Your
Ranch Wedding
documentary
authentic
romantic
real
timeless
emotive
ranch wedding
I've been documenting weddings + elopements all over the U.S. for the last 7 years.
You deserve an experience that is unique to you too. Which is why I am so passionate about helping you beyond just showing up to snap photos.
I specialize in documenting ranch weddings in a way that feels authentic, natural, and timeless. I know how to work with wide-open spaces, shifting light, and the unpredictability of the outdoors. Whether it’s chasing golden hour through the pastures, navigating the dust and wind, or making sure your images reflect the real moments—not just the posed ones—you deserve someone who knows how to handle every part of a ranch wedding with ease.
My love language is serving couples on one of the most important days of their life, and that looks different for every couple.
ranch wedding
Hey, I'm Mel
Hey, I'm Mel
your
photographer:
photographer
your
There’s something truly special about saying “I do” on the land that means the most to you. Whether you're getting married on your own ranch, a family property that holds generations of memories, or a venue that perfectly captures the western way of life, a ranch wedding is more than just a setting—it’s a reflection of who you are. It’s wide-open skies, the sound of horses in the distance, and the kind of celebration where boots are welcome on the dance floor.
Ranch weddings have a way of feeling both deeply personal and effortlessly beautiful. They offer the freedom to create a day that feels true to you—whether that means a ceremony in the pasture, a barn reception under string lights, or an intimate gathering at a venue that embraces the western spirit. No matter where you choose, your wedding should feel like home, and I’m here to help you capture it all, just as it happens.
I am here to help make your ranch wedding intentional + unforgettable
Whether you are having your wedding at your family ranch or opting for a ranch wedding venue, you can make your day unique to the two of you. But with all that freedom, it can be hard to know where to start! Here are some ideas and things to consider as you plan your ranch wedding.
Ranch Weddings are unique + Intentional
I am here to help make your ranch wedding intentional + unforgettable
Rugged. Intentional. Authentic.
Rugged. Intentional. Authentic.
you deserve a stress free day that feels like you.
getting to know you and your love story
Whether you've grown up on a ranch your whole life or are a first generation rancher, you love this way of life and want a photographer who understands all of the ins and outs of a ranch wedding and will document it with intention.
Getting down to the roots of your love story. You met while working a branding together and you want your wedding day to represent the two of you and how your story started, but you don't want the pressure of a traditional wedding day.
I value getting to know the two of you. Your love story, what makes you come alive, the vision for your day. Ranch weddings are all about the camaraderie of the western way of life, we will feel like life long pals by the time your wedding day arrives.
- Canyon + Lauren
"To write a review of Mel as simply our wedding photographer doesn’t even come close to capturing the blessing she was to us on our wedding/elopement day as well as in the months leading up to it.
She is the most genuinely kind, helpful, organized and thoughtful person when it comes to being prepared for whatever your day may throw you. She then handles any twists and turns with such an experienced hand and a casual ease that made us so comfortable to enjoy the day knowing she’s got our back! When I booked Mel she not only became our day-of photographer but jumped whole heartedly into the efforts from timeline planning and checklist writing to showing up with a full emergency kit stocked with anything we could’ve possibly needed in a pinch.
We could not have asked for any more in terms of preparation and communication, the way she conducted herself and her clear level of experience and expertise and to top it all of we just received our photos and we are absolutely BLOWN AWAY by her talent.
There are a ton of big decisions to be made when planning an elopement or wedding day and some that you may even question after you’ve made them. Booking Mel was one of the easiest and best decisions we made and every day it just became more clear that she was the perfect choice. Get on her books — you will absolutely not regret it!!!"
ranch wedding planning:
You are choosing a ranch wedding because you love the western way of life and are likely busy with ranch life so I like to make things as easy and stress-free as possible for yall.
ranch wedding planning
More than just your photographer
more than just your photographer
Provided in all my packages:
- TL wedding vision guide
- planning resources
- timeline building
- vendor recommendations
- customizable packages
- Robert + Laura
"I CANNOT recommend Mel enough! She is truly the best! She can make anyone and everyone look good, her fun laid back personality makes the session WAY more enjoyable (coming from a couple who hates having their picture taken) From helping coordinate and plan up to the big day Mel was there the whole time, no matter the challenge she is always willing to lend a helping hand or give you her honest opinion! Her work is truly unmatched! We are forever grateful to have had her at all of our special moments this far!"
Tips for your ranch wedding:
Tips for your ranch wedding
plan ahead:
The less glamorous side of ranch weddings is they are often times in remote locations. Bathrooms, power, seating, parking, weather, are all things to plan for ahead of time.
when:
Think about the weather in your area especially if you don't have an indoor backup option in case of inclement weather. Later spring is usually a great option. Summer in northern states. Fall is also a lovely option for many areas. Keep in mind, October is a prime wedding month and fills up quickly!
I believe in more than just showing up and taking pictures—I invest in my couples. I take the time to understand your love story, your vision, and what’s most important to you. Whether we’re hiking to a remote overlook, riding horseback across the ranch, or going on a whim and a prayer, I’ll be right there alongside you—not just as your photographer, but as someone fully present for your day.
If you’re looking for a photographer who will make your ranch wedding feel effortless, meaningful, and unforgettable—let’s talk. I’d love to capture your story.
booking 2025 + 2026
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