Frankie and Matt’s intimate springtime Missoula Courthouse wedding was the epitome of beautiful simplicity, and chock-full of joy, happiness and love.

When Frankie first got in touch with me about photographing their wedding, she told me that she’s originally from Missoula and grew up on a 21-acre apple farm. The farm has since been developed, but apple trees and the Rattlesnake area of Missoula in particular, are still incredibly important to her. So it was absolutely fitting that she and Matt decided to have their first look beside a blossoming apple tree in the Rattlesnake.

And it really couldn’t have been more magical. They were both so excited to see one another, and the total elation on their faces had me grinning from ear to ear behind the camera. Even Frankie’s family dog, Jazzy (a 12-year-old black lab and collie mix), joined them for their first look!

As the thunder started rumbling and we could see wispy sheets of rain falling in the distance, we decided to zip down to the creek to make a few more images before heading our way to the courthouse. I’m so thankful to Frankie’s friend (who joined us as we made images) brought along an umbrella. Which, as it turns out, was very much needed as the storm moved in and absolutely downpoured on us! As we made our way back to our cars, Frankie got everyone giggling as she looked at Matt who was thoughtfully holding the umbrella for her, “You’re my umbrella-holder for life!”

After everyone dried off a bit it was time for Frankie and Matt to say their “I Do’s” in front of their friends and family who met up with them in the courthouse. The excitement in the air was tangible and before long everyone was ushered into one of the courtrooms to get Frankie and Matt officially married!

There was laughter, a few tears, and absolute happiness as Frankie and Matt were pronounced married, and their family cheered for them.

We finished the afternoon off by making some super fun family photos with everyone involved, as well as a few more images of the newly-minted married couple before they headed off to enjoy a lovely meal with their family and friends to celebrate their nuptials.

Frankie and Matt! My goodness, what an absolute pleasure it was to make these photos for you and document these memories! I loved every single second of the time I got to spend with you, and I’m just so darn happy for you both. Here’s to a many more magical springtimes for you, filled with apple blossoms along the way! Congrats, congrats, congrats again!

On the docket:

Weddings and portraits galore! Stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine