Rocky Mountain Bride Montana 2023

Bozeman's Most Iconic Venue

Looking for an exquisite wedding venue in Bozeman? Look no further than The Baxter Hotel. With its luxurious amenities and elegant offerings, The Baxter is the perfect choice for couples looking to tie the knot in style. Our venue can hold up to 200 guests, and we offer in-building catering options, bar service, event support, and more to make your special day unforgettable. With a variety of spaces to choose from, you can tailor The Baxter to your unique style and preferences. Located in the heart of the city, it's the perfect backdrop for a wedding that's both upscale and elegant or simple and classic.

S I T E

r i d g w a y p l a s t i c s u r g e r y c o m

montana 2023

editor-in-chief

Mackenzie Stevens

u. s. editorial colorado & new mexico editor

Brit Tucker-Kline

UTAH & DIGITAL EDITOR

Laura Osborn

canadian editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Celynn Bowman

ASSISTANT

Carly Cooper copywriter

Lauren Weller

digital

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER - Bailey Richy

CONTENT CREATOR - Liz Wytko

COPYWRITER - Savannah Reynolds

operations

CLIENT RELATIONS MANAGER

Amy Wainess

SALES & ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kelsey Comstock

PUBLISHED BY RMB Media, LLC

PUBLISHER

Erika Oltmann

DISTRIBUTION

Disticor Magazine Distribution Services

Storefronts in the U.S. & Canada or online at shop.rockymountainbride.com

contact

INQUIRIES - hello@rockymountainbride.com

ADVERTISING - rockymountainbride.com/advertise

SUBMISSIONS - rockymountainbride.com/submissions

proudly

100.

Top

28.

BRIDALS

madison + jon - Paradise Valley

lauren + brody - Flathead Lake

jess + hunter - Ennis

mae + sylas - Bozeman

REAL WEDDINGS

leigh + eric - West Glacier

giao + russ - Southwest Montana

sarah + jack - Fishtail

rachel + chase - Big Sky

chloe + michael - West Glacier

kayla + eli - Creston

nicole + michael - Livingston

erin + karson - Lolo

hannah + milan - Bozeman

PHOTO CREDIT

Top to bottom, left to right:

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Mackenzie Stevens

Oh, Montana!

While creating this magazine, we were lucky enough to be given front row seats to not only the beauty that lies within this state but the amazing people that live here. I encourage you to look at the upcoming pages closely, circle things you love and dog-ear pages that excite you while you dream about your upcoming big day. Take time and get to know the vendors that are featured and let the pages ahead help you create your very own dream team.

As you flip through the pages, I hope you are also given front row seats to the magic of Montana. Enjoy learing about Montana Territory Hat Company’s stepby-step process into making custom cowboy hats, what a perfect addition to your wedding look! Thinking about doing a bridals session with your photographer and going somewhere you love in your full wedding attire? Take inspiration from the included bridals and make it authentic to you. Whether that’s dancing in a field or fly fishing with your dog on a blue bird day, the opportunities are endless. Don’t forget to put time aside during the planning stage, use the checklist from Bozeman’s Ceremony Salon and Spa to ensure your self care is a top priority! Lastly, dive into the true love featured and take in how each couple’s celebration is not only authentic to Montana but authentic to them.

I can’t wait to see what you all come up with! Happy planning!

photo by Katy S hay

Photo by Ashley J Photo

BEYOND THE veil

Rugged yet refined in design; romantic and resilient; Montana Territory Hat Company offers custom hats rooted in the authenticity, heritage and eternal influence of the American West. Courtney Green, founder, designer and creative director behind the Bozeman-based brand is committed to creating a product that feels like art. Slow, deliberate and intentional. Built with a sense of pride and purpose, her vision is not only inspired by the past, but to be lived in and loved today and passed onto future generations. Perhaps the most timeless and iconic accessory for the Montana bride is the cowboy hat.

Every hat has a story. The moment it becomes yours, it begins to take on your story. However, Courtney’s hat-making process begs a narrative of its own. From start to finish each individual hat is crafted by hand beyond the doors of her studio nestled in a quiet canyon of the Bridger Mountains. Inside, a collection of blanks and blocks sit on an expansive espresso-colored bookshelf waiting their turn. Once the type of felt and color are chosen, measurements taken, the foundation is laid with plenty of steam and shaping to mold until it is just right. While the felt, crease, brim and band are all essential details, branding will leave your distinct mark.

Hats: Montana Territory Hat Company | montanaterritory.com

Photographer: Tawnee Bree Photo | tawneebreephoto.com

BEGINNINGS

Kenzie and Kyle met during their first day of dental school at Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. The two became friends for the next three years before their friendship started to romantically shift. Over the summer, Kenzie visited Kyle in Montana, where he is originally from and the two have been inseparable since. Nearly a year later, Kenzie and Kyle graduated from dental school and were preparing to make Montana their new home together in order to practice alongside Kyle’s father at his dental office. Within days before the move, the couple’s friends suggested dinner followed by photos at a historic baseball field nearby. That day the couple arrived at Rosenblatt Stadium Memorial, while Kenzie had never been there before, Kyle was all too familiar with the iconic field as a former college baseball player. Towards the end of the photos, Kyle turned to Kenzie and got down on one knee to propose. “It was a very intimate moment to have before starting our new life in Montana,” Kenzie shares.

