hey hey

Where to start with these two?! Holy cow, Sarah + Jonah are the sweetest couple. Incredibly + totally obsessed with each other. Seriously, just meeting them the first time, you know they are a beyond perfect pair. 

And maybe that fiery love influenced the weather because their wedding day was HOT! Over 80 degrees in May…in Montana…craziness! The sun shined down on the White Raven that day, giving their outdoor wedding ceremony the glow it so rightfully deserved. 

Sarah was a dream freakin’ vision! She wore a custom made Geri Brown long sleeved wedding dress with an open back. Classic, timeless + absolutely stunning. The two opted for no first look on their day. Sarah, and so many others, joked constantly about how Jonah is a big ol’ softie, + she looooves the drama lol. They decided to save his tears for Sarah’s walk down the aisle haha!! 

As they walked back down the aisle together, they got the sweetest surprise from their family + friends. Their family friends, who are musicians, played All You Need is Love as they walked out, you know just like in the movie Love Actually?? The the rest of their guests whipped out kazoos + the whole audience chimed along! How freaking cool?! It was one of those magical moments.  If you are looking for rings for engagement, etrnlrings.com can be checked out.

We took their portraits in a field still glowy + golden from the bright sun that day, surrounded by pines, mountains + flowering trees. Damn, it was a dreamy spring day for a wedding in Montana! The bride + groom spent the reception dancing the night away under the twinkling lights with their closest loved ones all around, holding each other close every chance they got.

I first met these two at another wedding that Courtney was a bridesmaid in. I traveled to Pennsylvania for Kaitlyn + Steve’s wedding. Got to know the girls during rehearsal dinner a little but on the wedding day I sat at a table with with Courtney + Christoph chatting the night away. A few months later they were engaged and messaged me asking if there was a way I could meet them in Jackson Hole for their engagement photos. To which I said a hell yes and we adventured in a winter wonderland.

Shortly after that they sent me another message saying they we’re getting married in Boulder, Colorado with just their family + would I come photograph it?!? Um yessssss. They planned this perfect intimate wedding with only family and then COVID hit. With family members in Europe there was no way they could come so they postponed hoping they could later. It ultimately became a smaller event as many couldn’t travel. They had such a chill day. Had their ceremony at Sunrise Amphitheater overlooking Boulder at sunset. We did their portraits in pitch dark. That wasn’t the plan but things often don’t go as planned and we rolled with it. It was a challenge I embraced and I love every image because of what we put into them to make something when it seemed almost impossible. 

They spent the evening dancing and having drinks with their family in the cutest little space. And were surprised with video messages from all the people who couldn’t make it in person. It was so sweet and so special. For me it was a reminder of how beautiful things can be in simplicity. When you don’t get worked up about what didn’t work and just embrace what you already have. It’s such an incredible feeling. Cheers you two!!

Xx, J

When you know, you know. That statement couldn’t be more true. For these two their first date lasted alllllll day cause they couldn’t stop talking to each other. Every thing moved quickly but also at just the right speed as everything was perfect. Them and their children…. Six kiddos between them, creating a beautiful blended family that just adores one another. They planned their wedding at the Tait’s families vacation home on Flathead Lake. So many personal touches as everywhere we turned there were physical reminders of memories for them. From their first trip there together to walls Tait built as a kid to their decor additions at different parts of the property. The place they’ll one day inherit.

Tait gave me a tour of the property  which we hired from eXp Realty as soon as I arrived, making plans with where to go and lighting which all changed as the smoke rolled into the valley before the ceremony. They said I Do with their family + closest friends on the back patio, again filled with so many personal touches. I love it. Don’t do basic + traditional, incorporate things that are important and matter to YOU. The sun set in the middle of the sky that afternoon as the wildfire smoke rolled in so thick. 

After the ceremony we headed down to the lake to hop on the boat. This was what Darci dreamed of, relaxed time together on the boat cause they regularly do that at night together. We walked down there and it looked soooo cool as the smoke sat on the water looking like fog creating a mystical moody setting for the evening. They melted into each other and created absolutely magical photos. Then the evenind danced on in a forest of candles. It was so gorgeous!!!

D+T you are so much fun!! CONGRATULATIONS babes!!!

