Stay Golden

Where to begin with these two? From our very first conversation, I knew eloping with Danika and Jimmy was going to be something special. We bonded over our shared love of four-legged family members, muscle cars, and emo music—but beyond that, their love story had a way of instantly lighting up the room.

What started with an instant spark (Jimmy saw a photo of Danika through a mutual friend) and a brave slide into the DMs—because he genuinely wanted to know her better—quickly grew into something deeper. No strangers to hard seasons, Danika and Jimmy learned how to hold each other through long distance, life’s curveballs, and everything in between. The relationship they built is rooted in safety, laughter, and a love that is both steady and enduring.

On a stunning October day, we [Kate + Lindsey) met up with Danika, Jimmy, and their adorable pup, Charlie. Though understandably nervous, they were warm, present, and effortlessly themselves. We headed out to Hungry Horse, where the aspens and larches glowed gold in the afternoon light (and Kate’s muscle car, Dotty, that she brought along for the ride didn’t look too bad, either).

Along a quiet creek on the shores of Hungry Horse Reservoir, these two tatted lovebirds exchanged the most heartfelt vows (because all truly romantic vows begin with, “Hey big dawg”), honoring the people and experiences that shaped them and celebrating the life they’re choosing together. When it came time to make it officially official, Charlie was more than happy to serve as their witness.

Every moment with Danika and Jimmy sparkled with their deep love for one another. Even now, I can picture them running down the road, wrapped in that unmistakable golden light that only Montana autumns—and truly special love stories—can hold.

Thank you, Danika and Jimmy, for trusting us to tell your story and capture such a magical day.