How to Choose an Elopement Suit

How to Choose an Elopement Suit 

Suits tend to be a little more simple than dresses - there’s less variation in styles, so it may seem like choosing an elopement suit is easy. But, when you decide to elope instead of do the traditional wedding thing, there are a few extra considerations! Whether you’re a groom looking for elopement attire, a bride who isn’t into dresses, or someone who doesn’t fit into the binary at all and wants to look fly for the elopement, this guide will give you some tips for how to choose an elopement suit.

Photographer: Rachel Struve

What is an Elopement Suit?

First things first, what’s the difference between an elopement suit and a wedding suit? There are a few important things to think about when it comes to eloping - like the fit of your suit and how comfortable it is, and the weight and packability of it if you’ll be hiking or need to pack your suit. Elopements are pretty different from big weddings - you’ll likely be moving around more, so comfort is the most important thing! 

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Finding a Comfortable Suit

Photographer: The Adams Co.

You definitely don’t want to spend your elopement day unable to take uphill steps or struggling to lift your arms - your suit should be comfortable. When you’re shopping for a suit, be sure to try moving around, lifting your arms, taking big steps, bending over… every movement you can think of! Anything that feels even a little off when you try it on will get super annoying if you’re wearing the suit all day for your adventures, and that’s the last thing you want to be feeling when you’re marrying the love of your life. So make sure that your elopement suit is comfortable, and get it tailored for the perfect fit!

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Staying Warm in an Elopement Suit

When you’re tying the knot outdoors, especially here in Alaska, weather is a really important consideration. Luckily, suits typically make layering pretty easy. You’ll have a jacket that you can take off if it gets warm and put on if it gets cold!

Photographer: Megan Freeman

But, we recommend adding some additional layers too, especially if you’re not eloping in the summer. But even in the summer, there are glaciers and mountains to explore in Alaska, so it can get chilly as you gain elevation! Base layers are amazing - some thermal leggings under your pants and a wool top under your shirt will help so much in keeping you warm. Bring a warm jacket to put on over your suit too, just in case you need it!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

When you’re shopping for the perfect elopement suit, think about the weather too - certain fabrics are warmer than others, so this can be helpful for you. Wool, flannel, silk, and corduroy are examples of heavier fabrics that will keep you warm! The downside of a warm fabric is that it tends to be heavier in weight, so if you’re planning to hike or be carrying your suit for part of the day, try to balance weight with warmth! 

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Traveling With a Suit for Your Elopement 

If you’re flying for your elopement, we recommend putting the suit in your carry on. This helps avoid any (major) stress if your luggage gets lost! On the elopement day, if you’re hiking, some people choose to carry the suit and change at their destination. Luckily, this is pretty easy to do! Get a waterproof garment bag, put your suit in there, and strap it to the backpack. This is better than folding up the suit, as it avoids wrinkles!

Suit Colors for an Elopement 

Black and navy blue suits are a classic, but don’t be afraid to get a little creative with what you wear on the elopement day. A pop of color can be a lot of fun, so try on some suits that are a little unique! You can also coordinate with your backdrop - for example, a maroon or yellow, or any warm-colored suit, would pop against a blue background (like a glacier). On the other hand, if the backdrop has more warm tones, like trees covered in fall foliage, a cooler tone for the suit (like blues and purples) will stand out more!  

Photographer: Theresa McDonald

Accessorizing a Suit

The suit is just part of the outfit - you also need shoes, and some accessories! For shoes, we recommend hiking boots, or any sturdy boots that will keep you warm and be comfortable. Just like the rest of your outfit, comfort is key! If you get new kicks, it’s important to break them in before the big day, so wear them a few times before you get married in them to avoid blisters or discomfort. We recommend wool socks too - wool stays warm even when it gets wet, so this is perfect for snowy or wet elopement locations!

You can also add some personality to your elopement suit with accessories. Find a tie that you love, whether it’s a bowtie, bolo, or a classic tie, and you can also add a hat, some cufflinks, a patterned vest, or any other way that you want to style your suit.

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Should You Rent an Elopement Suit?

Suit rentals can be a good option for people who are getting married - if you don’t wear suits, like, ever, it can be a way to save money and to avoid buying something you’ll only wear once! This is definitely possible for an elopement suit, but definitely keep in mind that you’re getting married outdoors, and think about what you have planned for the day. There’s a good chance the suit might pick up some dirt, so consider this when you’re deciding if you should rent or buy, and read the terms and conditions of any potential rentals.

Photographer: The Adams Co.

Where to Shop for a Wedding Suit for an Elopement

If you’re ready to start shopping, you can check out local suit shops - they’ll have a great selection, and you’ll be able to try on any suits before you buy.

Here are some other options for elopement suits:

• Bindle and Keep - custom suits for any gender, and they do virtual fittings!

• The Black Tux - order a suit to try on at home before you buy, for free

• Indochino - custom suits

• Little Black Tux - suits for women

And if you need tips for what to wear for your elopement in Alaska, we’re here to help! As your elopement planning team, we’ll create a custom adventure for you, and we’ll be here to give you all the advice, guide you through the process, and even provide hand warmers on the big day. Contact us if you're ready to plan your elopement!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

How to Elope in the Mountains

How to Elope in the Mountains

Eloping means you get to choose a scenic spot where you want to get married - instead of being in a traditional venue, you get to exchange vows and marry the love of your life out in nature! Snow capped peaks make for a pretty breathtaking backdrop, and for couples who want a unique adventure, Alaska is the perfect place to elope in the mountains. This guide will tell you everything you need to know! 

Choosing a Location to Elope in the Mountains

There are thousands of mountain peaks in Alaska, so you have a lot of options for your elopement! One of the first things you need to do is decide where to elope, but don’t worry - we’ll help with that. At Alaska Wild Hearts, our elopement packages include location scouting, which means we’ll get to know you and what kind of experience you’re looking for, and give you some options! 

There are a few ways to elope in the mountains - you can hike, or take a helicopter!

Hiking to Elope in the Mountains

If the two of you love hiking, and want a bit of a challenge on your elopement day, you can find a hike to do to get to your ceremony spot! Don’t worry - it doesn’t have to be a strenuous eight mile hike (but it can be), and there are plenty of easier trails for couples who want to hike without doing anything too wild on their elopement day. 

Helicopter Mountain Top Elopement

Another way to elope in the mountains, and our personal favorite, is a mountain top helicopter elopement! This is an incredible way to see so much breathtaking scenery, without having to hike to get there. A helicopter will take you up, and fly you to a private ceremony spot where you can exchange vows in a location that’s completely remote. Seeing the mountains from up above is an experience you’ll never forget, and a really unique elopement day adventure. Check out our helicopter elopement packages for more info!

The Best Time to Elope in the Mountains

Weather in the mountains is usually pretty dramatic - and that’s especially true here in Alaska. You’ll need to plan carefully to elope in the mountains, and it’s important to think about the weather when you set a date. 

Summer is typically the best time for a mountain top elopement - this is when the weather is warmest, and the most calm. There will often still be snow on the mountain peaks (unless you’re at a lower elevation, then it may be melted), but hiking trails are much more accessible, and the weather is more likely to be clear for flying a helicopter.

Though it is possible to elope in the mountains during other times of year, be aware that the weather might impact your plans! You can do a helicopter mountain top elopement any time of year, as long as the conditions are safe. But, summer is usually the most comfortable for outdoor adventures in the mountains.

What to Wear to Elope in the Mountains

One thing that’s important to note about eloping in the mountains, is that as you go up in elevation, the weather can change pretty significantly! A good rule of thumb is that the temperature goes down about 3.5 degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation - so make sure to layer up and be prepared for the changing weather. Here are a few tips, and be sure to check out this guide for more!

Elopement Dresses

When choosing an elopement dress, comfort is really important. Make sure you choose a dress that fits well and allows you to move - looser skirts are typically better for an elopement. Staying warm is an important factor too, so make sure that you have some layers! Adding some thermal leggings under your dress can make a big difference, and if it’ll show through the skirt, you can find a pair that’s close to your skin tone. Some layers on top are a good idea too - add a jacket, shawl, fur, or a cape for extra warmth, and extra style!

Elopement Suits

Suits are pretty easy to layer, and we recommend adding some base layers underneath for extra warmth! Just like with dresses, it’s important to make sure that your suit fits well and is comfortable to move around in. An additional jacket is a good idea, and you can always bring it with you to throw on if it gets chilly!

Other Accessories for a Mountain Top Elopement

Another important part of your outfit is shoes! For an elopement in the mountains, hiking boots are ideal if you’ll be doing any walking, but even if you’re taking a helicopter up, hiking boots tend to be good because they’ll keep you warm. We recommend waterproof shoes in case of snow, and bring some extra socks! Wool socks are best, because wool stays warm even if it gets wet.

Some other accessories that can be glamorous as well as practical might include scarves, gloves, and hats!

Ready to Elope in the Mountains?

There are plenty of other things that will make your elopement in the mountains even more incredible - like bringing hand warmers, having a picnic on the peak, and more. But, when you book us as your elopement planners, we take care of all of it!

