Zach was trying to find out what time it was – asking around the park, and no one responded. Until Montana turned around and told him. That was 15 years ago. Fast forward to their wedding day & Zach gave his bride a watch engraved with their initials, set to the time of their ceremony. Cue the water works, people!! This special day was a decade and a half in the making and it couldn’t have been more beautiful. I drove down a long country road to arrive at Black Diamond Gardens – a sprawling estate filled with stunning nooks and hidden gems – from fuzzy goats and adirondack chairs to a sprawling dock stretched out across a peaceful pond. Montana sat nervously in the bridal suite getting finishing touches on hair and makeup as bridesmaids buzzed around her. Her sister went to deliver Montana’s gift, and Zach’s brother came with his. Zach also gave his bride a necklace with a key on it – the sweetest symbol for giving her his heart. Montana stepped into her gown – fitted and beaded to her knees with a whimsical poof of ruffles to the floor. It literally dazzled in the sun.
Montana walked slowly down the dock towards Zach, drenched in sunlight, dress swishing, and tapped him on the shoulder. I always love how first looks are like a wave of calm – Montana was instantly at ease once she was in Zach’s arms. I knew after they exchanged gifts that there would be a lot of happy tears that day and this was no exception. I could feel the years and years of anticipation, expectation, patience, exhilaration and love in that moment. High school sweethearts ready to finally become husband and wife.
Montana is extremely close with her grandparents and unfortunately due to health concerns they weren’t able to make it to the wedding. Montana didn’t let this stop her from having them be as present as possible though. She had two chairs decorated and set in the front row for them featuring their initials and an old photograph of the three of them together. She called and FaceTimed with them before and after the ceremony and had her Aunt live-stream everything. She even had a piece of her grandmother’s wedding dress pinned into her own. It’s moments like these that remind you what weddings, and everything, really, is all about – family. I loved the care and consideration Montana put into all of these little details and I know her grandparents appreciated feeling so included in their day.
From choreographed dances to delicious food, to a beautifully decorated greenhouse reception and a few quite moments away as the sun dipped behind the tress – everything was a perfect celebration of their love. Congratulations Montana and Zach! You’ve officially tied the knot (metaphorically and literally) and I couldn’t be happier for you – Thank you so much for having me as a part of your wedding day. Here’s to the next chapter in your incredible love story!! xx
This was the white fabric from Montana’s grandmother’s dress that she had sewn into her gown! I also loved all of her Kendra Scott jewelry!
Montana gave her flower girl, Leighton, her own makeup set as a gift – she absolutely loved it!!!
Paisley Petals did an absolutely incredible job with the florals!!
Zach & his mom had a choreographed dance together – it was amazing!!
The look on the flower girl’s face though… priceless!
Check out Montana & Zack’s Engagement Session here!
HUGE thank you to Dani of Weddings by Dani for connecting me with Montana & Zach – looking forward to working with you again soon, Dani!!
Venue: Black Diamond Gardens, Black Diamond, WA // Planning & Coordination: Weddings by Dani // Florals: Paisley Petals // DJ: Seattle Wedding DJ // Catering: Twelve Baskets Catering // Hair & Makeup: Urbanista Weddings // Rentals: Cort Party Rentals // Jewelry: Kendra Scott // Photography: Meredith McKee Photography
