I think one of my favorite things about Emily and John’s Missoula Montana Wilma Theatre wedding is that they got married in the very same place they had their first date. How cool is that? Especially since they came back to Missoula (all the way from Tennessee) to make it happen.

And it couldn’t have been a more lovely day for these two. Everyone was excited and giddy and happy and smiling as they got ready for the ceremony. The guys were joking around, and the girls were dancing in the green room, singing into hairbrushes. You gotta love a group like that!

John was stoked to don his custom linen suit, which sported his wedding date on the inside lapel and “E&J” initials on his cuffs. As he put on his cuff links, Emily, just a room away, finished writing her vows to her husband-to-be.

Before we knew it, it was time for Emily and John’s first look, which they chose to do on the overlook right above Brennan’s Wave in Caras Park. Kindly, bystanders gave up viewing platform for Emily and John, and these two had such a great first look. John’s face as he saw his bride for the first time was fantastic! Nothing but smiles and pure joy there! The two shared some kisses, smiles, spoke with each other softly, and off we went to get prepared for their ceremony!

But before we popped back inside, Emily and John were thrilled to see that the Wilma marquee had been updated to feature their names – how cool!

It wasn’t long before it was time to walk down the aisle, and so they did, with all sorts of style to the tune of “Take Me to the River” by the Talking Heads. (Talk about perfect!)

Everyone made their way on stage, Emily beamed, as did John, and they began to speak their vows and promise their love to one another for the rest of their lives. There were a few tears, but mostly smiles and laughter, and pure excitement as they were pronounced newlyweds for the very first time!

After their ceremony we popped outside to make photos by the iconic Wilma “W” sign, and also stay cool in the shade (it was one heckuva warm day!). Emily and John’s wedding party were so much fun to photograph, and it’s clear that this group knows how to have a good time together!

We zipped on back inside to join Emily and John’s guests for their cocktail celebration with oodles of fantastic small bites and great drinks. Not long after, it was time for Emily and John’s first dance (talk about a fantastic stage for it!), and Emily’s dance with her father.

Post dances, Emily and John had a great time cutting their gorgeous cake, and then it was time to turn on the colorful lights, and get folks out on the dance floor. In between dancing, Emily and John’s friends treated them to fantastic toasts, and got everyone laughing and smiling with them.

Emily and John! I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again – I’m SO glad our paths crossed those two years ago while you were in Missoula because I’ve loved every second of getting to capture these life stages for you. I still can’t believe we’ve documented your graduation, your engagement and now your wedding! The two of you have been just so wonderful to work with (as were all your fabulous friends and family!), and I’m so very happy for you as you embark on this newest adventure! Here’s to you two, and hopefully you’ll make it back to Missoula for some more visits! Beer’s on me next time! :)

Vendors:

Venue: The Wilma Theatre, Missoula, Montana
Florist: Bitterroot Flower Shop, Missoula, Montana
Cake Artist: Cakes in the Zoo, Missoula, Montana
DJ: RMF Entertainment, Missoula, Montana
Hair and Makeup: Jordan Zeobar
Officiant: Kyle Smith with Zootown Church, Missoula, Montana
Caterer: Bravo Catering, Missoula, Montana
Bar & Spirits: The Wilma Theatre, Missoula, Montana
Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal
Groom’s Suit: from Tom James and designed by Quincy Kosena
Womenswear: Azazie
Menswear: Men’s Wearhouse

On the Docket:

Weddings, elopements, portraits and photojournalism assignments! Stay tuned!

Cheers,

-Kristine