Xx, J

This wedding, these two, MAGIC! If you didn’t see their engagement sesh go check it out!  I prefaced a little about what happened with them the summer of COVID. We planned their engagement photos for Beartooth Pass and a nasty storm came through + we decided being at 11,000 ft during it was maybe a bad idea not the scenario weather wise any of wanted. So they canceled.  But they did end up going up the pass anyway and a little idea sparked. They were already in the midst of downsizing their wedding to keep it safe + weren’t sure about keeping their bigger venue + the idea crossed their minds of could they have their wedding up there. On top of the world. It struck for them and they knew it was right and went to work rearranging everything from Livingston to Red Lodge and the pass.

They found a cute little lodge that many of their guests could join them in. It had the perfect sized patio for an intimate outdoor reception. Julia got ready there with her family and friends while Blake and the guys went downtown Red Lodge to hang + get ready. Mid afternoon we started to make our way up the pass to an open area overlooking the coolest little valley and peaks in the back. Everyone gathered around, relaxed + casual these two promised forever. It is one of the most beautiful ceremonies I have ever seen! We ran wild afterwards in the wide open spaces photographing them. Julia like some mountain queen with her dress flowing in the wind. I’m soooooo obsessed. And in the end cruised back down to the lodge for dinner on the patio with so much laughter and lots of drink glasses clinking. The whole day was just unreal! Forever will be one of my fave days!!! I always feel like embracing the chaos of things brings the best rewards.

Xx

J

 

Planning an elopement in Glacier National Park? Bet there are a million questions swirling around in your brain – photographers, accommodations, permits, travel – ALL OF THE THINGS! Don’t you worry, I’ll answer all of those questions for ya, but today, let’s talk about choosing your date! 

Choosing a date is maybe not that exciting but a really important step in any wedding timeline, especially when it comes to planning an elopement in Glacier, the date can really affect your whole vision for the day! If you are looking for something specific, whether it’s the grand scenic mountain views or snowy fields, it’s important to choose a date that is right for you! Up here in the Rockies, weather can be unpredictable, a little wild, and maybe different than you’d expect! No worries though, I’m here to help you plan your adventure no matter the season! 

First, ask yourself some questions..

One: Do we have any flexibility in our date? – If you have a specific date in mind, you’ll have to accept whatever weather comes with the season, which can be magical, it’s not a bad thing. If your date is in busy months, bookings might become scarce for vendors near the park so you’re gonna wanna get rolling ASAP. 

Two: What views do we want for our day? – Bright, sunny mountain views? Whimsical snowy peaks? Waterfalls? In love with wildflowers? If you have specific ideas for where you want to elope within the park, make sure to choose a date that spot is accessible, and your views are “in season”. 

Three: Do we have specific times of day in mind? – Sunrise and sunset sessions are popular choices, but daylight varies throughout the year and temps can drop pretty low – so keep that in mind! Also the continental divide runs through the park some areas are better for sunrise light and others are best at sunset!

Now that I’ve got ya thinking about your date + asking yourselves a few questions, let me show you what different seasons in Glacier National Park have to offer! 

 

Sweet summertime! Late June through August.

Summer is a favorite for a reason! Glacier National Park’s sweeping valley fields are blooming with wild flowers, days are long with that golden hour light and the whole park is yours for the choosing! The sun rises early around 6a and can set as late as 9:30! The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road opens typically the third week of June and the whole park is open and accessible for us to explore! Prior to the 3rd week of June there are accessible areas on both the west and east side of the park however much of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed over Logan’s Pass. Keep in mind, with this summertime beauty also comes crowds. Elopements are typically booked for Monday through Thursday to avoid the masses! Plus I know the spots that are quiet and kind of secretive! Just look at the park in the summer – pretty freakin magical!

 

Fall! September to early October.

Who doesn’t love fall?! I mean really? Turning leaves giving those golden hues, the crisp air and smaller crowds! And while fall in Glacier can be what dreams are made of, it’s often short lived. Winter comes quickly around here. Be ready for chilly temperatures starting in mid-September and snowfall as early as October! Sometimes there is even a rogue winter storm end of September!

Late fall can bring unpredictable weather and it varies every year. But, if you time it juussst right, you could end up there just as the snow starts to fly and it’s incredible!

 

Winter! October through April.

Winter is a dreamy time here in Glacier National Park! If you are looking for fields of fresh snow and dramatic mountain views – winter might be right for you! Days are short and temperatures are frigid, but if your dream is a winter wonderland, you won’t be disappointed! 