If you’re ready to elope in the mountains, contact us!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Videographer: Megan Rai Freeman

Florist: Lily of the Valley

Cake: Arctic Moon Bakery

Planner: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Bridal Dress Store: Seng Couture

Suit: Indochino

How to Plan a Winter Elopement

How to Plan a Winter Elopement

In the summer, couples are drawn to eloping in Alaska for the mountain trails that bloom with wildflowers, the glaciers that sparkle in the warm summer sun, the wildlife that wanders through lush forests. And while winter is colder, and quieter, it brings a really unique experience to the wild landscape - and a winter elopement might just be the perfect adventure!

For couples who want to plan a winter elopement, this guide will tell you everything that you need to know to tie the knot in Alaska.

What to Know About a Winter Elopement in Alaska

Before we dive into planning your winter elopement, there are a few things you need to know about getting married in the wild, one of a kind landscape of Alaska during this time of year.

The Weather

We probably don’t need to tell you that a winter elopement will be cold - you probably know that Alaska isn’t exactly a tropical beach destination! And we’ll definitely give you some tips later in this guide about dressing for the weather, but you should also know that winter weather can be kind of wild. Snow and rain can happen kind of suddenly, so it’s important to be prepared for anything.

Another note about the weather is that it can cause road closures. Many locations are inaccessible in the winter, but even if a road is open one day, a snow storm might close it the next - so a Plan B (and C) is an important part of planning a winter elopement! But, don’t worry - our job as your elopement planning team is to handle all of this, so you don’t have to stress.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

The Daylight

Another important thing to know when planning a winter elopement is that the days are pretty short here in Alaska. You won’t have very much sunlight, so it’s important to plan around this! The exact timing depends on where in Alaska you’re eloping - Anchorage has a minimum of 6 hours of daylight in the winter, but there are some remote areas up north where the sun hardly comes up, if at all.

The good news is that your elopement day doesn’t have to be over when the sun goes down! Winter is the absolute best time of year to see the Northern Lights, so you can end your elopement adventure standing under a magical night sky. Or, you can head into the cute (warm) cabin you rented and have a little celebration after tying the knot, roast marshmallows over the fireplace, and get cozy!

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

You’ll See Fewer People Around

A winter elopement requires some extra planning and there are more logistics to think about - but you’ll be rewarded for it! Not just with the incredible views of the winter wonderland, but also the serenity and quiet you’ll get to experience on the day you get married. Much fewer people venture out to explore in the cold, so you’re likely to have these amazing places all to yourselves. 

What to Do During a Winter Elopement 

Your elopement day should be an unforgettable adventure - so we’ll help you figure out what your perfect day looks like, and how to make it unique to you. In the winter, there are so many unique ways to celebrate tying the knot! Here are a few ideas for things you can do during a winter elopement in Alaska.

Dog Mushing

Imagine watching the scenery fly by around you as you’re pulled through the winter landscape by a pack of dogs. Dog mushing is an incredible, unique experience that you won’t forget anytime soon! This is one of the best things to do during a winter elopement, allowing you to have a one of a kind day.

Snowshoeing

You can still explore some trails in the winter! Many locations, though covered in snow, are accessible with snowshoes. If you’ve never used snowshoes before, they’re kind of like skis, but much shorter and much wider, that you strap to your boots. They distribute your weight so that you don’t fall through the snow, allowing you to walk through the winter wonderland!

Snowmobiling

Another unique experience that you can have during a winter elopement is snowmobiling. Gliding over the snow, and zipping through the gorgeous landscape is the perfect adventure for couples looking for a little bit of an adrenaline rush.

Skiing or Snowboarding

A classic winter elopement adventure is to hit the slopes! Whether you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, or you want to try it out, it’s a really fun adventure to have on the day you get married. Afterwards, you can warm up and get cozy in the lodge! There are several resorts around Alaska, including the Alyeska Resort and the Hill Top Ski Area.

How to Prepare for a Winter Elopement

Now, here are some tips that you can keep in mind during your elopement!

Dressing for a Winter Elopement

One of the most important things about eloping in the winter is to make sure that you’re dressed for the weather. You want to have a good time, without shivering all day long! So make sure you’re comfortable and prepared for the cold.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

We recommend base layers under suits and dresses - thermals make a big difference! Layering under a suit is easier, but if you get thermal leggings that match your skin tone, they won’t be visible under a dress, even if there’s some exposed leg.

On top, you can add jackets, shawls, capes, coats… anything to keep you warm! For some more tips on dressing for an elopement in Alaska, check out this guide.

Wear Waterproof Shoes (and Socks)

Shoes are just as important as the rest of your attire when it comes to staying warm during a winter elopement! Boots are ideal, but definitely make sure they’re waterproof. If you’re spending any time in the snow, without waterproof shoes, it won’t take long for it to soak in and make your toes feel like they’re about to fall off. Along with the shoes, make sure you have good socks too. Wool socks are ideal, because wool is the only material that still keeps you warm even when it’s wet! An extra pair of socks or two is a good idea too, so that you can change them if needed.

Hire an Elopement Planner

There are so many tips we could give you for preparing for a winter elopement - like putting hand warmers on your packing list, having hot chocolate, booking a cozy place to come back to, planning some breaks if you’re planning to spend a long time outdoors… but the truth is, there’s one thing you can do that will take care of everything! Hiring us to plan your elopement means we handle it all. 

We’ll give you location recommendations that fit your vision of your dream elopement day and are accessible in the winter, make a timeline for the day, plan and book any adventures, give you all the tips and advice to stay warm, and have everything you need to ensure the most incredible adventure!

Photographer: Rachel Struve

If you’re ready to plan your dream winter elopement in Alaska, contact us!

How to Plan an Alaska Glacier Elopement

How to Plan an Alaska Glacier Elopement

Your elopement is all about adventure - and tying the knot in Alaska means there are plenty of incredible, unique adventures that can make the day you get married truly special. Imagine tying the knot standing on top of one of Alaska’s majestic glaciers - surrounded by massive sheets of ice and snow sparkling in different shades of blue around you, just you and the person you love most in the world. This guide will give you some tips for planning an Alaska glacier elopement!

Reasons to Plan an Alaska Glacier Elopement

Here are just a few reasons why couples choose to tie the knot on a glacier.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

An Alaskan Adventure

If you’re traveling to Alaska for your elopement, getting married on a glacier is one of the best ways to experience this wild, unique state! Being on top of a glacier is an experience that you can’t get in many other places, so it’s an incredible way to spend your elopement day. The day you get married is the day you begin the rest of your lives together, so it should be an adventure you’ll never forget!

A Remote Ceremony Location

If you take a helicopter and fly to a glacier, you can get to some really remote places that are inaccessible by foot - and that means you’ll have your ceremony spot all to yourselves. You can read your vows and tie the knot with nobody else around, just you, the love of your life, and the incredible scenery you’ll be surrounded by.

Jaw Dropping Scenery

One of the biggest things that couples usually want when they choose an elopement location is beautiful views. And when you’re surrounded by ice that’s different shades of blue, glaciers and peaks all around you, you’re bound to find yourself occasionally speechless. Eloping on a glacier means one of a kind, wild views.

Photographer: Lilly of the Wild

Choosing an Alaska Glacier Elopement Location

There are tens of thousands of glaciers across the state - so you’ll have no problem finding a gorgeous spot to tie the knot. Here are a few things to consider when you’re deciding where to elope o n a glacier.

Hike or Fly?

There are two ways that you can get to your ceremony location - you can hike there, or take a helicopter up to the glacier. We recommend flying - we offer a helicopter elopement package that will take you to a glacier for your elopement, and this is a really unique way to spend the day you get married! Flying can take you to more secluded, private locations where you’ll be the only people around as you exchange vows. 

We’ll Help You Choose an Alaska Glacier Elopement Location!

Mendenhall, Matanuska, Knik, Exit Glacier… there are so many to choose from! But don’t worry, you won’t have to dig in and research every single one to find the perfect location. Our job as your elopement planning team is to do the heavy lifting for you, so we’ll get to know you and what you want for your wedding day, then find you a spot that’s absolutely perfect for exchanging your vows.

The Best Time for an Alaska Glacier Elopement 

Setting a date is one of the first things that couples need to do for any wedding day, and if you want an Alaska glacier elopement. You are able to elope on a glacier via helicopter any time of the year. The glacier is always changing and looks different each month. In the winter months the glacier is covered in snow and you have more of a chance of walking through ice walls. May- August the blue pools are melted and able to see. May - September are the warmest months in Alaska, and while you can definitely elope any time of year, this will likely be the most comfortable for outdoor adventures.  

What to Wear for a Glacier Elopement

On your elopement day, it’s really important that you’re comfortable - and warm! We’ll help with this by providing hand warmers and some extra layers, but make sure you’re prepared and dressed properly. Here are some tips for what to wear for a glacier elopement, and to learn more about dressing for Alaska’s weather, be sure to check out this post. 

Photographer: Charleton Churchill

Warm Layers

Since you’ll literally be surrounded by ice on the glacier, it’s definitely important to stay warm! If you’re wearing a dress, we recommend adding a glamorous fur, shawl, or knit on top to keep you toasty. For suits, definitely wear your jacket, and maybe bring another warm jacket just in case.

Layering underneath your clothes is a really good idea too. Thermal base layers can go under a suit, and you can wear leggings under a dress, or a long sleeve thermal top if your dress will cover it.

