Merging histories, cultures, and their love story, Leah and K brought their friends and family from across the US and the world to their their Billings Historic Depot wedding in Billings, Montana. It was a beautiful October day (and unexpectedly warm for October, too!). The trees outside the depot were just starting to sport the changing colors of the season, and it truly couldn’t have been a more perfect day for Leah and K to vow their love to one another.

Their journey began in college at Yale, where they shared an internship at the Yale Art Gallery. Fast forward a few years to their wedding, and they had the most amazing blend of Armenian and Native American traditions. They pulled from Leah’s Armenian and Arab heritage, and K’s Native American Little Shell and Crow roots to easily and joyfully merge the two cultures, creating a space where love and happiness were center stage.

Leah’s uncle in his judge robes, adorned with a stole beaded by K’s mother, officiated their ceremony. And what a ceremony it was! There were happy tears, raw emotions, and so much laughter — especially when Leah tried to steal an early kiss, which K ducked! Everyone in attendance absolutely howled with laughter, as did Leah and K! Soon it was time to officially, OFFICIALLY seal it all with a kiss, and everyone cheered as the newly married couple walked down the aisle together, hand-in-hand and beaming.

Their grand entrance into the dining and dance hall was nothing short of spectacular. Leah, K, and their entire wedding party danced and wound their way through the tables to the dance floor as they performed a line dance to a traditional Armenian wedding song. Soon everyone joined in, held hands, and the dance floor was rocking! Boots stomped, people laughed, and it wasn’t long before K led everyone in a traditional Native dance, too. As someone who loves all sorts of music and dance, I was absolutely blown away by how incredibly beautiful this was to witness.

Continuing the blending of cultures, beaded bolo ties and earrings (crafted by K’s mother), adorned each member of the wedding party, including Leah’s father. The rugs, a gift from Leah’s parents and a family heirloom from Leah’s great-grandmother Leila, added layers of personal history to the celebration. Incorporating Native American traditions, a prayer was offered for Leah and K, followed by a giveaway where the couple bestowed blankets, fabric, tobacco, and money to their loved ones. The favor bags for guests were adorned with a flower designed by K’s mom and the words “thank you” in Ojibwe, Armenian, and Arabic.

Leah and K’s family shared so many beautiful, emotional toasts that had everyone laughing, and perhaps with a tear or two in their eye. The shoe game, masterfully orchestrated by Leah’s aunt Susan, added a healthy dose of extra fun to the evening, and everyone continued to kick up their heels on the dance floor as the tunes spilled out from the open doors into the indigo evening.

Leah and K! Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for inviting me to document your wedding. What a truly incredible day it was for two incredible people! Your friends and family are *chef’s kiss* stellar, and I loved every second of your day. Here’s to you and what I know will be a fabulous future together!

Vendors for Leah + K’s Billings Historic Depot Wedding:

Photographer :: Kristine Paulsen Photography, Missoula, Montana
Venue :: Billings Depot, Billings, Montana
Catering :: Mas Taco, Red Lodge, Montana
Florals :: Mac’s Floral, Billings, Montana
Coordinator :: Planning Everyday Events, Billings, Montana
Videographer :: Elevate Media, Belgrade, Montana
Cake :: Sweets by Sam, Billings, Montana
Spirits :: Magic City Casino Catering, Billings, Montana
Decorator :: Better to Gather, Billings, Montana
Hair :: Samantha Law, Billings, Montana
Makeup :: Makeup by Alexa Elise, Billings, Montana
DJ :: Magic City Productions, Billings, Montana
Officiant :: Thomas Barbar (Leah’s uncle)
Leah’s dress :: a Mikaella by Paloma Blanca design from Vows Bridal, Watertown, Massachusetts
Wedding party dresses :: from Azazie Bridal
K’s attire :: from Bindle & Keep, Brooklyn, New York
Wedding party suits :: from Suitshop

On the docket:

Portraits! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Ashley and Nick celebrated their Missoula Montana brunch wedding with a picturesque autumn ceremony at the Missoula Country Club. It was a bit of a chilly morning, and we laughed together that the cloudy sky matched the sky from their engagement photos!