And while winter is a magical time, you should be warned that it can also look like a white-out, with mountains totally socked in! It is winter, ya know?? Most of the park is closed in the off-season, making some viewpoints impossible to reach. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed from mid-October to late June. Expect in winter months to have access from the West Entrance up to the Going-to-the-Sun Road to Lake McDonald lodge only. But there are still beautiful views to be found in these places!

 

Spring. May to mid June!

Oh springtime, our unpredictable friend!! Snow or rain or snow or sunshine?? We never know! Okay we don’t usually have snow, but it has happened. Spring blooms late in Glacier with winter lasting til May. So while we warmly welcome spring time when she comes, the wait can be a long one. But when winter finally subsides, it leaves behind a little magic! Areas like Many Glacier + Two Medicine Valleys start to open up mid to late may. Even though you still can’t get to Logan’s Pass, you can enter the Going-to-the-Sun Road from St Marys giving us a little more space to roam. It is also very quiet this time of year in the park. Accommodations inside the park don’t open up until June and visitors haven’t started flooding in yet, so book the cutest AirBnb nearby and enjoy having this incredible place to yourself!

So are you for wildflower fields in the summer or winter snow and mountain views? Maybe somewhere in between? No matter what date you choose, I’m ready when you are so let’s start planning!!

My favorite thing of 2020 and the ridiculous year that it was lol, is how much life was breathed into elopements + intimate/micro weddings. They have always pulled on my heart strings. There is something so magical about the way they play out. With or without all the details + little things there is so much more ease + peace in these types of events. Whether it’s just the two of you or even if you’re including your immediate fam + a couple of others so close to you that you choose them as additions to your family.

Stephanie + Chad brought their family to Glacier National Park for their wedding day. They rented an airbnb near the entrance where they could all be together. We caravanned into the park, along the Going to the Sun Road, over the pass to Sun Point. That day they winds were HOWLING. There were whitecaps on the lake below, it was wild. But even still S+C said this is the place, this is where we say I Do. We found a small little nook on the cliffs where the wind was ever so slightly less, it was wild, and they shared their vows and promises to forever as everyone gathered around huddling together to stay warm. It was beautiful + I loved that they just went for it, not letting weather get in their way. 

After their ceremony we retreated to the trees for some family photos + turned some music on the speaker as they had their first dance + everyone joined in with them. S told me she really wanted a waterfall so I took them down the road to hike down into one. This was so fun cause all of their family came along with us so it was a mini little adventure hike down to enjoy a new view + mist on their skin. And we ended the evening up at Logan’s Pass as the sun went down, the wind got a little cooler + they bundled up + wrapped up into each other’s arms. The weather does what the weather does + it was the perfect day!

Xx, J

These two honeys could not wait to say I Do! Jamie knew as soon as Emery asked her to marry him the only place to do it was in her parents backyard along the river just outside Missoula, MT. And it was truly the perfect spot. To look at all these photos and realize everything is in the backyard except them getting ready is insane. Their property is just stunning! Gold and deep red hues everywhere. Different seating areas, even a lit up teepee kinda spot next to the river. Amazing florals and a dress to die for!

Jamie looked absolutely incredible. So perfect. The guys were ready in a flash as they always are and spent the afternoon hanging in the yard, smoking cigars, shots to the good life, and a lot of laughing going on. In a year of COVID they pulled off the perfect party outside where everyone had space and room to distance + breathe.  They started their ceremony by the river with a covid cleansing shot of alcohol. You knew it was going to be a good night. And the perfect way to lighten the mood in a year of chaos and a bit of fear. These two weren’t going to let it hold them down.

They shared sweet vows in front of their family + loved ones and then everyone filled up on a taco and nacho bar! The sun seemed to hover along the horizon for ages. Was the longest sunset of all time but we soaked in every minute as they embraced in it’s warmth. I could have photographed them out there forever. We actually felt like we had been out there forever haha but we weren’t going to let any sun go to waste! The first dance was shared under the stars, with lights strung along her parents patio, it was pure magic. 

Cheers to a life full of magic you two!

Xx, J

They had always wanted a super small intimate gathering for their wedding. Nothing big or grand, just simple + beautiful with their absolute favorite people. The planned the perfect little day at the Homestead on McVey outside Missoula, MT getting ready in the neighbor house, a ceremony on the lawn, breakfast for dinner set up under the willow, a first dance in the grass and fire to keep them warm.

