When I first met Caitlin and Tyrel for their engagement photos in downtown Billings, I knew that something special was in the works. As a photographer, it’s always so helpful for me to get to see how a couple interacts with each other before their wedding, and I’ve noticed that it often calms their nerves to get to know me a little bit beforehand too.
While photographing them and their two giant happy-go-lucky dogs, at the engagement session, I couldn’t help but notice the way they interacted. I don’t know if it was their comfort levels, the joy their dogs brought, or the excitement of the upcoming wedding, but I suspect that it was just who they are.
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing where to get married in Montana.
Today I am arguing for a totally underrated, overlooked, and sometimes ridiculed part of Montana that is completely unjustified. Billings, Montana!
That’s right, you heard me, downtown Billings! Just because it’s not a mountain town, or flooded with tourists doesn’t make this little city any less perfect for a wedding setting. That’s why when Caitlin and Tyrel told me that they wanted to get their engagement photos downtown, and their entire wedding was to be downtown, I was ecstatic!
Occasionally, nerves leading up to the wedding can come from the idea that the photos will not be as amazing if the photographer hasn’t or doesn’t regularly shoot at their location. I dispute this claim every time I hear it. Sure getting married in the mountains around Red Lodge or Bozeman is amazing and the photos turn out gorgeous, but I firmly believe that photos in downtown Billings can be of the same caliber and beauty. Will the vibes of the weddings be different? Absolutely. But if you’re looking for more of a vintage, modern, or urban feel, downtown Billings is your place.
One of the perks of getting married downtown is the opportunity for the most charming photos. If you’ve never had the pleasure, I highly recommend taking a walk downtown to look at all the murals we have on our buildings. For being such a small city, Billings should be proud of our artwork! (P.S. Hunting the bike lights makes for a great summer date night!) The old brick buildings also offer such a sweet and romantic setting for photos.
One thing I’m constantly looking for as a photographer is locations that are beautiful, yet simple and clean. A location that, when photographed with people, immediately draws the viewer’s eye to the people and that the setting around them adds to the emotion of an image. Making the couple and their emotional connection the star of the photographs and allowing the background to support and enhance the photograph.
The other great thing about our city is that if you still want the natural feel, we are so close to the outdoors! In about 10 minutes we can get to places like Zimmerman, Swords, or Riverfront Park. It makes it so easy to jump in a car together, spend 30 minutes in the park at golden hour, and be back to your party within an hour.
My last talking point about downtown weddings is that they are not as affected by the weather. If it’s raining, there’s a roof. It’s 100 degrees out, AC. Being in Montana, we know that the weather changes at the drop of a dime, and having access to venues like the Depot or Moss Mansion which are both historic and beautiful are the weddings that I, hands down, get the most charming photos out of, especially when the weather is subpar. Even when the weather is perfect, I can’t resist spending a little time with a couple by a window whispering sweet nothings in each other’s ears.
Getting married in downtown Billings offers such a unique and romantic setting for your wedding. Between the excitement of being in a city, the proximity to nature, and the weather-proof venues you can rest easy knowing your photos will be GORGEOUS. This city truly has something to offer everyone and you can't go wrong with Billings downtown as your wedding destination.
So what are your thoughts, will you be considering downtown Billings, for your wedding?
Hi, I’m so glad you made it to my corner of the web!
As a wedding photojournalist residing in downtown Billings, one of my favorite things to do is walk around looking for interesting light and groovy compositions. I’ve got favorite spots hidden all over and love having the opportunity to create beautiful work so close to home.
Planning a wedding downtown?? Please contact me below to check on the availability of your date.