But the cooler temps didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits, especially since Ashley and Nick’s ceremony was so delightful. It was filled with sweet, funny moments that had everyone grinning and laughing together.

The decision to opt for a brunch wedding is a testament to Ashley and Nick’s shared love for excellent food — especially breakfast and brunch goodies! (Can I get a heck yes?! ) The brunch spread was an absolute feast for the senses.

Laughter echoed through the venue as family and friends started up games the couple had placed at each table. And I’ve got to say, Ashley and Nick have such a wonderful group of friends and family surrounding and supporting them. There were more than a few moments that had everyone cracking up! (But I’ll let you scroll down to find a few of those photos yourself. ) The positive energy was contagious, creating an atmosphere filled with love, joy, and an unmistakable sense of camaraderie.

Ashley and Nick! Thank you again for such a fun-filled day with you and your family and friends. I just adore you both, and I’m so grateful our paths have crossed. Here’s to a brilliant future together, filled with all the best things — good food, great company, a whole lot of laughter, and last, but not least — goats galore!

Vendors for Ashley + Nick’s Missoula Montana Brunch Wedding:

Photographer :: Kristine Paulsen Photography, Missoula, Montana
Venue + Catering :: Missoula Country Club, Missoula, Montana
Cake :: ArtcakeMT, Missoula, Montana
Makeup :: Tres Chic Hair and Nail Salon, Missoula, Montana
Wedding dress :: from Bliss gown
Bridesmaid dresses :: from Azazie Bridal
Men’s suits :: from Men’s Wearhouse, Missoula, Montana

On the docket:

Portraits and weddings! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Surrounded by a stunning autumn landscape, Jasmin and Conn celebrated their Philipsburg Montana ranch wedding with their friends and family — a unique blend of Montana charm and Texas warmth.

Their ceremony was filled with pure, beautiful emotions. Jasmin sang to Conn at the altar, her melodic voice filling the air, and I spied a few misty eyes in attendance. Conn wrote his vows in poem form, and read them to Jasmin, choking up at points, which again had people reaching for their tissues. Their dog, Santino (who goes by Sunny), also joined them at the altar. His presence was fitting, since he’s their best bud and travels with them everywhere. Jasmin and Conn sealed their vows with a kiss, and soon everyone was enjoying a delicious meal, toasts and all sorts of great dancing.

Jasmin and Conn brought their love for nature into every detail of their wedding. They embraced the chilly weather and the beauty of golden leaves, reflecting their passion for the great outdoors. Some rain moved in, but that didn’t dampen spirits; instead, it became an unexpected delight for the kiddos, who had an absolute blast playing with umbrellas, or directly in the rivulets streaming down from the tent.

As the rain died down a bit and the sky turned a deep indigo, friends and family got a bonfire roaring. The kids had a great time roasting both sticks and s’mores, and laughter and joy mingled with the light rain, turning the bonfire gathering into another highlight of the day.

Folks kept the celebration going, moving in between the bonfire and dancing. Even the dogs made the dance floor their own, too, as they reveled in the joyful atmosphere.

What a beautiful, fun day, Jasmin and Conn! Thank you again for inviting me to document your love for each other, your family and friends, and the beautiful Montana landscape. Here’s to you two, and a wonderful married life together!

Vendors for Jasmin + Conn’s Philipsburg Montana Ranch Wedding:

Photographer :: Kristine Paulsen Photography, Missoula, Montana
Venue :: Private ranch, Philipsburg, Montana
Coordinator :: Epic Events, Missoula, Montana
Catering :: Crave Catering, Missoula, Montana
Florals :: Sāj Floral Design Studio, Philipsburg, Montana
Hair + Makeup :: Glacier Beauty Co., Kalispell, Montana
Cake :: ArtcakeMT, Missoula, Montana
Spirits :: Montana Mobile Bar, East Helena, Montana
DJ :: RMF Entertainment, Missoula, Montana
Restrooms :: Montana Pretty Potty, Missoula, Montana
Officiant :: Jessica Leslie

On the docket:

Portraits and weddings! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Cassie and Drew’s Caras Park wedding in Missoula unfolded under a brilliant blue September sky and surprisingly warm temps (it was 82 degrees!). But the heat didn’t keep anyone’s joy or smiles away as they celebrated such a happy occasion.