Shoes 

Needless to say, you’ll definitely need some warm, close toed boots for your Alaska glacier elopement. Crampons or microspikes might be helpful too, as these will help you walk on the ice without slipping. We also recommend wool socks - these are best because wool is a material that manages to keep you warm even when it’s wet! 

We’ll Plan Your Alaska Glacier Elopement!

Eloping is unbelievably exciting, but planning even a small ceremony can be a lot of work! Eloping is about creating a unique adventure, but it’s also about making sure that your wedding day is about enjoying yourselves and truly loving the day you get married, without the stress or pressure that often comes with planning a wedding.

With Alaska Wild Hearts, everything is taken care of for you! We’ll find the perfect location and book a helicopter to take you to your glacier ceremony, provide an officiant and witnesses, find and coordinate vendors, create a timeline, and so much more to ensure that your elopement is one of a kind, and perfect for you.

Photographer: The Adams Co.

If you’re ready to plan a glacier elopement, contact us!

How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

Photographer: Kristian Irey

How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

Your pup has been at your side for everything - and your wedding day doesn’t have to be any different! If you can’t imagine leaving your four legged best friend at home on the day their paw-rents tie the knot, the good news is that you absolutely don’t have to. This guide will tell you how to include your dog in your wedding day, with tips and advice for planning a dog friendly event!

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Should You Include Your Dog in Your Wedding?

Before you start planning, it’s really important to think about whether this is the right choice for you - and whether it’s the right choice for your dog. If your pup is a happy go lucky type who will make friends anywhere, great! But if you have a dog that gets nervous in new places, or doesn’t like crowds of people, it may not be a good idea to bring them along for this adventure. 

While it can definitely be a bummer to leave your pup at home, it’s important to make sure that you’re doing what’s right for your dog. Don’t worry - if you decide not to have your dog in your wedding, there are still plenty of ways to include them in the festivities! Some examples include naming a signature drink after them, and having them with you in the getting ready suite before the ceremony.

Finding a Dog Friendly Wedding Venue

If you want to include your dog in your wedding, one of the first things you’ll need to do is find a venue that will allow you to do that! Luckily, plenty of people get the love you have for your pup, so while this can be an extra logistical hurdle, it’s definitely possible to find a dog friendly wedding venue. After you find some venues that you love, send some emails to ask around! Outdoor venues are more likely to be able to accommodate this, but most will require your dog to be on a leash.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

Now, here are some tips for how to include your dog in your wedding!

Dress Them Up

It’s always too cute to put clothes on your dog - so as long as they won’t protest too much, you can totally dress them for the occasion! You can go all out with a doggy suit, or keep it simple with a few accessories. You can get a bowtie for your pup to wear, or ask your florist to make a collar to match the bouquet! 

Along with doing this, I recommend getting a leash for the wedding photos. If the one you have is retractable or in a bright color, getting a simple brown leather leash, and a collar to match, will look much better!

Let Your Pup Hold the Rings

If you want to include your dog in your wedding by giving them a job to do, they can totally be your ring bearer! Of course, you’ll need to keep your rings safe, but you can get a little pouch to clip to their collar, or a pillow. If you want to do this, it’s a good idea to have someone walk down the aisle with your dog, or if they’re good with tricks, have them practice it a few times to make sure they’ll go the right way on your wedding day.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Stand Next to Your Dog

Your dog can be by your side as you exchange vows! You can walk down the aisle with your pup if you want, but we recommend having someone in your wedding party hold onto the leash during your ceremony.

Take Family Photos

When you take photos during your wedding, make sure to include your dog in a few! These will be great family photos, and another bonus is that having your pooch next to you can make you feel a little more comfortable in front of the camera. It’s totally normal to be nervous, but being able to pet and play with your pup gives you something to do, and can calm your nerves. You’ll get comfortable in no time, but this is a great way to ease into it!

Photographer: The Adams Co.

Put Your Dog on Your Signage

Whether it’s seating charts, cocktail menus, or other signs around your wedding venue, you can include your dog by having them drawn on your signs! You can definitely commission some custom signs from someone who can recreate the cuteness of your four legged best friend.

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Tips for Including Your Dog in Your Wedding

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you include your dog in your wedding!

Have a Handler

Make sure that you give someone the responsibility of watching your dog throughout the night. It’ll be difficult for the couple to hold the leash the entire day, so ask someone in your wedding party, or a friend or family member (or even hire a professional) to be in charge! This lets you relax knowing your pup is safe.

Bring Treats

Just like people, dogs are happiest when they’re fed and hydrated. So make sure that you have water out for them, and that you don’t miss their regularly scheduled mealtimes. And, have some treats handy to reward them for posing for photos or to lure them down the aisle!

Give Them Some Breaks

You know your dog best, so make sure that when you include them in your wedding, you’re mindful of their personality and what they might need throughout the day. If your dog gets overstimulated or needs a rest sometimes, have a room or somewhere they can go to relax for a little bit before rejoining the celebration.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Want to Plan a Dog Friendly Wedding?

Our job as wedding planners is to make sure you get the day you’re dreaming of - so if that means having your dog along for the adventure, we’re here to make that happen! We’ve got everything from day of coordination to full service planning packages, and we’ll help you with everything you need to create a perfect day for you and your pup. If you’re ready to plan a dog friendly wedding, contact us!

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Boat Elopement Guide: How to Elope on a Boat

Boat Elopement Guide: How to Elope on a Boat

Alaska offers endless opportunities for adventure - and when you elope, your day should be just that! For a really unique experience and a one of a kind way to tie the knot, you can elope on a boat - cruise out to a landscape that you’ll have all to yourself, dock at a remote beach, and celebrate in a way that’s truly unforgettable.

This guide will tell you how to plan a boat elopement - tips, advice, and everything you need to know to begin your adventure.

What is a Boat Elopement?

First, let’s talk about what it means to elope on a boat! At Alaska Wild Hearts, our boat elopement package includes a one of a kind experience, where you’ll board a private boat in Seward, Alaska, and the captain will take you to some of the most incredible scenery and remote beaches. You’ll get to float next to glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and stunning beaches, and exchange vows somewhere totally private. You can also take kayaks or do a fishing excursion - and experience Alaska to the fullest!

Photographer: Theresa McDonald

Reasons to Elope on a Boat

When you plan a boat elopement, you can exchange vows on board, or hop off the boat to have your ceremony on a beach - no matter which you choose, here are some reasons why eloping on a boat is a blast!

Beautiful Locations

There are a lot of beaches and other gorgeous spots that you can get to by boat that would be more difficult, or impossible, to get to otherwise - so planning a boat elopement means you can have some amazing scenery, and get it all to yourself! For couples who love nature, having a gorgeous backdrop is a great reason to elope on a boat.

A Unique Experience

Eloping is all about the adventure - and especially when you tie the knot somewhere as wild as Alaska, there are endless opportunities for a truly one of a kind experience. The day you get married should reflect who you are, and it should be an adventure you’ll never forget - so plan a boat elopement!

Your Elopement Day Will Be Private

Along with those beautiful views, you’ll also have plenty of privacy. Parks and other outdoor areas can get busy, and privacy is important on the day you get married, so being able to find a location that’s all yours is the key to an amazing day. Taking a boat and getting to these remote locations means that there will likely be very few, if any, other people around at most of the spots, so you can exchange vows without feeling like you have an audience!

How Many Guests Can You Have When You Elope on a Boat?

A lot of couples want to know if they can invite guests to their boat elopement - and the answer is definitely a yes! While your elopement can definitely be just the two of you, if that’s what feels right, plenty of couples feel that they want their loved ones around as they exchange vows and make things official, and it can be fun to celebrate with your friends and family. If you want to elope with family or invite a few friends, out boat elopement packages allow for up to 15 people! But, if you decide you want a private day, check out these tips for telling your loved ones you’re eloping.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

What to Wear to Elope on a Boat

Our tips for what to wear to elope on a boat are pretty similar to choosing your elopement attire for Alaska in general! You need to be warm, and comfortable.

Keep in mind that when you’re on the water, it’s often colder than it would be on the shore, and windier. So you might need some extra layers! Base layers and thermals under your clothes are amazing for staying warm, and you can also add jackets, shawls, capes, and other warm layers on top. We also recommend shoes with good traction, as things can get a little wet on board! Grippy soles will prevent any slipping and sliding.

And of course, make sure that your elopement attire is comfortable, and lets you sit, walk, and move easily!

We’ll also have some things to keep you warm and comfortable - like blankets, hand warmers, and hot drinks!

Hire a Planner for Your Boat Elopement

One of the best tips we have for planning your boat elopement is - don’t do it yourself! You deserve a wedding day that’s stress free and fun, so leave it to us. 

As your elopement planning team, we’ll take care of absolutely everything, providing an all inclusive experience that’s all about you. You won’t have to worry about anything but having fun and marrying the love of your life, and we’ll plan everything!

Boat Elopement Packages

If you’re ready to elope on a boat, our boat elopement packages are all inclusive, and have everything you need. Full service planning, including booking your private boat, providing a bouquet and boutonniere, a gourmet picnic, a photographer, help with paperwork, and so much more - anything you want for your adventure, we can make it happen!

Marriage is an adventure - and your wedding day should be too. Eloping on a boat is so exciting, and we believe your day should be stress free, and that you should love every minute of it - so our boat elopement packages include everything you need!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Want to elope on a boat? Contact us!

