Montana Bride 2014 issue

TWENTY TWO

REAL MONTANA

W E D DI N G S

WHERE

STYLE MEETS THE

REAL

WEST US $7.95

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37534

54999

Display until December 31, 2014

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2014 MONTANABRIDE.COM

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Montana Bride - 2014 - Number 13

CONTENTS Say “I Do” in Montana

Featured Weddings Jenny & Bryan................................................12 Amy & Bobby................................................ 18 Chelsee & Justin......................................... 22 Megan & Grant............................................. 28 Natasha & Nick............................................ 36 Chelsea & Blake...........................................44 Jess & Jeremy..............................................50 Kate & Matt................................................... 56 Kimberly & Ryan.........................................64 Cameron & Alan.......................................... 76 Erin & Mark....................................................80

Jessica & Christian.................................... 86 Kerri & Trevor.............................................. 90 Krista & Robbie.......................................... 98 Alice & Mike.................................................106 Brenna & Jimmy........................................110 Katy & Blair.................................................. 114 Madeline & Calvin...................................... 118 Maggie & Steven....................................... 122 Mary & Keith............................................... 126 Amanda & Kevin.......................................130 Jaimee & Zachary.................................... 135

Details

Planning Essentials

Wedding Map................................................. 6

Timeline......................................................... 142 Wedding Budget......................................144 Music..............................................................146 Make It Legal.............................................. 147 Advertisers Guide.................................... 148

Welcome.......................................................... 8 Let Your Love Shine..................................32 Your Day. Your Dress............................... 40 More Than Just Bling............................... 60 Fashion in Big Sky, Montana.................62 Fashion Under the Big Sky....................68

Feature Your Wedding in Montana Bride!

Submit Your Wedding: www.montanabride.com

Your BFF........................................................ 94 Plated VS Buffet....................................... 102 How to Tie a Bow Tie............................. 138 Katalin Loves..............................................150

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Cover

Dress: Nicole Miller Styled by: Katalin Green Hair and Make-up: Katie Minalga Phototographer: Amelia Anne Photography Jessie Greany + Jasper the English Springer Spaniel Location: Under Canvas Events - West Yellowstone, Montana On this page: Jessie Greany + Brian Henningsen (also featured on page 9)

Montana Bride - The Details

WEDDING LOCATIONS Under the Big Sky

Oh to find a place you can travel for days through a changing landscape, always in awe of what surrounds you.

Montana, a beautiful quilt of diverse patterns, offers inspiration in her Mountains, Plains and Rivers sure to live in your heart from the first time you gaze upon her.

Illustration: Daphne Gillam - Bozeman, Montana

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Page Location

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12

Red Lodge = Jenny + Bryan

18

Lakeside = Amy + Bobby

22

McAllister = Chelsee + Justin

28

Bozeman = Megan + Grant

36

Helena = Natasha + Nick

44

Bozeman = Chelsea + Blake

50

Hamilton = Jess + Jeremy

56

Big Sky = Kate + Matt

64

Springhill = Kimberly + Ryan

76

Bozeman = Cameron + Alan

80

Gallatin Gateway = Erin + Mark

86

Bozeman = Jessica + Christian

90

Big Sky = Kerri + Trevor

98

Big Fork = Krista + Robbie

106

West Yellowstone = Alice + Mike

110

Bozeman = Brenna + Jimmy

114

Hyalite Reservoir = Katy + Blair

118

Great Falls = Madeline + Calvin

122

Billings = Maggie + Steven

126

Missoula = Mary + Keith

130

Whitefish = Amanda + Kevin

134

Big Fork = Jaimee + Zachary

Montana Bride - The Details

WELCOME A Note From Editor in Chief: Katalin Green

Montana is often referred to as the “The Last Best Place”, and it doesn’t take very much time spent here to understand why. Sometimes it’s easy to take it all for granted, the place in which we find ourselves, the people that surround us, the bliss that is ours to grasp. As I stood the other evening mesmerized by the changing big sky giving way to a grand finale of the sun sinking behind the mountains that cut across the horizon, I experienced one of those moments of extreme clarity and gratitude for the place in which I find myself. If the landscape is the fabric of Montana, the people are most certainly the thread that binds it together. I am lucky to have a job that takes me out into the folds of the state, down the dirt roads, into the small towns, and onto the ranches, large and small. Meeting with people that gauge their devotion to the land in generations, who talk about water and cattle and the harvest before deciding where to put the wedding tent.

I’ve traveled throughout the West, all of it beautiful, but none of it Montana. This is a place which never leaves my heart. An authentic place filled with rustic beauty ready to be dressed up for any occasion.

From the mountains to the lakes to the plains…from the resorts to the ranches to the historic barns… from our sunrise to our sunsets, Montana offers a perfect place to fill your heart. For our 2014 issue, we are featuring 22 fabulous Montana weddings, celebrating the diversity of beauty from around the state, all contained under the canopy of our big sky. Beautiful brides, handsome grooms, amazing vendors in settings to take your breath away.

Congratulations and thank you for picking Montana, a place where style meets the real west.

We look forward to meeting you and sharing this place so close to our hearts.

Regards,

Katalin Green Editor in Chief

Montana Bride Featured Wedding

SAM & ROBIN Say “I Do” in Big Sky

katalin green event design

Florist: Avant Floral Venue: The Woodlands Photographer: Jeremiah & Rachel Photography Caterer: Famous Dave’s Bar: Zebra Cocktail Lounge DJ: Natasha & Patty with Sweet T.E.A. Cake & Cupcakes: Sweet Pea Bakery Dress: Justin Alexander

Suspenders: Jess Leather

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Montana Bride -Featured The Details Wedding

SAM & ROBIN STAFF Say “I Do” in Big Sky

CHLOE +

BRUTUS +

Publisher & Editor in Chief

Executive Editor

Katalin Green

S TA F F

HAYDEN +

SIERRA +

Creative Director

Graphic Design Intern

Brian Farrell

Photography: Arnica Spring

Roper Green

Lily Barone

C. C. +

WRIGLEY +

Sales Manager

Production Coordinater

Brett Conner

Mindy Karl

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Jessie Greany & Jasper on our front cover. Under Canvas Events, Brian Farrell, Roper Green, Lee Chase, Benjamin Wilkinson, Hannah Green, Hunter Green, Mindy Karl, Lily Barone, Brett Conner, Bill Buckley, Richard Hopkins and Brian Henningsen. Our dogs were given love and biscuits.

© Montana Bride Inc. 406-587-2520 www.montanabride.com No portion of this book may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of Montana Bride Inc. All information contained here is the express opinion of the publisher. All rights reserved.

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

JENNY & BRYAN Say “I Do” in Red Lodge

Red Lodge, Montana Bryan and I attended the same high school in Billings and reconnected at a Flogging Molly concert after our freshman year of college. We danced the Irish jig together the whole time. Nine years and three states later, we decided to finally tie the knot.

We wanted a small ceremony in our favorite Montana valley and the reception at my family cabin outside of Red Lodge. I love vintage, so we thrifted, borrowed or garage-saled as many of the decorations and linens as possible.

When asked about my wedding theme, I would simply answer, “I want it to feel like you stumbled upon a gypsy camp in the woods”. And gypsy camp in the woods is exactly what we made, complete with rich mismatched fabrics, jewel-toned vases, colorful glowing lanterns, and hundreds of feet of string lights. My mother and I arranged the flowers and accented them with greenery from an early-morning picking session around the cabin. An old rusty wheelbarrow from the cabin housed the wine, and we roasted marshmallows around the fire after dark.

We tried to weave little personal touches into every detail. The cake was made by Bryan’s grandmother, and my mother made the vintage hankie banner from my grandmother’s collection. Our portraits were taken on the bridge I helped my grandfather build. Bryan’s best man was our dog, Ranger, and he wore his Pendleton wool bow tie (a nod to our Portland home) with pride. We were married in the middle of Rock Creek by our dear friend Chris.

The whole day was authentically Montana– from the afternoon storm that rolled through the middle of the ceremony, to the giant-antlered moose that showed up to graze across the creek soon after. We took it all in with open and gracious hearts. And it was perfect.

Photography: Jenna Martin Photography Venue: Family Cabin Florist: Bride and her mother Catering: Abby’s Catering Company Cake: Groom’s grandmother Bar/Liquor: Red Lodge Ales Dress: Free People Hair and Makeup: Erica Grass

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

AMY & BOBBY Say “I Do” in Lakeside

Lakeside, Montana Bobby and I met at a tennis club in San Francisco where a mutual friend of ours introduced us in late 2010.