Cassie was radiant in her custom-made cloak as she and Drew walked hand-in-hand into their ceremony. They exchanged vows surrounded by their closest friends and family members. As the ceremony progressed, Cassie and Drew were unexpectedly treated to individual bags of popcorn, a nod to how they first crossed paths. Their love story had its origins in a movie outing with friends. Drew, stepping out of the theater for a moment, entrusted Cassie with his popcorn. In his absence, Cassie (a big popcorn lover) couldn’t resist the temptation to indulge in a little (or maybe a lot ). Fast forward about 8 years, and there they were at Caras Park, smiling and laughing with each other as they pledged their love to each other…with a little popcorn on the side.

Amidst the warm glow of the sun, heartfelt toasts from friends and family filled the air, a delectable array of desserts satisfied those with a sweet tooth, and the dance floor beckoned, promising a night of lively celebration.

Speaking of dancing, Cassie and Drew wowed everyone with their first dance — a beautiful tango that left everyone smiling and clapping for them as the song ended and they took their bows.

As the day gracefully transitioned into night, Cassie, Drew, and I skipped over to the river to catch the most perfect evening light, a few more dance moves, and some epic dips.

Soon, the warm glow deepened to a lovely rich blue of the night sky, and everyone lit sparklers amidst laughter, music, and cheers to celebrate the newlyweds.

Cassie and Drew! What a beautiful day of celebration! Thank you again for inviting me to capture these memories for you — I absolutely loved getting to hang out with you two, and your sweet family and friends. Here’s to a wonderful marriage, and all the popcorn you could ever want!

Vendors for Cassie + Drew’s Caras Park wedding in Missoula:

Photographer :: Kristine Paulsen Photography, Missoula, Montana
Venue :: Caras Park, Missoula, Montana
Catering :: Burns St. Bistro, Missoula, Montana
Florals :: a Patty Malloy design with flowers from Bitterroot Flower Shop, Missoula, Montana
Linens :: Missoula Textile Services, Missoula, Montana
Glassware :: Montana Party Time, Missoula, Montana
Bartender :: Penny Farmer from the Moose Lodge, Missoula, Montana
Wedding dress :: a Madi Lane design from Velvet Bride, Missoula, Montana
Wedding cloak :: CostureroReal, Barcelona, Spain
Menswear :: Indochino (and others)

On the docket:

Portraits and weddings! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Hailey and Nate’s Seattle Washington wedding at The Lodge at St Edward Park took place on a late August day, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. And it was a truly perfect day for them! One might say, a “Goldilocks” kind of day — not too hot, not too cold…juuuust right.

Hailey and Nate, a couple whose connection is rooted in the great outdoors, welcomed friends and family from all corners of the globe to witness their union. Against a backdrop of blue skies, tall trees, and the majestic expanse of St. Edward Park, their wedding day unfolded like a dream.

The ceremony was a symphony of joy and elegance, with flower girls scattering petals along the aisle and a charming ring bearer stealing the hearts of all in attendance. Laughter flowed freely as heartfelt toasts were raised to celebrate the newlyweds. The air was filled with the aroma of delectable cuisine, and their cake cutting was a moment of shared delight. It was soon followed by a lively dance floor and gales of laughter as everyone kicked up their heels to celebrate Hailey and Nate.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the festivities were far from over. Guests savored late-night desserts, gathered around the outdoor bonfires, and exchanged stories under a starlit sky.