It all happened. Even amidst the chaos of COVID. Fortunately because they had always wanted this smaller event they were never forced to change any plans as their event fit all the guidelines. We just held tight to see if Montana would open in time and then if they’d lift the 14 day quarantine as everyone drove in from across the country. And sure enough, things work out as they’re supposed to (ALWAYS). Montana started to slowly reopen and the week before the quarantine restriction lifted it seemed like just for them as they held out hope til last minute that it could happen. 

It was the sweetest day starting with her dad meeting her on the back porch for a quick moment together, just them. The rain came and went and no one was phased. Their simple ceremony with BEAUTIFUL flowers and Nathan’s mom officiating. And an evening designed by the one and only Soiree 99 Event Design. She created the perfect outdoor picnic with texture and color. A perfect place for them to retreat and not get rained on under the tree, tell stories for hours, toast to love + happiness and enjoy breakfast for dinner. Breakfast for dinner at your wedding is the greatest thing I’ve ever heard. But it fit them perfectly as their first dates were always breakfast as one was getting off work and the other on their way, it was so special to them.

They ended the night gathered around a fire, snuggled up with hot spiked drinks. It was absolute perfection. Especially in a time that weddings seemed impossible. They aren’t.

Xx, J.

I know I always say this couple is one of my faves cause they’re all my faves but somehow I swear they are haha. Sasha + Josh decided to elope on Maui and asked me to join them and photograph their day and that was amazing! But then months later Sasha emailed and said ok we’re doing the real deal for the fam + friends what do you think about industrial Atlanta? Next thing I know I’m headed to the King Plow Arts Center in Atlanta!!!

And to top it off they were planning a Jewish ceremony. I LOVE JEWISH WEDDINGS!! They are actually my favorite. They’re the perfect amount of tradition, family, commitment + a good does of LETS PARTY. 

They got ready at the incredible Hotel Clermont. Ran into each other in the hotel hallway and finished getting ready together. At the King Plow Arts Center they had set up a stunning chuppah in an old brick building lit only with candlelight. They’re little girl joined us and we took some of the cutest photos outside with her. Then took a moment with their fam + inner circle to sign the ketubah and then had a beautiful ceremony with all their favorite people. They walked back down the aisle again together with their little girl. Just pure magic! 

The room was transformed into the most incredible romantic candlelight layout by Pearl and Sky Events. The chuppah became home to the most amazing dessert spread. Tables filled with flowers and glitz. Greenery hanging from chandeliers. They ate, drank, laughed so SO much and danced and partied the night away. It was so fun and exciting I actually cracked my shin on a chair and limped for weeks lol. Pretty sure I hairline fractured it so that’s a fun party! #success

So grateful for these two! Trusting me with their special moments twice on opposite ends of the country. ILY.

Xx, J

These two are so incredibly in love + there isn’t a person on the planet who can deny their connection. A rando on the street would say they were made for each other only seeing them for 1 second. They have the best hearts and surround themselves with the most amazing people.

Trina dreamed of a winter wonderland wedding at her family’s house by the river outside of Missoula MT. A ceremony in the trees with the white snow everywhere and then a clear tent to dance the night away in. Well when the day arrived the weather had another plan!! The temps dropped so low it was crazy cold so last minute they decided to keep everyone comfortable to move everything into the tent and do the ceremony and reception in there. It turned out perfectly!! They had the sweetest vows as their pup laid right down the aisle haha. He actually stepped on the back of Trina’s dress and veil as she was walking down the aisle to Shane, it was hilarious! Love their dog being a part of the whole day!

They looked absolutely incredible, toasts were had, a live band, dancing all night, some singing + playing from Shane + his best man! Mo Club came out and made us burgers in a snowstorm! It was epic!

The day went by in a flash and we came up with this idea of snagging lanterns from the walk way and shooting out in the trees after the sun had gone down since they didn’t get to have their ceremony down there and it was so fun. Such a good little challenge to work outside of normal daylight and sunset but to create in a way we don’t normally and the images are so beautiful! I wanna try this again!

I spent 3 days photographing these two and the events leading up to their day and their day after brunch and I just adore them, their family + friends. I wanna do it all over again! Can’t wait to photograph these babes again this summer for something else 😉 Just wait!!

Xx, J