Jackson or Bust

Cleo & Ian
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BY CLEO MILLER  •  PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMYE CHRISMAN

I’ve been visiting Jackson since I was a little kid. My dad is an anthropologist, and each summer, I’d tag along as he did his fieldwork in Wyoming. Passionate about the outdoors, Ian visited the Tetons on a backpacking trip in college.

Ian and I met on the high school debate team in our hometown of Stevens Point, Wisconsin. After graduating from Wake Forest University, we took a road trip out West to celebrate. We fell in love with Jackson all over again! Once engaged, there was no question about where we’d host the wedding—it was Jackson or bust!

We wanted to mimic the feeling of a larger family reunion: fun times, great activities, good food, and wonderful friends. The evening before our nuptials, everyone met for a casual welcome dinner at Pizzeria Caldera. After the delicious thin-crust pizza and thirst-quenching beer, we indulged in Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream while strolling around Town Square. The event was the perfect way to kick off our wedding weekend.

We held our wedding festivities at Jackson Lake Lodge, an easy choice, as I saw a bride there during one of my childhood visits and always hoped to have my wedding in its beautiful setting. The lodge’s location put our celebration smack-dab in the middle of one of the area’s best views. Sweet, clear late-June skies smiled on the day. My Aunt Edie officiated the ceremony, which was held on the large, expansive lawn with sweeping views of the mountains. A beautiful floral arch, music by Judd Grossman, and an enthusiastic flower girl made the ceremony extra special. We celebrated our vows with a cocktail hour of huckleberry mojitos in the Mural Room at Jackson Lake Lodge.

After enjoying a delicious sit-down dinner, touching toasts, and a wildflower-covered cake, the group headed over to the pool. Lawn games, Polaroid cameras with props, and live western music provided upbeat entertainment for our guests. As the evening came to a close, s’mores drew everyone around a warm bonfire to share in a joyous evening of celebration. Guests took home personalized chocolates from Atelier Ortega.

A vibrant Teton sunset sent us on our way and completed the memorable night. We remain very thankful for all the help from our wonderful vendors and supportive family and friends. If we could do it all over again, we’d do it exactly the same way!


Photos


Wedding Details:

wedding date 28 June 2015
ceremony & reception location Jackson Lake Lodge
officiant Edie Dwan
hair & makeup Kuttin’ Loose, Kat
photographer Jamye Chrisman
florist Creative Botanicals
entertainment Judd Grossman Entertainment
caterer & dessert Jackson Lake Lodge

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