Crafting Your Unforgettable Alaskan Elopement
Hey, friend! Let’s talk about something super exciting—your Alaskan elopement. If you're here, chances are you're dreaming of saying your "I do's" somewhere between towering mountains and wild, untamed landscapes. You want a day that’s epic, personal, and let’s be real—a little more you than a traditional wedding with seating charts and three different types of centerpieces. So, how do you pull off an unforgettable elopement in Alaska? I'm glad you asked because I’ve got all the tips you need right here.
1. Find Your Dream Location
Alaska is huge, like, you-can't-see-it-all-in-one-trip huge. From the rugged Kenai Peninsula (my home base!) to the breathtaking glaciers in Denali, and the sweeping beaches in Homer—there's a spot for every kind of couple. Want mountains in the background? A beach? A freaking glacier? Alaska has it all.
You don't need to pick the first place that pops up on Pinterest either. Think about what kind of vibe you want for your day. Do you want to hike a little to a private spot? Maybe take a helicopter to a remote glacier? Or just hop out of the car at a gorgeous viewpoint? The options are endless, and that’s the beauty of eloping here!
2. Timing is Everything
Listen, Alaska is beautiful all year round, but the experience changes dramatically depending on when you visit. If you want that lush green landscape, shoot for June through early August. But if you're feeling the cozy autumn colors or a winter wonderland, late September or even October could be your jam. Just remember, winter means shorter days and colder temps, so layers will be your best friend. (And yes, that means cute boots with your dress are definitely a thing.)
3. Build Your Day Around What Matters to You
The best part of eloping? No rules. You’re free to do whatever makes you both happiest, and that’s what makes your elopement unforgettable. Maybe your day starts with a cozy cabin breakfast, and you spend the afternoon hiking to a waterfall. Or you could hop in a seaplane and soar over the glaciers before exchanging vows on the shore of a crystal-clear lake. Heck, you could even end the day around a campfire with s'mores—just the two of you, snuggled up under the midnight sun.
4. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff (Really!)
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as an elopement photographer, it’s that the little things don’t always go according to plan. And guess what? That’s okay. Your dress might get a little dirty (hello, adventure!), your hair might blow a little in the wind (yay, nature!), but those imperfect moments? They’re perfect. Trust me, the photos and memories from that kind of day will mean so much more.
5. Hire Vendors Who Get Your Vibe
I can’t stress this enough—surround yourself with people who get you. From the officiant to your photographer (hey, that's me!), you want a crew that understands the vibe you're going for. You want them to be just as excited about your elopement as you are. And if you need any recommendations for florists, planners, or even a killer baker for a tiny elopement cake, I got you.
6. Capture the Moments (Not Just the Poses)
Your elopement day is about the two of you. It’s about real moments—those stolen glances, goofy smiles, maybe even a tear or two. Sure, we’ll grab those epic portraits with the stunning Alaskan backdrop, but what’s more important to me is capturing you. The in-between stuff, the laughter, the little moments that make your day totally unique.
7. End With an Adventure
You didn’t come all the way to Alaska for a basic day, right? So why not go all out? Whether it’s hopping in a kayak, taking a helicopter ride to a glacier, or chasing the Northern Lights, make your elopement day an adventure from start to finish. You’ll look back and think, “Wow, we did that on our wedding day!” Trust me, it’s worth it.
At the end of the day, your Alaskan elopement should be exactly what you want it to be. Whether that's hiking to a mountaintop or exchanging vows by a quiet lake, the point is—it's your day. You can do it however you want, and I’m just here to help you document it and make sure you have the most unforgettable, laid-back, stress-free day possible.
I’m already getting pumped just thinking about all the amazing places we’ll go and the memories you’ll make! Let’s get this adventure started, yeah? Follow the link below and let’s see what sort of awesome adventure we can put together for your day (or days.)
