From Pandemic Vows to Epic Celebration: Tiffany & Andy's Love Story at RiverHouse BBQ

Many couples had to postpone their dream weddings during the pandemic, leaving them with memories of smaller, more subdued celebrations.

Revisiting those memories can sometimes feel bittersweet without a chance to relive the joy and excitement they truly deserve.

Tiffany and Andy turned their postponed celebration into an unforgettable event, proving that love stories can grow even more beautiful over time. Three years after their pandemic wedding, they gathered friends and family for an epic party at RiverHouse BBQ in Big Sky—and we were there to capture every incredible moment.

Their Love Story

Tiffany and Andy’s journey is one of resilience and joy. Married during a time of uncertainty, they held onto their dreams and celebrated their union in a way that felt uniquely them. Fast forward three years, their celebration at RiverHouse BBQ was filled with laughter, stunning mountain views, and moments that brought everyone together.

From heartfelt toasts to lively dance floors, this was more than a party—it was a testament to their enduring love. Capturing their celebration was an honor and a reminder of why we do what we do: preserving life’s most meaningful moments.

Benefits of Choosing Us for Your Event Photography

• Unparalleled Storytelling: We don’t just take pictures; we craft your story through stunning visuals.

• Personalized Experience: Every event is unique, and we tailor our approach to match your style and vision.

• Timeless Memories: Our work ensures that your moments are preserved for generations to enjoy.

Client Testimonials

★★★★★
“Omg!!! We LOVE them!! They are exactly what we imagined. Thank you so so so much for capturing us so well.” — Laura

★★★★★
“The photos are absolutely breathtaking. You made us feel so comfortable, and it shows in every shot!” — Erin & Zach

★★★★★
“We couldn’t have asked for better photographers. Thank you for being such a big part of our day!” — Jen & Colton

How It Works

1. Initial Consultation: Let’s chat about your event and your vision.

2. Tailored Planning: We’ll create a plan to ensure every important moment is captured.

3. Seamless Execution: On your big day, we’ll be there to document it all with care and professionalism.

Here’s What You’ll Get:

1. Stunning, high-quality images

2. Highlight video capturing the day’s best moments

3. Custom-tailored photography plans

4. Sneak peek within days of your event

5. Full gallery delivered within 4-6 weeks

6. Timeless edits that preserve your memories

7. Flexible package options

8. Professional and approachable photographers

9. A stress-free photography experience

10. Memories you’ll cherish forever

Why We’re Passionate

I’m Alyssa, and I’ve been where you are. I understand the importance of capturing life’s biggest moments. Growing up in the stunning Rocky Mountains and now traveling far and wide for weddings and events, I’ve seen firsthand how a great photograph can preserve not just a moment, but a feeling. Let’s create something beautiful together.

Ready to Get Started?

Wedding Venues:

Venue Info: Riverhouse BBQ/ https://riverhousebbq.com/

Caterer: Riverhouse BBQ/ https://riverhousebbq.com/

Band/DJ: Hannah King

Furniture Rental: Gallatin Event Rental / https://www.gallatineventrental.com/

Any other Vendors that helped make your day special and unique? Montana Axe Bar and Throwing Co https://www.montanaaxebar.com/

Photographer/Videographer: Alyssa Johnson Photography

A Beautiful Elopement at The Pavilion at Gallatin River Lodge- Jen & Colton's Special Day

Elopement at The Pavilion at Gallatin River Lodge - Alyssa Johnson Photography - Bozeman Montana Elopement/Wedding Photographer

When Jen and Colton decided to elope, they wanted an intimate, heartfelt celebration that captured their love and the excitement of welcoming a new life. The Pavilion at Gallatin River Lodge in Bozeman, MT, provided the perfect setting for their July wedding day, set against Montana’s stunning landscape and warm summer skies. With Jen glowing at over 30 weeks pregnant, their wedding was as much a celebration of love as it was of family and future.

