Stunning Summer Wedding In Missoula | Olivia + Josh

It's a beautiful love story and a truly beautiful day in Missoula for Olivia and Josh. Photography by Jacilyn M Photography.

"I never thought much good could come from a college chemistry class, but then I got this tutor and, well, the rest is history. Tutoring sessions turned into dinner dates that turned into a life together. When we both graduated, we moved to Virginia to start our careers as a doctor and nurse. That spring, Josh proposed in front of the first home we bought together. Shortly after, we started planning a wedding in Montana. The most commonly asked question we got, and still get, is “Why Montana?”

While dating, we picked up backpacking as a couple. We got to know each other over freeze-dried meals, cowboy coffee, and nights in the backcountry. As Indiana and Pennsylvania natives, we fell in love with the raw beauty and silliness found in the mountains. One summer, we took a backpacking trip to Glacier National Park. It was truly the most special experience. We wanted to bring our people back to the place that taught us to love each other better, taught us to love the Earth better, and brought us closer to God. We wanted to show people the same peace and joy we found there.

Our wedding was a dream. The first time we visited the venue, it was hard to believe it was the place we would become husband and wife. On the actual day, seeing everything come together with all of our loved ones there to share it with us, was so beautiful.

Everyone told us the day would fly by. So, rather unconventionally, we woke up early to spend the morning of our wedding together. We walked along one of the venue’s hiking trails as the sun rose and found a spot overlooking the property where we wrote our vows and prayed together. It’s one of my favorite memories of the day.

My vision for the day was simple: I wanted flowers. Lots of flowers, all kinds, all over. Melissa, owner of Earth Within Flowers, did just that. I remember stepping out of the bridal suite in the late morning to sneak a peak and feeling so overwhelmed with gratitude. It was truly stunning. All of our vendors worked together seamlessly to create the most memorable day for us. Jackie, our photographer, was such a saint. We had the best time working with her. When we look back at the pictures, they so genuinely reflect who Josh and I are. Looking back, the planning process felt so overwhelming at times. There are so many details and moments to plan for. But when it all comes together and you see the day you dreamed of since you were a little girl come to life, it’s truly magical." –Olivia, the bride