Engagement Ring: L'Or Custom Jewelers | lorcustomjewelers.com

Photographer: For the West and Wild | forthewestandwild.com

MELISSA + BLAINE BOZEMAN

Melissa and Blaine met during Melissa’s first week of college at the California Institute of Technology in 2011. Blaine gave a lasting impression when he arrived late to a formal dinner and slid into the seat next to Melissa wearing a cowboy hat and a bolo tie. She immediately wondered, “Who is this guy?” As the evening continued, Melissa playfully exchanged teasing remarks about her growing up in a log cabin somewhere in Kansas; little did she know Blaine had in fact grown up in a log cabin in Montana. That first dinner party marked the start of their love story. Ten years later, the couple traveled to the Big Island of Hawaii for a much needed vacation. In hopes of surprising Melissa, Blaine decided to propose when she would least expect him to pop the question. On their first night in Waimea, as they were capturing photos of the sunset on the beach, Blaine pretended to set up a timed photo of them walking away from the camera and into the frame of endless waves crashing against the shore. According to plan, Melissa was unquestionably speechless when she saw Blaine down on one knee with a ring in hand.

Photographer: Orange Photographie | orangephotographie.com

Engagement Ring: Ada Diamonds | adadiamonds.com

OLIVIA + JARET

Olivia and Jaret’s story was born out of love for the Great American West with a tried-and-true combination of Montana and rodeos. While the duo were both born and raised in The Big Sky State and spent time within the rodeo community, their paths never crossed until the summer of 2018 at The Big Sky Pro Rodeo. A year after meeting as Olivia competed for the University of Montana Western and Jaret for Montana State University, a relationship between the pair became official. On December 22, 2022, Jaret proposed to Olivia surrounded by their horses. It was one of the coldest days of the year with a high of -30°. As Jaret tended to the animals he called Olivia for help with the chores, so she bundled up and met him outside. “He had my childhood horse, Lynx, tied up and was down on one knee like he was going to show me something with her feet. Once I had walked over he picked her leg up and on her shoe, it read, ‘Will You Marry Me?’ We broke out a bottle of champagne and celebrated in the freezing cold,” shares the bride-to-be.

Photographer: Emily Morrison Photography | emilymorrisonphoto.com

Engagement Ring: Grown Brilliance | grownbrilliance.com

Madison and Jon have been together for the better part of a decade. While the high school sweethearts officially started dating in the fall of 2014, their story was a slow burn with Jon headed off for college and Madison still in high school. But as the saying goes, “Home is where the heart is.” On March 21, 2021, Jon surprised Madison with a proposal in the Adirondack Mountains. “We have always loved being outdoors, traveling and most of all being in the mountains anywhere,” Madison shares.

Photographer: Josie Brooks Photography | josiebrooksphotography.com

Gown Designer: For Love & Lemons | forloveandlemons.com

Bride’s Veil: The Veilshop | etsy.com Engagement Ring: Brilliant Earth | brilliantearth.com

LAUREN + BRODY

Lauren and Brody met at a party while attending Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. “I was a junior who never went to parties; he was a freshman who never missed a party,” admits Lauren. The two immediately connected, but nothing came to fruition until years later when Brody messaged Lauren on Facebook. Lauren was living in Texas at the time and Brody called Iowa home, however, distance didn’t keep them from rekindling their romance. After four years of dating, coast-to-coast moving and adopting a dog named Sura, Brody proposed in the couple’s home. When it came down to wedding planning, the bride and groom had dissimilar ideas about what the day would look like. Lauren imagined herself wearing a thrifted dress in a remote location with an unruly mess of freshly picked wildflowers for her bouquet and a boat tied into the nuptials. That dream became a reality. “We booked a $92 flight to Montana, found a sailboat on Instagram and exchanged private vows on Flathead Lake,” shares the bride. Brody’s idea of a 200 plus wedding followed the intimate Rocky Mountain escape.

Photographer: Kierstin Jones | kierstinjones.com

Engagement Ring: June Rings | junerings.com

Boat: Go Sail Montana | gosailmontana.com

JESS + HUNTER

When Jess and Hunter both moved to Ennis to work at the same fly fishing lodge, they of course, weren’t expecting to find love in the quaint town full of cowboys, anglers and outdoor recreationists. However, with a tightknit community comes small-town rules. One is that if you go fishing with a boy, you’re bound to be dating. After five years together fishing, Hunter proposed to Jess. The couple’s shared love of fly fishing has always been central to their relationship, so when it came time to plan their wedding at Rainbow Valley Lodge, choosing a portrait session along the trout nirvana of the Madison River was an easy decision. The bride and groom incorporated their beloved Australian Shepherd into the special day.

