As if Montana isn’t beautiful enough, my experience in this gorgeous state was made all the more amazing by having the opportunity to shoot Luke and Meghan’s wedding. They chose the perfect venue, a ranch off the beaten path, surrounded by mountains, and nestled right next to a very real babbling brook. If that’s not the beginning of a fairy tale, I don’t know what is.

Meghan is one of the most talented brides I’ve met in my experience so far. She was a  DIY-er to the T. She had her hand in all of the planning and everywhere I turned it seemed, someone said “Oh, Meghan made these”. When I arrived at the lodge for preparation and the rehearsal, I got to see her in action as she put together her own centerpieces and bouquets. I may be biased since yellow is my favorite color and she was the type of person you just immediately like, but I thought her choice in Sunflowers was just right for her personality. I only officially met Meghan the night of my arrival because I am a friend of the groom’s family but I was already bride crushing on her. She sparkled, and her wedding was an extension of the open arms and genuine joy that she exuded.

The wedding was full of details. I was in love with the handmade chalkboard signage that was strewn all over the ranch letting the guests know where they were and where they needed to be. I soon found out that Meghan was a skilled seamstress and had crafted her bridesmaids skirts herself. If that isn’t impressive enough, she also made stemless champagne flutes for the entire wedding party. Did I mention she’s a med student? I mean! Come on, give the rest of us a break Meghan!

It was obvious that she and Luke really cared about pulling their desires for their wedding into a reality. They both worked so hard to make sure that everyone was included and made me feel so honored to be their photographer.

One of my favorite memories of the day was watching the groomsmen have a moment before leading their friend to his bride. They were so relaxed and in the moment! They gave advice and shared memories, and helped the groom get over any pre-wedding anxiety with a “cheers!” to what was ahead!

You could see the love and affection on both Luke and Meghan’s faces for each other and the friends they had invited to be included in the the ceremony. It was an intimate and sweet time that I know they will cherish forever.

The wedding was an all day event that included plenty of hors d’oeuvres as well as scrumptious lunch provided by Zac, a great mix of the Texas groom’s favorite brews (Shiner and Lonestar) to cool off in that hot Montana sun, as well as yard games for entertainment! If that wasn’t enough, they organized for  a food truck with delicious surf&turf to join us at the ranch later in the evening!

The bride and groom shared a few dances and then snuck out but that didn’t stop their family and friends from enjoying the rest of the evening and celebrating the joining of Luke and Meghan.

I was so inspired by this couple’s capability to partner in planning such a memorable event for not only themselves, but all of their loved ones. Thanks for throwing the bash of the summer Moorheads!