Eloping in Alaska is a literal dream, but planning (long-distance or not) can be challenging logistically. Here’s everything you need to know about planning your Alaskan elopement broken down into 9 easy steps.

STEP 1: Dream Up Your Perfect Elopement Day

You’ve already knocked out the hardest part of planning an elopement (see Step 4): deciding where you want to elope! Congrats on deciding to elope in Alaska. I guarantee you won’t have any regrets if you’re looking for an elopement day (or days!) full of adventure, beautiful scenery, fun, memories, and documenting every step of the day.

Questions to Ask Each Other While Planning Your Dream Alaskan Elopement

Now is where the fun begins in planning your Alaskan elopement: dreaming about what your ultimate lavish elopement day would look like. Do you want to draw out the day and soak in every moment close to a scenic Air BnB or are you looking for a little more adventure? What kind of adventures do you want to plan into your Alaskan elopement? Do you plan to keep things small and intimate, or do you plan to invite close friends and family? When you envision yourself on your elopement day and you’re getting ready, what are you wearing? What are the smells and who is around you? When you’re standing with your partner exchanging vows, take in your scenery and note it. When you are celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary, are your favorite photos the ones surrounded by family after your elopement or are they the epic editorial-style landscape portraits?

As an Alaskan elopement photographer, I would love to be that trusted person to you. As a local, I can ensure you have the absolute best locations, know how to prepare for your elopement, advise you on proper gear and equipment for your adventures, and so much more.

My goals as an Alaskan elopement photographer is making sure every one of my clients have an elopement day that is tailored to them and unique to their elopement vision while having the absolute most FUN DAY(S) EVER! Let’s make some memories, shall we!

STEP 3: Set a Date for Your Elopement

The date you choose for your elopement will be key in determining the types of adventures are available, accommodations, attire, footwear, florals, and even where you can actually elope! Check out this article about When to Elope in Alaska. This will provide you with the elements you’ll need to consider when planning your Alaskan elopement and selecting your elopement date.

Of course, if you and your partner have a special date in mind, then the season is irrelevant. We can still make your dream elopement day come to life. Ultimately, at the end of your elopement day, as long as you are married to your partner and love of your life then that is what truly matters.

If you’re looking for a particular setting or view or blue pools, just let the pilot know prior to take off and they’ll come through for you. Helicopter tour companies that offer glacier tours are very familiar with elopements so they know what to look for.

Girdwood

South of Anchorage is the cute little ski resort town of Girdwood. Alyeska Resort offers ski slopes in the winter, stunning views and hiking in the summer, and an excellent nordic spa experience. Girdwood is wild but upscale in a tree-huggy-vibe type of way. The cabins are quaint, but those are million-dollar views. Surrounded by mountains topped with glaciers, Girdwood offers a variety of settings.

There are SO MANY other beautiful location choices but as a local, I like to keep these gems I’ve scouted for the couples who choose to work with me (*hint* *hint*).

1. What time do you and your partner want to say “I Do?”
   • If you want a particular type of lighting, like golden hour, then you will be on Mother Nature’s schedule. In Alaska, golden hour in the summer basically is non-existant unless you want to get married at 2am. In the depth of winter (January, February) golden hour is all day long because there are so few hours of daylight.
   • By planning the time for your ceremony, you can work backwards on your timeline, starting with…(question 2)
2. When do you and your partner want to start your day? Do you and your partner plan to do anything together prior to putting on wedding attire and getting ready?
   • Maybe you just spend some quiet time together while you sip morning coffee. Or maybe you whip up some breakfast together. Maybe you take a morning walk and just enjoy soaking in one another. Sounds like a pretty great way to kick off an Alaskan elopement.
3. Do you need to build in driving time, hiking time, boating time, or additional commuting time at any point(s) throughout the day?
   • I encourage couples to intentionally build in time for them to just stop and truly soak in the moment while in the actual moment. I don’t even have to take photos if you’d prefer the privacy.
4. When and where you both want to get ready?
   • At your housing? Or are we hiking to a glacier before you throw on a suit or dress with those ice cleats?
5. When does the sun set? After the sun sets, do you plan to do any elopement photos?
   • When the sun sets, the fun can carry on! Astrophotography with you and your new partner could be fun. Or maybe a warm campfire to wrap up and snuggle down before calling it a day.
   • If you would prefer to not do any photos once the sun sets, then this would typically be where we would part ways for the evening.