Photographer: Tabby Miller Photography | tabbymiller.com

Engagement

Ring: Miller’s Jewelry | montanayogos.com

MAE + SYLAS

Mae and Sylas met through mutual friends during college. Fast forward after nearly four years of dating, Sylas decided to pop the question on March 20, 2021. His original proposal was intended to be intimate and personal and occur at one of the hot springs near Salmon, Idaho, however each hot spring visited was filled with spectators. To avoid having to compromise on the date, Sylas quickly went from plan A to plan F. Ultimately, Sylas proposed on a scenic county road after a charming stroll and Mae responded with an enthusiastic “Yes!”

Photographer: Brigid Bradshaw Photography | brigidbradshaw.com

Florist: Earth Within Flowers | earthwithin.com

Engagement Ring: Aurora Designer | auroradesigner.com

WHERE MODERN MEETS THE WEST

KAYLEIGH RUST

TIMELESS WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

ceremony a salon & spa experience

Say hello to the newest salon and spa concept located in the heart of Bozeman, Cermony. Cultivating an unforgettable mind, body and soul experience for the ladies who walk through their doors. With a mission rooted in making women feel empowered and beautiful, Ceremony has taken the wedding world by storm offering on-site hair, makeup and spa packages to brides and her bridal party besties. Self-care is essential, and co-owners, Alaina and Kirsten pride themselves on being conscious about body, skin and the planet as a certified sustainable salon and spa dedicated to recycling, recovering and repurposing beauty waste. Wondering what this means for you? Sit back, relax and reset before saying “I do” while joining the eco-conscious initiative to revolutionize the beauty industry for the better.

Upon your arrival at the high-end brickand-mortar salon, you will be greeted by a harmonious balance of organic luxury decorated in a modern, minimalist style that is both calming and sophisticated. Start your prewedding day pampering with spa treatments such as facials, customizable massages and private infrared sauna cabins to relax and rejuvenate. Hair removal and spray tans are also available with experienced estheticians to help achieve healthy, glowing skin.

wedding prep guide

6 MONTHS BEFORE

• Facial, massage and a skincare routine

Why? Because if you want to see change in your skin the prep needs to start months before the big day. Ceremony can curate an at home regime for optimal results.

3 MONTHS BEFORE

• Facial, massage and a haircut - just a trim

• Wear sunscreen and be mindful of tan lines when in the sun

• Order hair extensions and hair accessories if needed

• Schedule hair and makeup trial

How to come prepared for your trial? Arrive fresh and ready to be done up, clean and dry hair and bare face. Bring inspiration photos, hair extensions, and favorite makeup products. Additionally, come wearing white!

1 MONTH BEFORE

• Facial, massage and hair color or balayage appointment

• Hydrate! This also includes skincare - sheet masks, hyaluronic acid and hydrating masks

• Body exfoliation

• Schedule spray tan and nail appointment

2 WEEKS BEFORE

• Hydrate!

• Use hair masks

• Continue skincare routine

• Body exfoliation

• Schedule infrared sauna sessions for better sleep and relaxation - Ceremony recommends 3x per week for best results

• Start lip treatment - lip scrub 1x per week and lip balm daily with SPF

1 WEEK BEFORE

• Hydrate!

• Massage - avoid gua sha and cupping

• Nail appointment - schedule prior to spray tan

• Spray tan - for best results book 2 days prior to wedding day and wear loose, dark clothing to the appointment. Plan to stay dry and let the spray tan develop for a minimum of 6 hours. How to prep for your spray tan? A manicure, pedicure, hair removal, and lots of exfoliation prior to the spray tan will help keep your tan perfectly glowing leading up to the wedding .

1 DAY BEFORE

• Hydrate!

• Use an eye cream and mask

DAY OF

• Hydrate!

• Have clean, dry hair for styling appointment

• Have a fresh, clean face - wear a sheet mask and/or eye masks prior to makeup application

The morning of your wedding is a time of excitement, anticipation and nervousness. It’s a day that you have been dreaming about for months or even years and now it's finally here. Getting ready alongside your girl gang in the hours leading up to the ceremony is a special experience that you will look back on and always remember. While the glam squad, otherwise known as the professional hairstylist and makeup artist, do a little transformation, have fun listening to music and sipping champagne in chic pajama sets.

Whether it’s considered to be a long-standing tradition or recent trend, we certainly hope matching bridal party pajamas never go away. With a sense of unity and togetherness among the squad the coordinated outfits can create a cohesive look and make for stellar photo opportunities.

CREATIVE TEAM

Location, Hair & Makeup: Ceremony | ceremonybzn.com

Photographer: Danielle Lopez Photo | daniellelopezphoto.com

Catering: Bowl + Arrow | bowlandarrow.co

Bridal Boutique: Jasmine Lilly Bridal | jasminelillybridal.com

Bride’s & Bridesmaids’ Pajamas: Target | target.com

Bridesmaids’ Bow: Anthropologie | anthropologie.com

FLORAL ABUNDANCE

Drawing inspiration from the architectural elements of the Kimpton Armory Hotel; a historic destination in the heart of the American West where relaxed contemporary refinement and an energetic spirit come into play. The concept of modern sophistication with a twist was born and shaped to tell the story of two lovers tying the knot in Bozeman’s quintessential downtown scene. With a passion for imagery that are romantic, timeless, and natural, Orange Photographie captured the day from start to finish. To give guests a sense of place, Seventh and Anderson collaborated with Mangum Design Co. to decorate the interior of the envelope with an illustration of the venue. From there, the invitation suite helped set the color palette featuring a juxtaposition of dark hues and cool tones with classic typography.

