10 Things To Do After Getting Engaged

You just got engaged—congratulations! But now what? The excitement quickly turns into overwhelm with all the decisions ahead.

Between setting a date, finding a venue, and picking vendors, it’s easy to feel lost in the wedding planning chaos.

Take a deep breath! Here’s a simple, actionable guide to help you start your journey smoothly.

10 Things To Do After Getting Engaged

1. Celebrate & Soak It In

Before diving into planning, take a moment to enjoy this special time. Announce your engagement in a way that feels right for you—whether it's a big party or an intimate dinner with family.

2. Set Your Priorities

Sit down with your partner and discuss what’s most important for your wedding. Is it the venue, the photography, the guest experience? This will guide every decision moving forward.

3. Determine Your Budget

Knowing your budget early helps you make realistic choices and prevents unnecessary stress later on.

4. Choose a Date (or a Few Options!)

Venues and vendors book up fast! Having a couple of date options increases your chances of securing your dream team.

5. Book Your Venue

The venue sets the tone for everything. Once you have your date and venue, the rest of the planning falls into place more easily.

6. Hire Your Key Vendors

Photographers, videographers, and planners are some of the first vendors to book. If capturing your wedding beautifully is a priority, don’t wait too long to secure your photographer!

7. Start Thinking About Your Guest List

A rough guest count helps determine the size of your venue and affects catering and seating.

8. Get Engagement Photos

An engagement session is a great way to celebrate and get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day.

9. Gather Inspiration

Pinterest, wedding blogs, and Instagram are great places to find inspiration, but remember to stay true to what feels authentic to you as a couple.

10. Enjoy the Process!

It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but remember: this is about celebrating your love. Don’t forget to have fun along the way!

Want to See How We Can Transform Your Wedding Memories?

I’m Alyssa, and I’ve been where you are—newly engaged, excited, and maybe a little overwhelmed. My passion is capturing the in-between moments, the raw emotions, and the authentic joy of your day. Let’s create something timeless together.

Benefits You Can Expect

Benefit 1: Stress-free experience → Thoughtful planning and timeline guidance ensure a smooth process.
Benefit 2: Candid, authentic moments → My storytelling approach captures the real emotions of your day.
Benefit 3: Beautiful, timeless images → Expert editing and high-quality images ensure your memories last forever.

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What Couples Are Saying

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Alyssa took my fiancé and I’s engagement photos while we were on a trip in Montana and they turned out better than I could have ever dreamed. She was extremely thorough and communicative to make sure she truly understood what we wanted and could deliver. I was able to send inspiration pics and she absolutely nailed the vision. She captured us just as we are and I will cherish the photos forever. Could not recommend her enough! - Laura Monico

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Alyssa was a pleasure to work with! She truly took the time to ensure she captured the perfect vision for our elopement photoshoot! She was sweet, flexible, and accommodating. If you are looking for a photographer in Bozeman, MT and elsewhere, in the U.S since, she travels you are in great hands! - Jennifer Gribble

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Alyssa is a phenomenal photographer. Her pictures are amazing. I could not be more happy with the outcome of our wedding photos.

I am so grateful we found her. She is so kind and very helpful. Going in I had no idea what I wanted, I just wanted to capture the day and she executed it perfectly! Looking at the pictures makes me feel like I’m living that day over and over again. If you need a photographer Alyssa is your girl! - Erin Hocker

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How It Works

1. Book a Call → Let’s chat about your vision and see if we’re a great fit.

2. Capture Your Story → Relax and enjoy the moment while I take care of the rest.

3. Receive Stunning Photos → Relive your wedding day through beautifully edited images.

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Here’s What You’ll Get…

✅ Consultation to understand your vision
✅ Engagement session for pre-wedding photos
✅ Full-day or custom wedding coverage
✅ Sneak peeks within a few days
✅ High-resolution, beautifully edited images
✅ Private online gallery for easy sharing
✅ Print release for personal use
✅ A stress-free and fun experience
✅ Professional guidance throughout the process
✅ Unforgettable memories captured forever

Ready to Get Started?

How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Engagement/Proposal Photos in the Rocky Mountains (or Anywhere Else!)