The Challenges of a Pregnant Bride and an Elopement

Planning for the perfect, stress-free day while more than 30 weeks pregnant can be tricky. Comfort and pacing are key, but so is finding ways to let the bride relax and enjoy her day.

Capturing the intimacy and significance of an elopement requires a careful touch. Without the usual fanfare of a big wedding, every moment becomes even more important to record and cherish.

How to Make Their Day Perfect

With thoughtful planning and flexible pacing, we made sure that Jen and Colton could take breaks whenever needed, allowing Jen to rest while we captured the beauty of the day. From the peaceful walk through the Lodge’s lush grounds to intimate moments by the river, we focused on creating natural, romantic portraits that celebrated not only their love but also Jen’s radiant joy as a mother-to-be.

We tailored the photo session to capture the elopement’s special significance, honoring each moment with sensitivity and care. With the mountains framing their vows and the warm Bozeman sunlight enveloping them, every shot reflected their unique journey as a couple.

Bride & Groom - Elopement at The Pavilion at Gallatin River Lodge - Bozeman, Montana - Montana Wedding/ Elopement Photographer

A Collection of Memories to Last a Lifetime

Jen and Colton’s elopement wasn’t just a wedding—it was a celebration of beginnings. From the tender glances shared to the laughter and joy as they looked forward to their next adventure as parents, their love was palpable. I feel so honored to have documented their day with images that tell their story with authenticity and beauty.

Ready to Capture Your Unique Love Story?

Let’s make your day just as unforgettable! Whether it's a private elopement or a full-day celebration, I’m here to create photos that capture your story.

What You Can Expect Working With Me

• Personalized Approach – Every couple’s story is unique, and I tailor every session to capture your love authentically.

• Stress-Free Photography – With experience capturing intimate weddings and special moments, you can trust me to make the photography process seamless and enjoyable.

• Breathtaking Moments Captured Naturally – Every shot is designed to feel as natural and beautiful as your love.

Bride and Groom - Captured by Alyssa Johnson Photography

What Others Are Saying

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "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!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Alyssa was so great to work with! She truly took the time to capture the vision we wanted for our elopement photoshoot! She was sweet, flexible, and accommodating. If you are looking for a photographer in Bozeman, MT, or elsewhere in the US since she travels you are in great hands!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Alyssa Johnson Photography was the perfect choice for our wedding photography. From the very beginning, Alyssa knew exactly what was going on and asked all the right questions to ensure our big day went off without a hitch. Her communication was amazing - she was always quick to respond and worked with us closely to get everything we could ever want. Alyssa's photography style is very simple and elegant, capturing all the special moments in a beautiful and timeless way. She even went the extra mile, doing a few tasks that helped everything blend super smoothly. We are thrilled with the final photos and couldn't be happier that we chose Alyssa Johnson Photography to capture our wedding memories.”

How It Works

1. Consultation: We’ll discuss your vision and plan every detail.

2. Customized Session: I’ll capture each special moment in a way that reflects your unique love.

3. Photo Delivery: Relive every moment with a stunning collection of edited photos.

Elopement at The Pavilion at Gallatin River Lodge - Bozeman, MT - Rocky Mountain Elopement Photographer - Alyssa Johnson Photography

What You’ll Get

1. Personalized pre-session consultation

2. Customized timeline for an effortless day

3. Sneak peek images within days

4. Beautifully edited full gallery

5. High-resolution images for printing

6. Web-size images for sharing online

7. Personalized online gallery for easy access

8. Flexible package options for your needs

9. Expert posing guidance while keeping it natural

10. Lasting memories captured with care

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Rocky Mountain Elopement & Wedding Photographer - Alyssa Johnson Photography

About Me

As a wedding photographer based in the Rocky Mountain region, I’m passionate about capturing love in its truest form. For me, photography is about more than just pictures—it’s about telling stories that couples can cherish for a lifetime. From the first glance to the final kiss, I capture the unique connection you share, preserving every precious moment with authenticity and heart.

Whether your love story unfolds in a grand ballroom or by a quiet river, I’d be honored to capture it.

