The blog is a collection of destination wedding and elopement highlights sharing your beautiful stories. It also includes wedding planning tips and inspiration.
When Emily and Zachary planned their intimate September wedding in Grand Teton National Park, they wanted to celebrate with their closest family members in one of the most stunning locations in Wyoming. I had the privilege of documenting their beautiful Chapel of the Transfiguration wedding from ceremony to sunset.
The couple chose the historic Chapel of the Transfiguration for their ceremony—a log cabin-style chapel nestled in the heart of Grand Teton National Park. This iconic venue requires booking through the local church and paying a venue fee, but the experience is worth every detail of the planning process. The chapel features large glass windows that frame the mountains, though the interior lighting remains quite dark. The floor creaks underfoot, and photographers need to work within a limited space during the ceremony, but these quirks add to the chapel’s rustic character.
Emily walked down the aisle on her father’s arm wearing her mother’s wedding dress, which had been altered to fit her perfectly. The modifications included off-the-shoulder sleeves that gave the dress a fresh, personal touch. She paired the gown with teal boots and a long veil. Zachary looked sharp in a black suit with a white shirt, bolo tie, and black cowboy hat. His dad had given him his grandfather’s ring to wear—a touching family heirloom for the occasion.
The ceremony included music, scripture readings, and communion. Afterward, Emily and Zachary rang the chapel bell outside in celebration before signing the registry. We captured family photos with their loved ones right there at the chapel, taking advantage of the mountain backdrop.
For Emily, a cancer survivor, this day carried extra weight and emotion. The joy and gratitude she and Zachary shared was palpable throughout every moment.
After the ceremony, we headed to Cathedral Group Turnout for photos in the open sagebrush. The afternoon light streamed down through the atmosphere, creating a beautifully hazy effect on the mountains. The couple attempted some photos with a horse, though he proved too finicky to cooperate for long.
Our next stop was String Lake, where we photographed Emily and Zachary on the bridge and down by the river as the sun began to slip behind the mountains. The changing light created a soft, romantic atmosphere.
The final location was Schwabacher Landing, and it did not disappoint. Their late September wedding date meant they caught the peak of fall colors. The leaves had turned golden, and the grasses glowed with autumn warmth. Everything was vibrantly fall—exactly the seasonal backdrop they’d hoped for.
Emily and Zachary’s micro wedding showcased what makes Grand Teton National Park such a remarkable place to get married. From the historic chapel to the diverse landscape locations, couples can create a wedding day that feels both intimate and grand. The details matter—from family heirlooms to altered wedding dresses to the perfect pair of teal boots. These personal touches, combined with the natural beauty of Wyoming, create images that tell your unique story.
A quick shout out to hair and makeup beauty specialist Tanya Crocker for taking such great care of our bride!
If you’re planning a Chapel of the Transfiguration wedding or anywhere in the Jackson Hole area, consider working with experienced photographers who know the locations, lighting, and timing that will make your photos exceptional. Emily and Zachary’s day reminded me why I love documenting these celebrations—every couple brings their own story, and every Grand Teton wedding offers something magical.
Let’s talk about your vision, reach out through my website contact form. I can’t wait to connect with you!















© 2025 Janelle & Co Photography
info@janelleandersen.com
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
360-980-2681
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