Choosing the perfect location for your engagement or proposal photos can feel overwhelming. Do you want a dramatic mountain backdrop, a serene lake, or a hidden meadow? And what about accessibility, lighting, and the overall vibe of the location?

Not all picturesque spots are ideal for photography. Some locations may have unpredictable weather, harsh lighting, or even permit restrictions. You want a spot that not only looks beautiful but also allows you to relax and enjoy the moment.

As a professional wedding and engagement photographer, I’ve spent years scouting locations that provide breathtaking scenery and the best conditions for capturing your special moments. Whether in the Rocky Mountains or beyond, I help couples find the perfect spot that fits their vision while ensuring stunning photography results.

Finding Your Dream Location

1. Define Your Vision – Do you picture an adventurous mountaintop session, a cozy forest escape, or a lakeside romance? Knowing your style helps narrow down locations.

2. Consider the Season – Rocky Mountain winters are magical but chilly. Spring and summer bring lush landscapes, while fall offers golden hues. Choose based on the experience you want.

3. Think About Accessibility – Some of the best spots require a short hike. If you prefer an easy-access location, I have a list of stunning drive-up options.

4. Lighting is Key – Golden hour (sunrise or sunset) provides the most flattering natural light. I help schedule your session at the perfect time for dreamy photos.

5. Make It Personal – Pick a location with sentimental value, like where you first met, had your first date, or got engaged.

Benefits You Can Expect

• Breathtaking Scenery – Locations handpicked for their stunning views and perfect lighting.

• Seamless Experience – I handle logistics, permits, and timing so you can enjoy the moment.

• Authentic Emotions Captured – I create a comfortable atmosphere so your love story shines through.

• Personalized Guidance – From outfit tips to posing ideas, I guide you every step of the way.

What My Clients Say

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Alyssa made our engagement session so fun and stress-free! The location was absolutely stunning, and our photos are beyond perfect!" – Emily & Jake

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"We were unsure where to take our proposal photos, but Alyssa found the dreamiest spot. The pictures are breathtaking, and we’ll cherish them forever." – Sarah & Michael

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Alyssa truly understands how to capture love in the most beautiful places. She scouted the perfect location, and the entire experience was magical." – Lauren & Matt

How It Works in 3 Simple Steps

1. Book a Call – Let’s chat about your vision and location preferences.

2. Plan Your Session – I’ll provide expert recommendations and take care of the details.

3. Capture the Magic – Enjoy a stress-free session while I document your love story.

Here’s What You’ll Get…

✅ A custom location guide with top recommendations
✅ Expert advice on the best time for photos
✅ A relaxed, fun, and guided photo experience
✅ Professional, high-quality edited images
✅ Direction for natural and effortless poses
✅ Assistance with outfits and styling
✅ A seamless booking and planning process
✅ Sneak peeks within a few days
✅ Full gallery within weeks
✅ Memories captured beautifully and authentically

Ready to Get Started?

About Alyssa

A passionate photographer dedicated to capturing love stories against breathtaking backdrops. With expertise in scouting the perfect locations, every session is designed to reflect the couple's unique connection. Whether in the Rocky Mountains or at a dream destination, the goal is to create timeless, authentic images.

Want to see how we can transform your moment into timeless memories?

Jada & Ryan's Enchanting Montana Wedding at the Historic Marysville General Store

Capturing True Moments in a Unique Setting

Jada and Ryan's love story isn't just about dates and milestones—it’s about experiences, adventure, and a lifetime of memories that deserve to be captured authentically. But, how do you truly capture the spirit of a couple with a story so rich and varied?

Finding the Perfect Place and Style for Their Story

Jada and Ryan wanted more than just pictures—they wanted a visual legacy of their love. And with Montana’s breathtaking landscapes as their backdrop, the challenge was to find a way to capture both their personalities and the natural beauty surrounding them.

Tailored Photography That Embraces Their Love Story

By combining natural poses, candid emotions, and expert timing, we were able to bring Jada and Ryan's unique story to life. From their first date to their adventurous trips across Yellowstone and beyond, each image tells the story of their journey, capturing timeless moments against Montana’s stunning scenery.

