Clean and Elegant Wedding Inspiration at White Barn Weddings - Emmett, Idaho

Amy Isacson April 11, 2024

This clean and minimal elopement aesthetic was inspired by the sleek lines of White Barn Weddings and Venue in beautiful Emmett, Idaho. Our editorial was driven by the desire to celebrate elegance and luxury, complete with neutrals and creams, and a slight nod to western refinement.

5 FACTORS IN CREATING OUR VISION

VENUE

We had a lot of ideas floating around but not until the venue and Addie’s gown from Laneige Bridal in Boise were secured, did all the parts fall into place. The WHITE theme permeated throughout; the goal was to stay true to the clean and crisp lines of the venue and gown, and highlight all aspects of the luxurious feel inside.

NEUTRALS

We used a neutral palette to enhance not only the surrounding beauty of the venue and countryside, but to also compliment the striking splendor of Addie and Tyler. After all, the day was centered around the two of them!

ELEGANCE

All the details, including the gown, jewelry, shoes and florals, were centered around a simple beauty that is timeless and classic. Addie’s pearl gloves brought a more elegant touch to her look, and of course, having her hair down beautifully executed by Trend Studios provided a more whimsical and carefree feel.

FLOWERS

The full ceremony arch was a celebration of springtime florals, with plenty of whites and textures, with the goal of further enhancing the surrounding natural beauty, and supporting the classic features of the couple.

GLASS

The elevated table settings complimented the light and airy feel inside the barn reception area, complete with candles, cream linens, glass, gold and reflective surfaces. Victoria of House of Salem Events absolutely crushed it with her vision here - she was hugely instrumental in procuring our vision. The custom place cards included a stylized horseshoe emblem thanks to Penned Creations, a small homage to the barn and rural setting. The delicious cake was buttercream with gold leaf, simple and striking.

Creating your dream wedding day is no simple task. There are as many ways to make it come to life as there are couples getting married. Working with vendors who really get your vision is key in creating a wedding day that truly speaks to you.

As a wedding photographer, this day was especially fun because it was the culmination of ideas I have wanted to execute for some time. Including wedding vendors allowed us to create a collaborative vision - all within the clean and elegant parameters. Of course, Addie and Tyler were the absolute best in participating enthusiastically and perfectly!

Wedding Dress at White Barn Weddings (Copy)

Bride with Pearl Gloves and flowers (Copy)

Wedding Ceremony Arch with White flowers (Copy)

Wedding Couple with Wreath and Table (Copy)

Idaho Bride with Cowboy Hat and Flowers (Copy)

Black and White Wedding Couple at Sunset (Copy)

VENDORS

Photographer + Concept : Amy Isacson Photography

Planning : House of Salem Events

Talent : Addie + Tyler

Venue : White Barn Weddings and Venues

Dress : Laneige Bridal + Justin Alexander

Suit : Sweetheart Manor Bridal

Hair + Makeup : Trend Studios

Florist : Lae Floral Event Design

Stationery : Penned Creations

Cake : Cakes by Cam

Linens : BBJ La Tavola

Chairs : Event Rent Idaho

Bar + Benches : Blush Creek Rentals

Tabletop Rentals : The Little Gem Details + Flying China

Jewelry : The Diamond Girls + Marmelo

Shoes : Dream Paris Shoes

Hat : @wild_idahoans Stetson

Gloves : Prim and Prairie

Shore Lodge Lakeside Wedding in McCall, Idaho

Amy Isacson February 24, 2023

Maureen and Ben envisioned a classic and natural wedding at Shore Lodge, set on the south side of beautiful Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho. It was nothing short of spectacular, as the weather Gods delivered picture perfect weather.

Shore Lodge

Shore Lodge is one of McCall’s top wedding venues, for good reason. This historic resort has been around since 1948 and offers Idaho mountain luxury at its finest. By its pure proximity to the lake and being right in town, it’s easy to see why many couples call it their absolute dream venue. Not only is it ideal for couples hoping to tie the knot with incredible lake and mountain views, it also offers high-end amenities. With lodging, banquet rooms, massage offerings, spas, hot springs and restaurants on site, it has everything a couple looking to get married could possibly need!

One of my favorite spots at Shore Lodge is The Cove. You can get full massage packages which include access to their private hot springs and their two heated saltwater immersion pools. Romantic date tip = book a couple’s day here! Think experiences over things, always. I gifted this to my husband at Christmas last year and we had such fun. SO decadent!!