Starting with the big events and continuing to break down the overall task into smaller chunks is helpful. HOWEVER, by choosing me as your photographer, I am more than happy to help build your personalized timeline, anticipated commute times, and anything else you want to make sure happens while planning your elopement with me. I’m just here to make sure things go smooth and stay on track.

There are lots of popular tours and places to stay that sell out a year in advance, especially during summer months. After knocking out your timeline, you’ll know exactly what you need to start booking and which vendors you plan to include in your Alaskan elopement.

STEP 7: Book Your Elopement Vendor Dream Team

This is where creatives unite and create your dream elopement. You’ve been planning your Alaskan elopement and you are now ready to lock in meal options, adventure or guided tours, housing, hair and makeup, florals, cake (or other sweet treat).

The beauty of an elopement is you can include as much or as little “tradition” into the day-of details. Elopement vendors in Alaska are well networked because our community is small, but mighty. We all support each other and work well together to deliver the best for our couples. If it matters to you, it matters to us.

STEP 8: Purchase Your Elopement Attire & Gear

This is one of the most fun parts of planning your Alaskan elopement. You’re already breaking away from tradition by choosing to focus on a day that is exactly and uniquely yours. Take it a step farther and dream up some something different for your attire.

Not your ordinary suit jacket and pocket square…add a classy lace panel on the back of your jacket, or embroider your elopement date into the inner pocket of your jacket. Your elopement day deserves a little extra flair. Dream big, friends! A groom could also choose to rock the lapel floral trend. This fun trend has some added floral flair for a little eXXXtra elevated touch. Functional footwear is the best footwear in my opinion. While polished leather loafers look slick, they’re also slick on wet rock and ice, literally. Throw in a little contrast to your attire – rubber boots with your custom tailored suit? Absolutely yes. Hiking boots? Also absolutely yes. We can always change into the fancy shoes at location and carry them between sites.

Planning Your Alaskan Elopement Bridal Look

For the ladies let’s think functional but epic. Only the most epic dress will do for your epic Alaskan elopement. Pro tip: look for a dress with pockets or see about having some sewn in. These are especially handy for holding rings until they’re exchanged, holding vow books, and hiding tissues or hand warmers during colder months.

Deciding where to elope in Alaska can be a daunting task considering it’s the largest state in the U.S. Here are five iconic locations, within driving distance of Anchorage, to consider when choosing where to elope in Alaska.

1. Seward, Alaska

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2. Matanuska Glacier at Glacier View, Alaska

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3. Hatcher Pass, Alaska

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4. Eagle River, Alaska

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5. Homer, Alaska

Activities:

Homer is a coastal fishing town, best known for its white winter King Salmon fishing tournaments, delectable dining experiences, and incredible scenery. This is a place you can walk the beach, discover tide pools, or just sit and let the salt air whip around you.

Things to Consider:

Summer in Homer is divine, when the weather cooperates. Coastal Alaskan towns receive more rainfall and Alaska isn’t known for it’s warmth. Layers, even in summer, are what will keep you warm or cool from weather swing to weather swing.

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TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read Summary)

There are lots of beautiful locations to elope in Alaska. The locations listed are top notch, easily accessible, and within driving distance of Anchorage. When considering the possibilities of where to elope in Alaska, remember time of year, location, and accessibility will all play a role.

Hiring a knowledgeable local elopement photographer to help sort the logistics and timing is your best bet for success. You want someone who raced 4-wheelers on these beaches, who fished these rivers, and has endless hours of driving 2-lane highways.