What makes Hailey and Nate’s journey even more enchanting is their history – a connection that dates back to a camping trip in 2018, orchestrated by a mutual friend. From that moment, Hailey and Nate’s bond flourished, nurtured by their shared love for the outdoors. Hiking, skiing, camping – they embraced every adventure, creating a bond that eventually blossomed into love. Their story of connection is a testament to timing, patience, and destiny.

As I clicked away, capturing so many sweet moments, I couldn’t help but reflect on the beautiful full-circle experience their wedding was for me. You see, I used to babysit Hailey and her brothers when she was just a tiny girl, and our families were neighbors. To witness her transformation from a precocious child to a radiant bride was an absolute honor. (I was grateful to have my camera in front of my face, because, I *cough cough* got a little choked up a few times!)

Their Seattle Washington wedding at The Lodge at St Edward Park wasn’t just a celebration of Hailey and Nate’s love; it was a celebration of nature’s beauty, shared connections, and the awesome journey that is life. Hailey and Nate! Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for inviting me to document such a special day in your lives. I absolutely loved getting to reconnect, and had such a wonderful time meeting those you hold dearly. Here’s to you, your marriage, and your bright future ahead!

Vendors for Hailey + Nate’s Seattle Washington wedding at The Lodge at St Edward Park:

Photographer: Kristine Paulsen Photography, Missoula, Montana
Venue + Catering: The Lodge at St. Edward Park, Kenmore, Washington
Planning + Florals: Kevin Bradford Design, Seattle, Washington
Cake: Honey Crumb Cake Studio, Seattle, Washington
Videographer: Bogle Productions, Seattle, Washington
DJ: Seattle Parties, Seattle, Washington
Officiant: Gavin Brand, Trinity Church Seattle, Seattle, Washington
Hair + Makeup: Sweet P Beauty, Renton, Washington
Wedding dress: a Maddie Lane design from Bellevue Bridal, Bellevue, Washington
Bridesmaid dresses: from Azazie Bridal
Men’s suits: from Suitsupply

On the docket:

Portraits and weddings! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

You know when you talk with people and just instantly connect? That’s how I felt when I first chatted with Brenna and Nathaniel over the phone about their engagement and wedding photography. And I was just so, SO excited to get to make their Butte Montana engagement photos. We somehow avoided the rain, too! (Though it was cold enough we were actually wondering if it might snow, ha!)

Brenna and Nathaniel are just the sweetest, and have been together for 10 years. I met up with them at their (gorrrrrgeous) home in Butte that has a beautiful view of the Tobacco Roots. Brenna’s family used to own a ski hill right nearby (when it still got snow). And holy smokes, is it ever a stunning property!

We had so much fun traipsing all around, and finding the prettiest little pockets of aspen and sagebrush and wildflowers, hooray! As we were making photos, the running joke was that we were being watched (literally) by their cats, Milo, Purrkley, and Tapper, who were hanging out in the windows of their home, keeping an eye on us. (Also, how awesome are their cats’ names?! They’re all named after Butte-related things!)

As a bonafide nerd myself, I was pretty stoked to hear that Brenna and Nathaniel also consider themselves nerdlings (yay!), and wanted to make a few photos of them gaming together. (Yas, please!)

Suffice it to say, we just had so much fun together, and there was no shortage of laughter and smiles and blissful nerdiness.

Brenna and Nathaniel! What I’ve shared here doesn’t do justice to what an absolute delight it was to hang out with you and make these photos! You two are just wonderful, and I cannot wait to document your wedding day for you! Woohoo! :)

On the docket:

Lotsa portraits! Stay tuned!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Matthew + Amanda’s wedding at the Nest on Swan River in Bigfork Montana was truly the perfect day. Amidst a very wet spring season, the raindrops only came out here and there, but otherwise left us alone, and Mother Nature treated the couple to a stunning wedding day.

We started off with some getting ready images. Everyone was so relaxed and chill (I’m always a big fan of that!), and people just truly seemed to be embracing the day and enjoying themselves. Laughter flowed freely, and I had such a blast getting to photograph Matthew, Amanda, their family, and friends.