Here’s What You’ll Get

1. Full-day wedding coverage or half-day options.

2. Personalized consultation to understand your vision.

3. Beautifully edited, high-quality photos.

4. Sneak peek delivered within 48 hours.

5. Online gallery for easy access to all your images.

6. Print release for personal use.

7. Expert advice on locations and timing for your photos.

8. A relaxed and enjoyable experience.

9. Photos that reflect your unique style and personality.

10. Memories captured in a timeless and creative way.

Ready to Get Started?
Book your session today and let’s create the perfect wedding experience for you!

Documentary-Style Wedding Photographer in Bozeman, Montana: Erin & Zach’s Love Story

Bride and Groom on the dance floor - First Dance at Rockin TJ Ranch, Bozeman, MT 

As a documentary-style wedding photographer in Bozeman, Montana, I had the honor of capturing Erin and Zach’s incredible wedding day. Their love story began with a chance meeting at a UChicago party and blossomed into a beautiful journey that led them to their wedding at Rockin TJ Ranch in Bozeman, MT. My goal was to document their day naturally, focusing on candid moments that tell their unique story.

Erin and Zach’s wedding was filled with genuine emotion and unscripted moments, from heartfelt vows to joyful interactions with family and friends. This is the heart of documentary-style wedding photography—capturing real moments as they unfold, without forced poses. Every glance, smile, and tear was preserved in a way that reflects who they truly are as a couple.

Wedding Party

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Bozeman, MT Wedding Photography with a Personal Touch

If you’re looking for Bozeman, MT wedding photography that reflects your unique love story, my documentary approach is perfect for you. I’ll capture every candid moment, so you can relive your special day for years to come.

Cemetery at Rockin TJ Ranch in Bozeman 

See Your Love Story Through a Lens

I believe that every couple’s journey deserves to be told beautifully. I’m passionate about capturing those raw, authentic moments that reflect who you are and how you love. Let’s work together to create images that will stand the test of time.

Alyssa Johnson - Rocky Mountain wedding photographer

About Alyssa

I capture the genuine beauty and unique moments of your special day, creating a lasting visual story of your love.

In addition to her photography endeavors, Alyssa balances her roles as a devoted mother to her daughter and beloved dog, and as a supportive wife to Tim. Outside of work, she embraces a myriad of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, biking, running, skiing, snowboarding, camping, fishing, hunting, and paddleboarding, relishing every opportunity for adventure and exploration amidst Montana's breathtaking landscapes. Alongside her professional pursuits, Alyssa also dedicates her time as a full-time Real Estate Advisor at Engel & Volkers Bozeman Real Estate, further enriching her multifaceted life.

Outdoor wedding photography Bozeman

Ready to make your memories last?

Benefits You Can Expect:

Benefit 1: Natural, authentic photos that reflect who you are
I create a comfortable atmosphere where you can truly be yourselves.

Benefit 2: A personalized photography experience
Each session is tailored to tell your unique love story.

Benefit 3: Beautifully crafted keepsakes
High-quality prints, albums, and digital images that you’ll cherish forever.

Rockin TJ Ranch Montana Wedding and Special  Event , Bozeman Montana photographer

Testimonials

How It Works:

Step 1: Schedule a Consultation
Let’s chat about your wedding, your vision, and how I can help.

Step 2: Plan Your Session
We’ll tailor the session to reflect your style and preferences.

Step 3: Capture the Magic
On your big day, I’ll be there to ensure every important moment is captured beautifully.

Here’s What You’ll Get:

1. Personalized pre-wedding consultation

2. Full-day wedding photography coverage

3. Highlight 1-2 mins video (optional)

4. High-resolution digital images

5. Online gallery for easy sharing

6. Customized photo album ( optional)

7. Sneak peek within 48 hours

8. Professional retouching on all images

9. Vendor recommendations and timeline assistance

10. Tailored photography experience to match your love story

Ready to get started?