As an artistic force and planning powerhouse, Leslie Lukas and the team of Wander North Events intentionally curated a romantic yet fun experience for couples who are drawn to elegance with an innate edge. Amanda Jewel Floral + Design contrasted the ultra-modern space with a breathtaking backdrop of bright blooms that brought the distinct feeling of summer indoors regardless of the weather outside.

Local bridal boutique, The White Dress provided the gowns designed by Kelly Faetanini and Monique Lhullier, each individually stunning and uniquely different. While the bride’s ceremony ensemble was a testament to originality and tradition, her reception dress for the party portion of the evening was inspired by a Parisian garden resplendent with flowers and butterflies. The groom looked strikingly handsome in a rich burgundy tuxedo, although a bold choice, his sense of fashion exuded charm and character.

The tablescape had an air of femininity and opulence with blush pink linens, soft candlelight and metallic décor. Multiple textures and patterns further elevated the place settings giving the appearance of dimension and intrigue. After a plated sitdown dinner, served by Kimpton Armory, handheld desserts such as macarons and mini cream-filled tarts satisfies any sweet tooth.

With overnight accommodations just a few floors away, no transportation has ever felt so right. Retreat to your room as newlyweds without the hassle of hopping into a car and traveling to your home base for the weekend. Spend the morning after cozied up together while sipping mimosas and noshing on breakfast in bed.

CREATIVE TEAM

Venue, Catering & Sweets: Kimpton Armory Hotel | armoryhotelbzn.com

Planner: Wander North Events | wandernorthevents.com

Photographer: Orange Photographie | orangephotographie.com

Florist: Amanda Jewel Floral + Design | amandajewel.com

Wholesale Floral: FiftyFlowers | fiftyflowers.com

Invitations, Paper & Calligraphy: Seventh and Anderson | seventhandanderson.com

Envelope Illustration: Mangum Design Co. | mangumdesign.co

Rentals: Montana Party Rentals | montanapartyrentals.com

Custom Decor: Tailored and Tied | tailoredandtied.com

Linens: BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Bridal Boutique & Jewelry: The White Dress | thewhitedress.com

Gown Designer: Kelly Faetanini | kellyfaetanini.com

Gown Designer: Monique Lhullier | moniquelhuillier.com

Hair & Makeup: Dandilu Freelance Hair and Makeup | facebook.com/DandiluFreelance

Groom’s Attire & Shoes: SuitShop | suitshop.com

Bride & Groom’s Sleepwear: Eberjey | eberjey.com

Models: Kendall & Calvin

WHERE HISTORY & HAPPILY EVER AFTER MEET

LUXURY EVENT RENTALS, DESIGNS, & CUSTOM BUILDS FOR MONTANA’S MOST MEMORABLE CELEBRATIONS

Leigh + Eric

It was 2017 in Charleston, South Carolina, that Leigh and Eric met at their college alumni event. Three years later, Leigh planned a weekend getaway for Eric’s birthday in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. One evening before dinner at their favorite restaurant, Eric suggested fishing on the boardwalk at Ponce Inlet. Hungry and eager for her meal, Leigh obliged and threw on her best pair of leggings. It was nearing sunset when the couple made their way down to the water. After casting the line a time or two, Eric asked Leigh if she wanted to catch a fish. Rather frank, Leigh declined Eric’s invitation as she didn’t want to be there all night if she happened to catch a fish and he did not. Minutes later, Eric tossed his rod to the side and asked Leigh to marry him. Without hesitation, Leigh joyfully said, “Yes!”

For their nuptials, Leigh and Eric envisioned a combination of an elopement and micro-wedding. Ultimately, the couple chose an early morning intimate vow reading in Glacier National Park followed by a ceremony situated outside of the park at Belton Stage with 15 loved ones. “The morning light was perfect and the mountains were serene. We shared our vows intimately, along with a few laughs and lots of happy tears,” the bride reminisces.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Communication is the most important thing when planning a wedding in a National Park because there are many factors that are out of your control such as weather, park rules, regulations, road closures, etc. Remind yourself that no matter what changes need to be made or what plans alter, all that matters is you and your groom starting forever together. Have fun with it!”