Flowering trees and lilacs were just at the tail end of their blooms, but it made for a magical feeling around the Nest, with petals lazily floating on the breeze. And it made for a gorgeous photo backdrop, too! Matthew and Amanda’s first look was absolute perfection, and Matthew’s expression as he saw his bride for the first time was priceless.

Before long, it was time for the ceremony to start. Everyone was in good spirits, and the laughter trend continued. Matthew dipped Amanda for their first kiss, and everyone cheered for the newlyweds as they walked back down the aisle, beaming together as husband and wife.

Guests were treated to delicious food and drink, a rollicking good photo booth, and lawn games. Matthew and Amanda shared their mother-son and father-daughter dances with Matthew’s sister and father, since she and her husband had to cancel their wedding in 2020 and elope instead. There were more than a few tears that sprang up with this kind gesture, and the emotion was beautiful, sweet, and tangible.

Folks shared in more good natured laughter and fun during the toasts, and then it was time to cut the cake, distribute the desserts, and kick off some fantastic dancing as daylight shifted to night.

Matthew and Amanda! What an absolute pleasure it was to be invited to document your day and make these images for you! I just loved every second of getting to work with you, your friends, and family (you seriously have the sweetest people in your lives!), and I’m just so very happy for you both. Here’s to a joyful married life ahead! Big hugs and congrats to you again!

Vendors for Matthew + Amanda’s Wedding at The Nest on Swan River in Bigfork Montana

Photographer: Kristine Paulsen Photography, Missoula, Montana
Venue: The Nest on Swan River, Bigfork, Montana
Planner: Kayla Conners with Epic Events, Missoula, Montana
Florist: Blume Hill Studios, Flathead Valley, Montana
DJ: Collin, with Ryan Bradshaw Media, Missoula, Montana
Makeup and hair artist: Glow Salon, Kalispell, Montana
Officiant: Don Strine
Caterer: Oso’s Catering, Columbia Falls, Montana
Rentals: Celebrate Rentals, Kalispell, Montana
Wedding dress: an Essence of Australia design from Plume Bridal, Bozeman, Montana
Bridesmaid dresses: from Birdy Grey
Men’s suits: from Friar Tux, San Diego

On the docket:

Oodles of portraits and weddings — stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Ashley and Nick truly are two wonderful people — and I was so excited to be able to make Garden of One Thousand Buddhas engagement photos for them, which is one of their favorite places. Ashley shared with me that it’s particularly significant to them because it’s the spot they’d often visit together when they first started dating. (And if there’s one thing I love, it’s being able to make photos in meaningful places for folks!)

Zipping up to Arlee from Missoula, we somehow managed to be treated to one of Montana’s balmier days this winter, complete with a little sun and blue sky, which I think must’ve been timed just perfectly for Ashley and Nick’s session. The universe knew!

If you haven’t been to it before, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a special place, surrounded by stunning mountains, dotted with Buddhas of all shapes and sizes, and permeated by a tranquil, positive energy that we all appreciated. We wandered through the grounds, stopping at various points to laugh and chat and make photos. I think everyone’s faces hurt from smiling and cracking up so much — always a good thing in my opinion!

Speaking of which, Ashley and Nick are just a blast to photograph, and I love to see just how much fun they have together! Even though things were somewhat chilly (I mean, it is still winter after all), the warmth and love they radiated made the temps barely noticeable.

I am just so excited to get to photograph their wedding in October, and I already know we’re going to have the best time together capturing such a special day! (Photo ninja mode, here I come! )

Ashley and Nick! Congratulations again on your engagement, and thank you for being just an absolute delight to photograph! You two are the bees knees, and I’m seriously stoke, stoke, stoked for your wedding! Woohoo!

P.S. Here’s a fun little GIF to enjoy, too.

On the docket:

Portraits! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Emily and Andy’s White Raven wedding in Montana was filled with beauty, love, and plenty of laughter as they celebrated with their family and friends. A few dark clouds rolled through right as their day was getting started, but Mother Nature knew to treat these two well, and the clouds hung off to the side as everyone finished getting ready.