Because Shore Lodge provides a full-service wedding venue, there is no guesswork in creating your dream wedding day. The staff is fully equipped to cater to all needs for couples planning their wedding, from day of coordinators to fully catered delicious meals.

Shore Lodge in McCall, Idaho

McCall Lake Cruises

Maureen and Ben did it all right. They kicked off their wedding destination weekend with a rehearsal dinner aboard the Payette Lake cruise boat, The Idaho, enjoying dinner and drinks surrounded by their closest family and friends. McCall Lake Cruises offers a variety of cruise options and two levels of boat goodness. The upper level is open and the lower level is a bit more protected. They provide cocktails and dinner, while cruising around the lake. I cannot wait to shoot a wedding aboard this boat this coming summer. Stay tuned!

Following their day out on the lake, Maureen and Ben got ready at Shore Lodge itself and the beauty and energy was absolutely wonderful. Weddings at this magical spot are always on point. They opted to have all photos and celebrations near Shore Lodge or nearby on Payette Lake.

First Look

Maureen and Ben’s first look out on one of the docks was super touching and their supportive bridal party was one of the best out there! Their vendor team was superb; it was fantastic working alongside my fabulous associate shooter, (Sage Donnelly Imagery) and the super talented videographer (Films by Aly). She came all the way from Utah and was an absolute delight. I really enjoyed my time alongside the entire team that worked together to make this day so spectacular.

Details

There was no shortage of wonderful details too. A champagne wall and signature drinks offered to guests provided just the right festive and personal touches. For him: Jack and Coke, and for her: Huckletinis with fresh local huckleberries!

From their wedding vows in the banquet hall surrounded by the pristine lake and mountains, to their reception and dance party, it was truly a day to remember! As always, I am so grateful to be able to witness these monumental moments. I am not just there to photograph love, I am there to celebrate it. And what a fantastic celebration it was!

A big congratulations to Maureen + Ben!

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The Creative Team

Venues: Shore Lodge | McCall Lake Cruises

Dress: Essence of Australia

Hair: The Salty Blonde

Makeup: Styled by Kenzie

Florals: Farm to Market Florals

Videography: Films by Aly

DJ: Ian Williams

Cake: Shore Lodge

Suit: Menguin

Ring: Blue Nile Diamond

Associate photography: Sage Donnelly Imagery

Photography: Amy Isacson Photography

McCall Idaho Barn Wedding at Historic Roseberry | Rikki + Darrell

Amy Isacson November 4, 2021

Rikki and Darrel chose to get married in the historic town of Roseberry, Idaho. It was an absolute dream to document. A lot of planning went into making it so special and the attention to detail really paid off. The weather forecast called for an 80% chance of rain, though I only felt a couple of sprinkles the whole day! The weather gods favored us kindly, and the day got progressively more beautiful.

The details throughout the day were exceptional and it was evident a lot of time and effort went into each aspect of their day. From custom soles of her shoes (“Mrs. Cobb”") to the cake topper, it was such fun to witness! They also worked with a wedding planner (McCall Weddings) and it absolutely pushed things up a notch!

We had done engagement photos prior so I already had a connection with them and was eager to watch them tie the knot! If you are on the fence about engagement photos, they are absolutely worth it! This is your chance to get to know your photographer and gain a mutual rapport. Think of it as getting to know your new best friend. In most cases, we will be in the room with you getting ready, watching you experience one of life’s most momentous days, and documenting you sealing the kiss with your partner.

The love and connection between these two was one of the sweetest I’ve had the fortune of documenting. Their wedding took place on the grass facing the pasture of cows with the mountains in the background; pretty idyllic. They had their reception in the historic red barn with music and string lights, which really created a magical feel.

The earlier overcast gave way to the most spectacular sunset and of course, I was thrilled to get them out into the field for a few sweet moments together, sealed with a kiss.

Says Rikki about their day:

The smell of the old wood, the twinkle of all the little white lights, the huge double barns doors that open to a mountain view, cows in the pasture just beyond the arbor. It was a rustic setting with a romantic feel! We utilized the indoor barn for the reception and the outdoor lawn for the ceremony. Guests had the option to explore other historical buildings onsite before the wedding or during the reception.