Venue Info: Rockin TJ Ranch; https://rockingtjranch.com/

Caterer:Catering Under the Big Sky- Rockin TJ Ranch exclusive catering

Florist:Three Forks Floral; https://www.threeforksfloral.com/

Cake Artist:Elle's belles bakery; https://www.ellesbelles.com/

Band/DJ: Mach 1 Music

Makeup &/or Hair Artist: Alisha Harvey (Sonder Hair Salon) and Taylor Engen

Dress Store & Designer: The Bride's Shoppe

Bridesmaids Dress Store: Morilee

Groom's Tux Store: (groomsmen) Jabbours Clothing and Tailoring; Grooms was a custom made suit through Dillards

Invitation Designer: Mint

With my experience as a documentary-style wedding photographer in Bozeman, Montana, I’m committed to telling your story in the most authentic way possible. Let’s create timeless memories together!

How Many Hours Should I Book My Wedding Photographer For?

Uncertainty in Planning Planning a wedding involves many details, and knowing how many hours of photography you need can be one of the most confusing parts.

Ensuring Adequate Coverage You want to ensure all significant moments are captured without paying for unnecessary hours.

Tailored Coverage Based on Your Day By understanding your wedding day schedule and prioritizing key moments, you can select the right photography package that meets both your needs and your budget.

Building a Wedding Timeline Always include extra time in your schedule to avoid feeling rushed. Unexpected delays can happen, and it’s better to have extra time and not need it than to stress about fitting everything in.

First Look Having a first look can be a private and calming moment before the ceremony, allowing you to spend more time together and take more photos without the pressure of guests waiting.

Weddings Without a First Look If you choose not to have a first look, plan for extra time during the cocktail hour for formal photos. Ensure everyone knows they’ll be needed for pictures immediately after the ceremony.

How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? Standard packages usually range from 6 to 10 hours. Here’s how different packages can fit your day:

• 6 Hour Package:

• Ideal for smaller weddings with fewer activities.

  2:15 - 3:15 First Look and Portraits

  3:15 - 4:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  4:15 - 5:00 Photograph ceremony & reception spaces while you wait for guests to arrive

  5:00 - 5:30 Ceremony

  5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour

  6:30 - 7:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  7:00 - 7:45 Dinner

  7:45 Cake cutting

  7:45 - 8:15 Dancing (Photographers leave at 8:15)

• 8 Hour Package:

• Covers getting ready photos and provides a balanced schedule.

  11:45 - 1:00 Getting Ready Photos

  1:00 - 1:15 Travel to Ceremony Location (15 min)

  1:15 - 2:15 First Look and Portraits

  2:15 - 3:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  3:15 - 4:00 Photograph ceremony & reception spaces while you wait for guests to arrive

  4:00 - 4:30 Ceremony

  4:30 - 5:30 Cocktail Hour

  5:30 - 6:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  6:00 - 6:45 Dinner

  6:45 Cake cutting

  6:45 - 7:45 Dancing (Photographers leave at 7:45)

• 10 Hour Package:

• Perfect for longer ceremonies or multiple locations.

  11:00 - 12:15 Getting Ready Photos

  12:15 - 12:45 Travel to Ceremony Location (30 min)

  1:15 - 2:15 First Look and Portraits

  2:15 - 3:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  3:15 - 4:00 Photograph ceremony space while you wait for guests to arrive

  4:00 - 5:00 Ceremony

  5:00 - 5:30 Travel to reception (30 min)

  5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour

  6:30 - 7:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  7:00 - 7:45 Dinner

  7:45 Cake cutting

  7:45 - 8:30 Dancing (Photographers leave at 9:00)

  8:30 -9:00 Exit (Photographers leave at 9:00)

Additional Hours or/and Custom Hours If unsure, start with a basic package and add hours as needed. Discuss your options with your photographer to find the best fit.

Example Timelines Provide your photographer with details about your day for a customized timeline, including whether you want getting-ready photos and if you’re having a first look.

About Alyssa

I capture the genuine beauty and unique moments of your special day, creating a lasting visual story of your love.