How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Alaska

How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Alaska

Planning a wedding is hard - but a destination wedding, especially one in a place as wild as Alaska, comes with some additional challenges! Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. This guide will tell you everything you need to know, and a step by step outline of how to plan a destination wedding in Alaska!

Here are the steps to your dream day!

1. Deciding to Plan a Destination Wedding in Alaska

The first step to your destination wedding is making the leap and deciding to go for it - this might sound simple, but sometimes it’s more complicated. Planning a wedding far from home can be hard, and a lot of couples feel pressure from family or loved ones to make their wedding go a certain way, to invite certain people, or to give up what they want to make others happy - don’t fall into that trap! There’s no right way to get married, but there is a way that’s right for you, so if you’re dreaming of tying the knot amongst mountains and glaciers, the first step is to decide to do this thing.

2. Set a Wedding Date

The next step is to think about potential wedding dates. Alaska’s weather can be pretty crazy, to say the least, so it’s important that you know what to expect. It’s okay if you don’t figure out an exact day on the calendar quite yet, but having a season or time frame in mind can be helpful once you start looking for venues!

Alaska is warmest in the summer, with long days and slightly more predictable weather - though you never really know exactly what you’re going to get. Winters are snowy and very cold, but it’s still possible to have a destination wedding in Alaska during this time of year! 

Fall and spring are a little unpredictable, and usually don’t last very long, with snow starting early in the fall and staying late into the spring. Coastal areas are warmer and don’t get as much snow, but can be rainy!

3. Make a Guest List for Your Destination Wedding in Alaska

We recommend making a guest list - or at least an estimate of how many guests you plan to have - before you start looking for wedding venues, as the capacity of the venue will be important to know! You want to know what size venue you’re looking for, and narrow down your options to venues that can host your celebration.

4. Book a Wedding Venue in Alaska

Next, find a wedding venue! Look for places that feel like the right place to say your vows, and if your wedding day is smaller, you can get creative and look for unique venues, like cabins or even parks and trails. If you’re looking for a bigger wedding venue, there are plenty of places in Alaska that offer virtual tours if you can’t come see it in person!

Once your wedding is booked and you have a date, it’s official!

5. Hire a Wedding Planner

We absolutely recommend doing this as soon as possible to make everything else easier! Our job as wedding planners is to design and plan your day, down to all the little details. We’ll match you with other great vendors, design and style your wedding, create a timeline, and keep things running smoothly - basically, we’ll do all the heavy lifting so all you have to do is get married!

Contact us if you’re ready to start planning your destination wedding in Alaska!

7. Book Other Wedding Vendors

Once you’ve hired your wedding planner, we’ll help you with this next step! We’ll recommend some amazing vendors that can help with anything else you need for your day, and make bookings with vendors who work with your budget, your vision for the day, and your personalities. We’ll then coordinate with all vendors every step of the way to make sure everything goes smoothly!

8. Send Wedding Invitations

For a destination wedding, it’s best to send save-the-dates and invitations a little earlier, to give your guests enough time to make travel plans. We recommend sending save-the-dates at least 6-8 months out from your wedding date, and official invitations 3-4 months before the big day, and 6-8 weeks before the deadline to RSVP. 

9. Shop for Your Wedding Attire

Getting married in Alaska might mean there are some additional things to consider when you’re shopping for wedding attire! If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, you’ll need some layers to stay warm (even in the summer we recommend some layers, as it can still get chilly!), so adding furs, jackets, shawls, or other cold weather accessories can be helpful.

Another thing to think about is packing your wedding attire, so make sure that you consider this while you’re shopping! If you need to get on a plane with a wedding dress, make sure it’s something that can pack into a suitcase (a ballgown dress with a huge skirt won’t be ideal), and that you wither bring a mini steamer with you or plan to have one at your hotel or Airbnb to smooth out any wrinkles. Most airlines do have a coat closet, so you can carry on your dress/suit on the flight and they can store it for you.

10. Figure Out The Paperwork

Paperwork is an important part of the process if you want to be legally married! We’ll help you navigate this and explain how everything works, so you’ll just need to fill out the marriage license application at the right time and make sure you get your paperwork in time for your wedding day.

11. Make a Destination Wedding Packing List

Making a list of everything you need is important, because your wedding definitely isn’t a time to forget anything at home! Make sure you have the big stuff on this list, like your attire and your wedding rings, but also put the little stuff on it, like toothbrushes and paperwork. Alaska Wild Hearts will send you a checklist a month before your date. Pro tip: Check the weather forecast a week before your trip, since the weather is always changing.

12. Arrive in Alaska for Your Destination Wedding

We always recommend that you get to wherever you’re staying at least a few days early, to give you time to relax and settle in before the wedding festivities begin! When you get to Alaska, make sure you spend the day before your wedding relaxing, hydrating, and eating plenty of snacks.

13. Get Married

The big day is here - after all that planning it’s time for your destination wedding in Alaska! You’ll marry the love of your life, have a once in a lifetime experience, and tie the knot. 

Ready for a Destination Wedding in Alaska?

If you want to have an incredible destination wedding, we’re ready to help you plan it! Wedding planning doesn’t have to be stressful, and we’re here to take over for you, with wedding planning packages that include all inclusive options for couples who don’t want to worry about a thing, day of coordination for couples who want a little more DIY, and plenty of in between.

Get in touch to start planning your destination wedding in Alaska!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Planner: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Florist: Turnstone Farm

Venue + Accommodations: Salted Roots

Catering: The Hearth Eatery & Catering

How to Elope With Alaska Wild Hearts Events - Step by Step Guide

Photographer: Megan Freeman

How to Elope With Alaska Wild Hearts Events - Step by Step Guide

Our job here at Alaska Wild Hearts is to handle everything when it comes to planning your elopement day! Every couple deserves to get married in a way that they absolutely love, and our elopement planning service is all inclusive, which means you won’t have to worry about a thing. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about how to elope with us, and how it works when you hire us as your elopement planners!

How to Elope: Starting the Process

Before we start planning your adventure elopement, there are a few things you need to do to book us for your day!

Send an Inquiry

The first step in beginning your elopement journey - send us an inquiry! Fill out our contact form and tell us a little bit about yourself. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything (or anything) figured out yet - that’s what we’re here for! 

You’ll get an email back from us within 48 hours, and we’ll get the ball rolling.

Hop on a Phone Call

A phone call is such an important part of the process! Chatting through email is great, but the phone call is where we can really get to know each other. You can ask any questions you have and we’ll make sure that we’re the perfect fit.

Set an Elopement Date

After the phone call, if you’ve decided that eloping with Alaska Wild Hearts is right for you, you’ll decide which elopement package is right for you (or work with us to create a custom package), and set a date for your day! We need a date to send you the contract, and we can help you decide when the right time to elope is for you, based on the experience you want to have.

Contract and Deposit

Now, to make things official, you’ll sign the contract and pay a 50% deposit. Once this is done, you’re booked and the fun stuff can begin!

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

How to Elope: Planning

This is where things get exciting - we dive into planning your dream day! When it comes to how to elope, every couple is so different, and every elopement is unique - so every part of the process is personalized just for you.  Here are all the things we’ll handle as we plan your elopement!

Welcome Box and Alaska Adventure Guide

The first thing you’ll get from us when you book us for your day is your welcome box. It’ll have some goodies from us, and an Alaska Adventure Guide to get you inspired and prepare you for your elopement!

Location Scouting

We handle everything for your day - and that starts with the personalized recommendations you’ll get from us. We’ll get to know you to find out what kind of adventure you have in mind - do you want to hike or have a more relaxing day? Do you want to fly in a helicopter or try out dog mushing? Are you drawn to mountains, glaciers, forests or lakes?

We’ll create a list of recommendations that are perfectly tailored for you - so all you have to do is pick an amazing spot!

Lodging Recommendations

After you’ve chosen the perfect place to tie the knot, we’ll recommend some places to stay nearby. Whether you want a cute cabin for the two of you, a chalet where you can stay with your family, or anything in between, we’ll find amazing spots that will add to your elopement experience!

Help With Marriage Paperwork

Paperwork can be confusing, but we’ll take care of all of it. If you need a permit for your elopement location, we’ll tell you how to get it, and we’ll also help you figure out everything you need to get your marriage license and get legally married!

Custom Timeline

As your adventure gets closer, we’ll create a custom timeline. This isn’t like a traditional wedding timeline, and we won’t schedule every minute of the day - we’ll keep it relaxed and stress free, but give you an outline of what’s going on, where you’ll be, and what you’ll be doing on the big day! The timeline will include all the incredible adventures you’ll have on the day you get married.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

How to Elope: The Elopement Day!

The last step when it comes to how to elope is the actual elopement day! This is where all that planning comes together, and you get to have an unforgettable adventure, in an amazing place with the love of your life. Here’s what we do on the day of your elopement!

Coordination

Coordinating is a big part of your day - making sure everything’s running smoothly, communicating with vendors, and keeping everything on track. We’ll keep an eye on the timeline so that you don’t have to, and we’ll handle all of the logistics on the big day.

Styling and Decoration Setup

Aesthetics are important - and we’ll handle getting all the decorations together, creating your tables-cape, and anything we need to do to set up on the big day! Of course, after everything is done, we’ll handle the take down too.