As avid travelers, we enjoyed numerous trips together around the globe. During our last trip together, Bobby proposed on an overnight train from Thailand to Laos. But our favorite trip together was visiting Bobby’s family on Flathead Lake. Bobby, who grew up in Montana, has always called it home. Having been in California all my life, I was immediately blown away by the beauty of Big Sky Country.

Shortly after our engagement, we made the decision to have an intimate wedding on Flathead Lake. Since our friends are from either New York or California, we knew they would fall in love with Montana the same way I did. We decided to turn Labor Day Weekend into our Big Weekend! To highlight the uniqueness of Montana, we took our 65 guests whitewater rafting in Glacier National Park followed by a private boat charter ride around Lake McDonald. Our actual wedding ceremony and reception took place by the water at a private lake house. Because huckleberry is almost impossible to find outside of Montana, we served huckleberry pies, huckleberry ice cream, huckleberry signature cocktails, and huckleberry jams as wedding favors.

Getting married in Montana was amazing! We are excited for our future together, and we know there will be many more Montana memories to come.

Photography: Mandy Mohler Photography Event Planner: Perfect Montana Wedding Venue: Private Residence Florist: Conrad Floral Music: The Hasslers Photo Booth: Pixelated Ice Cream: Sweet Peaks Ice Cream

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

CHELSEE & JUSTIN Say “I Do” in McAllister

M c A l l i s t e r, M o n t a n a Justin and Chelsee met at the Art Institute of Colorado during a “meet and greet” social event at a water park.

Chelsee’s mother had signed her up, but Chelsee originally had no intention of going. Good thing she did go, because Justin was the driver and just 3 days after moving from Montana, she had met the man she would marry.

Justin asked Chelsee to marry him while hiking near Kenosha Pass in Silverthorne Colorado. Chelsee planned their entire wedding herself. The one thing she knew for sure going into the planning was that she wanted to be married at the little white church in McAllister Montana; the same church she had passed by every single day while growing up in Montana. It was perfect place for the perfect day.

Photographer: Shanna Mae Photography Florists: Budget Bouquet and More Catering: Red Apron Catering Cake: Kimberly Gregg (Chelsee’s sister in law) Dress: Alfred Angelo

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

MEGAN & GRANT Say “I Do” in Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana Grant and I met in June 2010 in Bozeman on somewhat of a blind date orchestrated by Match.com. The two of us quickly realized we had lots in common, but the similarity that bound us the most was the love we shared for our dogs. I brought a Great Dane and a Dalmatian mix to the equation, and Grant brought his Springer Spaniel. We wanted a ceremony that showcased our passion for our dogs. Since Grant and I are both non-traditionalists, he walked down the isle with his dog, and I chose to be escorted by my two dogs. We celebrated our family members by including them in the bridal precession. This gave members of our families a way of participating in our ceremony while giving me a real moment to be recognized as a bride, an individual, independent woman, and co-animal enthusiast with Grant.

We chose to be married by my boss, family friend, and artist Mr. John Buck. He officiated the ceremony we wrote ourselves wearing a medal I made for him pinned on a clergy stole. Our arch was a gift from our friends, who were also married under it. It now resides in our garden. My favorite thing I made for our wedding was the cake topper, painted wooden replicas of our dogs and us. I had propagated dozens of succulents for the floral arrangements and bouquets which were arranged in vintage vases given to us by many friends. To top off the table settings, my grandmother faithfully and dutifully hand wrote all of the place cards in her beautiful old-world handwriting. My Aunt hand-canned 160 jars of apricot jam to give out as gifts. My Maid of Honor designed the tags on the jams, as well as all paper products from the invitations to the save-the-dates. The photographer was a close friend, very appropriately through animal ownership. The most amazing part about our wedding was that so many aspects had deep personal meaning. This event resonated with so much fun, support and effortlessness which were all made that way by the people who contributed the to the little details.

Photography: Haley Poulos Photography Catering: Food For Thought

Venue: Lazy B Farm

Cake: Anticipated Creations

Dress: Justin Alexander from Avant Bridal

Suits: Persnickety Formal Wear

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Florist: Labellum

Music: The Sugar Daddies

Hair/Makeup: Sage Salon

Rentals: Montana Party Rentals

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Montana Bride - The Details

LET YOUR LOVE SHINE The E-Session

Photos: Loni Mae Photography

We LOVE Engagement Sessions! For openers, it’s a great way to get a little more acquainted with a very important person, your wedding photographer. It allows you get a feel for how the photographer works in the field and also lets you spend a little time with the person who will be capturing all those special moments. Think of it as trial run, a chance for everyone to get on the same page.

Secondly…. what an amazing opportunity to capture some fun, spontaneous images of you two as you start down the path as Mr. & Mrs. Your wedding day is going to be a whirl-wind, and there will be a list of images and group shots with limited time to get them all. Most couples are able to sneak off with the photographer for a short time, but you’ll have guests and a reception to attend. The E-session is a great time to let your personalities shine in a more informal setting.

And the last thing, well the last one we’ll point out. Schedule your engagement shoot far enough out that you can use one of the images for your Save-the-Date cards. So have fun, be quirky, be yourself in your favorite place, let your love shine!

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

NATASHA & NICK Say “I Do” in Helena

Helena, Montana Nick and Natasha met while traveling the world. She’s a lovable Helena, MT native, and he’s a dapper British gent. They fell in love in China while they were both there teaching, and their wanderlust brought them together.

For their wedding, they thought all their globetrotting relatives and friends would love to see them say ‘I Do’ in Montana. And what better day to have a charming farm soiree than Independence Day? (Described by Nick as the day that ‘America beat Britain in NASCAR, or something.’)

The beautiful Kleffner Ranch was the perfect venue for guests from around the world to come together to celebrate. In addition to an international mix of guests (from China to Latin America along with Nick’s family and most of his groomsmen from across the pond), the couple included details throughout the day to reflect their love of travel and international connections. Postcards served as the guest book, British phone box figurines as table décor, and a garland of English flags adorned the head table. The couple rounded out the day with gorgeous flowers, amazing food, a fantastic band, and plenty of fun.

It was easy to see their heartfelt love for each other. Everyone walked away from the day feeling inspired by their relationship. From the bride serenading the groom to kisses in the glow of fireworks, every moment of the day was utterly lovely.

Photography: Wandering Albatross Photography Venue: Kleffner Ranch Florist: Flower Haus Catering: Chili O’Brien’s Cake: Vanilla Bean Bakery & Cafe Bar/Liquor: Big Bull Bar and Grill Music: Midnight Express Rentals: A1 and Party Plus

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Montana Bride - The Details

YOUR DAY. YOUR DRESS. From the Professionals

Photo: Greener Visuals Wedding Photography

It’s the big day before the big day! You’ve looked through the magazines, visited the websites and read the blogs, but now it’s time to start trying on dresses. This can be both a joyful and a nerve-wracking time. After all, this is not just any dress, it’s THE DRESS. It’s prom, homecoming, first date, big job interview, meeting his parents, all rolled into one…THE DRESS! And the options seem endless. Strapless, sleeved, big and full, sleek, full length, tea length, white, off white, belted, free flowing and on and on. So how do you know, where do you start? Here are few tips from the professionals.

1. Relax. This is the best advice we can give you, not just about the dress, but about the entire wedding process.

These are big decisions, but keep the JOY in the process. Relax, have fun and enjoy.

2. Bridal Shops vs. The Internet. We know, we know…you’re on a budget, but trust us on this one. You may pay a little more at a bridal shop but it’s well worth the few extra dollars. For starters, you actually get to try on the gowns! You might think you found the perfect gown online, but until you try it on you can’t know for sure. Material, fit, and cut all matter, and until you actually see, feel and try on a gown, you just can’t be sure. Bridal shops are generally very good at guiding you through the selections, narrowing the field based on body type, budget, and tastes. At a bridal shop, you are guaranteed the gown is by the designer you want and not a knock off. We could go on about the advantages of bridal shops, but the last thing we will say on this matter is the bridal shop will be there for you through the entire process, from selection to the final fitting.

3. Which brings us to the third point. Allow the your gown consultant to suggest some gowns for you, even if the selections are totally off your radar. I can’t tell you how many times we have brought out a dress that the bride scrunched her face up at UNTIL she tried it on! It’s easy to get stuck on certain designs. Sometimes fresh perspective is exactly what you need to find the perfect look.