In addition to her photography endeavors, Alyssa balances her roles as a devoted mother to her daughter and beloved dog, and as a supportive wife to Tim. Outside of work, she embraces a myriad of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, biking, running, skiing, snowboarding, camping, fishing, hunting, and paddleboarding, relishing every opportunity for adventure and exploration amidst Montana's breathtaking landscapes. Alongside her professional pursuits, Alyssa also dedicates her time as a full-time Real Estate Advisor at Engel & Volkers Bozeman Real Estate, further enriching her multifaceted life.

Ready to Capture Your Wedding Day?

Benefits You Can Expect

• Comprehensive Coverage - Capture every significant moment from start to finish.

• Customized Attention - Photography packages tailored to your specific needs.

• Artistic Excellence - Stunning, candid photos that highlight the essence of your day.

Testimonials

How It Works: Three Simple Steps

1. Consultation - Discuss your vision and requirements.

2. Planning - Develop a customized photography plan.

3. Execution - Capture every precious moment of your wedding day.

Here’s What You’ll Get

1. Flawless Images: High edited photos

2. Timeless Memories: Freezing time

3. Authentic Moments: Capturing the moment

4. Effortless Elegance: Natural posing

5. Emotional Impact: Capture emotion and feeling

6. Seamless Coordination: Communication skills

7. Perfect Visuals: Good lighting and editing

8. Genuine Reflections: Capturing personality

9. Reliable Expertise: Experience

10. Stress-Free Solutions: Problem solving

Ready to Get Started?

By understanding your wedding timeline and selecting the right photography package, you can ensure every important moment is beautifully captured. Let me help you preserve the memories of your special day.

Capturing Forever: What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is one of the most special and memorable moments of your life, and capturing those precious moments through photography is a crucial aspect of preserving those memories for a lifetime.

Choosing the right wedding photographer can make all the difference in ensuring that your day is documented in a way that reflects the beauty, emotion, and uniqueness of the occasion.

In this blog post, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting a wedding photographer to ensure that your wedding album is a stunning visual narrative of your love story.

1.Experience and Expertise:

Wedding photography requires a specific set of skills and experience. Look for a photographer who specializes in weddings and has a proven track record of capturing beautiful moments in various settings. Experienced wedding photographers are often better equipped to handle the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of wedding events, ensuring they don't miss any crucial moments.

2.Portfolio and Reviews:

Reviewing a photographer's portfolio provides insight into their capabilities and style, but it's equally important to read client reviews.

Look for testimonials or reviews from couples who have worked with the photographer in the past. This can give you a sense of their professionalism, communication skills, and the overall satisfaction of their clients.

There are so many things to look for in reviews, but ultimately, you’ll want to hear your ‘must haves’ being mentioned by others.

3.Communication and Personality:

Effective communication is key when planning a wedding, and your photographer is no exception. Choose a photographer with whom you feel comfortable communicating and expressing your ideas. During the initial consultation, assess their responsiveness, willingness to listen, and ability to understand your vision. A photographer with a friendly and approachable personality can help create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere on your wedding day.

Definitely, prioritize scheduling a phone call or an in-person meeting with the photographer you're considering. This opportunity allows you to establish a personal connection and get a sense of how well your personalities mesh. A smooth and comfortable rapport with your photographer ensures a collaborative and enjoyable experience on your wedding day, enhancing the overall quality of your captured memories.

4.Flexibility and Adaptability:

Weddings are dynamic events, and unforeseen changes can occur. A good wedding photographer should be flexible and adaptable, capable of adjusting to different lighting conditions, venues, and unexpected situations. Discuss your wedding timeline and any specific requests you may have to gauge their ability to adapt to your unique circumstances.

Choosing the right wedding photographer involves careful consideration of their style, experience, communication skills, and overall professionalism. Take the time to research and meet with potential photographers to ensure that the person you select not only captures stunning images but also enhances the overall experience of your special day. By finding the perfect match, you can trust that your wedding memories will be beautifully preserved, allowing you to relive the magic for years to come.

