Not every wedding day has (or needs) a theme. And while Vicki and Jesse may not have officially “declared” a theme for their moody Lake McDonald intimate destination wedding, if they had, it absolutely would’ve been “wholesome love”. Reminiscing on their beautiful July wedding in Northwest Montana takes me back to just how ethereal and wholesome their day truly was. This sweet couple wanted nothing more than to just finally say, “I do”. So among lingering patches of snow and a mystical layer of fog, Vicki and Jesse’s day went off without a hitch.
Intimate Destination Wedding in Glacier National Park
Often times when couples choose to elope, they have spent time planning a large, traditional wedding before realizing the grandiose isn’t exactly what they had in mind. When Vicki and Jesse inquired, that was exactly the case. Being able to bring to life what couples really want for their wedding day is such a blessing and one of my favorite parts of being an elopement photographer and planner.
Having already planned a a traditional wedding, Vicki and Jesse opted to add my planning services to their photography to lighten the load. They described the overall vision for their day to be “intimate, breathtaking, and easy”. 3 of my favorite words. Because their closest loved ones would be joining them for their day, they prioritized quality time surrounded by nature.
Vicki and Jesse’s intimate destination wedding began with a first look at a hotel in Kalispell, Montana. Lovingly, the couple’s parents looked on during the first look which was such a sweet thing to witness. Then, we all made our way to Lake McDonald for the most emotional, heartfelt wedding ceremony. Something really special to note about their ceremony was how they intertwined some aspects of a more ‘traditional’ wedding. Both Vicki and Jesse’s sisters and the father of the bride spoke, while Jesse’s dad officiated. Their family speaking during the ceremony was such a beautiful way to include them.
Moody Mountain Bridal Portraits | Lake McDonald Elopement
After celebrating the newlyweds on the shore of Lake McDonald with some group photos, it was time to adventure alongside Vicki and Jesse while their loved ones headed out. Much to our surprise, almost as soon as the ceremony had ended did rain and fog roll in. But as I mentioned before, this couple prioritized wholesome love and they embraced every bit of the weather. We made our way up to Going to the Sun Road where we got to play in the clouds. I will simply never recover from just how magical the vibes were as the newlyweds frolicked in the rain and strolled through the towering trees.
While I was busy wrapping up couples photos in Glacier National Park, my team was busy setting up the dreamiest tablescape at St. Agnes Farmhouse in Whitefish. Once the newlyweds and I arrived at the venue, Vicki had to slip on some giant rubber boots to go greet the highland cows that were grazing in the pasture. Inside, the rustic square banquet table was set with clean, simple place settings. Each place setting featured white plates, mason jar glasses, silver utensils, and dark green napkins which was exactly what the couple envisioned! Down the middle, we had slices of birch trees topped with tea lights and whimsical wildflower bouquets arranged on some bunched gauze table runners.
Montana Elopement Planning | Sydney Breann Photography
As gorgeous as the table was before guests were seated, the space came to life beautifully with laughter, toasts, and an abundance of love. The rest of the evening consisted of dancing, yard games, and several stops to visit the highland cows. There simply couldn’t have been a more perfect way to end Vicki and Jesse’s moody Lake McDonald intimate destination wedding.
Searching for more Northwest Montana elopement inspiration? Head over to the blog! Before you go too far, make sure to follow along with my adventures as a Montana elopement photographer and planner over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Until next time, are you ready to wander?
Vendor Team:
Photography and Planning: Sydney Breann Photography
Rentals: Celebrate Rentals
Venue and Cows: St. Agnes Farmhouse
Hair: Glacier Beauty Co.
Florals: Forage + Floral
Dress + Veil: Here Comes the Bride (Dress Designed by: Madi Lane Bridal)
Groom’s Attire: Tommy Hilfiger
Bride’s Shoes: Thursday Boot Company
Catering: Farmer Meets Foodie MT
Cake: Mountain Mama’s Cupcakery
