Makai and Karissa’s wedding day was nothing short of incredible. If you had told me years ago, back when I photographed Karissa’s senior photos in the arcade, that I would one day photograph her wedding, I would have said, I better be the one behind the camera! Watching her go from that sweet, bubbly senior to a stunning bride in white marrying the love of her life has been such a privilege for me as a Salmon Idaho Photographer.

The day began at Karissa’s very own salon, Opal Outskirts Salon. She and her bridesmaids got ready there, and her makeup was beautifully done by Maddie with Aura Makeup. There’s something extra special about a bride getting ready in her own space, surrounded by her girls, it was relaxed, joyful, and full of laughter.

Rather than a first look, Karissa and Makai chose to do a first touch. They stood back to back, holding hands without seeing one another, and shared their private vows. As an Idaho Wedding Photographer, I’ve been present for many private vow exchanges, and every single time it feels like a gift to witness. Their words to one another were heartfelt and emotional, calming their nerves before the ceremony while deepening the anticipation of finally walking down the aisle.

From there, Makai headed to the venue, Younger Cove, while I captured portraits of Karissa and her bridesmaids. I’m so glad we carved out that intentional time before the rush of the ceremony, it gave us a chance to capture the beauty of those relationships without anyone feeling hurried.

Younger Cove is always such a fantastic wedding venue. Each wedding I photograph there has its own personality, but every one of them turns out gorgeous. Karissa and Makai’s ceremony took place beneath a lovely arch, surrounded by their closest family and friends as they promised forever to each other.

The reception was just as lively as the ceremony was emotional. Karissa and Makai made their grand entrance with a money gun, setting the tone for a night full of fun. Their wedding party followed with their own playful entrances, and from there the celebration only grew. After dinner, they shared their first dance, along with the traditional dances with parents, Karissa with her dad and Makai with his mom.

One of the most touching moments of the evening was during the speeches. Makai dedicated a sweet tribute to Karissa’s dad, Chad, while Karissa honored her mom by dedicating her bouquet to her. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room, it was a beautiful reminder of how deeply family love runs.

Dinner was a hit thanks to the incredible taco bar put together by Alesha, Karissa’s stepmom. I actually had the honor of photographing Chad and Alesha’s wedding years ago, so being invited back to photograph Karissa’s big day felt like life coming full circle. I love watching families grow and being trusted again and again to capture their biggest milestones.

The dessert spread featured a timeless white cake with pearl accents, surrounded by cupcakes and cookies to give guests something sweet to nibble on throughout the night. But the real party started on the dance floor. Karissa and Makai were on the dance floor all night, which is the best way to get your guests up and moving. No one wants to see the couple dancing alone, so when the bride and groom bring the energy, everyone follows. Younger Cove’s built-in dance floor was perfect for the lively celebration.

Karissa and Makai’s wedding was a day full of joy, laughter, sweet moments, and unforgettable memories. I’m so thankful they trusted me to capture it all. As both a Salmon Idaho Photographer and Idaho Wedding Photographer, it’s days like these that remind me why I love this work, being present for the most meaningful moments in people’s lives and turning them into memories that will last forever.