.�
7 Months Review and finalize details with your wedding planner Notify bridesmaids about dress fittings Select attire for flower girl and ring bearer(s) Choose and order design, wording, font and paper stock for invitations, table cards and thank you notes Arrange a printer and hire a calligrapher, if necessary Determine order of ceremony events and choose wording for programs Book hotel rooms for guests Select and order wedding rings
Journeys Photography
Missoula Independent
Page 23 Married in Montana 2012
Purchase bridal accessories, such as jewelry and lingerie Choose and order what guests will throw at the ceremony (rice, rose petals, etc.)
6 Months Review and approve proofs of wedding invitations Try on different tuxedo styles at formalwear shop Discuss attire with groomsmen and suggest formalwear stores Select rehearsal dinner menu Discuss honeymoon, research destinations and consult with a travel agent
5 Months Order table cards and place print order for programs Finalize honeymoon destination Taste wedding cakes and select a baker Place cake order and arrange for delivery
4 Months Determine how invitations will be addressed Print labels, hand-address or have calligrapher address invitations Write or choose wedding vows Have wedding party and fathers fitted for tuxedos Purchase or rent accessories, such as cuff links, shoes, etc. Make honeymoon reservations and deposits
3 Months Review and approve printed program proofs Book venue for post-wedding brunch, if applicable Make appointment with hairdresser to discuss wedding hairstyle Update or add items to registry Discuss bachelorette party plans with attendants Discuss bachelor party plans with attendants Create hotel info cards and maps to include with invitations Check with flower preservationist about preserving wedding bouquet
2 Months Journeys Photography
Missoula Independent
Page 24 Married in Montana 2012
Decide where bridesmaids will dress before ceremony Weigh and purchase postage for wedding invitations Go to final gown fitting and arrange for pickup or deliveryJour/
Expert Suggestion: “We’re lucky to live in Montana because there are so many intimate, tuckedaway places right here worthy of a honeymoon. If you want to spend more on the actual honeymoon and less on travel, look in-state first.”
Johanna B Photography
Get fitted for formalwear Book a hotel room or wedding suite for wedding night Meet with attorneys to discuss prenuptial agreement, if applicable Purchase gifts for wedding party members Arrange transportation for bride and groom from ceremony to reception Purchase ceremony accessories, such as unity candles, wineglasses, etc. Get the marriage license
6 Weeks Send wedding invitations and rehearsal dinner invitations Write thank-you notes as you receive gifts Confirm music selections with musicians or DJ
Select menu for post-wedding brunch, if applicable Write newspaper announcement Purchase groom’s gift Purchase bride’s gift Shop for wedding favors Purchase honeymoon clothing or accessories Visit hairstylist for practice session and make wedding day appointment
4 Weeks Confirm floral order and arrange for delivery Meet with ushers and assign duties for the ceremony and reception Determine placement or distribution of programs at the ceremony
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Missoula Independent
Page 25 Married in Montana 2012
Determine seating for guests Visit makeup artist for practice session and make wedding day appointment Schedule appointments for manicure and pedicure for the day before the wedding Finalize plans for the photographer and/or videographer and determine their arrival times at the ceremony Pick up wedding rings and check engraving Sign prenuptial agreement, if applicable Finalize honeymoon plans and confirm travel and hotel accommodations Arrange for care of pets, plants and mail during honeymoon Schedule pickup and return of groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s formalwear
3 Weeks Finalize reception guest list Give the final headcount to caterer and review details Arrange for delivery and placement of wedding flowers, candles and other decorations for wedding day Call guests who have not RSVPed Appoint someone to get wedding bouquet to preservationist after wedding
1 Week Start packing for honeymoon Pick up wedding dress Fill out change-of-address form, if moving
Wedding Day Eat a good breakfast Go to hairstyle and makeup appointments Give yourself plenty of time to get ready Relax. Everything will be fine.
Post-Wedding Arrange for transportation of gifts Drop off or ship wedding bouquet to preservationist
After the Honeymoon Take wedding gown and veil to drycleaner for heirlooming Submit name-change form on driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license, passport, Social Security card, banks, credit cards, etc. 0
Youa Photography
Our beautiful outdoor courtyard is a perfect setting for spring, summer and fall weddings. Call for more information
Missoula Independent
Page 26 Married in Montana 2012
Missoula 2915 North Reserve St 406-541-7427 www.famousdaves.com
Missoula Independent
Page 27 Married in Montana 2012