Another reason for choosing this location, my husband’s son and daughter-in-law were married in the same barn 8 years earlier. Also, it just so happened to be available on our 2 yr dating anniversary.

The history of the barn itself is an interesting story, being over a 100 years old. Imagine all the stories that that old barn holds. Well, I just added my story to it!

Vendors

Rikki + Darrell’s Google review about working with me:

Far beyond our expectations! Amy makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. Her joy and excitement is contagious!

Vendors

Rikki + Darrell’s Google review about working with me:

Far beyond our expectations! Amy makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. Her joy and excitement is contagious!

Amy Isacson is an Idaho-based wedding + elopement photographer who creatively captures love in all its varied forms. As an artist at heart, she thrives on telling your unique story, one adventure at a time.

Tamarack Resort Idaho Vow Renewal | Allison + Scott

Amy Isacson July 15, 2021

Allison and Scott had eloped last June on the ridge of Hum Lake outside of McCall, but due to Covid restrictions, their family was not able to join them. This June, they planned a family weekend to do a vow renewal and dinner party at beautiful Tamarack Resort and reached out to me to photograph it. Little did I realize what an incredibly sweet couple (and family!) I was in for!! We hit it off immediately, and after a lot of back and forth in hopes of riding the chairlift up, we found the perfect spot for them to exchange their vows, with sweeping views of the valley and lake. True to our Idaho summers, the day was HOT.

Scroll to see my first ever Gif, as well as a perfectly timed photo-bomb at the end of a local, who drove past us, complete with classic car and husky! 🐕 We found it rather fitting, considering the dog lovers amongst us!!

Florals - Farm to Market Florals

Makeup - Katelyn of Shawna Hines Hair + Makeup

Dress - BHLDN Portland

Mountaintop Vow Renewal - Tamarack Resort, Idaho

After the ceremony, we headed back down the mountain for some reception fun and got a few photos with their adorable dog, Lou, a Pudelpointer, an old German hunting breed. I was smitten by him and he totally took the show! Everyone should have a dog like Lou. Everyone. 🧡

If you are considering including your dog in your day, DO! Know that I’m totally down for it - they are part of the family. You won’t regret it!!

We got everyone in the grand entrance to the rental, which was fun with the double stairwell. It was a tight squeeze since I couldn’t get the door to get completely open without taking it off the hinges (which my husband would probably do!) but it worked.

Allison arranged for a little maternity session for her pregnant sister, Emily, and her husband Matt, to document this sweet season, before their baby arrives in August. They, too, had a dog, named Gary (did I mention this family not only has rad dogs, but also GREAT dog names?!) who inspired Allison and Scott to get Lou. Needless to say, Gary, also won me over. Big time!!

Following dinner, we chased the sun and got perhaps my favorite photos from the day - some in the fields of flowers and some across the road with cows.

Zion National Park Utah Desert Elopement | Lisa + Tino

Amy Isacson May 18, 2021

Ever since we visited Zion National Park a few years back, I’ve been eager to return. This recent trip reminded me that Utah is indeed a special place and its beauty is hard to beat. It is no secret that there is a lot to see, and with some creativity as well as assistance from the All-Trails app, you can find your own slice of paradise to say I do in. The popular spots are favorites for a reason; they ARE truly amazing. With a little effort, though, you can find plenty of places that are just as epic, if not more so, with little or no crowds. The harder-to-reach places successfully weed out the crowds. As always, be respectful of this precious land and follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace.

If you’re determined to tie the knot in true solitude with incredible views, it takes some preparation and is worth the effort.

Lisa and Tino were dressed to the nine and up for anything. The overlook views of the canyon were incredible. We pinched ourselves at our luck in being in this special place. Jacqueline, our planner/coordinator tipped us off about this area, and after some location scouting, we knew we had found something special. We really hit the jackpot. (A couple of jeep tours pulled up while we were there, so it wasn’t as secret as we thought.) Fortunately, we were given our space and cheered on as they went on their way. There even were some dried hot pools nearby.

Lucky us, we had views for miles and perfect rocks to perch ourselves upon to soak in this magical world. Lisa and Tino exchanged their handwritten vows on top of some rocks, then laid on the rocks and looked up to the sky. They finished by dancing and embracing as the setting sun set her crown aglow, giving everything an ethereal feel. We all felt the immense power of this place and savored our time together in celebration of this beautiful day.