When Jada and Ryan chose to tie the knot, they envisioned a celebration as timeless and adventurous as their love story. Their wedding at the historic Marysville General Store in the heart of Maryville, Montana, was just that—an enchanting blend of Montana’s rugged beauty and the intimate warmth of a family gathering.

The Historic Marysville General Store as a Backdrop

The choice of the Marysville General Store added a unique, rustic charm to their wedding. Nestled in the heart of Maryville, the store combines historic Montana architecture with a natural elegance that mirrored Jada and Ryan’s love for exploring rugged landscapes. Surrounded by scenic mountain views and the cozy, inviting atmosphere of the store, their wedding felt both deeply personal and profoundly connected to Montana’s natural beauty.

Wedding Details: A Blend of Rustic Charm and Modern Elegance

The decor was a beautiful balance of earthy and elegant tones. Natural elements, including lush greenery and soft white florals, enhanced the rustic charm of the general store’s wooden beams and vintage décor. Soft candlelight flickered against the rich wood, creating an intimate glow that filled the space with warmth and romance.

The tables were adorned with simple, elegant centerpieces featuring wildflowers native to Montana, bringing an organic feel to the celebration. Their color palette of soft greens, whites, and natural earth tones perfectly complemented the historic setting, emphasizing the harmonious blend of the couple’s modern love story with Montana’s timeless beauty.

Capturing Unforgettable Moments with a Unique Twist

Jada and Ryan’s wedding wasn’t just about the decor; it was about the authentic, heartfelt moments they shared with each other and their loved ones. From heartfelt vows to quiet moments stolen just for the two of them, each part of the ceremony and reception was captured in a way that highlighted both their personalities and the love that brought them together. We focused on candid shots that told the story of their day with authenticity, from their laughter to the tender glances they shared. Each photo became a timeless reminder of their wedding day, preserving the emotions and beauty of every moment.

Want Your Wedding Captured Beautifully?

Ready to see your love story captured with the same authenticity and artistry? I’d love to help bring your vision to life with timeless images that reflect every unforgettable moment of your big day.

Alyssa Johnson Photography - Montana and beyond wedding photographer

About Me: Capturing the Spirit of Love and Adventure

I'm Alyssa, a passionate Montana-based wedding photographer who believes in capturing love stories in their truest form. I strive to create images that feel natural, authentic, and as beautiful as the moment itself. My goal is to document your journey in a way that you’ll treasure for years to come. Let’s capture your day in a way that feels real, effortless, and filled with joy.

Benefits You Can Expect

• Authentic Moments: Natural photos that reflect your true personalities.

• High-Quality Images: Timeless, expertly edited photos.

• Stress-Free Experience: From start to finish, a seamless, enjoyable session.

How It Works: Three Easy Steps

1. Connect: Reach out and we’ll discuss your vision and unique love story.

2. Capture: I’ll be there to document every precious moment with a natural, candid approach.

3. Cherish: Enjoy stunning images that allow you to relive the magic of your day for a lifetime.

Wedding Venues:

Your Wedding Coordinator: Sonya Rosenthal/ mvillemgt@outlook.com

Venue Info: Marysville General Store /historicmarysvillegeneralstore.com

Caterer: Chili Obriens/chiliobriens.com

Florist: Gainans/gainans.com

Band/DJ: Star struck entertainment/ starstruckent.net

Makeup &/or Hair Artist: Ashley Hamlin

Dress Store & Designer: Step'n out/stepn-out.com

Bridesmaids Dress Store: Step'n out/stepn-out.com

Groom's Tux Store: Stetson/stetson.com

Photographer: Alyssa Johnson Photography

Stress-Free Surprise Proposal Photography in Sandpoint, Idaho , Pend Oreille Lake

Keeping the Proposal a Surprise

Planning a surprise proposal can be stressful. You want everything to go perfectly, from the moment you pop the question to capturing the reaction. But coordinating a photographer and choosing the right spot—without tipping off your partner—can add to the challenge.