Emily and Andy were eager to see each other, and enjoyed a super sweet first look among some late-blooming lupine and lush green grass on the property. Andy was all smiles as soon as Emily tapped him on the shoulder to greet him, and they shared a long embrace as they admired each other in their wedding finery.

Soon it was time for their ceremony. Their friends and family enjoyed spots of shade in the dappled afternoon light as the wedding party made their way to the aisle amongst the evergreens. Emily was glowing and Andy completely lit up as he watched his bride walking down the aisle towards him.

They shared their vows against a brilliant mountain backdrop as a light breeze blew, and a few happy tears might have sneaked their way in, too, as they exchanged rings and promised their love to each other. Not long after, they sealed it all with a kiss, and walked back down the aisle as newlyweds, showered with rose petals and well-wishes and smiles from their loved ones.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner and tasty drinks, punctuated by moving, emotional toasts that got people both a little teary and laughing. Emily and Andy cut their cake, shared a slice together, and then launched into their first dance as everyone cheered them on, craggy, beautiful mountains acting as their dance hall.

We took a few moments to steal away and make some sweet images of the two of them, and catch a spot of golden evening light alongside the river and the nearby bridge. Emily and Andy rejoined their guests, and everyone had a blast dancing, chatting, and playing lawn games on the venue grounds.

Emily and Andy! What an honor to get to capture such a beautiful, special day for you both! I can’t even begin to express just how much I love seeing the love you two have for each other, and how much I adored getting to document both you and your wonderful family and friends. Your day was pure perfection — you two have been such a delight to work with, and I’m so excited for your future together. Thank you again for inviting me to document these memories for you — cheers to you both, and a giant congratulations again to you!

Vendors for Emily + Andy’s White Raven wedding in Montana

Venue: White Raven Venue & Retreat, Alberton, Montana
Florist: Agile Goat Flower Farm, Florence, Montana
DJ: Ryan Bradshaw, Missoula, Montana
Makeup and hair artist: MVP Beauty, Missoula, Montana
Caterer: The Silk Road, Missoula, Montana
Transportation: Hellgate Transportation, Missoula, Montana
Bar and spirits: Big Sky Mobile Bartending, Missoula, Montana
Wedding dress: a Made with Love design from Honest in Ivory, Spokane, Washington
Bridesmaid dresses: from Lulu’s
Men’s suits: from Tuxedo Gallery, Missoula, Montana

On the docket:

Oodles of portraits — stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

As I write this we’re getting our first real snow of the season, and it sure makes me glad we had such a beautiful day for Emily and Andy’s Missoula Montana autumn engagement photos!

I was so excited to get to meet Emily and Andy for the first time (after having chatted with them for a while), and these two are are just beyond sweet together. There’s an ease, a happiness, a warmth that’s just so wonderfully apparent between them, which is so wonderful to see and document. And it’s immediately clear how much in love they are with each other

We had such a great time making these engagement photos for them, though Andy did admit to not loving being in front of the camera. As they described it when we were initially talking about their wedding photography, “There’s pain behind Andy’s eyes in photos.” And, wouldn’t you know it, I’d guesstimate that 70% of the people I photograph mention something similar. My goal is to make sure there’s nothing of the sort in the images we create together. And Emily and Andy absolutely blew their session out of the proverbial water.

They are so quick to laugh together and be playful, and had wonderful energy in front of the camera! (Which I know isn’t always the easiest thing to do.)

Emily and Andy are both originally from Michigan, and actually met at Michigan State University where they both played trumpet in the marching band. How cool is that?! I love it!

During our session, we had the most comments from passers by that I’ve ever encountered during a session, which had us all cracking up. (I’m glad I’m not the only one who could see just how awesome Emily and Andy are together!)

Emily and Andy! Thank you again for such a stellar session! I absolutely loved getting to make these images for you, and I’m just giddy about your wedding next year! I can already tell it’s going to be such a happy, joyful, wonderful day for you both! Can’t wait!

On the docket:

Lots of portraits – stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine