Gorgeous lake views, velvet bridesmaid dresses, and the blooms of our dreams – this wedding is sure to inspire. As featured in Montana Bride magazine, Volume 18, read on to see all of the gorgeous details. Photography by Kristiann Photography and planning by Montana Bride Vendor Huckleberry Wedding & Event Planning.
“Benji and I met briefly at a friend’s house three years ago, but more recently at a bonfire with friends on Flathead Lake. Our friends took notice that we could be a great couple, so they set out to get us together. After spending the summer getting to know one another, he asked me out on a date in October of 2019. A few days later, I left for a vacation to Greece, and Benji left for a two-month trip to India. As they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder, and we fell in love while apart. We traveled together frequently during our months of dating. Benji proposed in May of 2020, and despite Covid, we moved forward with planning and knew that this once-in-a-lifetime event needed to happen. Everyone needed something to celebrate, and a day filled with love and joy was just the thing. And that is exactly what it turned out to be. It was such a blessed wedding day, and we only wish we could re-live it over and over again.
It seems that most Montana weddings happen outside in the mountains, at a farm, or in a barn, and we were hoping for something different. None of the cathedrals or churches had the elegant, sweet feel we were going for. I love the water and having met in Lakeside, we thought we could make something work there. The Harbor Grill had only held one or two smaller weddings at the restaurant, and we asked if they would be willing to do a larger one. Turned out we could rent the whole place, have them cater, and have our dream of a waterfront wedding in Montana at a unique location. We had our ceremony in a separate venue in Lakeside, and it was perfect. It was airy, bright and classy, and was built for community.”
What stands out as the best part of your day?
“Our ceremony was unforgettable, and the dancing and food were a delight. The best part was having our two worlds come together during this time of Covid separation. It wasn’t just our wedding; it was also a reunion of family and friends.”
What advice would you give to other brides planning a Montana wedding?
“Use a wedding planner. Their communication with your vendors is priceless, and we could not have imagined doing it all ourselves. The day-of coordination is also so important. Our parents and bridal parties actually got to enjoy the day fully without worrying about major details.”
photography | KRISTIANN PHOTOGRAPHY
@kristiann_photography
planning & design | HUCKLEBERRY WEDDING & EVENT PLANNING (#MBVendor)
@huckleberryweddingplanning
bar & beverage | HARBOR GRILLE
@harbor_grille_lakeside
cake & dessert | RED POPPY GLUTEN FREE BAKERY
@redpoppyglutenfreebakery
catering | HARBOR GRILLE
@harbor_grille_lakeside
dresses & menswear | VELVET BRIDE (bridal gown)
@velvetbride
RENZ RAGS (bridesmaids)
@renzrags
HH CLOTHING CO. (groom)
@hhclothingco
floral design | BLUMEHILL STUDIOS
@blumehillstudios
hair & makeup | ENVOGUE SALON
@bella_colour_salon
music & entertainment | DAVE ANDERSEN (DJ)
JESSICA CHEN (cellist)
ELLERY LUIKENS (vocalist)
NATALIE RADOSEVICH (pianist)
officiant | MICHAEL RASMUSSEN
rentals & decor | EMPRESS TENTS & EVENTS (#MBVendor)
@empress_tents_events
@celebraterentals
stationery | GREAT NORTHERN PRINTING
@greatnorthernprintinginc
venue | YWAM MONTANA READINESS CENTER (ceremony)
@ywammontanalakeside
HARBOR GRILLE (reception)
@harbor_grille_lakeside
videography | RILEY CONNELL
MATTHEW HOUSER
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