4. The Entourage. Shopping for the dress is a big deal, and it should be a wonderful experience. Of course you want to share it with your Mom and your best friends. But just allow us to throw in our 2 cents. It’s wonderful to travel with the full entourage, but don’t lose sight that it’s your day, your dress and your opinion that ultimately matters.

The more people you have with you, the more opinions that will come your way. You might love the dress, but a few negative opinions can create self-doubt. We love the experience bridal shops offer; champagne, pretty things, beautiful dresses, and all the attention on you, and we love brides share it with their nearest and dearest. So welcome the opinions, but don’t lose focus that in the end, it’s only your’s that matters.

5. Be Sure! It’s important to note that with most gowns, once the order is processed there are no returns. So don’t be impulsive, be sure! When ordering your gown, be honest and realistic about sizing. Most brides are shooting for a wedding day size, but don’t put yourself in a difficult position by ordering a gown size that may not fit. A seamstress can make alterations, but you will need to allow sufficient time for the process. The bridal shop will assist with sizing and guide you through the fittings and alterations.

6. Sample Gowns. Most shops have a “Sample Rack”. These are the actual samples they use for showing the gowns.

Eventually they end up on the Sample Rack. You can get a great buy on a designer gown by shopping samples. But keep in mind, these dresses are sold ‘as is’, generally with a no return policy, so check them over carefully. When purchasing a sample, make sure if alterations are needed, those alterations are realistic. Buying a size 12 and trying to have it altered to a size 2 probably will not work. The professionals at the bridal shop can assist you with this.

7. Relax and Have Fun. Like we said, this is the most important advice we can give you.

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

CHELSEA & BLAKE Say “I Do” in Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana Some things are just meant to be. Blake and Chelsea’s original venue fell through late in the planning process, but their wedding planner, Katalin Green, was able to secure the Big Yellow Barn, and it turned out to be the perfect setting for this wonderful couple’s wedding. Friends and family joined the couple under a bluebird sky as the Barn threw open the doors for the very first wedding in it’s new chapter as an event venue. The couple weaved in family details, from the Chelsea’s grandmother’s quilt (with a traditional wedding pattern) that hung outside the bride room to the leis, lovingly made by Blake’s Mom, the couple wore to celebrate his Hawaiian heritage. The couple are both graduates of MSU and Blake wore his Bobcat cufflinks, a wedding gift from Chelsea, to show his Montana State pride. After the ceremony, the guests and family enjoyed an al fresco cocktail hour with sweeping views of the Bridger Mountains. Dinner was served under the expansive and impressive vaulted ceiling of the old barn. The couple and guests then danced into the evening, with Chelsea’s grandparents (married 65 years!!) the last to leave the dance floor. It was a fabulous evening filled with love, family and friends as Blake and Chelsea added becoming Mr. and Mrs. to the long history of the beautiful old barn.

Photography: Orange Photographie Event Planner: Katalin Green Events Venue: Big Yellow Barn Florist: Avant Floral Catering: Food for Thought Cake: Elle’s Belles Bakery Music: Joe’s Mobile DJ Service Dress: Augusta Jones from Avant Floral Veil: Jennifer Leigh Tuxedos: Avant Bridal Rentals: Montana Party Rentals Hair: Angie Hager - Allaglo Salon Make Up : Yvonne Reddy

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

JESS & JEREMY Say “I Do” in Hamilton

Hamilton, Montana What seemed like just another beautiful day of fishing, turned into something quite unexpected. Jeremy, his son Gavin and I started the day with lots of fish tales, love and laughter. Before hitting the Missouri River, the three of us embraced in a giant bear hug. We joked about how nice it would be to be stuck together like this forever. The next thing I knew, Jeremy knelt down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Of course I said, “YES”! The best part was Jeremy and Gavin picked out my ring together a few months earlier. During that time, Gavin never spilled the beans once. Not bad for a five year old.

We chose the historical estate of the Copper King, Marcus Daly, as our venue. The reception tent and grounds were adorned with modern dream catchers, feathers, metallic gold fringe, milk glass, romantic candle light, brass candlestick holders and vases, driftwood, tissue paper flowers, white roses, mixed furs and rugs and shabby chic furniture.

The combination was rich and inviting.

My family and I hand dipped dyed black ombre napkins. We made hundreds of white tissue paper flowers and collected the driftwood for our centerpieces from a friend’s ranch. My dad handcrafted our cake table and bar backdrop from barn wood from Jeremy’s family ranch and an old headboard from North Carolina. My family made all the sweets for the dessert table.

We wouldn’t have been able to do it all without help from some wonderful people. In the end all our hard work and time paid off.

Photography: Bon Ton Photo Co Venue: The Daly Mansion Florist: Bride Catering: Caffe Firenze Catering Cake: Harvest Foods Bakery Music: Cody Beebe + the Crooks Dress: New York Bride & Groom Reception Dress: Aidan Mattox Rentals: Hamilton Party Rentals Videographer: Wedit Hair Stylist: Tori Boles of Wakefields Beauty Connection

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

KATE & MATT Say “I Do” in Big Sky

B i g S k y, M o n t a n a I had a friend once tell me that a relationship is basically a really long conversation. It wasn’t the most classically romantic description I’d ever heard, but in the years since I have found it to be the truest … and the foundation of a love that is really built to last.

The first time Kate and I met (okay, the first time we technically met I was on a date with another girl who sadly didn’t stand much of a chance once Kate came onto the scene), but the first time we truly met, we just talked. Of course I thought she was beautiful and funny, but what struck me most was how easy it was for us to talk. That was five years ago, and our conversation hasn’t skipped a beat. Every Friday we go out on “Date Night”, and I look forward to it all week because I can’t wait to hear what she’ll have to say.

One of the things that Kate has taught me through our many conversations is that there is a quiet holiness in the natural world … in untouched spaces, in trees, and wide skies, and living things. I grew up a city kid, and it wasn’t until I met Kate that I really knew what it was like to feel the sense of belonging that you can only find in the beauty of nature. It is when one feels the most like one is a part of something good, and strong, and lasting. That was the kind setting we wanted for our marriage. A church wedding wasn’t going to be in the cards for us, but it was important that the rite of passage still feel sacred and bigger than either of us.

Montana was perfect. We both had some of the most meaningful conversations we’d ever had with friends and family, even the ones we see every day back home in Austin. Tucked away in the mountains, surrounded by giant draft horses and tall trees, everything felt important, and it was. We’ve been talking about it ever since.

Photography: Jeremiah & Rachel Photography Venue: 320 Ranch

Event Planner & Stylist: Katalin Green Events

Florist: Avant Floral

Brides’ and maid of honor’s shoes by Frye Boots DJ: Michael Joplin from Austin,TX

Catering: 320 Ranch

Dress: Watters Too

Cake: Cakes by Cabin Ridge

Brides handkerchief was “something borrowed”, from her Grandmother Rentals: Montana Party Rentals

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Hair: Sage Spa & Salon

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Montana Bride - The Details

MORE THAN JUST BLING Your Wedding Day Jewelry

Photo: Lily Barone

Necklace: Gem Gallery

At its heart, a wedding is about family and love. A celebration of a new beginning surrounded by the love of those who have always been there. A time of memories old and new, a continuation of something strong and wonderful.

Like the rings exchanged, one circle completed while another starts. Tradition, love, remembrance and exhilaration all rolled into a single moment that marks your first steps together as a couple. It’s really an amazing time. We love the idea of capturing the memory of that moment and carrying it forth as part of the legacy of love and family. A wonderful way to do this is with jewelry. Something precious, made even more so by allowing it to carry the moment forth for you and future generations.

Weddings are built around so many traditions, but a special piece of jewelry is a way to incorporate your own tradition into the day. We have had brides come to us with a grandmother’s string of pearls, earrings from a special aunt, or a mother’s ring. We love taking a special heirloom piece and having a jeweler transform it into something all your own while still preserving the memory associated with it. It’s a wonderful opportunity to take a piece you might only wear occasionally and create something fabulous you love to show off daily. A professional jeweler can consult on design to insure the importance of the original piece is showcased in a new design, classic or with a modern twist, that reflects your personality and contribution to the legacy of the piece.

Along with the tradition of exchanging vows and rings, many couples also exchange gifts just prior to the wedding.

We love the tradition, and it’s always a touching moment when a groomsman or bridesmaid knocks on the door to make the delivery. Let us just say, jewelry is always a great gift. Our favorites for the bride; anything with Yogo sapphires or diamonds. But it’s not just about the flash, though every girl loves the bling. It’s also about finding the piece that is an expression of your love for her. On our list for the groom; a beautiful watch, an elegant hand built knife, a stylish money clip. We like timeless items he will always have with him as a reminder of you.

