A personalized wedding sign and personalized wedding converse hang on a wooden fence with the Idaho Rockies in the background.

When you’ve known someone for over 15 years, you feel an extra layer of excitement when their wedding day arrives. For me, this wedding was particularly special because the groom, Jacob, isn’t just a friend—he was there at my own wedding 12 years ago, and he was even around the day I met my wife, Dani. While Jacob moved from Texas to Idaho several years ago, we’ve kept in touch through the years. So, when he asked me to photograph his wedding, it was a no-brainer. I couldn't wait to be there for him on such a huge day in his life.

Sawtooth Mountain Range in Stanley, Idaho

A couple say their vows to one another with the Sawtooth Range in the background in Stanley, Idaho.

Jacob and Kristina’s wedding took place on October 5th in Stanley, Idaho, with the dramatic Sawtooth Range as the backdrop. Stanley is a place that feels like it’s tucked away from the rest of the world, surrounded by rugged mountains and nature at its finest. If there was ever a setting made for a wedding that’s all about the couple and their love, this was it.

What made this day so special wasn’t the decorations or an elaborate schedule—it was how everything centered on what really mattered: Jacob, Kristina, and their connection with each other and the people closest to them. Every part of the day felt like it was pulled straight from their hearts, from the vows to the conversations during the reception.

A groom sweeps his bride into a kiss as they walk back down the aisle together while their guest blow bubbles along the walkway.

The ceremony itself was held near at Sawtooth Meditation Chapel, with the Sawtooths framing the moment beautifully. The vows Jacob and Kristina exchanged were full of meaning, the kind that comes from deep within. It was raw, heartfelt, and absolutely beautiful. There were a couple of moments where I found myself blinking back tears (while trying to keep my camera steady, of course). Every time Jacob and Kristina interact with one another, it was easy to see just how deeply they care for one another.

One thing that stood out to me was just how relaxed and full of joy the whole day was. It was the kind of wedding where you look around and realize that everyone’s completely present in the moment. The mountains in the distance, the clear October sky, and the crisp air made it feel like time had slowed down, allowing everyone to fully take in the significance of the day.

Part of this was thanks to the couple’s decision to have an unplugged ceremony. Before they exchanged vows, the officiant invited all the guests to take out their phones and take a quick snapshot of the couple before they got down to business sharing their vows.

Jacob, my friend, I’m so grateful that you asked me to be part of your wedding day. Seeing you and Kristina together, surrounded by the people who matter most to you both, was a reminder of what weddings should be about. It’s not about the details or the production; it’s about the love and the people who help you celebrate that love.

Here’s to a lifetime of adventure and happiness for you and Kristina!