A Timeless Summer Wedding at The Grant Creek Ranch in Missoula, MT

July 20, 2024

Wow wow wow! Just wait until you see this wedding day! It’s classic, romantic and full of just about everything that makes gorgeous photos! The roses, the couple, the venue, the light. It was a dream day!!!

You may remember Colton and Riley from their picnic engagement session last summer. I knew when Riley emailed me about her creative and fun ideas for their engagement session that they would be the epitome of an amazing Jess Slater Couple! And I was right!! They have a sweet story of meeting in college and experiencing new chapters of adulthood as their relationship flourished. I adored hearing the best man’s and bride of honor’s speeches that highlighted how their love begin and grew over the years together. The toasters were crying, I was crying, everyone was crying… it was very touching.

But I will say my favorite part of the day was their private prayer together before the ceremony. Now everyone knows that I am a huge advocate for a first look. However, if anyone decides to pass on it, they should at least do a private prayer together. I truly believe that a couple that prays together, stays together. There is not a better testament to how solid Colton and Riley’s faith is than seeing them set aside time of prayer before they wed. Colton even requested prayers with his immediate family and groomsmen. I know that he will do an amazing job in leading his new family with Riley in their walk with Jesus.

Colton and Riley made us smile, laugh, and recollect why weddings are so joyful. These two were made for each other and that became obvious in how they essentially wrote the same vows without even knowing it. The identical inside jokes, the same memories, the same promises…. it became clearly remarkable to see how they're simply soulmates. And the best part? I got to photograph all of it and meet their family and friends. Everyone made us feel so welcomed and loved!!!

Enjoy these favorites!!! Colton and Riley, you are truly the best and it was an HONOR to capture your amazing day.

Riley and Colton waited to see each other until down the aisle, but instead had a private prayer back to back before the ceremony.

Venue: Grant Creek Ranch

Dress: Plume Bridal In Bozeman, MT

DJ: Jesse LaRocque - Prime Time DJ MT

Cake: Bernices Bakery

Catering: Acropolis Gyro

Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey

Groomsmen Attire: Mens Warehouse