Florals

We provide a bouquet and boutonniere for you on your elopement day, because florals add so much to any wedding. After the day is over, you can even preserve your flowers to keep them!

Florist: Honeybloom

Food and Dessert

Everyone’s gotta eat, so we provide a gourmet picnic, complete with a romantic table display, as well as dessert - whether your sweet tooth is for cake, cookies, or something else!

Officiant and Witnesses

We know how important it is that your elopement is exactly what you want - and we want to make sure you don’t have to worry about the legal stuff. We’ll provide an officiant and witnesses if your elopement is just the two of you, so you can have a private ceremony and get legally married!

Elopement Emergency Kit

We come prepared for anything - so if your makeup needs a touch up, a button needs to be sewed back on your dress, your hands get cold, or it starts raining, our elopement emergency kit has you covered! 

Everything You Need for the Perfect Elopement Day!

Overall, our all inclusive elopement packages are designed to make sure you get the wedding day of your dreams - without having to lift a finger. Throughout the planning process and on the day of, we handle everything, so that you can elope and have a stress free, unique, and unforgettable experience!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Ready to Elope With Alaska Wild Hearts Events?

If you’re ready to tie the knot, and ready for an adventurous elopement, we’re ready to make it come to life! Remember, the first step in how to elope with us is to send an inquiry - so contact us to get started!

How to Tell Your Family You’re Eloping - Tips & Advice

Photographer: Megan Freeman

How to Tell Your Family You’re Eloping - Tips & Advice

Making the brave decision to elope and make sure that your wedding day is truly about you is so unbelievably exciting! But, for a lot of couples, one thing that holds them back, or the thing that turns those excited butterflies into nervous ones, is the thought of breaking the news to their families. There can be a lot of pressure and a lot of expectations that surround getting married, so it’s totally normal if you’re feeling a little apprehensive about sharing your decision with your loved ones! This guide will give you some advice for how to tell your family you’re eloping, some ways to break the news, and some tips that can help prevent any hurt feelings. 

Photographer: Megan Freeman

Will Your Family Be Offended If You Elope?

Before you think about how to tell your family you’re eloping, it can be really helpful to take some time to consider what their reaction may be. You likely already have an idea of how your family will feel about your decision to elope, so preparing yourself for their reaction can help you brainstorm how to break the news and how to respond to any backlash.

It’s important to keep in mind that if your family or some of your relatives had big expectations for a traditional wedding, and they were excited and looking forward to that happening one day, it’s understandable that they may be disappointed. When you decide how to tell your family you’re eloping, remember to be sensitive, empathetic, and mindful of how they feel. It will make for a much better conversation, and you will have an easier time helping them understand if you go into the conversation ready to talk about your decision!

That being said, it’s also super important to keep in mind that this is your wedding day! The decision to elope is an incredibly personal one, and it should be made with you and your partner’s needs and desires in mind. While being mindful of your family's feelings will likely make the conversation you have with them a little better, remember to stand your ground and don’t allow yourself to be steamrolled when it comes to the way you get married! We’ll give you some tips to help minimize hurt feelings, but the truth is that it’s possible that your family members may be offended if you elope – remember that outside opinions shouldn’t dictate how you get married, and all you can do is explain your decision and let them know that this truly is the best thing for you.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

How to Tell Your Family You’re Eloping 

Most couples choose to tell their families their eloping before the ceremony happens, so if you want to tell your loved ones about your plans, here are some ways to announce your elopement!

Invite Your Family to Your Elopement

When it comes to how to tell your family you’re eloping, the conversation will likely be different depending on if you plan to invite them, or if you want a “just us” day. Talk with your partner and decide if you want guests for your elopement, and if you realize that your day wouldn’t be complete without the people you love around you, you can definitely invite your family to join you!

Tell Your Family You’re Eloping in Person

When it comes to how to tell your family you’re eloping, we think the best way is to break the news in person. Especially for family members that you’re close with, this will feel a lot more thoughtful than a text. Announcing your elopement in person will give you the opportunity to have a conversation, talk to them about your plans, and help them understand your decision! 

Talk About Your Elopement Plans

When you tell your family you’re eloping, they may have a hard time understanding. A lot of people still think of elopements as simple courthouse ceremonies or drunken Vegas escapades, so if your family thinks of them that way too, they might not be on board. But, taking some time to explain what eloping means to you, why this decision is truly the best one for you, and talking about some of your plans can help your family understand you better! If you don’t have anything set in stone, that’s totally okay – just talk about what you’re dreaming of for your wedding day and about some of the adventures you could have, maybe show them some elopement photos, and help them understand what eloping is really about.

Include Your Family in Elopement Planning

If you decide that you want a more private ceremony that’s just the two of you, there are still some ways to make your family feel included in the day. Decide ahead of time how involved you want them to be and which parts of your elopement day you want to include them in, as this will help you set boundaries about your expectations.

Some ways to include your family if they aren’t at the ceremony can include asking them for advice, inviting them to go shopping for elopement attire, or just sharing your plans with them along the way!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

How to Tell Your Family You Eloped

Some couples decide to keep things under wraps until the knot is already tied! This can be beneficial if you do expect a lot of backlash, but it can also be a decision that you make just because you want a truly private day, and to keep the excitement and anticipation between just you and your partner. If you want to announce your elopement after you’ve gotten married, here’s how to tell your family you eloped!

Have a Reception After Your Elopement

Many couples who have a private elopement ceremony decide to celebrate with their loved ones later. You can definitely have a reception a few days, weeks, or even months after you’ve tied the knot! This gives you the opportunity to elope just the two of you or have an intimate ceremony, and still include your family afterwards. 

Send an Elopement Announcement

One fun way to tell your family you eloped is by sending an announcement card! This is kind of like a reverse invitation – but the ceremony already happened. Use one of the epic photos you got from your elopement day, and mail a card that says “we eloped!”

Share Your Elopement Photos

Your elopement photos will tell the story of your adventurous day, and seeing them is the next best thing to being there. Whether your family was already in the loop, or you’re just announcing your elopement, share the photos from your day! For close family members and friends, you can send them the entire gallery so that they can see the story unfold – and you can also post some highlights to social media.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

Ready to Elope?

Deciding to break the mold and plan a unique elopement day can be a hard decision, but it will be so worth it when you get to spend your wedding day adventuring, and truly having the best day of your life. Our elopement planning services are for couples just like you – wild hearts and adventurous souls who aren’t afraid to pave their own path and do things their way! We’ll be here with everything you need to plan the perfect day, including location recommendations, decorations, bookings and coordination, and access to all of our elopement planning resources – so all you have to do is relax, knowing we’ve got everything taken care of.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

We’ll be your cheerleaders, waving our pom-poms and encouraging you every step of the way! So, if you’re ready for an adventurous elopement day, contact us.

Elopement Tips to Help You Plan the Perfect Day

Elopement Tips to Help You Plan the Perfect Day

Let’s be honest – even though you decided to downsize, ditch the traditional wedding, and make sure that you get married in a way that actually reflects who you are, planning an elopement is a lot of work! There are so many things to think about, logistics to consider, challenges that come with tying the knot outdoors (especially if you elope somewhere as wild as Alaska), and unique considerations that your friends who had a traditional wedding may not be able to help you with! As professional elopement planners, we’ve helped countless couples create their dream day – so we’re here to share our elopement tips to help you plan your perfect, adventurous wedding.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Elopement Planning Tips

Here are some things to remember as you start planning!

Hire an Elopement Planner

This first elopement tip is probably the biggest one! Hiring a professional to take over the planning is the absolute best way to take that stress off of you, and ensure that you get to kick back and focus on the fun stuff – getting married! An elopement planner will help you with everything, and will make every part of the process easier for you. You probably haven’t planned an elopement before, but we have! We’ve got everything you need, with all inclusive elopement packages that ensure you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Remember That This is Your Day

This elopement tip can feel like a no-brainer, but the truth is that when it comes to planning the day they get married, a lot of couples do actually have trouble keeping this in mind! The wedding industry comes with a lot of pressure, and even after you’ve decided to elope, it can be hard to stand up to that pressure, to make decisions that feel right for you, and to let go of other people's expectations.

Throughout the elopement planning process, keep in mind that your day should be a reflection of who you are as a couple, what you want to do, and how you want to get married. Whether that means eloping with a few loved ones around, tying the knot just the two of you, having a peaceful day in a cute cabin, or having an epic adventure in a helicopter, make sure that you really follow your gut and make decisions that feel right for you. As your elopement planning team, we’ll get to know you so that we can personalize your day for the two of you! 

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Make a Guest List Early On

One of our elopement planning tips is to decide on a guest list pretty early on in the process. After you and your partner decide to elope, take some time to really think about who you want there with you– and it’s totally okay if the answer is that you want it to be just the two of you!

The reason that we recommend making this decision early is because it might affect the rest of your plans. For example, if you elope with family, you’ll need to think about their needs when you choose your elopement location. You’ll also need to decide when and how to break the news to your loved ones - whether you want to keep them in the loop or keep this secret to yourself until after the knot is tied - and your guest list will impact who you tell, and when!

Photographer: Zoya Dawn

Your Elopement Should be a Full Day

There’s a super common misconception that elopements are nothing more than a quick ceremony, lasting just a few minutes, followed by some photos. While this might be what eloping meant in the days of Vegas chapels and last-minute courthouse marriages, your wedding day deserves so much more than that!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

In fact, your elopement deserves a full day.