It is my personal mission as your photographer and personal planner to elevate your experience, offer assistance and expertise when requested, and curate your elopement exactly as you envisioned so when you look back in 50 years, the emotions come flooding back. I’d love to hear from you!

It’s not every day you’re in Alaska, but it’s even more rare that you’re in Denali National Park on a glacier. If you’re planning to propose, then you need to prepare before you’re in backcountry. Here’s some pointers on how to plan a surprise proposal in Denali National Park.

Why Plan a Surprise Proposal in Denali National Park?

Alaska is arguably one of the most stunning places on Earth. I may be biased, but anyone who thinks otherwise is wrong, just saying! Alaska is wild and draws in the most rugged adventurers and elite athletes. But it is also the perfect place for planning a surprise proposal. Read more on WHY Alaska is perfect here.

When you plan a proposal, you go into it wanting to make sure the moment is exactly perfect, exactly authentic to who you and your person are together, to the life you’ve built together and the future that awaits. You want your plan to be epic, but over anything else — memorable.

Where in the World is Denali National Park?

Denali National Park is located south of Fairbanks, Alaska and just north of Talkeetna, Alaska. While you could drive to Denali National Park, it’s still a LONG hike to reach the mountain. Learning how to plan a surprise proposal in Denali National Park is not a feat for the faint of heart, but proposals are a big deal and worth the extra logistical hoops.

How to Plan Your Time on the Glacier

Denali is remote – so remote there is no cell phone service, bathrooms, or other amenities – but this is also what makes it so beautiful and wild. When you plan a surprise proposal in Denali National Park, you need to dress for the weather. The weather could range from single digits to 50* at any given time, and change in an instant. Ensure you and your partner are comfortable, warm, and able to enjoy your time in backcountry by wearing an extra layer. Some days may be colder than others, but landing on a glacier is rarely warm by any standard. Here are ways to make sure you stay warm:

• Battery-operated heated layers
  There are so many options for heated gloves, socks, vests and hats nowadays. Or rock it old-school and prepare to shake your little Hot Hands packets to slide in your pockets. Heated layers or hand warmers are very helpful to stay warm while taking photos after you propose.
  
• Base Layers
  Purchasing high quality polyester or wool base layers will keep heat close to your skin and is still light enough that you can layer over it without looking too bulky. Nobody wants to look like the Michelin Man or Pillsbury Doughboy for their proposal day. And yes, get the pants AND the top layers.
  
• Down-filled Layers
  Down-filled jackets, vests, and pullovers will surely keep you well insulated and warm, are easily layered, but can also be packed down into a small bag and are very lightweight. Highly recommend.

The Perfect Shot of the Surprise and Proposal

When you land on Ruth Glacier, you’re essentially in a bowl that is surrounded by mountains. The area around the plane is where you’re asked to stay (glaciers are unpredictable) due to safety reasons. When choosing where you’ll propose, decided if you want the plane in the shots or not. On clear days, Denali is out in the background and makes a stunning backdrop. Also consider where the sun is at to make sure you avoid harsh shadows on your faces or squinting. If you have questions, your photographer (ahem, me!) should be able to set you up with the perfect spot for light and scenery.

Your photographer should also be subtle enough to make it all seem unsuspecting until THE MOMENT you drop to your knee. Did I mention I am great with secrets?

Planning a surprise proposal in Denali National Park will come with challenges – weather is often the biggest of them. Weather around Denali can change in a blink of an eye and become dangerous quickly. So, what happens if the plane can’t fly due to conditions? Often, the flight charter will try to reschedule you for a later flight the same day. If another day is not an option, there are places surrounding Talkeetna that still have views of Denali and would be excellent locations for your surprise proposal.

What NOT to Forget when Planning Your Surprise Proposal

As long as you come prepared with layers, a ring, and a knowledgeable photographer then you will be set to pull off a proposal with the partner of your dreams. Knowing how to plan a surprise proposal in Denali National Park is whimsical – the perfect start to a new beginning as a fiancé.

