As a Utah Wedding Photographer, I’ve had the privilege of documenting countless love stories, but photographing my own brother Caidin’s wedding to Cidnee was something truly extraordinary. Their October celebration at The Greystone Monroe in Monroe, Utah, brought together family and friends for a weekend of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

A Love Story Two Years in the Making

Caidin and Cidnee chose a date that held deep meaning—exactly two years after their first date. While their official vow ceremony and reception took place that beautiful October day, they had actually eloped in their backyard the previous June. I missed their intimate backyard ceremony due to a last-minute decision on their part and my planned backpacking trip in the Tetons. Instead, my husband and I watched their wedding over Zoom while enjoying chips and dips at our favorite Jackson Hole restaurant, Merry Piglets. My husband joked that it might be his favorite way to watch a wedding!

The Greystone Monroe Wedding Photography: Adapting to Mother Nature

The day before the ceremony, we scouted an outdoor woodland location they had dreamed of for their vows. They had booked The Greystone Monroe venue for dinner and reception but hoped to marry surrounded by trees. Unfortunately, overnight rain created muddy conditions and parking restrictions made the forest location impossible. Delivering that news broke my heart, but we pivoted quickly. They married on the side lawn instead, and the result was absolutely stunning. Church let out right as the ceremony began, bringing unexpected traffic on the nearby road, but changing the ceremony location allowed everyone who needed to be there to witness their union.

Getting Ready at The Greystone Monroe

The venue’s beautiful bride’s room provided the perfect space for Cidnee’s preparations. Caidin used the landing area to put finishing touches on his outfit and carefully transcribe his vows from his phone to a card. His mom pinned on his boutonniere, and we were ready.

Cidnee’s dad walked her down the aisle, and the kiss she planted on his cheek left the brightest, boldest red lip imprint. Standing beneath a beautiful wedding arch crafted by her father, her grandfather (who had officiated several of her cousins’ weddings) led them through their vows in a ceremony filled with family tradition and love. The handmade arch added such a personal, meaningful touch to their ceremony.

Fall Colors and Wedding Portraits

After rushing through the family photo list, we headed to the wooded location originally planned for the ceremony—now repurposed for couple portraits. The fall colors were magnificent! We carefully navigated to keep her dress pristine (thank goodness for wet wipes when mud appeared).

The bride’s dress deserves special mention. My talented niece Ashley created this ethereal gown with vintage vibes. The off-the-shoulder flowing sleeves, fitted bodice, and graceful skirt struck the perfect balance between simple and elegant.

Celebrating into the Night

The previous evening, we spent hours decorating while my mom arranged the flowers. They chose a buffet-style dinner featuring pulled pork and sides with plenty of dessert options, plus a special cake for two decorated with “We always do” in red script. After feeding each other cake, the dance floor opened up and everyone danced the night away.

They capped off the evening by ringing the historic bell at The Greystone Monroe on their way out. The marquee displayed their names and wedding date as they departed in his fancy yellow sports car—a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Utah Wedding Photographer Available for Your Special Day

Being both family and photographer gave me a unique perspective on this wedding. The emotion, the pivots, the laughter, and the joy reminded me why I love this work. Every couple deserves to have their story told this way.

Ready to book your wedding photography? Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, I’d love to capture your love story. Contact me today to inquire about availability and let’s create something beautiful together. Your wedding day deserves to be remembered exactly as it felt—magical, authentic, and uniquely yours.