-VENDORS-

Ceremony Location Belton Stage Park, West Glacier

Reception Venue Jalisco Cantina | thejaliscocantina.com

Photographer Haley J Photo | haleyjphoto.com

Videographer Kallico Videography | kallicovideography.com

Florist Forage and Floral | forageandfloral.com

Invitations Truly Inspired Paper Co. | etsy.com

Vow Books Sean & Sun Calligraphy seaandsuncalligraphy.wixsite.com/calligraphy

Officiant Best Day Officiants | bestdayofficiants.com

Accommodations Bay Point Condos | vrbo.com

Bridal Boutique Calvet Couture Bridal | calvetcouture.com

Gown Designer Jenny Yoo | jennyyoo.com

Bride’s Veil Amazon | amazon.com

Bride’s Shoes Vasque | vasque.com Vans | vans.com

Bride’s Jewelry Olive & Piper | oliveandpiper.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Zoland | zolands.com

Hair Boundless Beauty Studio | boundlessbeautystudiomt.com

Makeup Honey Beauty | @honeybeautymt

Groom’s Attire Men’s Wearhouse | menswearhouse.com

Groom’s Accessories Fossil | fossil.com

Groom’s Shoes Tecovas | tecovas.com

Rehearsal Dinner Tupelo Grille | tupelogrille.com

Giao + Russ

It was a simple introduction while throwing ceramic bowls at a local fundraiser that led Giao and Russell to a lifetime of happiness and adventure with one another. Following a proposal among the breathtaking trails of the Beartooth Mountain Range, the couple paid homage to a longstanding tradition of packing into the backcountry on horseback to recite their nuptials. “It's a tradition that has been in the family for three generations, starting with my grandfather's outfitting business many decades ago. Having horses be part of our wedding day seemed appropriate,” Russ shares. After a little planning bound by space and weight limits, the couple successfully packed their ceremony attire and saddled eight horses to tie the knot in the Rocky Mountains of Southwest Montana along with 10 guests. While the location they hoped for was flooded with snow, Giao and Russell landed on a spot lower in elevation situated on the same trail that they maintain each year. The couple exchanged vows then it was time to celebrate. A flask of whiskey and a cow bell was passed around to make noise in the mountains, secretly brought by the bride’s brother. The newlyweds commemorated their marriage with an intimate escape for two as they hiked to the pass where they intended to say, “I do” to soak in the sunset before dark.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Keep it simple and stay flexible!”

-VENDORS-

Ceremony Location Southwest Montana Photographer Megan Fetters Creative | fettersphotography.com

Catering 406 Fresh | 406fresh.square.site

Gown Designer Shona Joy | shonajoy.com

Bride’s Shoes The Frye Company | thefryecompany.com

Bride’s Jewelry Hyworks | etsy.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Alexis Russell | alexisrussell.com

Groom’s Attire Levi’s | levi.com

Groom’s Accessories Formonte | etsy.com

Groom’s Shoes Chippewa Boots | chippewaboots.com

Sarah + Jack

When Jack mentioned to his best friend that he saw a cute girl at the campus library, he was totally unaware that she would one day be his wife. Her name was Sarah and by luck his friend knew her, weeks later the two were formally introduced. After five years of dating, Jack asked his college sweetheart to marry him on the Southern California coast of Encinitas at sunset before his nearing deployment for the military. When the time arrived to begin planning their wedding, Sarah and Jack had just the place in mind, the bride’s family ranch on a serene piece of property in the foothills of the Beartooth Mountains. An intentional location that had cultivated many memories over the years through Sarah’s childhood and well into her relationship with Jack.

The couple wanted their special day to feel simple yet authentic to themselves. With planner Wildly Collective to execute the details, an aesthetic that reflected the couple’s love story rooted in playfulness and passion was brought to life through subtle hints of Western influences paired with chic disco flair. A floral color palette of ivory, cream, sand, camel and espresso tones with silver accents set the stage for their timeless summer affair, starting with the invitation suite to the silky slip dresses worn by the bridesmaids. While Sarah’s leading ladies mirrored her in white, the bride quite literally stunned in a beaded sparkle lace silhouette featuring a structured boned corset bodice and dazzling spaghetti straps.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Don't be afraid to be creative! Take design risks and create your dream day. And remember, everything will work out.”

-VENDORS-

Venue

Private Residence

Planning, Design, Invitations & Signage Wildly Collective | wildlycollective.com

Photographer Kendal Anne Photography | kendalanne.com

Videographer Shooting Starr Social | @shootingstarrsocial

Florist Mac’s Floral | macsfloral.com

Rentals

Gallatin Event Rental | gallatineventrental.com

BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Montana Harvest Tables | montanaharvesttables.com

Spiffy Biffy Portables | spiffybiffyportables.com Midway Rental | midwayrental.com

Catering Sauce | saucecateringmontana.com

Sweets Sweets by Sam | sweetsbysammt.com

Music & Entertainment

The Olson Bros Band | theolsonbrosband.com

Bridal Boutique & Veil a&bé Bridal Shop | aandbebridalshop.com

Gown Designer Made With Love Bridal | madewithlovebridal.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Hera Fine Jewelry | herafinejewelry.com Gaia Fine Jewelry | gaiafinejewelry.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Anthropologie | anthropologie.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire Generation Tux | generationtux.com

Groom’s Ring Holden | hiholden.com

Honeymoon Faustino Gran | faustinogran.com

Rachel + Chase

Rachel and Chase were 15 and 16 when they met at a church retreat in their hometown of Houston, Texas. Ten years later, Chase proposed on the couple’s dating anniversary. “I figured a proposal was a possibility, but not on an early morning fishing trip!” shares Rachel. While on Galveston Bay, an inlet of the Gulf of Mexico, Chase pulled the ring from his waders and popped the question. For their wedding, Rachel and Chase set a date in the midst of summer at 320 Guest Ranch. Situated in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, guests gathered on the 125-year-old homestead for a Western chic affair.

