Trason and Hailey say I Do at Homestead on McVey

As an Idaho wedding photographer, I’m always drawn to the incredible beauty and warmth that each wedding day brings, and Trason and Hailey’s wedding was no exception. They chose The Homestead on McVey in Victor, Montana, nestled in the scenic Bitterroot Valley—a place I absolutely love. Every year, I’m lucky enough to photograph weddings in this gorgeous area, and each experience just gets better. Trason and Hailey’s day, however, was a standout, filled with personalized touches, family traditions, and beautiful, heartfelt moments.

The Homestead on McVey is a wedding photographer’s dream! This was my first time photographing a wedding at this venue, and it was breathtaking. The property features a pristine white barn, lush landscaping, and an elegant, rustic farmhouse where Hailey and her bridesmaids prepared for the day. The barn was the heart of their celebration, carefully styled with personal touches, including a memory ladder honoring loved ones who couldn’t be there. This thoughtful detail was so touching and set the perfect tone for a day filled with love and remembrance.

The ceremony was held in a sunlit field, surrounded by close family and friends who gathered to witness this beautiful union. Trason and Hailey chose to include a “first look,” a special moment before the ceremony where they could see each other for the first time in private. They took it a step further, using this time to exchange private vows—a growing trend that I absolutely adore as a Salmon Idaho photographer. Many couples are embracing this approach, allowing them to share their deepest feelings without the pressure of an audience. It’s such a wonderful way to calm any pre-wedding nerves and create a private, emotional memory. And I always tell couples—this is your day, so whether I’m there to photograph this moment or not, it should be exactly what feels right for you.

After their brief but sweet ceremony in the field, Trason and Hailey walked back down the aisle in a magical bubble send-off from their guests, a fun and joyful way to celebrate their first moments as newlyweds. This simple addition added so much charm and fun to the ceremony exit, making for some incredible photos as bubbles filled the air around them.

For the reception, guests enjoyed an intimate outdoor dining experience under the open Montana sky. Tables and chairs were arranged outside to make the most of the warm autumn evening, allowing everyone to take in the golden hues of the setting sun. Inside the barn, Trason and Hailey planned a beautiful seating area upstairs, where music and dancing filled the night. They even set up a fun “photo blitz” with all their guests by table—an exciting way to include everyone in their wedding memories! Another special highlight was Hailey dedicating her bouquet to her mom, a heartfelt gesture that brought a touching mother-daughter moment to the day. Capturing these connections is one of the most meaningful parts of my work as a wedding photographer.

The reception was truly unforgettable, thanks in large part to their fantastic DJ team, who created an energetic, lively atmosphere. If you’re a couple debating whether to hire a DJ, I can tell you from experience that a DJ can elevate the night, bringing a unique energy to the party that truly makes a difference. Trason and Hailey’s DJ even brought along a fog gun, which made for some fun, high-energy moments on the dance floor. It was clear that this party was going to last well into the night, with laughter, dancing, and celebration.

Trason and Hailey’s wedding at The Homestead on McVey captured everything beautiful about a Montana wedding: the love, the laughter, and the unforgettable memories shared with family and friends in such an enchanting setting. As a Montana and Salmon Idaho photographer, it was an honor to capture these moments, and I feel so lucky to have been part of their day. If you’re planning your own wedding in Montana or Idaho, remember—it’s all about making the day yours, filling it with the details and people you love most. And trust me, those meaningful moments will shine through in every photo.

Being a wedding photographer is more than just documenting a ceremony; it’s about capturing the emotions, the unspoken connections, and the subtle gestures that make each wedding unforgettable. At every wedding, I witness incredible, tender moments that reflect each couple's unique bond, and Trason and Hailey’s special day was a beautiful reminder of just how meaningful these moments can be.

I’ve always loved photographing first looks—a private, intimate moment where couples see each other for the first time before the ceremony. It’s a time to breathe, release some of those nerves, and share a private embrace. For many, it’s a chance to calm those swirling butterflies and let a few tears fall before they step in front of their friends and family. Trason and Hailey embraced this tradition, and as they met under the soft light and saw each other in full wedding attire, there was an unmistakable spark between them. You could feel the love and excitement that had brought them to this moment.

But they didn’t stop there. They wanted to make this moment even more meaningful by sharing it with their parents in a beautiful gesture that went beyond a typical first look. After their private moment, Trason and Hailey invited each of their parents to join them. They had carefully planned this surprise, wanting their parents not only to be part of this intimate moment but also to feel deeply appreciated and valued.

When their parents arrived, Trason and Hailey handed each one a handwritten card, a personal letter expressing love, gratitude, and cherished memories. The parents hadn’t expected this, and as they opened their cards, you could see the surprise and emotion take hold. Standing together, Trason and Hailey watched as each parent read through heartfelt words that reflected their years of love, support, and guidance. Tears began to flow—first from the parents, then from the couple, and soon, I was wiping my own eyes behind the camera.

What followed were hugs, whispers of "I love you," and soft laughter as everyone shared in this emotional moment. It was clear that Trason and Hailey didn’t just love each other—they cherished the relationships that had helped shape them. Their parents’ presence was a part of their story, and these letters were a simple but powerful way to say, "Thank you, we wouldn’t be here without you."

Capturing these moments—the ones where love and gratitude intermingle, where families come together in an expression of appreciation and pride—are why I love what I do. This first look wasn’t just for Trason and Hailey; it was a tribute to the people who had been there from the beginning, who had watched them grow, and who would continue to support them in their journey ahead. It was a reminder that sometimes, the little things—like a heartfelt letter—carry the deepest meaning.