Now, if you’re wondering what you’ll do all day, you aren’t alone. It can be hard to imagine how your elopement can last a full day, especially if it’s just the two of you - but trust us when we say that it goes by so much faster than you think!

A full day elopement has so many benefits. First, it allows you to get married and celebrate your day without feeling stressed or rushed. It gives you time to be spontaneous, to change the plan if you decide that’s what you want to do, and to be able to really enjoy the day without having to run from place to place or stress about getting everything done.

A full day elopement allows you to celebrate your wedding day in a way that truly makes it the best day of your life – there are pretty much unlimited options for what you can do and how you can get married! Your wedding day can include getting ready at your Airbnb and starting the morning slowly with coffee together, it can include a helicopter ride, a private boat, a hike, a scenic drive, or whatever way you decide to get to your elopement location, and there are so many adventures to have on your day! Remember, our job is to personalize a day for you, so we’ll get to know you and figure out exactly what works for you.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Have a Back Up Plan

The truth is that outdoor elopements often have a few more moving parts than traditional weddings – and things like weather, trail closures, and more can affect your original plan! If your ceremony location is outdoors, it’s important to have a back up plan. 

This is another reason why it’s incredibly important to have an elopement planner – we’ll always be prepared with a plan B, C, and D – so that you can switch gears and have an incredible day no matter what happens!

Along with having a backup plan, one of the most important elopement tips is also to remember to just go with the flow! Remember what really matters on this day - marrying your best friend. Even if the original plan doesn’t go exactly as you, well, planned, the beauty of eloping is that it gives you so much flexibility! Tying the knot doesn’t have to be stressful, and if you relax and enjoy whatever the day brings, you’ll have an amazing experience, no matter what.

Ready to Plan Your Elopement?

If you’re ready to tie the knot with an incredible, once in a lifetime adventure, we’re ready to help you plan it! We have absolutely everything you need for the perfect day. We’ll give you personalized location recommendations, find unique things to do, help you handle travel and lodging, provide florals, feed you dinner and dessert, help you get legally married, and bring absolutely everything you could possibly need on the day you elope - we’ll plan everything, so you don’t have to!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Contact us if you’re ready to adventure!

Tips for Eloping With Family

Tips for Eloping With Family

There's a big misconception that an elopement has to be just a couple. But the thing is, a lot of people just can't imagine their wedding day without the people they love most standing around them - and that's totally okay!

If you're thinking about eloping, but feeling like it won't be the same without your parents seeing you walk down the aisle, your sister helping you zip up the dress, or just having your loved ones by your side, this guide is for you! We'll talk about eloping with family, ideas for how to include them in your day, and advice for couples eloping with guests. 

Deciding to Elope With Family

The first step for planning an elopement with family is to make the decision to include your family in your day! This decision should be intentional - before telling any family members about your plans, sit down with your partner and have an honest chat about what the two of you are envisioning for your elopement day. Once you’ve decided that you do want guests at your intimate ceremony, decide who those guests will be!  

Keep in mind that it’s not selfish to want a private elopement experience, or to keep your guest list small. The truth is that weddings come with a lot of pressure, and it can feel really hard to limit your invites to just a few people. But, it’s not about excluding anyone or hurting feelings! It’s about the two of you (because isn’t that what your wedding day should be about?) and what feels right. So, be honest with yourself and with each other about how many people you want to be there when you elope, and who those people are. Make sure that everyone at your elopement loves you, supports you, and will make the experience even more amazing!

Choosing a Location When Eloping With Family

Having people at your elopement means there are extra considerations when it comes to planning your day - you have to think about you and your partner, and also about your guests! 

You may need an elopement location that’s more easily accessible, or one that’s closer to home so that your family is able to travel there. Or, your family might be down for some adventure! Think about your guests and any accessibility needs, or other considerations for your location. Part of our job as your elopement planning team is helping you find the perfect spot - so we’ll learn more about you and your plan for your elopement day, and create a personalized list of recommendations that works for you, and for your guests!

Some couples also decide to split up their elopement day (or even split it into two days) to give them some time to spend with family, as well as some time to themselves. If you want to hike, or just hang out alone for a little bit, you can have your ceremony with family, then take off for some photos and adventures!

Elopement Ideas With Family

When you’re eloping with family, you can definitely just have them be there as guests. But, there are also lots of ways to include them in the elopement experience! Here are some elopement ideas with family.

Have Your Family Help You Get Ready

Before the ceremony, you’ll need to get ready - put on your dress or suit, maybe do hair and makeup. Having a family member help you with this can be so meaningful, and it gives you some time to just relax and prepare for the day! Many people have their parents help with buttoning up dresses or tying ties.

Do a First Look With Your Family

One fun way to include your family in your elopement day is to do a first look! A lot of couples do a first look with each other, but you can also do one with some family members. 

The first look is the moment where they see you all dressed up in your wedding attire for the first time, and your photographer will help you coordinate! Your family member will face away from you, and you’ll walk up behind them and tap them on the shoulder. Then, they turn around to see you! It’s always a really meaningful moment.

Have a Family Member Officiate Your Elopement

Did you know that anyone (who’s over the age of 18) can become an ordained officiant? If you have a family member who can perform your ceremony, this can be such a meaningful touch to your day! They can create a personal, custom ceremony for you, and officially marry you. 

To get ordained, all they have to do is go to ULC.org, and the process is quick and easy! Be sure to find out what the state you’re eloping in requires when it comes to signing the marriage license, because a few places require proof that your officiant is ordained.  

Go for an Adventure With the Family

Your family can totally join you for any adventures you have planned! If they’re up for it, you can spend the entire day with your loved ones, go for a hike, rent some kayaks, have a picnic, and spend the day together.

Have an Elopement Reception

When you’re eloping with family, you can host a small reception after your ceremony! This can mean going back to the Airbnb for dinner and cake, going out to a local restaurant, making s’mores over a campfire, or any other way you want to celebrate after tying the knot. This is a fun way to give your family an opportunity to make toasts and just celebrate the two of you! 

Eloping With Family?

If tradition doesn’t suit you, but you want your loved ones around when you tie the knot, you can totally elope with family and friends! Planning an elopement comes with a lot of logistics, especially when inviting guests - but we’re here to make the process easy. As your elopement planners, we’ll help you create a day that’s absolutely perfect for you, and perfect for your guests!

If you’re eloping with family, contact us - and let’s start planning! 

Vendors:

Planning + Design: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Florist: Honeybloom Floral Design

Cake: Midnight Sun Cakery

Bride + Groom: Dylan + Lisa

Seward Elopement Guide: How to Elope in Seward, Alaska

Photo by: Kristian Irey

How to Elope in Seward, Alaska

Beautiful blue waters, huge glaciers, and towering tree-covered mountains make Seward, Alaska the perfect place for any wedding day. Whether you want to spend your day whale watching in Resurrection Bay or hiking up some of Seward's impressive mountains, there's plenty to do and see - it's no wonder so many couples choose to elope in Seward! From setting a date to getting legally married in Alaska, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about planning your elopement.

Photographer: Juliana Renee

The Best Time to Elope in Seward

With the extreme changes in daylight hours and especially cold climate in Alaska, deciding when you elope will make such a big difference in how your day looks. Different seasons bring different weather, crowds, and experiences, so let's talk a little bit about each of them! 

Photo by: Kristian Irey

The longest days come in the summer - the days can be almost 19 hours long, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the warmer weather! Summer is the warmest season in Seward - but don't expect to spend your days swimming at the beach. The high temperatures usually stay in the low 60s, so it's great weather for hiking or looking for orcas in the Pacific. Nice weather brings in tourists from all over who want to experience the beauty that Seward has to offer so to avoid the crowds, shoot for a weekday elopement or plan to have your ceremony at sunrise or sunset.

Photo by: Theresa Mcdonald

If you elope in Seward in the winter, get ready for below-freezing temperatures and long nights. Alaska experiences the longest nights in the U.S. - daylight hours can be as short as 6 hours in December! The average high temperatures in the winter hover just around freezing, so you'll want to layer up to keep warm. This guide will give you some tips on what to wear!

If you're looking to avoid the crowds of summer and the heavy snowfall of winter, late spring and early fall are great times to elope in Seward. It typically stays above freezing, but weather can be a little unpredictable - so be prepared!

Photo by: Kristian Irey

The Best Places to Elope in Seward

On the Gulf of Alaska and surrounded by incredible mountain ranges, Seward has a lot to offer when it comes to finding an elopement location. Whether you want to take a boat ride on the Pacific or take a hike to some of the most jaw-dropping views you’ll ever see, here are the best places to elope in Seward!

Sailboat + Helicopter

Take a scenic helicopter flight over Resurrection Bay to beautiful Thumb Cove where you will have your ceremony, picnic, and cake on the shoreline. After getting married you will sail back to Seward.

Fox Island

12 miles off the shore of Seward, in the heart of Resurrection Bay, lies a picturesque island with rocky beaches and beautiful mountain peaks - Fox Island elopement is perfect for any couple who wants their wedding day to be full of adventure! Whether you want to say your vows on the highest peak with 360-degree views or on the edge of a blue lagoon, Fox Island is secluded and can make any elopement feel like a dream!