Naturally, the venue played a part in every detail of the day, beginning with the invitation suite designed by Summit and Sage. The stationery included a vintage illustration of a cowgirl riding a bucking horse and a lasso rope surrounding the names of the bride and groom with a single-letter monogram representing their last name. Personal odes continued through signature cocktails named after the couple’s beloved dogs and a fly-fishing inspired cake from Sweet and Tarte. The ceremony took place in an open meadow near the flowing water of the Gallatin River and mountain peaks covered with lush evergreen forests as the backdrop. “As we were exchanging rings, a bald eagle flew over Chase and I, then during our grand entrance, a herd of elk walked along the mountainside across the river from the reception tent, causing a bit of distraction, but we did not mind as it added to the entire experience,” says the bride.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Your wedding day will go by so quickly! Make sure to take a step back and take it all in.”

-VENDORS-

Venue, Accommodations & Rehearsal Dinner 320 Guest Ranch | 320ranch.com

Wedding Planner

Beautifully Born Events | beautifullybornevents.com

Photographer For the West and Wild | forthewestandwild.com

Rowan & Larch | rowanandlarch.com

Invitations, Paper & Calligraphy Summit and Sage | summitandsage.com

Montana Party Rentals | montanapartyrentals.com Tailored and Tied | tailoredandtied.com

McGill's Restaurant and Saloon | mcgillsbigsky.com

Sweet and Tarte | sweetandtarte.com

Music & Entertainment

Gina and the Wildfire | ginaandthewildfire.com

Unbridaled | unbridaled.com

Gown Designer & Bride’s Veil Made With Love Bridal | madewithlovebridal.com

Jimmy Choo | jimmychoo.com

Bride’s Ring Designer

Diamond Cutters International | diamondcuttersintl.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Anthropologie | anthropologie.com

Hair

Meraki Hair Styling | merakihairstyling.com

Makeup Woodland Star | woodlandstar.com

Groom’s Attire Jos. A. Bank | josbank.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Accessories Tie Bar | thetiebar.com

Chloe + Michael

In 2018, Chloe and Michael were separately attending the Bumbershoot Music & Art Festival in Seattle, Washington, when they quite literally bumped into each other. After two years together, Michael proposed at a mesmerizing attraction in the corner of the American Southwest near the Grand Canyon. At the edge of a cliff overlooking Horseshoe Bend in Arizona, Chloe said, “Yes” to her future husband with dramatic sandstone formations all around them. When the couple started planning their nuptials, it was an absolute dream to marry in Switzerland until exploring several National Parks during a monthlong motorcycle ride. “We were completely taken back by Glacier’s awe and beauty! Come to find out Glacier is commonly called the Swiss Alps of America!” shares Chloe. As a result, Chloe and Michael asked 15 loved ones to celebrate their union in West Glacier.

After exchanging vows in the presence of Montana’s Rocky Mountains, the newlyweds and their guests gathered at Stage Road Estate for an intimate dinner party surrounded by lush fields and stunning views. Similar to Chloe and Michael’s personalities, the day embodied a free-spirited, bohemian aesthetic with an electric flair. Naturally, the bride and groom opted for an unconventional yet cool wedding send-off that included a rose petal toss as they zoomed off into the distance on their Harley Davidson.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

-VENDORS-

Ceremony Location Belton Stage Park

Reception Venue & Accommodations Stage Road Estate | stageroadestate.com

Photographer Elsa Eileen Photography | elsaeileenphotography.com

Videographer Media By Molly | mediabymolly.com

Florist Anchor G | anchorggatherings.com

Wholesale Floral Gardenwerks | gardenwerks.com

Invitations

TNT Signs | tntsigns.com

Rentals

Savor and Graze Montana | savorandgrazemontana.com

Empress Tents & Events | empresstentsevents.com

Catering

The Kopper Kitchen | thekopperkitchen.com

Sweets Montana Wildflour | montanawildflour.com

Bridal Boutique & Gown Designer Grace Loves Lace | graceloveslace.com

Bride’s Shoes Marc Fisher | marcfisherfootwear.com

Bride’s Jewelry Link X Lou | linkxlou.com

Bride’s Ring Designer & Groom’s Accessories Sholdt Jewelers | sholdtdesign.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Lulus | lulus.com

Hair & Makeup

Alissa Albano | @alissaalbanomakeup

Groom’s Attire G.Miller | gmillerolympia.com

Groom’s Shoes Vans | vans.com

Honeymoon Tulum, Mexico | azulik.com/tulum

“Be transparent with your feelings, speak to one another with kindness and learn to love the little quirks that make your partner who they are.”

