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

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

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

Dimitri and Jenn, along with their immediate family, traveled up to Montana from California for their September Triple Creek Ranch elopement. And boy, was it ever a perfect day for these two to promise their love to each other!

We started the day out by zipping around to some pretty sweet vistas overlooking the Bitterroot mountains, and were treated to a blue sky day — a bit of a rarity during a fairly smoky summer! Autumn colors had even started to pop in amongst the greenery, which made the most stunning backdrop for some fun portraits of the soon-to-be-married couple.

After making our images (and kudos to Dimitri and Jenn for navigating some seriously steep rocks in slippery dress shoes!), we all headed back to the ranch where Dimitri and Jenn got ready to say their “I do’s.”

Against a backdrop of evergreens, a pond, and a lush floral arch, and in front of their beloved family, Dimitri and Jenn shared their vows, some laughs, and some tears with each other. As Jenn’s father officiated, and while Dimitri’s mother and grandmother shared readings and words of wisdom with the couple, dragonflies flitted about, adding even more magic to a very special day. Dimitri and Jenn sealed it all with a joyous kiss, and celebrated with champagne toasts that had everyone laughing, smiling, and hugging one another.

Dimitri and Jenn! It was so nice to meet you both, and I wish you a lifetime of happiness together — and many more Montana visits! Here’s to you two and your bright and brilliant future! Congratulations!

On the docket:

Portraits and brand sessions! Stay tuned!

Cheers,

-Kristine

After a couple years of planning and several delays (you know, because pandemic times), I was beyond delighted to document Matthew and Andrew’s Woodson Ranch Wedding in Sheridan Montana.

Not only is the ranch absolutely gorgeous, it’s also incredibly special to Matthew and his family. His grandfather purchased the ranch when he was born and his family has been running it ever since as part of the Ruby Habitat Foundation (which is super cool — check it out!). Matthew spent three summers working on the ranch, as well as many summers visiting it.

After having met Andrew, they would visit the ranch often. And, in fact, they even got engaged there, too! (They gave each other watches.)

So, it made perfect sense for Matthew and Andrew to say their “I Do’s” at a place so very special to them both. It was such a gorgeous day for their wedding. The Ruby mountains made for a majestic backdrop and the Ruby River ran in front of the house, keeping all the local birds happy and well-watered.

We started out the day by making portraits of the wedding party and Matthew and Andrew’s families, having a blast laughing together, and getting excited about their upcoming ceremony. Soon it was time to get started, and both Matthew and Andrew walked down the aisle on their mothers’ arms.

Each shared their emotion-filled and humorous vows with one another, exchanged rings, and sealed it all with a kiss. They walked down the aisle as husband and husband as friends and family tossed petals into the air and cheered for the newly married grooms.

Guests were treated to a delicious multi-course meal, scrumptious pie and ice cream, and were entertained by numerous toasts.

As the sun meandered its way behind the mountains, everyone kicked up their heels on the dance floor, had fun donning colorful wigs, and sang their hearts out as the music soared into the starry, starry night.

Matthew and Andrew! What a wonderful day and evening it was for you! Thank you again for inviting me to document such joy and happiness in your lives. I’m so excited for you two and wish you a life filled to the brim with love, which you’ve clearly already got a great start on. :) Congratulations again!

Vendors for Matthew and Andrew’s Woodson Ranch wedding in Sheridan Montana:

Venue: Woodson Ranch, Sheridan, Montana
DJ: Bozeman DJ, Bozeman, Montana
Caterer and Serving Staff: The Shovel & Spoon, Sheridan, Montana
Groomsmaid dresses: from Azazie
Menswear: from Articles of Style and The Black Tux

On the docket:

Portraits, weddings, brand shoots and editorial work! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine

Though Alena and Dan’s springtime Missoula mountainside wedding was smaller than planned due to Covid-19-related restrictions, it was still such a beautiful day for these two! The mountains and valley provided the perfect backdrop, wildflowers swayed in the breeze, and the clouds upped their drama factor for the day.

They married at Alena’s parents’ home, and started the day off helping each other get ready, with lots of laughs and smiles as they navigated their way through tying Dan’s bowtie.

Before long, it was time to officially say their “I Do’s” (which were being live-streamed for friends and family who couldn’t make it to Montana in person). The smiles and laughter continued as they promised their love to one another, exchanged rings and sealed it all with a kiss!

A small storm headed its way towards us, but we still managed to get in some fun pictures of just the two of them amidst the arrowleaf balsamroot wildflowers that dotted the mountains before the rain really started to come down.

The merriment continued as friends and family toasted the newlyweds. And there were even Zoom toasts, too, from those friends and family who couldn’t be there in person. Thank goodness for technology!

Folks enjoyed a socially-distanced meal and were treated to a schwarzwaeldekirschtorte made by Alena’s mom, which is a traditional German cake from the Black Forest region where Alena’s Opa is from.  After everyone had their fill of this super special (and delicious cake), people mingled and chatted alongside a raging bonfire while the sun skipped across the valley down below.

Alena and Dan! It was such a pleasure to make these images for you and to meet your friends and family! You two have had such a positive, beautiful attitude surrounding all these changes to your original plans, but I’m pretty sure that just solidifies the fact that you were meant to be together through thick and thin. Here’s to your newest set of adventures in Utah, and to continued adventures in your lives together! Congratulations again!

Vendors for Alena and Dan’s Springtime Missoula Mountainside Wedding:

Venue: Private residence
Officiant: Couple’s friend, Alex
Musicians: Couple’s friends, Ally and Joel
Florist: Bitterroot Flower Shop, Missoula, Montana
Caterer: Biga Pizza, Missoula, Montana
Cake: Made by Alena’s mother
Rentals: Oh So Chic and Eastgate Rentals, Missoula, Montana
Paper Goods: Noteworthy Paper and Press, Missoula, Montana
Wedding Dress: Reformation
Groom’s Attire: J. Crew and Calvin Klein

On the docket:

Portraits – stay tuned!

Cheers,

-Kristine