Jackson, Wyoming is one of my favorite places. In winter, Jackson Hole offers up the best steep and deep in the Nation. In summer, Jackson becomes a gateway for sightseeing near the Nation’s most spectacular natural wonders, including Yellowstone National Park and the Tetons. Downtown Jackson is a charming town with fabulous eateries and the culture of the Wild West.
Annie and Bradley’s gorgeous rustic wedding, captured by Amy Galbraith, who recounts that the day started with “hail, pouring rain and lightning that thundered over the mountains with no warning…Chase stood nervous at the alter which had been moved under the pavilion and Annie waited in the shuttle with her parents and bridesmaids. Everyone’s shoes were already soaking wet and raincoats covered up flowery summer dresses and dress shirts. As the rain began to calm and the clouds began to part, the sun peeked over the Tetons just in time for the ceremony. It was perfect.
Annie + Chase
July 06, 2013
Jackson, WY
Why a Mountain Wedding?
We live in Jackson, Wyoming which in our opinion has the most breath taking views of the mountains. The Tetons and it’s enormous outdoor playground is the special place we fell in love with each other and the landscape.
Where did you find your inspiration?
Our inspiration for our wedding’s rustic look was a vision I had with the antlers, wood, candles, and simple flower arrangements. Pinterest is a great way as well to view other rustic mountain weddings.
What were some personal details you incorporated?
All of the antlers on the tables and used in the alter setting were our own found in the hills right behind our house. We love antler shed hunting!
Your favorite moment of the day.
I would have to say when the storm finally quit and the sun came out just as I was walking down the aisle – certainly made everything feel just right! However, the music and entertainment also made it a night unforgettable.
Three things you’re glad you did.
- Though it was an outdoor wedding in Wyoming, the weather wasn’t supposed to be as cold and stormy as it turned out – we were thankful that people could huddle by the fire-pit when they got cold.
- I was very pleased with the cupcakes made by Jennifer Beastrom. She did a fantastic job – they were not only delicious but captured the rustic country look we were going for with them staggered amongst logs and tiny tree stumps.
- I was happy a friend, Shaun Barrier, made us our own alter setting with huge elk antler sheds sitting tall on long table. This definitely put a true wyoming twist to the wedding and made for a more personal touch!
Anything you wish you hadn’t done?
I wish we did not have to have the wedding ceremony under the tent where we would be having dinner, but the weather just didn’t permit us to have it any other way.
What was the best piece of wedding advice you got?
The best piece of wedding advice I got was to ask for help! People love to help out at weddings and wouldn’t ask to help unless they wanted too. Honestly, there is no possible way you can plan such a huge event by yourself – especially when your mother lives half way across the country.
What piece of wedding planing advice do you wish you followed?
I think a wedding planer would have helped with the organization of the wedding – it seems like we left a lot of things to do towards the very end.
Anything you wish you hadn’t worried about?
Well I wish I didn’t worry so much about everything because in the end – everything works out the way it needs to – perfectly!
Anything You wish you had known about sooner rather than later?
I wish I could have let our guests know about the spontaneous weather in the mountains so they could have planned for a rainy, cool night.
How did you choose your vendors?
Mostly word of mouth, Jackson is a small community in which everyone knows everyone else. Also, knowing some couples that have already tied the knot in Jackson were very helpful in talking to about vendors.
What is your very best advice to other mountain brides?
I know this may seem a bit cliche but, try not to stress out – it is really the people, family and friends, that make your wedding the most fun and absolute best day. It goes by fast to just smile, laugh, and enjoy it girl!
Jackson, Wyoming Wedding Vendors
- Photographer: Amy Galbraith Photography
- Event Venue: Dornan’s
- Floral Designer: Flowers by Chloe
- Hair Stylist:N8V Beaty Salon and Spa
- Invitation Designer:Pixel Paper
- Dress Designer:Rebecca Schoneveld
- DJ: Al Hunter
- Transportation: Teton Village Resort Transportation