Opsahl {the wedding}

Jenn and Rick Opsahl

Swanson Lodge;

Troy, Montana

I have long said that I love the big extravagant weddings… but the little intimate ones with only very close family and friends in attendance are my absolute favorite.   Jenn and Rick chose the latter.  Their wedding was in a sweet little lodge just outside a tiny little town: Troy, Montana.  Troy is a land of no cell reception and where life moves just a little bit slower, love is felt just a little bit deeper.

 

Rick was in fine spirits the sunny morning before his wedding. He woke up and had a big farm style Swanson Lodge breakfast, coffee and sported a huge grin.

Jenn spent her morning just like every bride before her wedding… being pampered with a happy smile.

I adore Jenn’s dark blue stone in her wedding ring!

Gorgeous!

The apple orchard was in full bloom! It made a fantastic place for photos!

Jenn has been mom for Rick’s daughter, Aubrey, for most of her life. It was a pretty special day for that sweet kiddo!

Gorgeous, Jenn!

The lodge built this archway just for the couple. It turned out beautifully!

The beading on the back of her gown!

Rick was so handsome in that suit. He had it custom made… with all sorts of fancy touches.

Aubrey and her dad have such a special relationship.  For so long it was just the two of them… and then there was Jenn.  She makes their lives so rich!

The original Swanson Lodge owner brought his Mail Order Bride home in this antique wagon. He drove over 90 miles to bring her back here to her new home.

It is official! The new Opsahl family!



















 We all came back in to the lodge for a feast! The Swanson Lodge pulled out all their finest and served up the best steak dinner.

Without any fanfare, Rick turned on their song and swept Jenn into his arms for their first dance.

A huge tree offered shade from the bright sunshine.








Then Rick and his mom and Jenn and her dad began to dance.  Eyes were filled with tears…  And the love was very deep.

I love their topper that include’s Jenn’s dog, Tucker, and Rick’s daughter, Aubrey! This marriage joins a lot more than two people!

After dinner we went on an adventure to a local waterfall.

I love long exposure shots of water!

My knees were shaking as I crossed this super high swinging bridge…. It was worth it though!

And we couldn’t resist a photo just after dark. I love a good night time shot. And in Alaska, it is usually really cold out when it is dark. So this was a real treat.

Stunning!

 

Jenn and Rick… Thank you so much for flying us down to join you in the most beautiful wedding in Montana! We will remember it always!