Fall came early to the mountains this year with Audrey and Scott’s Northwest Montana Airbnb intimate wedding. Their rustic, Western-Inspired color palette of terracotta, rust, and mustard yellow complimented the golden hues of the rolling hills sprawling throughout the countryside. These Midwesterners envisioned mountain views and dramatic landscapes that were a stark contrast to that of Northern Iowa. Between the wedding festivities at their Columbia Falls vacation rental and exploring Glacier National Park, it’s safe to say they weren’t in Iowa anymore!

Columbia Falls Airbnb Intimate Wedding

I first met Audrey way back in the day when we played volleyball together. Getting to photograph her wedding day was so special, and felt like a sweet taste of ‘back home’ all the way out in Montana! Audrey and Scott decided to travel to Montana for some mountain views, and a wedding day that felt completely authentic to them as a couple. While they still intended on having a ‘traditional’ wedding reception back in Iowa, they still wanted their families to be involved in their Montana wedding day. Both Audrey and Scott’s moms wore blue, to represent the classic “something blue” element. Additionally, the couple wanted each family member to have a role within the ceremony. From the invocation to the declaration of intent, and every moment in between, each loved one played such an important role in their intentional family wedding ceremony.

After the “I do’s” made it official, I was able to steal Audrey and Scott for some “just married” portraits on the Airbnb’s property. One of the biggest things that sold them on the Columbia Falls Airbnb that they chose was the presence of livestock and pastureland. While they were still looking for an environment different to back home, it was still important to see little elements of “home” among the property. The horses grazing in the pasture and the smell of pure nostalgia (that can only be recognized if you grew up in a farming community) intermingling with the sweet mountain breeze made for the most joyful bridal portraits.

Audrey and Scott’s attire hit the mark; Audrey’s whimsical a-line off the shoulder gown with tulle flutter sleeves paired with her white cowboy boots was perfect for their western-inspired nuptials. Scott wore jeans, a suede suit jacket, and auburn-colored cowboy boots. And let’s not forget the groom’s turquoise ring from his grandfather- a true nod to a western wedding. 

Northwest Montana Intimate Wedding | Sydney Breann Photography

But if I’m being honest, it was every little thoughtfully curated detail that rounded out the entire vibe. The terracotta, rust, and mustard yellow color palette carried throughout the day. From the delicate flat lay details to the cozy and intimate tablescape design. If you didn’t know, I actually offer elopement planning services to my couples in addition to my Montana elopement photography. So there’s a 10/10 chance that I will be swooning over any tablescape that I spot.

Audrey and Scott wanted to enjoy a family-style dinner, gathered around one big banquet table. The table was adorned with a rust table runner, tapered candles, amber glassware, bud vases, wicker chargers, and gold flatware. Perched in the lawn overlooking the pasture, it was the perfect setup for a backyard wedding reception. The family dined, laughed, and enjoyed the traditional first dances and cake cutting. 

As dinner wrapped up, the couple and I headed into Glacier National Park for some more bridal portraits. Audrey and Scott emphasized not wanting their day to feel like a photoshoot, so we really didn’t have too much of an itinerary as we headed into the park. With a few locations in mind for some captivating views, we stopped at a lookout and at Big Bend. This spot has become one of my favorites, and it never disappoints with the quintessential mountain views. We then made our way down to Lake McDonald where Audrey and Scott skipped some rocks from the shore. Between their giggles and little stolen kisses, it was the perfect way to end our time together. 

Getting Married in Glacier National Park | Montana Elopement Planner

Audrey and Scott’s Northwest Montana Airbnb intimate wedding was a day designed with their vision at the forefront. Their intentionality and attention to their families was a beautiful thing to witness throughout the day. I couldn’t be more grateful to have met so many incredible couples who travel to Northwest Montana and trust me to document their adventures. From old friends to new friends, I am forever in awe that this is my job! Speaking of friends, be sure to check out my latest blogs below for recent musings. And of course, follow along with my adventures over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Until next time, are you ready wander?

Northwest Montana Intimate Wedding Vendor Team:

Photography – Sydney Breann Photography
Makeup – Covet Beauty
Wedding Dress – Lillian West by Justin Alexander, purchased from Mara, Inc.

Northwest Montana Wedding Inspiration and Planning Resources

Relaxed 2-Day Elopement at Lake Josephine
Elegant Multi-Day Elopement in Northwest Montana
Glacier National Park Elopement at Big Bend
Whimsical Evening Adventure Session on Going-to-the-Sun Road
The Best Kept Elopement Timeline Secret
Intimate Church Elopement in Missoula
How to DIY Your Elopement Florals