Kayla + Eli

Kayla and Eli were mindful of ensuring photos told their story in a way that words could not. With Anni Graham in attendance, the couple’s vow exchange was captured in its truest, most raw form leaning away from posed photographs. When the moment arrived on a quiet Saturday morning, Kayla and Eli jumped in their old Ford truck and drove into the Jewel Basin Mountain Range to pick wildflowers for an overflowing bouquet then headed back home. From there, the afternoon was about going on with their summer day as they normally would, which included a swim on Flathead Lake, ripping around on the motorcycle and spending time at the house with their dogs and chickens.

“I was so excited as I walked outside in a simple dress, bare feet and wavy lake hair, and saw Eli standing there. It was all so surreal grabbing his hand and walking through the tall grass to the highest point in the field. The sun was just setting, the mountains were vibrant and pink and I was about to marry the love of my life,” Kayla reminisces. With the sun quickly setting over the horizon, Kayla and Eli naturally hopped on their motorcycle and raced off to chase it down in the distance.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“It all boils down to these simple words, ‘when you know, you know.’ When nothing can stop those feelings, when you realize that love at first sight is real, and when you can't imagine spending a second without them, you know. Sometimes it takes a lifetime to find. The most important thing we can pass along is to not settle for a love that is not equal and at its purest form is just simple.”

-VENDORSPhotographer Anni Graham | annigraham.com

Gown Designer Shona Joy | shonajoy.com

Bride’s Ring Designer Kehoe’s Agate Shop | kehoesagateshop.com

Nicole & Michael

Nicole and Michael met in 2015 at St. Joe’s University, where Nicole attended and Michael was paying a visit to a mutual friend. From their first interaction at a party, the pair have been inseparable ever since. After three and a half years of dating, Michael asked Nicole to marry him on Halloween, which doubles as his birthday. During a festive costume party as the family gathered around for cake, Michael got down on one knee and wished for Nicole to spend the rest of her life with him. She, of course, said “Yes.” On a warm August day, Nicole, Michael and 65 of their loved ones gathered at Copper Rose Ranch.

Although the couple resides on the East Coast, they leaned on Lauren Schoenborn of Beautifully Born Events to execute their vision of a moody bohemian atmosphere situated in Paradise Valley. The wedding went off without a hitch, especially considering a dreadful forecast for the day. “Since we are all from New York and Pennsylvania, it was a pretty big bummer thinking we would be confined to an inside venue if the rain persisted like it was scheduled to. About 20 minutes before our ceremony was set to start, the sky cleared and somehow the ground dried up just in time” Nicole shares. Following an intimate ceremony, the newlyweds welcomed guests inside the 100-yearold barn, but not before a darling appearance from beverage burros, Daisy and Rocky.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Don't sweat the small stuff! The day will be perfectly imperfect. You can't please everyone, so focus on what you and your partner truly want out of this experience and the rest will fall in place.”

-VENDORS-

Venue & Accommodations

Copper Rose Ranch | copperroseranch.com

Wedding Planner

Beautifully Born Events | beautifullybornevents.com

Photographer Danielle Lopez Photo | daniellelopezphoto.com

Videographer Opal & Ox | opalandox.com

Florist Labellum | labellumflowers.com

Invitations, Paper & Calligraphy Nikki Press Designs | etsy.com

Rentals

Montana Party Rentals | montanapartyrentals.com

Tailored and Tied | tailoredandtied.com

Catering Food for Thought | foodforthoughtmt.com

Beverage Burro Big Sky Burro | bigskyburro.net

Sweets Sweet and Tarte | sweetandtarte.com

Music & Entertainment Cole Decker | coledeckermusic.com Moshunal Production | moshunal.com

Bridal Boutique Lovely Bride | lovelybride.com

Gown Designer & Bride’s Veil Rue De Seine | ruedeseine.com

Bride’s Jewelry Atelier Paulin | us.atelierpaulin.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Anthropologie | anthropologie.com

Hair & Makeup Ethereal Hair & Makeup | etherealhairmakeup.com

Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire Indochino | indochino.com

Groom’s Shoes Hockerty | hockerty.com

Rehearsal Dinner AC Benchmark | marriott.com

Erin + Karson

After six blissful years together, Karson proposed in the couple’s home with the help of their young son. “It was very much “us” - quiet and personal and absurdly sweet. Karson had a custom necklace made with an inscription on the back, asking me to marry him. One evening, our little boy came up to me bearing the necklace and when I turned around, Karson was waiting, ring in hand,” Erin reminisces. Similar to the proposal, Erin and Karson decided to tie the knot on their homestead tucked away amid glorious rolling hills and coursing waters of Montana where rugged, untamed beauty and freedom are unparalleled.

Under towering cottonwoods with golden, autumn sunlight glistening over 120 smiling faces, the couple shared personal vows and promises to one another. The ceremony which was performed by a dear friend, included the ancient tradition of planting a tree. Erin and Karson poured soil from their childhood homes symbolizing the settling of roots from the past with the present for their next chapter in life. Erin and Karson approached the reception with their guests in mind. “Our focus was making sure they had a wonderful experience with two cocktail hours, delicious food, a disco ball dance floor, lovely photos of them for keepsakes and a mechanical bull for hilarious measure. But visiting our friendly horses seemed to be their favorite pastime on our wedding day!” shares the bride.

ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES

“Marry your best friend! Someone who makes you laugh every day and loves you with their whole heart. Someone who makes your world feel safe and beautiful, and yet, teeming with wild adventure and a fiery hope for what the future may bring you as you walk into it together.”

-VENDORS-

Venue Private Residence

Wedding Planner & Invitations

Signature Events & Designs | signatureeventsanddesigns.com

Photographer Lovelight Photography | lovelightmontana.com

Florist & Rentals

Habitat Floral Studio | habitatfloralstudio.com

Rentals

Montana Party Time Rentals | missoulaeventrental.com

Big Time Inflatables | mtinflatables.com/mechanicalbull

Signage

Sawdust Souls | @sawdustsouls

Catering

A Moveable Feast | amoveablefeastmissoula.com

Sweets Cakes In the Zoo | @cakesinthezoo

Music & Entertainment DJ PortaRock | portarock.com

Accommodations Residence Inn | marriott.com AC Hotel Missoula | marriott.com

Transportation Beach Transportation Co. | beachtrans.com

Bridal Boutique Velvet Bride | velvetbride.com

Gown Designer Theia Couture | theiacouture.com

Bride & Groom’s Accessories Stetson | stetson.com

Bride & Groom’s Shoes Lucchese | lucchese.com

Groom’s Attire Hickey Freeman | hickeyfreeman.com

Ascot Shop | ascotshop.com

Rehearsal Dinner Lolo Creek Steak House | lolocreeksteakhouse.com

Photo Credit @alexgale_photography_kalispell

Hannah + Milan

It all started during their freshman year of college while on winter break. Hannah returned home to Bozeman and Milan escaped to Big Sky Country for an adventurous ski trip. One evening a group of mutual friends gathered at Hannah’s parents house after dinner, this included Milan. When Hannah noticed Milan petting the family dog who was notorious for disliking just about everyone, it caught her attention. Dogs know best, right? Later that night, Hannah’s mother mentioned what a handsome and kind man Milan was. The following week back at University, Milan asked Hannah on a date and from that day forward the duo became inseparable. Fast forward nine years in late August, Milan told Hannah to pack for a weekend retreat and whisked her away by seaplane to Victoria, British Columbia. Once settled into their accommodations at the Fairmont Empress, known as the castle on the coast, Milan proposed in a Victorian rose garden. The couple married in the summer of 2020 in an intimate micro-ceremony, so a celebration with friends and family was absolutely in order.

“Really take time to enjoy the planning process and have gratitude for what it means to have a wedding - no matter what kind or size. If you are getting married, there is a lot to be grateful for!”

Two years and three save-the-dates later, Hannah and Milan welcomed 130 guests to Firelight Farm to celebrate their unwavering love. The couple worked with planner and designer, Layne Kula of Penny Layne to orchestrate an itinerary of events starting with a welcome party in addition to the actual wedding itself. The vision for the ceremony and reception was harvest-inspired paired with bountiful summer Thanksgiving vibes. Exuding warmth and comfort, the homegrown atmosphere, rosy peach palette and natural wood textures led to the ultimate cozy sanctuary. “For us, the wild of the Rockies is so alluring and romantic. There was nowhere else we considered outside of Bozeman, because it is our favorite place and we wanted to share that with everyone. Our friends and family showed up and gave us memories for a lifetime. How lucky were we to have all of our loved ones, laughing at our childhood anecdotes under one roof in one of the most beautiful settings in the world,” shares the newlyweds.

-VENDORS-

Venue

Firelight Farm | firelightfarmmt.com

Wedding Planner & Invitations

Penny Layne | pennylaynecreative.com

Photographer Logan Cole | logancoleweddings.com

Florist

Storylines Floral Co. | storylinesfloralco.com

Rentals

Montana Party Rentals | montanapartyrentals.com

BBJ La Tavola | bbjlatavola.com

Catering

Seasonal Montana | seasonalmontana.com

Sweets

Elle’s Belles | ellesbelles.com

Music & Entertainment Diamond Empire Band | diamondempireband.com

Transportation Big Sky Shuttle | bigskyshuttle.net

Gown Designer Monique Lhuillier | moniquelhuillier.com

Hair Brooklynn Studio | @brooklynnstudio

Makeup

Fumi Makeup | fumimakeup.com

NOW BOOKING FOR 2024 AND 2025

Whether it’s a large, traditional ceremony, or a spur of the moment dream, escape to Alpine Falls Ranch and allow us to host your ceremony and functions. Our ranch manager works with couples and wedding planners to create custom experiences, both indoor and outdoor, with many available options. We can accommodate groups from 2 to 150, with luxurious lodgings for up to 32 overnight guests. And, when it’s all over, there is no more quiet and serene hideaway than our 850-acre private ranch. Alpine Falls Ranch is conveniently located just a short 45-minute drive from the Missoula Airport.

alicia magnus photography

alicia magnus photography