Gretchen and Shawn both live in New York City, but Gretchen grew up in Missoula and knew she wanted to be married in the big sky state and honor some of her favorite Montana things on their wedding day. They couldn’t have paid homage to this great place any better.
From their first look that took place near her childhood home, to the Montana beers, to the band they had playing, to the sage in her bouquet, it was truly a day full of fond memories – both old and new.
Montana certainly was up to the challenge as well and presented everyone with a brilliantly sunny day, not a cloud in that expanse of blue, and later transformed itself with a blazing sunset and bright stars in the inky blue sky.
Gretchen and Shawn also wrote some of the most touching vows to each other. As their friend and officiant told me before the ceremony: “Get ready; they’re both wordsmiths, so these vows are going to be good.” And they absolutely were. Friends and family cheered the two as they sealed their vows with a kiss and walked, beaming, down the aisle as newlyweds.
The sun sparkled on the surface of wine glasses as guests enjoyed tunes from Tom Catmull and the Clerics, mingled with one another, and dined. Soon the laughter came in waves as friends and family toasted to Gretchen and Shawn, and not long after, folks hit the dance floor to kick up their heels.
Gretchen, Shawn and I sneaked away, past the blazing bonfire outside, and hightailed it to catch the beautiful sunset over the mountains. I’ve got to give major kudos to these two for scaling the hills and wading through the grass – but it was worth it…so very worth it.
Thank you again, Gretchen and Shawn, for inviting me into such a truly beautiful and happy day in your lives! It was been such a treat to work with you both and I’m so glad Montana pulled out all the stops for you! Here’s to many, many years of heartfelt words, brilliant sunsets, and smiles for one another! Congrats again!
Vendors:
Venue: The Ranch Club, Missoula, Montana
Florist: Habitat Floral Studio, Missoula, Montana
Cake Artist: Margaret Ambrose-Barton, Missoula, Montana
Band: Tom Catmull & the Clerics, Missoula, Montana
Hair: Cowgirls Salon & Spa, Missoula, Montana
Wedding Dress: Blue by Enzoani from The White Gown, New York, New York
Bridesmaid Dresses: from the Dessy Collection
Menswear: Jim’s Formalwear from Rococo Bridal, Missoula, Montana
Officiant: Brian Tormey, friend of the bride and groom
On the docket: weddings, portraits and more weddings! Stay posted!
Cheers,
-Kristine
{ Book a Session with Kristine }….{ Join the Facebook page }….{ Visit the Website }