Whether you want to have a heirloom piece restyled or are looking for the perfect gift, the wonderful thing about high end jewelry shops is they carry a diverse selection of beautiful, elegant items so you can select the perfect gift that represents your love. The best part is you will have a piece that will carry the collective memories of your love and family, a piece that you will one day hand down to be built upon by the next generation of family.

Photo: Jennie Lynn Photography

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Earrings & Necklace by Erin Levy

Montana Bride - The Details

FASHION in Big Sky, Montana

Photos: RebeccaMarie Photography Models: Laura Viren, Grant Elliott Styled by: Katalin Green Hair & Make Up: Kassi Ham - Salon Rituals Location: Summit Hotel - Big Sky Resort - Big Sky, Montana Gown: Alvina Valenta

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

KIMBERLY & RYAN Say “I Do” in Springhill

Springhill, Montana I took Kimberly out for what she thought was a birthday dinner in the fishing town of Island Park, Idaho. As we left for dinner, both Kimberly’s family and my family knew what was really going to happen on the special evening, everyone except Kimberly and her son Miles, who we were worried might let the secret slip. As the meal finished and we headed out I said to Kimberly lets head over to the river to “go look and see if there are any bugs hatching and fish up.” As we winded down a gravel road to the river I began to look for the boat my dad was supposed to drop off while we were at dinner. However, there was no boat at the landing. I went down the river a bit further, jumped out of the truck and looked a bit more. Kimberly began to get suspicious and asked if I was looking for a friend of mine! Finally, we found the boat, and I told Kimberly we were going to go for an evening float. After we floated for a while, I pulled over and cracked open the bottle of wine on the shore. Then I gave her two presents I had hidden. She opened the first gift, a “birthday present”. Then I gave her the next present and told her to turn around, facing away from me and that she would know when it was time to turn back. This gift was four pictures; the first a picture of my parents holding a sign that said “Will”, the second picture was Kimberly’s son Miles holding a sign that said “You”, the third a picture of Kimberly’s parents holding a sign that said “Marry”, and then a final picture that said, “Turn Around”… When she turned around I was waiting on one knee with the ring in hand. She said Yes! After taking it all in, we headed home where my family and Miles were waiting with cupcakes topped with signs that said “Kimberly said YES to Ryan.” We had champagne and were all too excited to do anything but talk about what the future would hold.

Photography: Fran Ze Photography Venue: Springhill Pavilion Brides Flowers: Avant Floral Bridesmaid’s Flowers: Bride’s sister Catering: Bountiful Table Cake: Sweet Pea Bakery DJ: Joe’s DJ Service Bozeman Rentals: Montana Party Rentals Videographer: Sky Focus Films, Minneapolis

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Montana Bride - The Details

FASHION Under the Big Sky

Photos: Cindy Cieluch Photography Model: Going Away Singing Styled by: Katalin Green Gown: Theia Earrings: Wil Gopher Location: First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park - Ulm, Montana Blankets: Provided by Going Away Singing’s Mom in Honor

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Montana Bride - The Details

FASHION Under the Big Sky

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

CAMERON & ALAN Say “I Do” in Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana Cameron and Alan met while both working in Washington D.C., but there was never a doubt for Cameron that her wedding would take place in Montana, the place she had spent summers with her family. The couple decided to tie the knot at the family’s Montana home, a beautiful piece of property featuring several historic outbuildings and surrounded by stunning views of the rolling foothills of the Bridger Mountains. As soon as the bride’s father, Mike, heard the news, he knew it was time to complete the big project on the property, the restoration of the old barn. Carol, the bride’s mother worked closely with a team of craftsmen to make sure the barn was restored to its original grandeur.

Bella, the families beloved Great Dane immediately shirked her garland and wandered among the guests personally greeting as many as possible. As the remnants of a storm swirled overhead, the guests took their seats for the al fresco ceremony. The best thing about summer storms are what they leave behind, and this was no exception as the couple and guests were awed by Montana’s wedding day gift, a full rainbow.

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and the unveiling of the newly restored barn. A fabulous dinner and paired wines were served under a beautiful sailcloth tent, before the couple and guests moved into the barn for cake and dancing, adding their own story to a long and storied history of the old barn with a new life.

Photography: Kene Sperry Event Design & Production: Katalin Green Events Venue: Private Residence Florist: Botanica Catering: Zac’s Montana Kitchen Cake: Elle’s Belles Bakery Make Up: Indulgence Music: Andrew Gromiller Band Dress: Jenny Packham Veil: Jennifer Leigh Hair Stylist: Jade Morris- Moxie Hair & Body Rentals: Montana Party Rentals

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

ERIN & MARK Say “I Do” in Gallatin Gateway

G a l l a t i n G a t e w a y, M o n t a n a I was born in Florida and dreamed of dancing in New York. Mark was a New Yorker with Rock & Roll dreams. We met at crossroads in our lives in New York. After four years, I decided to retire from dancing and pursue jewelry full-time, so I enrolled at MSU in Metalsmithing. Mark asked me to marry him on a rock by the Yellowstone River shortly after I moved here. The following summer, he left New York and joined me in the Montana adventure.

Our wedding had a Montana/New York theme. The venue had a handmade wooden chapel held together with metal hearts, a burlap aisle runner lined with rose petals, and a hand painted vintage table as an altar. Our mothers presented the rings, which I made with gold donated from our families. The center diamond in my ring is from my mother’s engagement ring. Our vows, both referenced Blue Oyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear the Reaper”, a song close to us.

The groomsmen wore bolo ties made from vintage beer cans, brass and amazonite. The Bridesmaids wore gold necklaces with different gemstone beads as well as a common amazonite bead to match the groomsmen.

Our flowers were displayed in handmade porcelain vases. I molded & cast over 100 Bronze ‘New York subway tokens’ as drink tokens. Sticking with the MT theme, we served smoked trout, elk sliders and bison meatballs as hors d’oeuvres, and Montana threw in her own special touch, a beautiful double rainbow. Following dinner (a whole roasted pig) and an assortment of amazing desserts, DJ Missy O‘ Malley kept the dance floor crowded. Her last song “Don’t Fear the Reaper” was an unexpected surprise and brought our evening full circle.

Photography: Jennie Lynn Stanley Event Planner: Last Best Weddings Venue: Broken Hart Ranch Florist: Tara Erickson Vases: Terri Harper Appetizers and Salads: Simply Paired Catering Desserts: Whipped Catering: Gallatin Valley Catering Bar/Liquor: Zebra Cocktail Lounge Bolos & Jewelry: Erin Levy DJ: Missy Miscellaneous (Missy O’ Malley) Dress: Justin Alexander from Avant Bridal

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

JESSICA & CHRISTIAN Say “I Do” in Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana Not many people can say that they met the man they were going to marry in middle school, but for Christian and I that was the case. After school I moved to California to attend a performing arts school, while Christian attended college in Billings. It didn’t take long for me to realize I had left my heart in Montana. We moved to Bozeman where we both quickly fell in love with the town, and we knew we wouldn’t want to get married anywhere else.

For the wedding, I wanted a timeless elegant look and cotton. I chose cotton because I loved the statement it made, the stark stems against to the softness of the white cotton. Two different elements that create such a delicate outcome. A beautiful contrast that somehow works, just as two individuals join to become a couple. Katalin Green shared my love for cotton and really made it come to life.

My wedding cake was displayed on the same cake stand used by my grandmother and great grandmother. Our ring bearer’s pillow was the same pillow Christian’s parent’s rings had been tied to. My mom had worn a blue wedding dress for her ceremony. As I put on my dress, I saw a blue heart, cut from mom’s gown, stitched into the bottom of my dress. It was all about the details for us, and it was more beautiful than either of us could have imagined. It was the day I married my best friend, and that within itself is perfection. Everything else was just the icing on the cake… which was red velvet, so it was pretty dang good!

Photography: Kim Stulc Photography Venue: Gallatin River Hideaway Florist: Avant Floral Catering: Gate City Catering Cake: Big Sky Bakery Bar/Liquor: Zebra Cocktail Bar Ceremony Music: 11th Avenue Strings Quartet DJ: Bozeman DJ and Entertainment Company Dress: Alvina Valenta from Avant Bridal Rentals: Montana Party Rentals Hair: Bryna Paull Videographer: Step 1 Films Tuxedo Rentals: Avant Bridal Program Design: Jackie and Jordan Studios

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

KERRI & TREVOR Say “I Do” in Big Sky

B i g S k y, M o n t a n a It’s said the best marriages start out as friendships, and if that’s the case ours is destined for great things! Trevor and I met in 2003 in Yosemite National Park. I eventually ended up in Austin where Trevor’s parents also lived. He traveled for work, so I didn’t think too much about it. But that Thanksgiving, he invited me to spend the holiday with his family.