Love knows no bounds, and for adventurous souls seeking a unique way to exchange their vows, eloping at a glacier in Alaska is an extraordinary choice. Alaska, with its rugged beauty and breathtaking landscapes, offers unparalleled settings for an intimate elopement. Among the myriad of breathtaking locations, glaciers stand out as majestic natural wonders, providing a backdrop that is both ethereal and awe-inspiring. Join us while we re-live Amie & Dave as they elope at Matanuska Glacier, while also talking about some important points when you plan to elope at Matanuska Glacier.

Choose the Perfect Glacier:

Alaska is home to numerous glaciers, each with its own distinct charm. When selecting the perfect glacier for your elopement, consider factors such as accessibility, scenic beauty, and safety. Popular options include the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau, the Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park, or the awe-inspiring Matanuska Glacier. Research each location to find the one that resonates with your vision and preferences.



Amie and Dave didn’t know they would be eloping at Matanuska glacier. At least not until Dave won a 2 week Alaskan vacation and a glacier tour was part of his prize. There are many glaciers in Alaska. A majority of them are inaccessible due to their high altitude and remote locations. Some are accessible by bush plane or helicopter. Few are accessible by taking a quick walk up to the face, while exploring crevasses and the deep blue hues of the ice.



When Amie reached out about eloping at Matanuska glacier (sans helicopter), I obviously jumped for joy. What an adventure for such a magnificent occasion! I got to work booking a private guided tour with MICA Guides out of Glacier View, Alaska. Their special day and vision was starting to come together.

Embrace the Adventure:

Eloping in Alaska is not just about exchanging vows; it’s about embracing the spirit of adventure. Prepare for an experience that will leave you breathless, both metaphorically and literally. Ensure you are adequately prepared with proper gear, clothing, and a knowledgeable guide if necessary.

Not being from Alaska or ever having been on a glacier, the first question Amie and Dave asked was “How do we do this and where do we start? What do we wear and what gear do we need? What about weather? What if…”



The thing about Alaska, is that the weather will change every 5 minutes. You can’t predict the adventures you’ll have when you embark on a journey. Up here in the north, we embrace the chaos and the unknown that is waiting for us outside. Alaska is wild and raw and untouched, and for many that mystery of the unknown is what draws people. That, and the scenery is unreal wherever you look.

To answer their questions, I read what MICA Guides requires (hiking boots over the ankle, eye protection, helmet, etc.) and told Amie and Dave about those requirements. As an Alaskan versed in Alaskan weather, I also advised:

• Rain jacket
• Base layers for warmth
• A dry change of clothes
• Gloves & maybe some hand warmers
• Shoulder covering (since she was hiking in her wedding dress)
  
  

Capturing Timeless Memories (Hi, I’m Your Alaska Elopement Photographer):

One of the greatest advantages of eloping at a glacier is the opportunity to capture stunning, unique photographs that will forever immortalize your special day. The juxtaposition of the icy landscape against your love-filled moments creates a captivating visual narrative. Hire a professional photographer who specializes in outdoor and landscape photography to ensure that your memories are preserved in the most breathtaking way possible.

HERE I AM! Kidding, kind-of. When you are looking and considering local photographers for eloping on a glacier, you want to make sure that they are:

• A knowledgeable photographer. Enough Said.
• A photographer that has solid suggestions for helping book, organize, coordinate, and assemble every detail of your wedding day to the highest standard.
• A photographer that is willing to make suggestions for small changes or thinking “outside the traditional box” to help elevate the experience and memories.
• A photographer who will handle all the stressful parts so you don’t have to, while still maintaining contact to make exactly sure everyone is on board.
• A photographer with clear and consistent communication. Keep everyone on the same page and make sure the details are handled!
  
  
  Amie and Dave were coming to Alaska on a cruise, so the time between their arrival and elopement was about 8 hours. Unfortunately, this was a tough point and was causing them so much stress. Typically weddings take months, but we manage to pull together a fully customized elopement day in a MONTH! Some things fall together because they’re meant to, and that’s the only way I can state that fate definitely intervened. Within the first week we had lined up the officiant, the glacier tour, and chatted special details and florals. The rest was left in my hands and deliver I did.
  

