Allison and Ryan are one of the most adventurous, spontaneous couples I know, always jetting off to far-flung corners of the earth on a whim or hiking and biking the roughest trails in Hawaii where they currently live. Which is why it did not surprise me in the least when they told me they wanted to do their First Look and portrait session at the top of a ski lift in the Teton Mountains. Since their engagement, Allison had dreamed of an adventurous elopement in the Rockies. However, they both knew they wanted their family present to witness their marriage. So they designed their destination wedding to feel as intimate as possible with their first look sending them all the adventure elopement vibes. 

They chose a private residence in Idaho, nestled in the foothills of the Teton Mountain Range, where their closest friends could gather, stay, and celebrate their marriage. Allison worked tirelessly to plan the most beautiful, intimate gathering with a rustic, elegant feel. The florals were bold and graceful with a pop of orange added to honor Ryan’s late Father. And the gorgeous, sunny weather was the cherry on top of a perfect day.

In order to incorporate Allison’s dreams of a mountain elopement, they decided to have their first look at the top of Grand Targhee Ski Resort, with the Grand Tetons as a backdrop. (Fun fact: Although their ceremony was held in Idaho, they did their first look in Wyoming – spanning their wedding day across state lines). My second photographer and I rode the ski lift up with each of them separately. Then after a short hike, we reached a point overlooking the Tetons and the valley floor below. The magnificence of these mountains was breathtaking, as though they were painted on a giant canvas. Once Ryan was in position, Allison descended the trail behind him, closely resembling like an angel… After he turned around, they shared an emotional private moment together, and we proceeded with the most stunning portrait session of all time.   

We then returned to their venue in Idaho where they were married in a sweet, intimate ceremony. One of their best friends officiated the ceremony, and Allison’s father walked her down the aisle to a beautiful Hawaiian melody. As the sun began to set, the whole sky turned a stunning shade of pink. The string lights that hung above their intimate reception twinkled like stars. The fire pit was lit as the night turned chilly, casting a warm glow on their friends and family’s beaming faces. And they spent the evening celebrating their marriage surrounded by their nearest and dearest. 

Then, true to their nature, they jetted off to a remote island chain off the coast of Norway for their honeymoon a couple of days later. After all, what else did you expect?

Vendor Team:
Amber Watkins Photography
Historia Florals
Hair by Kelly Rene
Streetfood at the Stagecoach
Custom Cakes at the Falls
Brilliant Earth
Martin & MacArthur
Pink Umbrella
Sky High Event Rentals
Rigby Wedding Rentals
Signature Party & Events