The invitation was extended year-after-year, and Trevor began to call me when he was in town so we could catch up.

In 2010, my parents came to town so we made plans for our families to get together. It was unseasonably cold, but we braved the weather to play croquet late into the evening. I vividly remember being bundled up and freezing, but still having so much fun. It felt as if everything was exactly as it should be. I looked over at Trevor and could picture us together. Trevor popped the question on a hike outside of Austin, a perfect setting since we’d always loved the outdoors and hiking together.

With Montana’s beautiful scenery (plus the fact Trevor grew up in MT where his dad was chief ranger of Yellowstone), we decided to get married at Big Sky Chapel. We loved our guests could make a vacation out of it, fly-fishing, hiking and visiting Yellowstone. In fact, our weekend activities included a guided tour of the park led by his dad.

Our wedding day was exactly as I pictured it, us surrounded by family, friends and gorgeous Montana vistas. Even the rain and thunderstorms held off until just after our ceremony, allowing us to escape above the clouds to Big Sky Resort for a memorable mountainside reception.

Photography: Amelia Anne Photography Ceremony Venue: Big Sky Chapel Lawn Reception Venue: Big Sky Resort (Lone Peak Pavilion) Florist: Bloom Catering: Big Sky Resort Cake: Cakes by Jenn Music: Joe’s Mobile DJ Service Hair/Makeup: Jade Morris at Moxie Studio Ceremony Harpist: Angela Espinosa

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Montana Bride - The Details

YOUR BFF Best Furry Friend

Photo: Haley Poulos Photography

Canine Model: Finley

Your number one fan, best friend, the one that always listens and loves you unconditionally needs to be a part of your wedding? Fido was there when it was just the two of you, but then you met the perfect guy. The guy that suffered through the terrible 2’s puppy stage with you, held the leash on your evening walks, just smiled when his expensive Italian loafer became a chew toy. He even let Fido sleep on the bed on that dream vacation. Fido is a part of the family, a part of your hearts, a part of your love … so of course you want him to be a part of the wedding!

There are few things to consider before you add Fido to the ceremony program. First and foremost, does your venue allow dogs? Ok they do, who is going to be your dog handler? Not sister; she is going to be standing next to you to hold your bouquet, not a leash. Your aunt is going to have her new baby in hand. Your 10 year old nephew; cute idea but definitely not! We suggest you find a friend, adult cousin or maybe even an actual dog handler. Preferable someone that loves dogs, is trustworthy and gets along your furry friend. If you plan on having your 4-legged friend walk you down the aisle, POOP BAGS, along with someone who will slip in at a discreet moment, are an absolute must! Next, make sure Fido is on a leash. He might have been top notch trained by the best, and it might seem like a great idea to take him off leash and let him walk down the aisle unaccompanied, but there are a lot of people and temptations at a wedding. This is not a normal setting for most dogs, and he might not come trotting down the aisle when you call him. In fact he might decide to play a game of chase or jump into grandma Betty’s lap to say hello.

This brings us to one of our favorites, the dog as the ring bearer. We love the idea but keep in mind you looked far and wide to find the perfect rings and now you are tying them to your buddy that is going to be sniffing everything around and begging for a pet from anyone that looks sideways at him. Make sure the rings are secure, and I mean really secure… jewelry box locked, triple roped and knotted, maybe need a wire cutter to get them loose secure.

Lastly, where is pup going to hang out while you wine and dine with your nearest and dearest? If you are getting married on a glorious summer Saturday, Montana temperatures can be deceiving. It might feel cool and breezy, but your bestie will feel the full extent of the summer sun in a car. If you are keeping him on location, find a safe place for the kennel that is cool and dry. A place where Fido will be comfortable but will not be tempted to bark to get your attention or feel the need to howl along with the chorus to your first dance. If you have a condo or room close by, assign a friend to take Fido over between the ceremony and the reception.

You know your dog best, and no matter how much you want him there, if he is not happy in crowds or unfamiliar places keep pup at home in a safe and stress free environment. He’ll appreciate it and be waiting with plenty of love when you get home.

Photo: Cindy Cieluch Photography

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Canine Model: Jacqueline

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

KRISTA & ROBBIE Say “I Do” in Big Fork

Big Fork, Montana Robbie and I met at Carroll College where we were both incoming transfer students. We immediately noticed one another from afar. After two, very long ‘crushing’ years, we realized we were meant to be together.

We spent the most amazing summer together before Robbie left to attend Optometry School in Southern California. My utter independent self could only hold out for six months before I too moved to the big city.

On his parents wedding anniversary, Robbie asked me to be his wife. It was the moment every girl dreams about, and it was beyond perfect. When deciding where to get married, we instantly knew we wanted to celebrate in Big Fork. With so many friends and family traveling from out-of-state, we wanted everyone to fully experience Montana’s breathtaking beauty. BruMar Estates was the perfect venue for us, providing the elegant, yet laid-back feel that was so important to us.

Montana is where we met, where we fell in love, and the place we will soon call home. We were so happy to get to share a piece of that with all our friends and family.

Photography: Kene Sperry Event Planner & Stylist: Katalin Green Events Ceremony Venue: Blessed John Paul II Catholic Church Reception Venue: BruMar Estate Florist: Leslie’s Hallmark Catering: BruMar Estate Cake: Miss Patti Cakes Ceremony Music: Watercarvers Guild Dress: Jim Hjelm Hair Stylist: Beth Douglas/ Sugar Salon Reception DJ: Mobile Beats Videography: Moonstone Pictures

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Montana Bride - The Details

PLATED VS BUFFET From the Professionals

There are a number of big decisions in planning a wedding, but right up near the top is “what’s on the menu”. We’ve worked with a lot of couples and for most, making the choices about what to serve is one of the most perplexing.

Your menu ultimately boils down to preference and budget. One of the most common questions we get about catering is buffet or plated. There are a number of factors to consider when making your final choice, but rest assured that most professional caterers are comfortable with either option and will serve a beautiful meal regardless of which you choose.

Budget: As far as the actual cost involved, it’s pretty much a wash. With a plated dinner the caterer is better able to control your food portions and thereby your food costs, but you will have to hire more wait staff to serve the meal.

By serving buffet style, the labor costs will be lower but most caterers recommend 15% to 20% more food since there will be no portion control and people may come back through the line more than once. (Caterers want to insure they will not ever run out of food!) Many couples like to offer several selections for guests with the standard being 2 proteins and a vegetarian option. With a plated dinner, the guests would make choices prior to the event and be served the selected option. With buffets, a majority of guests will serve themselves all 3 options.

The Experience: The budget may be a wash, but plated and buffet style dinners offer different experiences for your guests. A plated dinner is going to have a more formal and cohesive feel. Once the dinner service starts, the plates will come out so your guests are all dining together. Your guests will also be presented the food as the caterer intended it to be presented. Watch any cooking show and you will see presentation plays an important role in the dining experience. All in all, a plated dinner will present itself as a calmer room experience. Because the staff is not having to focus on keeping the buffet stocked, they are better able to focus on seeing to your guest’s dining needs.

If you have offered your guests protein choices, you will need to have assigned seating or ‘markers’ so the wait staff knows who gets which options. Assigned seating means more planning and setup time. Not only do you have to decide who sits where (and more importantly, with whom they will be sitting), you will also have make and organize a seating chart or escort cards.

A buffet style dinner is going to be a much more casual feel. Guests will be up and mingling and conversing. With a buffet, you can have open seating since guests will be serving themselves. You can reserve the family and head tables, but other than that guests can sit with whomever they choose. Be prepared for the dinner service to last longer, by as much as a half an hour. Some guests may linger in conversation before going through the line. You will also have the guests that go through the line first finishing dinner just as others are getting served.

Family Style: Family style is when large platters are brought to each table and is a great option for a smaller wedding (50 to 75 guests). As far as budget, it will generally be more expensive because you will need the wait staff associated with a plated dinner, but also the larger food portions required by a buffet since caterers will want the platters to be full and bountiful. You will also incur extra rental fees for the various platters and vessels required for this type of service. When selecting the courses, keep in mind your guests will be required to pass the platters around the table which can be a little messy and interrupt conversation.

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The Details!

Whenever possible meet your caterer and taste their food. If you are out of town and not able to meet, seek out references from other area vendors. This is where the advice and recommendations from a professional wedding planner are worth their weight in gold.

If serving a plated dinner, consider the mixed grill. Instead of guests picking an option, each guests will be served a smaller portion of each of the proteins you choose. You should still have a vegetarian option. This allows for open seating or assigned seating since each guest gets the same plate.

Consider the Venue. If you want to serve a buffet, make sure the room can accommodate the actual buffet line as well as allow for comfortable traffic flow.

Leftovers. Most caterers do not wrap leftovers due to food safety concerns and the packaging required. If you need a plate prepared for a guest that is arriving late or to make sure that your Dad actually gets dinner after chatting with everyone in the room, inform your caterer prior to the service.

If you are throwing a wedding in a pristine meadow in the middle of nowhere with no running water or electricity, expect the catering to cost more.

Most caterers will require a 50% non-refundable deposit to secure the date.

Many caterers will assist in setting the tables and will bus the tables, clean and repackage the catering rentals, and haul food related garbage. They do not set up or break down the room. That is to say, they don’t set up table and chairs or break them down. They may offer it as an option, but there will be additional charges. Be sure to ask where their services start and end.

Discuss your caterer’s rental needs. If you are having a tented wedding, the caterer will need a tent, staging tables and other kitchen essentials. This will add to your budget, so make sure you are aware of their requirements.

Which brings us to the most important piece of advice we can give about any vendor…Read The Contract.

Though we just said many caterers will assist in setting tables … be sure! It is essential you know exactly what services are and are not covered by the caterer.

Photo: Haley Poulos Photography

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Special Thanks to Emily Ryan, Food for Thought

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

ALICE & MIKE Say “I Do” in West Yellowstone

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W e s t Ye l l o w s t o n e , M o n t a n a We first met Alice when she was the guide on our winter snow coach trip into Yellowstone. Let us just say, if you have not gone into the park in winter, put it on you bucket list. The day was right at the top of our “all time favorite things we have done in MT” list, and Alice, the best guide ever, was a big part of making it such an impactful experience.

So how excited were we when she called, said she was getting married and wanted us to help plan her wedding… well, very!

The couple, both fishing guides during the summer, wanted to embrace their love for the outdoors and for the Yellowstone area, so they picked a beautiful lakeside property for the ceremony and reception. The bride arrived for the ceremony in grand fashion, rowed across the lake in her drift boat. Following the lakeside ceremony, guests moved up to the top of the property to the reception area, a gorgeous Tidewater (sailcloth) tent tucked into an opening in the trees and offering a stunning view over the lake. A picture of a steelhead caught by the groom served as inspiration for the large hand drawn seating chart chalkboard and the table placards. Trout shaped parmesan crackers completed each place setting. Following dinner, guests and family cut up the dance floor into the night.

We loved being a part of this wedding. What a fabulous experience to have Alice first share her love of the Yellowstone area with us, then allow us to help her and Mike celebrate that love together.

Photography: Janie Osborne Photography Event Planner: Katalin Green Events Venue: Private Residence Florist: Sagebrush Floral Catering: Uncle Laure’s Catering Dessert Table: Elle’s Belles Bakery Ceremony Music: Greg Creamer & Friend Reception Music: Mo Hippa Dress: Bride’s Mom’s dress Alterations: Annette Piccirillo Rentals: Montana Party Rentals Makeup: Indulgence Chalkboard & Table Cards: Lily Barone

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

BRENNA & JIMMY Say “I Do” in Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana Because many of our guests were visiting for the first time, it was important to us to include what we love about our Montana home in our celebration. The Bridger Mountains as a backdrop and locally sourced food, beverages and music helped inspire the perfect day. In an “all-hands-on-deck” approach, most of the decorations, as well as the bridesmaid dresses, were handmade by family and friends. Vintage patterns and lace celebrated the couple’s love of past traditions. All of the endless hours of preparation and hard work that went into making this day a success were joyously celebrated on the dance floor, far and away the bride and groom’s best dance party experience ever.

Photography: Orange Photographie Venue: Roys Barn Florist: Brian Smith (Bride’s Uncle) Catering: Rendezvous Food Truck Cake: Sweet Pea Bakery DJ: DJ Rev Doc Bar/Liquor: Bozeman Brewing Co., Blackfoot Brewing Co., homebrew Band: Weatherwood Dress: Maggie Sottero Bridesmaids: Handmade by mother of the bride Decorations: Handmaid by the bride and maid of honor Rentals: Montana Party Rentals

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

KATY & BLAIR Say “I Do” at Hyalite Reservoir

H y a l i t e R e s e r v o i r, B o z e m a n , M o n t a n a Blair and I met the day I moved to Montana. After a few months of friendship, we both decided we wanted more.

On our first date, we went hiking in Hyalite. There was no going back after that, and Hyalite has been a very special place to us ever since.

We always knew we would get married eventually, but put it off for 7 years. Our beautiful baby boy (Montana born!) became our first priority, and we moved back to my home town in Minnesota. Every year we try to get back to Montana at least twice. On one of our annual trips back, Blair proposed to me on the summit of Mount Washburn in Yellowstone National Park.

For our wedding, Montana was the only place that felt right to us, and Hyalite was the obvious choice. We decided to get married on July 6th so our guests could enjoy the 4th at the Livingston Roundup Rodeo, which was on an itinerary that also included white water rafting, a Madison River float, and camping at Hyalite reservoir. We felt it was important for everyone to experience a little piece the Montana we love so much.

Our wedding day was everything we dreamed it would be. Surrounded by those we love, the smell of Montana lavender, and the beautiful Gallatin Mountains, we were married on the banks of Hyalite Reservoir. True to Montana, the weather was unpredictable. It was cloudy and we had rain, but the sun decided to grace us just in time for the ceremony. It was a perfect Montana day, and we wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

Photography: Larry Stanley Photography Venue: Hyalite Reservoir Officiate: Tess Jones Florist: Paula Jean’s Garden Catering: Pickle Barrel & Smore’s Dress: Saja Wedding Reception: Bacchus Pub & Copper - (they gave the wedding party hats!) and of coarse we all had late night Pita Pit. Jewelry: Grandmother’s Pearls and Bracelet and “State Love” Montana Necklace (it just had a heart stamped out where Bozeman is - Blair bought that for me 4 years ago and I haven’t taken it off since!)

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

MADELINE & CALVIN Say “I Do” in Great Falls

Great Falls, Montana We are both from small towns in Montana and plan on returning someday, so we knew we wanted to get married in Montana. We wanted a unique venue that provided a laid-back feeling, and Arrowpeak Lodge, an old children’s camp tucked in the Highwood Mountains, was perfect. It offered the rustic vintage décor we wanted with a gorgeous mountain meadow as a backdrop. Our closest family and friends were able to stay up at the site, which was a bonus.

In between hiking and fishing trips, everyone was able to help with the planning and decorating.

The ceremony was outside with a beautiful arch made from rustic ladders. My twin brother officiated and Calvin’s sisters read poems. The night ended with a Montana dinner of BBQ followed by our favorite band and a packed dance floor.

There were many personalized details, and we tried to involve friends/family in every aspect we could. Calvin’s uncle made several of the signs and the arch, his grandmother and my mother made all the pies, my father made the pie stands, and a friend designed our monogram and invites. Calvin’s family collected typewriters to use as the guestbook. My uncle and father collected old doors, mason jars, and barn wood for the reception.

In lieu of gifts, we asked guests to donate to Malawi Children’s Village, an orphanage in Africa that my grandparents have devoted their lives to and that holds a special place in our hearts. We were amazed at the generosity of our guests. The entire weekend was absolutely our dream come true.

Photography: Carlie Breen Photography Event Planner: Romantic Weddings & Celebrations Venue: Arrowpeak Lodge Florist: Riverview Floral and Greenhouse Catering: Big Blue Ox Catering Pies: Our grandmothers and mother Music: Erik ‘Fingers’ Ray Dress: Cymbeline Exalto Hair/makeup: Studio Montage

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

MAGGIE & STEVEN Say “I Do” in Billings

Billings, Montana Steven and Maggie grew up a block away from each other, never knowing their destiny to one day be married.

Once high school began, Steven decided Maggie was the one but did not tell anyone for a few years. His heart set, he began working for Maggie’s Parents at their family business, a Marina on Big Horn Lake. Over long summer days Maggie and Steven’s relationship grew and when both left for college, the distance made their hearts grow fonder. While home for holiday break, they had their first “real” date, watching what was to become their favorite movie, It’s a Wonderful Life.