Choosing the Right Location

Sandpoint offers stunning backdrops, but knowing which location fits your vision and captures the moment perfectly is crucial. You want somewhere breathtaking but intimate, a setting that enhances the proposal without being overcrowded or predictable.

 YES on deck on Sandpoint ID, Pend Oreille Lake

Stress-Free Proposal Photography with a Destination Expert

As an experienced destination photographer, I help couples create unforgettable proposals in beautiful places like Sandpoint, even if I’m not local. I guide you through selecting the perfect location, timing the lighting just right, and planning every detail so the moment feels effortless and magical.

Surprise Proposal on Sandpoint ID, Pend Oreille Lake

Stress-Free Surprise Proposal Photography in Sandpoint, Idaho

Proposing is one of the most exciting milestones in your life, and Sandpoint, Idaho, offers a stunning backdrop for such a special occasion. Whether you’re planning to pop the question by the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, on a mountaintop, or at a charming local spot, I’m here to ensure every moment is perfectly captured, without the stress of managing it all on your own.

Here’s how I help take the pressure off:

1. Personalized Planning

Every couple is unique, and so is every proposal. I’ll work with you to choose a location that suits your vision and ensures that it’s captured in the best light. From remote hikes to cozy lodges, I’ll help you find the spot that feels most authentic to your relationship.

2. Capturing the Moment

The magic of a proposal lies in the surprise and raw emotion. I’ll be there to capture the genuine reactions, from the initial shock to the happy tears and everything in between, making sure the memory lives on through stunning images.

3. Discreet and Professional

I blend into the background, so your partner stays in the dark until the moment is just right. I work discreetly, ensuring I don’t disrupt the natural flow of your proposal, while still delivering breathtaking photos.

Have some fun on Pend Oreille Lake 

Engagement ring 

Idaho Photographer 

About Me: Why I’m Passionate About Capturing Proposals

Hi, I’m Alyssa, and I understand the pressure of planning the perfect surprise. I’ve worked with couples all over the Rocky Mountain region, and I love helping to create those magical moments that you’ll cherish forever. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy and love in a couple’s eyes as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Want to see how we can transform your proposal into a lifetime memory?

Benefits You Can Expect:

• Benefit 1: Unforgettable Photos – The natural beauty of Sandpoint, combined with my keen eye for detail, ensures your proposal is captured in the most stunning way possible.

• Stress-Free Planning – I guide you through every step, from scouting the perfect location to coordinating the big surprise.

• Discreet and Professional – No awkward interruptions or hints that give away the proposal. I capture the magic without ruining the surprise.

Testimonials

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Alyssa was a pleasure to work with! She truly took the time to ensure she captured the perfect vision for our elopement photoshoot! She was sweet, flexible, and accommodating. If you are looking for a photographer in Bozeman, MT and elsewhere, in the U.S since, she travels you are in great hands!" – Jennifer Ramirez

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Alyssa is a phenomenal photographer. Her pictures are amazing. I could not be more happy with the outcome of our wedding photos.

I am so grateful we found her. She is so kind and very helpful. Going in I had no idea what I wanted, I just wanted to capture the day and she executed it perfectly! Looking at the pictures makes me feel like I’m living that day over and over again. If you need a photographer Alyssa is your girl!" – Erin Hocker

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Alyssa was an awesome photographer for my wedding in August! She got all the shots we asked for and was really quick about it, so we weren’t doing pictures all night. Highly recommend!" – Lauran Larson

Here’s How It Works:

1. Consultation Call – We’ll chat about your vision and plan the perfect proposal photoshoot.

2. Location Scouting – I’ll help you select the ideal spot and time in Sandpoint for the best lighting and privacy.

3. The Proposal – I capture the big moment discreetly, followed by a brief photoshoot to celebrate.

Here’s What You’ll Get:

1. Personalized planning for your proposal

2. Location scouting and guidance

3. Expert timing for the best natural light

4. Discreet photography to keep the surprise

5. Stunning images of the proposal

6. Candid and posed shots afterward

7. Professional editing of all photos

8. Quick delivery of sneak peeks

9. Full gallery of high-resolution photos

10. Memories that last a lifetime

Pend Oreille Lake

Ready to get started?