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Kenai Fjords National Park

Get up close and personal with impressive glaciers at Kenai Fjords National Park! 60 percent of the park is covered in snow and ice, giving you a spectacular winter wonderland all year long, and one of the best places to elope in Seward. Have your ceremony on the banks of a rushing river of ice or take a short hike to have your ceremony at the incredible Exit Glacier. Whatever you choose, Kenai Fjords National Park is the perfect place to make your elopement adventure unforgettable!

Photo by: Rachel Struve

A Cabin

Another fun elopement location in Seward can be at a cute cabin or Airbnb! There are plenty of adorable A-frames, cozy cottages, and everything from tiny homes for two to chalets that can host you and some guests! If you want to tie the knot at a cabin or Airbnb, here are a few ideas for places in Seward:

• Blue Door A Frame

• Cottage With Ocean View

• Cheerful Chalet

• Rustic Domestead

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Getting Legally Married When You Elope in Seward

Choosing your location is the fun part, but there's a little paperwork to go over - here’s what you'll need to do to make your marriage official when you elope in Alaska!

Photo by: Rachel Struve

To get your marriage license, you'll need to send an application with the $60 license fee to the clerk's office in Seward. You can drop off your application in person, mail it, or fax it in - just know there's a 3 business day waiting period for your license after the office has your application and payment in hand. After the 3 day waiting period, you can pick up your license for your ceremony!

Now that you know how to get your license, you'll need to find an officiant and two witnesses for your ceremony. But don’t worry - if you’re eloping without any guests and you want a private experience, we can provide that for you!

Photos by: Zoya Dawn

Things to Do When You Elope in Seward

Make your elopement day more than just a ceremony, make it an adventure! The rugged landscapes of Seward offer the perfect place for any elopement adventure - on land or even on water. Your wedding day should be unique, so if you want to say "I do" on a boat in the Gulf of Alaska or have a moose photo-bomb your elopement photos (from a distance), we can plan an adventure that you'll never forget. 

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Take a Boat

If you want to have an intimate, unique wedding day, take a private boat out to the waters of Resurrection Bay to see captivating beaches and the most scenic spots that aren't easily accessible on land. Say your vows under towering sea stacks or kayaking in Seward Harbor, celebrate your love with a luxury picnic on the Pacific, or "reel in" your marriage with a fishing excursion. Whatever your adventure looks like, we'll make sure you have the best day ever!

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Go Hiking

Seward has plenty of hikes for adventurers of any skill level - from short coastal trails to a day trip through the alpine ridges of Alaska, you'll find the perfect adventure for your day. You can spot the wildlife and take in the scenery while saying "I do," then end your day with a gourmet picnic with a view.

Photo by: Theresa Mcdonald

See the Wildlife

Seward is bursting with a vibrant assortment of wildlife! On land, you'll spot bears, moose, and mountain goats, and the waters are full of otters, seals, and even pods of whales. You can take a whale watching tour or head to the SeaLife Center in town to get up close and personal with a sea lion or giant octopus - the possibilities are endless for checking out the wildlife in Seward!

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Seward Elopement Packages

As Seward elopement planners, it's our goal to make sure your elopement is stress-free and everything you ever dreamed about! Our Seward elopement packages are specially curated just for you - from location recommendations to timeline planning, we'll be there every step of the way to plan an elopement that's as unique as your love!

If you're ready to plan your wedding day or want to chat more about our Seward elopement packages, contact us, and we can talk about planning a wedding day that's full of adventure, and all about your wild hearts.

Photo by: Kristian Irey

How to Plan a Helicopter Elopement

Photo By: Kristian Irey

How to Plan a Helicopter Elopement

Getting married is an incredible adventure – and if you’ve decided that a traditional wedding isn’t for you, and you want to elope, there are endless possibilities for how you can celebrate. For a truly one of a kind adventure, consider a helicopter elopement!

Photo by: Zoya Dawn

Just imagine flying over some of the most incredible scenery and getting a birds-eye view of snow covered mountain peaks and valleys below you – it’s an experience you won’t ever forget. If you want to plan a helicopter elopement, this guide will tell you everything you need to know to make this incredible adventure happen!

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Reasons to Plan a Helicopter Elopement

If you’re on the fence about a helicopter elopement, here are just a few reasons why we think this is the ultimate wedding day experience.

Photo by: Zoya Dawn

A Unique Elopement Adventure

The first benefit of a helicopter elopement is that your adventure will truly be unlike any other! This is the day you get married, so it should incorporate your personalities and reflect your love story while providing you with a one of a kind experience. It’s not every day that you get to fly in a helicopter, so make your elopement a day you’ll truly remember forever!

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

Incredible Locations

One of the biggest perks of planning a helicopter elopement is that you’ll get to see some of the most incredible places – and you can do it without having to hike! The helicopter will take you to some of the most beautiful locations, where you can be surrounded by the serene quiet of towering mountain peaks, fields of frozen glaciers, and landscapes that will have you picking your jaw up off the ground. The views begin as soon as you start flying, and you can see a variety of scenery throughout the day!

Photo By: Kristian Irey

A Secluded Ceremony

When couples elope, one of the biggest reasons they make this decision is because they want a little bit of privacy – they want to be able to exchange vows and promise to spend the rest of their lives together without having to do so in front of hundreds of guests. While there are tons of stunning backdrops and gorgeous landscapes where you can tie the knot, the truth is that parks and outdoor areas can get pretty busy! With a helicopter elopement, you’ll be flying to a remote, secluded location where you’ll be the only ones there – so you can enjoy complete seclusion and privacy, while you marry the love of your life.

Photo By: Kristian Irey

How to Plan a Helicopter Elopement

Once you’re convinced that a helicopter elopement is right for you, it’s time to start planning! Here’s what you need to do for this adventure. 

Photo By: Kristian Irey

Where Do You Want to Elope?

One of the first things you’ll ask yourself when planning any elopement is where you want to tie the knot! There are places all over the world where helicopter tours are available to take you to these epic mountain top spots, so think about where you’d like to get married. 

Photo By: Kristian Irey

We might be a little bit biased, but we think Alaska is the best place for a helicopter elopement! The wild, rugged natural beauty of the state makes it an incredible destination for adventurous couples, and with a helicopter elopement, you’ll be able to fly over the mountain tops, glaciers, wildflower covered hillside‘s, and all the breathtaking beauty that Alaska has to offer.

Photo By: Kristian Irey

Hire an Elopement Planner

The next step in planning your helicopter elopement is to hire a professional elopement planner! An elopement planner makes everything easier, handling all the logistics, bookings, and everything you need for a perfect day. 

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

We’re based in Alaska, but we offer all inclusive elopement packages all over the world! This means that when we plan your helicopter elopement, we’ll have absolutely everything you need – from booking a helicopter company that will take you to the most epic locations around, to bringing everything you need to tie the knot, including florals, a gourmet picnic, and so much more. We’ll plan absolutely everything, so you can relax and focus on what’s important – marrying your best friend and having a blast! 

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

Ready to plan your day? Contact us!

Tips for Your Helicopter Elopement

When you’re planning an epic helicopter elopement, there are a few things to consider. Here’s what you need to know about helicopter elopements! 

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

Choosing a Date

Weather can have a big effect on a helicopter elopement, as it’s not very safe for helicopters to fly through storms or inclement weather.

Photo By: Kristian Irey

Since helicopter tours usually fly over mountainous areas, the weather can be pretty dramatic – especially if you’re tying the knot here in Alaska! To avoid any hiccups with your helicopter flight, it’s best to plan your elopement for when the weather is more likely to cooperate. While it’s definitely possible to fly in the winter, summer weather is a little bit more predictable in Alaska (and most places in the northern hemisphere), and there are more days where helicopters can fly!

Photo By: Kristian Irey

Prepare for the Weather

No matter when you elope, it’s important to be prepared for the weather! Alaska’s weather can be pretty wild even in the summer, and because you’re flying to higher elevations, you can expect it to be a little bit cooler at your location.

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

Good news – many helicopter cabins are enclosed and have heating, so your flight will be cozy and comfortable! But, you’ll be doing some exploring outdoors when you get there, so it’s important to be prepared to stay warm.

Photo By: Kristian Irey

With our all inclusive elopement packages, we really mean all inclusive, so we’ll have some hand warmers and blankets to help you stay warm! But, along with that, it’s best to wear layers and warm clothing. There are lots of ways to accessorize your wedding attire for the weather, and you can check out this guide for some tips on what to wear for a helicopter elopement in Alaska.

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

Helicopter Elopement Packages

Flying in a helicopter is truly a magical way to spend your elopement day – and if you’ve decided that you want this incredible experience for the day you get married, we’re ready to help you make it happen! 

Photo By: Kristian Irey

With our helicopter elopement packages, we take care of everything, planning all the details of your day, and providing everything you’ll need. You’ll get a helicopter ride for two, a custom picnic and dessert, help with your paperwork (including an officiant and two witnesses), access to all of our elopement resources, and more. To start planning your once in a lifetime elopement, or to learn more about helicopter elopement packages, contact us!