Steven proposed on Christmas Eve in 2011 in front of their beautiful tree, and the wedding planning began.

The most important aspect of the big day was getting all of their friends and family together. They exchanged vows at Saint Patrick Cathedral in Billings with the reception following at Zoo Montana. The couple arrived in style, driving over in Steven’s vintage 47’ Plymouth. Since the couple both have extremely large families with tons of children, Zoo Montana was the perfect place to host the event. Their 400 + guests were able to enjoy the Zoo and see a variety of animals, Montana and otherwise, up close and personal. Lions, Tigers, and Peacocks… oh my! And the perfect start to their life together as Mr. and Mrs. Photography: Cabel Noteboom Photography Event Coordinator: Rosie Wathen (ceremony, Donna Creek (reception) Ceremony Venue: Saint Patrick Cathedral Reception Venue: Zoo Montana Florist: Evergreen IGA Catering: Yellowstone Kelly’s Cake: Evergreen IGA Bar/Liquor: Tiny’s Tavern Music: Prince Party Productions Dress: Avant Bridal Officiate: Father Fabian Fehring Hair: Sarah Hope, Jen Mar Salon

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

MARY & KEITH Say “I Do” in Missoula

Missoula, Montana Keith and Mary’s unique and adventurous styles may have become officially united, but this was hardly the beginning of their shared passions. From spontaneous backpacking trips through Iceland to hosting Latin-themed dinner parties, Mary and Keith’s fascination with language and culture inspired their intimate ceremony and reception at Missoula’s stylish downtown venues.

Guests gathered at the “Brick Room” of the Downtown Dance Collective, a rustic, century-old structure in the heart of Missoula. The multilingual ceremony incorporated poetry, as well as an elegant offering of wine to signify the joining of two families. Upon the exchange of their own handwritten vows, Mary and Keith walked joyfully out into Montana’s vibrant fall colors.

Upstairs at The Loft of Missoula, succulents planted in assorted vintage porcelain dishes, teacups and small pitchers adorned the tables. After a few rounds of hors d’oeuvres, Silk Road catering, a local restaurant specializing in cross-cultural cuisine, set up a made-to-order risotto bar where diners had the entertaining experience of choosing their own ingredients. The bride and groom circulated, accepted good wishes, and sipped wine and locally-crafted beer. The cake, an understated but delicious apple spice creation, complete with cinnamon cream cheese frosting and salted caramel drizzle, was enjoyed by all. Later in the night, guests appreciated the opportunity to take home one of the succulent arrangements as a way to both commemorate and foster the union of Mary and Keith.

The night was a perfect reflection of Keith and Mary’s eclectic style and sensibility. Friends and family enjoyed refreshing October weather, great food, dancing, and, most importantly, the celebration of love.

Photography: Cluney Photography Venue: The Downtown Dance Collective, The Loft of Missoula Catering: The Silk Road Cake: Black Cat Bake Shop

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

AMANDA & KEVIN Say “I Do” in Whitefish

Whitefish, Montana We originally met at the Calgary Stampede in 2009, but Kevin proposed to me on the way from our home in Calgary to Montana for a golf weekend. We decided to get married in Montana because neither of our families live in Calgary, and a destination wedding turns a wedding day into a full weekend of fun (golf tournament, rehearsal dinner, wedding, big family dinners). We love the natural beauty of Whitefish and come down every season for skiing, golf and the lake. With the gorgeous setting, great accommodations, plenty of fun family activities and friendly people, we knew it was the perfect place for us to say “I Do”.

I wanted a simple and rustic décor that fit with the space and setting. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake was so gorgeous it did not need a lot. We hosted our cocktail hour on the outdoor patio which allowed our guests to enjoy the beautiful scenery and, one of the highlights of the day, our arrival on the Lodge’s boat, the “Lady of the Lake”. I love fresh flowers and probably ordered way to many for the wedding, but loved the impact they had in the room (Hydrangeas, Roses, and Carnations). We used mason jars wrapped in twine to hold the flowers and candles along with tree trunks as accents around the room and as place card holders. The bridesmaids all choose their own dresses with the only instruction being that they needed to be pink. The color and dresses ended up working great together. It was the perfect day to start our lives together, and Montana was the perfect place to celebrate our wedding.

Photography: Carrie Ann Photography Ceremony Venue: St. Charles Borromeo Parish Ceremony Reception: The Lodge at Whitefish Lake Music: Scotti B Productions, DJ Florist: Mum’s Flowers Cake: Family Friend Hair: Stephanie at Red Union Salon

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

JAIMEE & ZACHARY Say “I Do” in Big Fork

Big Fork, Montana We were high school sweethearts and dated through college at Montana State in Bozeman. Not only did we love each other, but we loved Montana and the Cats (Montana State for those of you not from Montana), it was meant to be! Since we both grew up in Montana and it played such an important part in our lives, there was no place in the world we would have chosen to get married other than under the big sky! My family has a cabin on Lake Blaine, and I grew up staring at the beautiful Swan Mountain Range. We originally looked at a few venues in Great Falls, but nothing felt right until we looked at Diamond B up in the Flathead Valley. It was exactly what we were looking for, and it just so happened that the backdrop to this venue was the very same Swan Mountain Range I have loved since I was a child. It was meant to be!

Photography: Cindy Cieluch Photography Venue: Diamond B Florist: Habitat Floral and Events Catering: Just a Taste Cake: Fat Cakes and Desserts Band: Shodown Dj: Sidecar Productions Photo Booth: Pixelated Dress: Casa Blanca 1995 from Plume Bridal Rentals: Party Store Videographer-White Cliff Production

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Montana Bride - The Details

HOW TO TIE A BOW TIE Illustration by Lily Barone

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Montana Bride - The Details

TIMELINE FFSet up your gift registries FFMeet with officiant to work our prenuptial requirements FFMake reservations for rehearsal dinner FFApply for passports and visas if leaving the country for honeymoon.

FFOrder gown, veil, jewelry and shoes FFOrder bridesmaid’s dresses and arrange for fittings FFReserve basic rental needs

12 Months FFAnnounce engagement FFInterview and select wedding planner FFSet a date FFDetermine your budget FFReserve ceremony and reception sites FFReserve your tent if planning an outdoor wedding 9 Months FFInterview and select photographer and videographer FFInterview and select ceremony and reception musicians FFInterview and select caterers FFInterview and select cake designer FFInterview and select officiant FFSend out Save the Date cards if planning a destination wedding FFStart shopping for gown FFStart compiling guest list

4 Months FFAddress and send invitations FFPick attire for groom and groomsmen FFSelect ceremony music and readings FFSelect wedding rings FFMake honeymoon reservations FFInterview and select hair and make-up artists FFMake wedding day transportation arrangements FFPlan activities for out of town guests.

6 Months FFPlan ceremony details and vows FFInterview and select florist FFFinalize guest list FFOrder invitations and stationary FFBlock rooms for guests

2 Months FFHave measurements for groom and groomsmen to tuxedo shop

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FFSelect and purchase attendant’s gifts FFMake Bridesmaid luncheon arrangements FFSchedule final wedding gown fitting FFBuy toasting glasses, ring pillow, cake knife, guest book, etc FFConfirm guests accommodations

FFFinalize wedding day timeline 1 Week FFFinal pre-event meeting with wedding consultant or planner FFPrepare final payments for vendors FFMake final arrangements for wedding gown pressing and pickup FFMake final arrangements for tuxedo pickup or delivery FFConfirm rehearsal dinner reservations FFBridesmaid luncheon FFBachelor / Bachelorette party

4 to 6 Weeks FFPlan guest seating arrangement FFMake guest seating cards FFConfirm ceremony with officiant FFDesign and order wedding program FFMeet with hair and make-up artists FFBook appointment at spa for your bridal party FFConfirm final guest count with caterer 2 Weeks FFConfirm final count and details with rental company FFObtain marriage license FFConfirm selections with musicians FFConfirm final floral arrangements with florist FFAlert credit card companies there will be a number of charges coming up FFConfirm with photographer shot list

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1 Day FFManicures and pedicures FFSpend time with family and friends FFHave a massage or spend time at a spa to relax FFRehearsal dinner Wedding Day FFRelax and drink plenty of water FFHair and makeup FFMake sure you have your rings and marriage license FFSay “I do”

Montana Bride - The Details

WEDDING BUDGET Ceremony Vendor Contact FFChapel / Site fee FFOfficiate / Gratuity FFFlowers FFMusic FFTransportation FFPhotographer FFVideography FFInvitations / Programs

