Ever since I discovered just how much joy event planning has brought to my life as an elopement photographer, I have dove headfirst into it. If this is your first time on the blog, WELCOME! My name is Sydney, and I am a Northwest Montana elopement photographer and planner. I added elopement planning to my list of offerings a couple years ago, and haven’t looked back since. Combining my love of event planning and fostering community in the wedding industry snowballed into a new passion project dubbed: “Sydney’s Seasonal Gatherings”. As soon as I started piecing together my vision board and searching for the perfect event space, I stumbled upon Somers Mansion. If you’re searching for a Northwest Montana intimate wedding venue or event space, add Somers Mansion to your list.
When I first envisioned gathering some of my favorite gals together for my first event, I pictured a whimsical, ethereal atmosphere. When I found Somers Mansion, I was blown away by just how committed to the historical integrity the owners are. This historic 1903 mansion was recently restored to its former glory, with some modern touches. The gorgeous 3-story yellow mansion is perched among towering pines, surrounded by sprawling mountains views overlooking Flathead Lake. White trim adds historic farmhouse-charm along the balcony railings and multiple windows.
If the mansion isn’t enough to marvel over, make your way down to the meadow overlooking Flathead Lake, or head up the path to the carriage house, complete with a covered pavilion. Situated on 6 acres, the estate itself is Northwest Montana view worth taking in. The carriage house can accommodate up to 150 guests, has food truck hookups, food preparation space, 2 ADA bathrooms, an upstairs getting ready room, and balcony space. Additionally, Somers Estate provides up to 23 farmhouse tables, 200 white resin chairs, a ceremony arch, bar, 5 hightop brass tables, and more.
Even though the Somers Estate is enough of a draw to host an intimate wedding or event, the attention and love poured into the interior of Somers Mansion. No detail was spared restoring this gem. Upon walking up the path to the covered porch, you are immediately greeted with rich wood work, hardwood floors, and arched doorways. The dining room features two crystal chandeliers, a wood-burning fireplace wrapped in brick, and wainscoted walls. Gold sconces and framed artwork complete the vibe.
Before heading up the grand staircase, check out the luxurious chef’s kitchen (complete with a pot-filler, butler’s pantry, and quartz countertops). Upstairs, you will find 8 bedrooms, each with their own ensuite. Each room has hardwood floors, king beds, and modern historic charm. The owners beautifully renovated each ensuite with modern features and vintage touches.
While each room and dedicated bathroom are each absolutely stunning, I highly recommend snagging the one with the soaking tub and double vanity. Just imagine waking up in the morning, sipping coffee out on the balcony with your fiancé, before heading into the bridal suite to get ready alongside your gals as natural light pours through the windows. And the very best part? Select wedding packages include accommodations, and you can also rent individual rooms separately. One of my favorite parts of my own wedding was having my closest people stay in the same vacation rental as my husband and I. It made the entire experience that much better.
As a Northwest Montana elopement photographer, I typically spend my days capturing intimate vows exchanged in Glacier National Park. Whether atop a mountain, or down by an alpine lake…Most couples envision their Montana wedding as either exactly that or as a Western-style celebration. But one of my favorite parts of being an elopement photographer is when my couples lean into what feels most authentic to them. So if heading to Montana for a romantic intimate wedding surrounded by your favorite people in a gorgeous historic mansion before heading to Glacier National Park for some epic mountain bridal portraits, say less. Whether you’re searching for a Northwest Montana intimate wedding venue, an event space for a community event, or a cozy place to stay, I can’t recommend them enough.
Hosting my Northwest Montana wedding vendor community event at Somers Mansion was a dream. I intend all the pun with that one, because the theme was “On Cloud 9”. The setting effortlessly enhanced the beauty of each design element I chose. I couldn’t be more grateful for the group of gals I get to work alongside, cheer on, and learn from as a Montana wedding photographer.
If you take nothing from this blog but the following 2 things, I will rest easy tonight:
Be sure to stay tuned to the blog to catch the latest from Sydney’s Seasonal Gatherings and to snag some elopement inspo or planning tips. You can also keep up with me over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto) to keep up with my adventures and incredible couples. So what do ya say, are you ready to wander?
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