A Personalized Ceremony:

An elopement at a glacier provides an intimate setting where you can craft a truly personalized ceremony. Let the surroundings inspire you as you exchange heartfelt vows and promise eternal love amidst the serenity and grandeur of nature. It also provides an incredibly unique location to offer different alternatives for things like dessert or snacks and other traditions.

For Amie and Dave’s glacier elopement, we packed in a small biolite campstove and roasted s’mores in front of the glacier. We popped a bottle of bubbly on the glacier. We even toasted with Captain Morgan and Coke! All these details were personal to Amie and Dave, but elevated their experience.



This is my goal with every wedding and elopement I help to coordinate. With years of local event planning and coordination experience, I know what makes the gold standard and I don’t settle for less.

Environmental Respect and Sustainability:

As you plan your elopement at a glacier, it is crucial to prioritize environmental respect and sustainability. Glaciers are delicate ecosystems that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Choose vendors and guides who prioritize sustainable practices, and make sure to leave no trace behind during your visit.



When you’re eloping at Matanuska Glacier, you walk on a trail that has delicate wildflowers on the sides. The guides also do an incredible job of sharing their knowledge about the glacier recession, modifications to access the glacier, and informing everyone about proper practices.

While we popped bubbly and roasted mallows, we also packed out everything we brought in. Even the fire ashes. Even the bottle cork. Small things add up, and we want to preserve this space for years to come!

Eloping at Matanuska Glacier in Alaska is a remarkable way to celebrate your love and embark on an unforgettable adventure. From the moment you set foot on the glacier to the exchange of vows amidst awe-inspiring landscapes, this unique experience will be a true core memory. Embrace the adventure, immerse yourself in the magic of nature, and embark on a journey that symbolizes the beauty and strength of your love.

Fabi and Brooke reached out to schedule an Alaskan engagement session while they were traveling to visit family. When asked, Brooke and Fabi knew exactly where they wanted to have their engagement session. A year prior Fabi had proposed among the gorgeous mountain peaks of Hatcher Pass, Alaska.

Weather had been stunning for a fall day in Alaska. As I drove closer to the base of Hatcher Pass, the clouds continued to darken then unleashed. Torrential downpour pelted my car the entire drive to our meeting point. I always come prepared because weather in Alaska changes constantly.

We met at the iconic red A-frame cabins in Hatcher Pass before we continued our journey further up the pass. The ground was wet, but vibrant and full of fresh, wild blueberries. Brook and Fabi laughed, snuggled, played, and soaked (literally) in every moment as I gave prompts. These two easily went from a lot of spicy to a lot of laughter throughout the entire session. It’s not every day you get to have an engagement session in Alaska, especially when you’re from Texas.

As we ventured higher into the pass, the clouds finally opened and the sky lit up with drama. Brooke and Fabi meandered while I documented their love in their special place.

The sky illuminated the scraggly mountain and illuminated the golden grass of the surrounding summit.

This spot— THIS SPOT — I have been trying to locate for AGES and we happened to literally stumble upon it. What ensued was Brook and Fabi standing on the edge of this ledge (safely), while I hopped, skipped and ran around to the opposite side of this location to capture some of the most epic and scenic images I have ever taken.

The sun wrapped its warm arms around them as they soaked in the moment, the location, and their love for each other.

Brooke and Fabi met while working together and, over the years, would occasionally bump into one another. The timing finally lined up and these two fell head over heels for each other.

We wrapped up the session popping bubbly on top of Hatcher Pass and toasting to their future and their love.

Having someone ask you to spend your life with them is, for lack of a better term, exciting! Each engagement session in Alaska that I document is wholly unique. From the couple, to the the location, and how the time together unfolds. There are plenty of reasons why Alaska is the perfect location for your engagement session or destination wedding.