Today we’re going to talk about one of the most beautiful and intimate weddings I’ve ever shot in Red Lodge, but first we need to address something of the utmost importance: Vinny.
Who is Vinny? Well, I’m sorry you don’t know. Vinny is the bestest of men, the stealer of the show in the goodest of ways, and the biggest chomper of sticks (logs.) This is Vinny:
Vinny has his own Instagram, and if you want more happy endorphins I highly recommend checking out his page.
Outside of Vinny being a highlight of the wedding of Alex and Madi, their wedding was also highlighted by gorgeous scenery, dramatic weather, and the charm of Red Lodge.
The gorgeous scenery of Red Lodge doesn’t need a whole lot to be said for it, because it speaks for itself. I will say that being 2 minutes from the mountains and the Beartooth Highway which many have said is “the most beautiful drive in America” is pretty awesome when you want a more traditional wedding with a lot of family and friends, but still get photos that look like an adventure elopement. And if you’re trying to sway any skeptic’s mind on getting married here, the best adivce I can give is to give Red Lodge a visit, or at the very minimum google some photos of the area. They are sure to be stunned by the beauty.
Weather in Montana can be an issue. But in some cases, the weather may just add to your wedding as it did in the case of Alex and Madi. During their wedding ceremony it began to rain, instead of moving indoors or to a dryer location, they continued on with the show, and let me tell you, the skies were soooo dramatic and stunning. There’s no way I could have ever caught the emotion of their love and tenderness for each other without the gentle raindrops and stormy skies. After the ceremony, we all went inside to get dry and continue on with the party. So even when the weather is subpar, it might just end up working in your favor.
Finally, Red Lodge is the sweetest little town Hallmark could ever think up. With it’s Christmas strolls, antique shops, bakeries, florists, cafes, and book stores it’s like stepping into a storybook. The small town's tight-knit community creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere that makes for a truly memorable wedding experience. From the friendly locals who welcome you with open arms to the local businesses that go above and beyond to make your day special, the people of Red Lodge truly make a wedding here an unforgettable experience.
All in all, am I biased about getting married in Red Lodge? Probably. But not without good reason, from the past 10 years of photographing weddings, I’ve never, not once, had a wedding go wrong in Red Lodge. Which is crazy! Feel free to check out some more photos from Alex and Madi’s wedding below and if you want to see even more check out their engagement session which was also in Red Lodge, here!
Hey I’m Zak Jokela,
I’ve been photographing weddings in Montana for over 10 years. I absolutely love my job, getting to tell the stories of others through my images is my absolute passion. Originally from South Dakota, I studied photography in College in Chicago. Afterward, I came out to Montana and have been photographing ever since. Now I live in Billings with my wife Alex and our beloved cats Ms. Bella B & Maple Bacon Donut.
