Part 2 can be found here: Part 2

Part 2 can be found here: Part 2

One of my most memorable first encounters with another human being is with Katelyn.  It was a winter’s evening many years ago when my friend Jessi came over to my flat/apartment (and brought her friend Katelyn along).  I soon discovered Katelyn is rather feisty and as I recall (her version may differ?) she picked a fight with me that evening.  I mentioned I would throw her in the snow if she didn’t stop insulting me.  She didn’t believe me.  Soon Katelyn and I were in a rather epic snow battle.  She ripped my shirt in the process (she fought a bit dirty), though that is probably fair as I did have a reasonable size and reach advantage.  It was a hilarious evening.

When I found out Katelyn was getting married and I was going to be back in the states, I asked her if she needed a wedding photographer. I knew how much fun she was and that her wedding was certain to be a blast! She already had one but was kind enough to release her from her obligations (kind to me not her).  I was quite flattered when she did this.  I told her we needed some sort of battle reunion with cake, or pie or whipped cream or something.  Katelyn’s response “there will be cake.”  It’s hard to express what my excitement level was when reading those words.  I had all sorts of plans on how I would photograph it and then jump in the cake fight myself.

A lucky 13 days before Katelyn & Matt’s wedding I broke my foot while helping my parents on their farm.  The first thing I thought of was “Oh no!  Katelyn’s wedding!”  Couples often ask what happens if you get sick?  I always tell them it isn’t an option and if I break my leg, I’ll drag it.  I was dreading the call but when I told Katelyn she couldn’t have taken it more gracefully.  I assured her I could still do the job and she generously agreed to let me do it.  I was happy that I wasn’t the second photographer she fired.

Like a whirlwind the wedding was upon us and it went by like a blur. First the ladies were getting their hair done at Sugar Salon in downtown Helena. Quickly they were off to the Kleffner Ranch. Everyone was getting ready and looking gorgeous, none looked more stunning than Miss Katelyn.  Matt and his groomsmen were in good spirits and getting ready in the barn.