Planning / Coordination: Eventfully,Jacqueline

Videographer: @j.for.jack

Model: @lisamowie and Tino

Dress: Daci Gowns

Suit: Bridal Veil Fashions

Hair: Jordan’s Boutique

Makeup: @yesibeauti

Crown: Amaroq Design

Floral Design : KB Floral Designs

Stationery: Oh Wonder Calligraphy

Boots: Steve Madden

Photographer: Amy Isacson Photography (yep, that’s me!)

Ben gives Amber an impromptu piggy back ride as they enjoy their elopement day.

McCall Idaho Winter Elopement | Amber + Ben

Amy Isacson December 31, 2020

New Year’s Eve is always a good reason to celebrate, and after this past New Year’s, my favorite way to spend it is in the divine company of two people in love and eloping! It was an inward journey for me as well as them; focusing on this special day for these two that will forever be the day they got married.

When Amber and I first spoke on the phone, she made it clear to me that they wanted this day to be purely about the two of them. They wanted something simple and deeply meaningful where the focus was on their love for one another. This day was just that.

Amber and Ben are the owners of Watkins Pharmacy in Cascade, right in the center of town. They had their ceremony at Ben’s house in Cascade, where they got ready, he courted her on guitar and they exchanged vows with just the officiant and Amber’s hair and makeup stylist, Yolanda.

Ahead of time, we discussed a number of possible activities after the ceremony, as the weather became increasingly a major component to consider (hello, dumping snow!) In the end, they decided to head up to Blackhawk on the Lake to a beautiful home for some fun western vibe/amazing stone fireplace shots and then finished up with some fun tromps in the surrounding area.

One thing many people don’t realize is when the snow is thigh-high and there one lane is plowed, you can’t just park on the road. There needs to be pull-out parking and walking ANYWHERE becomes an issue because you need areas that are plowed or else you’ll look ridiculous standing in the deep snow. This all required considerable scouting which I was happy to do!

In the end, this day was definitely one for the books. The love between these two was so evident when they looked at one another. We could all feel it. I loved that they made their elopement day all about them. And I am so grateful to have been asked to be a part of it!

Dress: David’s Bridal

HMU: Yolanda Thayer of Primadonamakeover

Walking hand and hand in the snow, Ben and Amber stroll through the snow at Blackhawk on the Lake, near McCall, Idaho.

We took a pretty rough unplowed side road to get to Blackhawk on the River following the ceremony in Cascade. At one point, there was a car approaching us in the same single tire tracks our two vehicles were following. We all slowed down at an intersection and were able to successfully pass each other! Ah, mountain life!! This frosty heart below formed on my windshield as I followed Amber and Ben on that memorable drive. That blurry form is the newlyweds ahead of me…

Brides take a private alone moment in a meadow at Burgdorf Hot Springs in Payette National Park before their wedding.

Burgdorf Hot Springs Idaho Same-Sex Wedding | Megan + Clare

Amy Isacson April 19, 2020

Talk about a heartfelt day! Megan and Clare got married at Burgdorf Hot Springs and the emotions ran deep. Any local knows a favorite rustic hotel is Burgdorf. Set in an old mining town in Payette National Forest, it’s only accessible by snowmobile in winter so it’s a super fun destination for those of us who seek out adventure!

Preparations took place in one of the historic cabins called the White House. Clare had made her own gorgeous dress and it was exciting to see photos of her progress. With flower petals and tea lights their mothers scattered on the bed, these two remained calm and grounded in the little cabin. It was truly special.

Prior to the ceremony, they went to a field behind the cabin and read letters they’d written to one another This intentional and very simple, yet private exchange served as a good reminder to savor every minute of this day. And breathe. Their time spent focused on another was super touching - even I was crying with them! It was extremely touching and emotional.

Once the wedding kicked in, things moved quickly. Vows were exchanged, the live music began and the celebrations went full-swing. There were games for young and old, dogs (and goats!) ran free, the bonfires were lit and life was sweet! As they danced together with family and friends through the warm summer night, family and friends soaked in the hot springs until the late hours, under a dark sky full of bright stars, lit by the light of the moon…. 🌙

* If you’re looking for a wedding or elopement photographer to work within McCall, Idaho, or beyond, I’d love to connect!

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