Curious to delve deeper into my photography approach? Explore additional details about my distinctive RAD wedding photography services by clicking here.

First Look: Why It Might Be the Perfect Choice for Your Wedding

Greetings! Today, I'm excited to delve into the world of wedding traditions and offer you some insights into a practice that has become increasingly popular - the first look. If you're contemplating whether to incorporate this intimate moment into your big day, join me as I shed light on why a first look might just be the perfect addition to your wedding festivities.

For those unacquainted with the term, a first look is a private moment where the bride and groom see each other for the first time before the formalities of the wedding ceremony unfold. It's a cherished, personal encounter that can set the tone for the entire day.

The Beauty of Privacy

If there's one compelling reason to embrace the idea of a first look, it's the unparalleled sense of privacy it provides. Wedding days are inherently filled with attention, with all eyes on the couple as they navigate through ceremonies and celebrations. Choosing a first look allows you to carve out a sacred, private space where you can connect without the watchful eyes of the wedding crowd. While the presence of guests is undoubtedly joyous, taking a moment for yourselves enables reflection on the profound commitment you're about to make.

Time, Efficiency, and Enjoyment

As someone who appreciates the importance of a well-structured timeline, I can't emphasize enough how beneficial a first look can be for a smooth wedding day schedule. Opting for a first look means you can capture most of your bridal portraits before the ceremony, freeing up valuable time to savor cocktail hour and mingle with your guests.

By seamlessly transitioning from the first look to bridal portraits and even including the bridal party, you'll find that the post-ceremony portrait session becomes a breeze. Compare this to the traditional approach, and you might find yourself juggling family photos, bridal party shots, and finally, the coveted bride and groom portraits. A first look not only adds efficiency but also allows you to relish every moment of your celebration without feeling rushed.

Cherishing Alone Time

Contrary to popular belief, weddings can leave little room for the bride and groom to share quiet, intimate moments. A first look intentionally carves out time for the couple to be alone with each other, free from the whirlwind of wedding obligations. In the midst of a day filled with various commitments, this one-on-one time becomes a treasured oasis, fostering a deeper connection and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Unveiling Emotions without Pressure

Now, let's address the elephant in the room - the pressure of the groom's reaction as the bride walks down the aisle. While those emotional aisle moments are undeniably heartwarming, a first look alleviates the unspoken pressure for the groom to deliver a specific reaction at that precise moment.

By having a first look, a groom can authentically express his emotions without the weight of expectations. The freedom to react genuinely, absent the nerves or pressure associated with the aisle, often results in more spontaneous and heartfelt responses. A first look allows the couple to revel in the magic of seeing each other for the first time without the constraints of traditional expectations.

So, have I managed to sway you towards considering a first look for your special day? It's an invitation to embrace intimacy, efficiency, and authenticity, ensuring your wedding day is not only a celebration for all but a deeply personal experience for you and your beloved.

In search of a photographer to capture the magic of your wedding day? Feel free to shoot me an email, and let's discuss my availability to make your wedding memories truly unforgettable!

Laid Back Bozeman Montana Wedding for Matt & Youra’s

Congratulations to newlyweds Matt & Youra Thompson! Last month I had the pleasure of being a part of the Thompson's special day. The atmosphere was full of love, situated at their family's home in Bozeman, with friends, family, and beautiful surroundings.

This wedding was very enjoyable. I had so much fun chatting with everyone, enjoying their yummy food, and capturing photos. We were all fortunate that the weather held off for the ceremony as you never know what the weather may do this time of year.

After the beautiful ceremony we gathered to take family and bridal party photos. It was heartwarming, during the dinner reception, listening to many of the family's closest friends and family speak about how amazing and sweet the two newlyweds are.

I adore them both and am so excited for what the future holds. Congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple, Mr & Mrs Thompson!

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““You know you’re in love when you don’t want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” ”

— Dr Seuss