Budget

Actual

Reception

FFSite fee FFEvent Planner FFCatering FFPlate fee Number of guests: Total fee: FFService fee FFGratuity FFBar FFLiquor FFStaff / Bartender FFGratuity FFWedding Cake FFFavors FFSeating Chart / Table Cards FFDecor FFFlowers FFMusic / Band FFGuest Book FFRentals

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Montana Bride Featured Wedding

CONTENT Say “I Do” in Big Sky

Bride Budget Actual FFWedding Gown FFHeadpiece / Veil FFAlterations FFShoes FFJewelry FFWedding Ring FFHair & Make-up FFManicure / Pedicure FFLingerie Groom Budget Actual FFTuxedo / Suit FFWedding Ring FFAccessories Flowers Budget Actual FFBride’s Bouquet FFGroom’s Boutonnière FFBridesmaid’s Bouquets FFGroomsmen’s Boutonnière FFParents FFGrandparents FFUshers FFOfficiate Notes

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Montana Bride - The Details

MUSIC Ceremony FFMusician(s) FFPrelude FFProcessional FFCeremony FFRecessional FFPostlude Reception FFMusician(s)

FFCocktail Hour FFDinner FFFirst Dance FFFather / Daughter Dance FFMother/ Son Dance FFWedding Party Dance FFBouquet Toss FFCake Cutting FFWedding Couple Exit

FOR MORE

Montana bride

...

VISIT US ONLINE

www.montanabride.com - www.montanabride.blogspot.com

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Montana Bride Bride - The Details Montana

MAKE IT LEGAL ID Requirement Valid Driver’s license and certified copy of birth certificate, current passport or military identification card.

Residency Requirement Do not have to be a resident of Montana.

Waiting Period Montana law allows you to get married immediately after officially receiving your marriage license. No waiting period is necessary unless under the age of 18.

If Divorced A certified copy of the divorce decree is required.

Fees $53.00 - cash only.

Other Requirements Signed premarital certificate (informed consent/waiver of requirement for blood test for rubella immunity).

Form is available by calling Montana Public Health at 800-821-7284 or online at: http://www.dphhs.mt.gov/PHSD/ Lab/Environmental/pdf/premaritalcertfillable.pdf. This form will need to be presented, and signed by the bride and groom as well as the clerk of court, at time of application for marriage license.

Under 18 If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must have the consent of both parents unless only one parent has legal custody of you. Proof of age must be in the form of a certified copy of your birth certificate. Both of you, as a couple, will also have to attend at least two counseling sessions that are at least 10 days apart. This has to be done with a designated counselor

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who will then have to provide a letter that states the names of the couple, their ages, the dates of the counseling sessions, and what the counselor thinks about their possible marriage. Then judicial consent signed by a district court judge must be given for the Clerk of court’s office to issue a marriage license. No one 15 years of age or younger may marry in Montana.

Proxy Marriages Yes. Copy of Certificate of Marriage Department of Health and Human Services Vital Statistics Bureau 111 N. Sanders, Room 205, Helena, MT 59620 (406) 444-4228 Miscellaneous License is valid for 180 days. Marriage licenses are like cream; if you don’t use it straight away, eventually it will go sour. Montana marriage licenses expire after 6 Months. If your license expires before you wed, you can reapply for another license. Be sure to bring the following with you when you apply for your license: Mother’s maiden name, full names of both parents, city and states in which parents were born and current city and state of parents residency, signed premarital certificate.

While the record that a marriage occurred is public in Montana, the personal information about the bride and groom contained in the marriage license application is confidential and generally available only to immediate family members.

Ministers of the gospel of any denomination may perform marriages as well as a judge or public official with the power to solemnize. Officiate must complete and return a marriage certificate to the clerk of the district court within 30 days after the marriage. Also, the person officiating must provide marriage certificates to the bride and groom upon request. For questions contact the clerk of the district court. The state of Montana only recognizes or validates a marriage between a man and a woman.

Laws are subject to change; please confirm all laws prior to wedding.

Montana Bride - The Details

ADVERTISERS GUIDE CINEMATOGRAPHERS Britney Paige Cinematographers.......24

APPAREL Annette’s Alterations..............................104 Avant Bridal..................................................47 Belles & Lace................................................ 74 Belle en Blanc..............................................93 The Bride’s Shoppe..................................137 Hitched.......................................................... 139 Plume Bridal................................................. 27 Persnickety.................................................... 74 Sole Mate........................................................85

EVENT CONSULTANTS & WEDDING PLANNERS Katalin Green Design................................ 72 Goldfinch Events & Design....................82 FLORISTS Avant Floral..................................................... 2 Bloom...............................................................38 Gainans Flowers.........................................88 Mac's Floral...................................................93 Mum’s Flowers.............................................83

BAR SERVICE & LIQUOR Plonk.................................................................67 Zebra Cocktail/Bar Service................. 125

HEALTH & BEAUTY Big Sky Cosmetic Surgery.....................112 Bridger Pilates............................................ 30 Canyon River Spa........................................ 21 Erotique........................................................104 GW Design & Dayspa............................ 100 Indulgence.....................................................78 Linda Michaels Salon/Spa......................92 Moxie Hair & Body................................... 128 Spruce and Honey Waxing Parlor..... 30 Visage............................................................108

CAKES Cakes by Jenn............................................ 128 Elle’s Belles Bakery..................................109 Elegant Perfections.................................. 116 Sweet Pea Bakery...................................... 74 Crooked Tree Coffee & Cakes............120 CATERING, RESTAURANTS & FOOD 14 North..........................................................43 Bravo Catering.............................................112 Eagle Ridge Ranch....................................97 Food for Thought....................................... 17 The Food Studio.........................................121 LaFoley Wood Fired Oven................... 128 Nova Café.................................................... 124 Over the Tapas.......................................... 128 Two Sisters Catering............................... 124 Zac’s Montana Kitchen............................52

INVITATIONS Noteworthy Paper & Press....................55 JEWELRY Alara..............................................Back Cover Gem Gallery.............................................IFC-1

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RECEPTIONS, CEREMONIES, REHEARSALS & LODGING 320 Ranch.................................................... 48 Baxter Hotel...................................................16 Belton Chalet............................................... 84 Big Sky Resort.............................................63 Big Yellow Barn.......................................... 20 Brackett Creek Inn................................... 136 Bru Mar Estate.............................................42 Buck’s T-4 Lodge.....................................105 Cache Creek Outfitters..........................140 Chancey’s Event Center..........................54 Chico Hot Springs....................................... 21 Deep Creek Range.................................. 133 Crand Union..................................................121 Hilton Garden Inn....................................... 75 The Lodge at Whitefish Lake............. 129 Moonlight Basin..........................................34 Rainbow Ranch...........................................25 Sacajawea Hotel........................................ 113 Under Canvas Events............................ 100

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT Joe’s DJ Service......................................... 96 Peach Street Studios................................117 PHOTOGRAPHERS Amelia Anne Photography.....................31 Amber Reinhardt’s Photography...... 132 Arnica Spring Photography.................... 11 Bon Ton Photo Company.......................42 B2 Photography......................................... 49 Cable Noteboom Photography.......... 66 FranZe Photography............................... 84 Greener Visuals...........................................39 Jennie Lynn Photography........... 152-IBC Larry Stanley Photography........ 152-IBC MKate Photography................................. 46 Orange Photographie..............................26 Paul Bellinger Photography...................14 Piknik Studios...............................................89 Shanna Mae Photography.....................79 Studio SKM & Photography.................137 Wandering Albatross.............................120

TRANSPORTATION Big Sky Valet............................................... 101 Classic Limo..................................................58

PHOTO BOOTHS Big Sky Photo Booth..............................140

Advertise with Montana Bride!

Visit us at:

SPECIALTY RETAILERS Heyday............................................................38 Bear Bottom Candles.............................. 141 RENTALS Celebrate Party Rentals..........................88 Montana Johns.......................................... 132 Montana Party Rentals............................53 Under Canvas Events............................ 100

www.montanabride.com

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Montana Bride - The Details

KATALIN LOVES

Personalized Stamps

Glamping

Antlers

Beautiful Hangers

Red Velvet

Sail Cloth Tents

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Barns

Hand Tied Bow Ties

Macarons

Horseshoes

Classic Suspenders

Awesome Belt Buckles

Photography: Amelia Anne, Lily Barone, Roper Green, Loni Mae, Janie Osborne, Orange Photographie, Kene Sperry

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