Photo By: Zoya Dawn

Elopement Packing Checklist: What to Bring to an Adventure Elopement

Elopement Packing Checklist: What to Bring to an Adventure Elopement

After planning adventurous wedding days for countless couples, we’ve got the ultimate elopement packing checklist - to make sure you have everything you need for your unique day! This guide will break down everything you need to bring for an adventure elopement, whether you’re staying close to home or traveling to an epic destination.

Remember - every elopement is one of a kind! Some of these things may not apply to you, and you might need a few extra things we didn’t mention. So, use this elopement packing checklist as a guide to make your own, or book us to plan your day and we’ll give you all the personalized tips! We offer full service elopement planning, which means we provide a ton of what you need to tie the knot in Alaska - so this list will also cover the things we’ll bring for you.

Elopement Packing Checklist: Wedding Attire

First things first, you’ll need the stuff you’re getting married in! Here’s an elopement packing checklist for your attire, and some tips for bringing it along.

Elopement Dress

If one of you is wearing a dress, this will, of course, be an essential on the list! If you’re flying, we recommend putting your dress in your carry-on, because if your luggage gets lost (knock on wood), the dress is something you’ll definitely want to have. 

No matter how you’re traveling, get a waterproof garment bag to keep it safe! For hiking elopements, this bag will come in handy if you’re packing the dress in your backpack too.

Elopement Suit

The suit is just as important, so if one of you has one, we recommend putting this in a carry on as well! A garment bag is always a good idea, and will keep your suit safe during your travels.

Shoes

Honestly, the shoes you choose are often just as important as your outfit! They’ll make a big difference in how comfortable you are on your day, so check out this guide for some tips on choosing the right footwear. Hiking boots are best for many adventure elopements, so if you’re traveling by plane, it can be a good idea to wear them since they’re pretty heavy and take up a lot of space.

Elopement Packing Checklist: Other Ceremony Essentials

Here are a few other things you might need for your ceremony!

Vows

You definitely don’t want to forget these! We recommend getting vow books, as these will make it easier to keep your vows afterwards, and will look great in photos.

Rings

This is another important thing to put on the elopement packing list! You can get a personalized box to keep them safe.

Elopement Packing Checklist: Staying Warm & Preparing for the Weather

We’re based in Alaska, so we’ve planned tons of cold-weather elopements! The weather here can be pretty wild, but no matter where you’re tying the knot, it’s important to prepare for the weather, and to bring layers to help you stay warm. Especially for adventure elopements in the mountains, weather can be unpredictable, and can change quickly as you gain elevation! Here are some things to put on your elopement packing checklist to help you ensure you’re warm, comfortable, and prepared for anything.

Extra Socks

Socks make a huge difference, and the best option is wool socks - these keep you warm even when they’re wet, which is amazing on snowy hikes, glaciers, or in case you cross a stream. Darn Tough makes the best hiking socks, and bringing an extra pair or two for your adventure ensures you stay comfortable!

Jackets

Layers are the best way to ensure you’re prepared for any weather, so bring a jacket, shawl, knit, fur, or a coat! I love bridal sweaters as an option to keep warm and for an accessory!  

Base Layers

If you’re eloping somewhere cold, base layers are one of the best ways to stay warm. You can wear leggings under a dress or suit and they won’t be visible, or layer a long sleeve shirt. 

Elopement Packing Checklist: Documents & Paperwork

This stuff may not be as fun, but it’s important to put these on your elopement packing checklist too - it’s often easy to forget a piece of paper! 

Marriage License 

If you already got your marriage license, be sure to bring it with you so that you can get legally married. If you’re picking it up when you get to your location, bring any documents you’ll need - you’ll need at least a photo ID, but some states can also require birth certificates or other paperwork, so check ahead of time and make sure you have everything. Alaska Wild Hearts will walk you through the process of getting legally married in Alaska, and let you know what you need to bring. 

Elopement Ceremony Permit

We’ll help you figure out if your location requires a permit, and how to apply for one. Once you have your permit, we’ll print out a few copies to carry with us, but make sure you have it saved on your phone too, just in case!

Passport & Wallet

If you’re traveling abroad, make sure you have your passport! And no matter where you go, you’ll need your wallet, so make sure you have your ID or driver’s license in there and ready to go. 

Elopement Packing Checklist: Adventure Gear

Depending on what you have planned, your elopement planning checklist might also include some adventure gear. Of course, this depends on what you’re doing! You might also decide to rent gear instead of bringing your own.

Here are a few ideas for things that you might need for your adventure:

• Hiking backpack

• Inflatable paddle board

• Wetsuit

• Tent, sleeping bags, and camping gear

Elopement Packing Checklist: Things We’ve Got You Covered On!

There are so many reasons that hiring an elopement planner makes your experience so much easier – and one of those reasons is that when it’s time for your adventure, we’ll be prepared with a lot of the things you might need on the big day! We offer all inclusive elopement packages, which means we take care of everything - here’s a list of some of the things that we’ll bring for your elopement.

Bouquet

We provide a bouquet for your elopement day, along with a boutonniere! We’ll also give you some tips for keeping your florals fresh throughout the day, packing them in your hiking bag, and bringing them along for your adventures. You can preserve it after the elopement day too!

Champagne

If you want to pop champagne after you say your “I dos,” we’ll bring a bottle for you to celebrate with. Keep in mind that some parks or outdoor places may not allow alcohol, and it can be harmful to the environment – but if you still want to do a pop to celebrate, we’ll be prepared with sparkling water bottles that pop just like champagne.

Hand Warmers and Blankets

When you elope in Alaska, staying warm is definitely a big consideration! Hand warmers are always great to have, and they’ll do wonders in cold weather, so we’ll bring plenty for the two of you, along with some blankets.

Rain Gear

Along with cold weather, it’s also important to be ready for rain! You may want to bring some waterproof shoes or clothing, but if it rains on your elopement day, we’ll have some clear umbrellas for you.

Toiletries

You’ll be adventuring and exploring on your elopement day, so packing some toiletries can help you make sure that you look and feel your best throughout the day! We’ve got an elopement emergency kit that has everything you need, including: 

• Deodorant

• Baby wipes

• Hair spray and gel

• Dry shampoo

• Sunscreen

• Sewing kit

• Bobby pins

• Handheld mirror

Adventure Gear

While you may need some specialized adventure gear, like maybe a kayak or some hiking boots, there are some things that we’ll carry to make sure you have everything you need for whatever adventure you have planned! Here are a few of the things we’ll pack for you.

• Headlamps

• First aid kit

• Gourmet picnic (food and setup)

• Offline maps for navigation

• Snacks and water

Need Help Packing for Your Elopement?

Our job is to make planning your elopement easy - and that includes bringing an emergency wedding kit, setting up on your elopement day, and helping you know exactly what you’ll need to bring for a perfect adventure! If you’re ready to elope, contact us to start planning!

Photographer: Rachel Struve

Videographer: Wild and Beloved

MUA: Vibe.Artistry

Hair Stylist: Cassie Thompson

Planner + Officiant: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Florist: Honeybloom Floral Design

Cake: Midnight Sun Cakery

Eklutna Lake Wedding Guide: How to Elope at Eklutna Lake

Eklutna Lake Wedding Guide:

How to Elope at Eklutna Lake 

In Chugach State Park, Eklutna Lake is a brilliant turquoise-colored glacial lake surrounded by beautiful mountains. This peaceful oasis is perfect for hiking, kayaking… and tying the knot! Just under an hour's drive from Anchorage, an Eklutna Lake wedding is ideal for an outdoor getaway to celebrate your love! With over 15 miles of shoreline and plenty of trails through the mountains, you're guaranteed to find your perfect ceremony location. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about an Eklutna Lake elopement!

Getting to Eklutna Lake

Eklutna Lake is in Chugach State Park. It costs $5 for a parking pass for the park - you'll pay the fee when you arrive - but if you have an Alaska State Park annual pass, it's included! If you want to buy a pass, you can do so online, and get one for $60. This is a great deal for those who visit Alaska’s state parks often.

Eklutna Lake has a beautiful campground, too! It's $20 for a campsite, and the 50 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. They even have 2 cabins available for rent to make your elopement an epic adventure.

The Best Time for an Eklutna Lake Elopement

Though visiting Eklutna Lake is fun year-round, you'll want to consider the changes in weather, crowds, and activities when you plan your elopement in Alaska. Keep in mind that no matter what season, you'll want to plan what you wear carefully, since Alaska’s weather can be pretty wild. 

Summer peaks in July, but it's definitely not beach-wear weather. Highs average in the mid-60s, so while it's a great time to head out on the lake with a kayak, you won't want to swim in the cold lake! The days can be 19 hours long in the summertime, so you'll have plenty of time to hike the trails of Eklutna Lake. Since it's a popular recreation area, it's pretty busy on the weekends! If you want to avoid the crowds, plan for a sunrise or sunset wedding or have your elopement on a weekday.

The winters at Eklutna Lake are cold and typically below-freezing. Snow falls 7 months of the year (October through April), which is perfect for cross country skiing, ice skating, and hikes to the glaciers. The days are short, sometimes only 5 and a half hours in December, so you'll want to plan accordingly if you want to catch the daylight hours!

For nice weather, fewer crowds, and average daylight hours, fall and spring are amazing for an Eklutna Lake elopement! The leaves change colors in the fall, making a beautiful backdrop of oranges and yellows behind the blues of the lake. The wildflowers start to bloom after the snow melts in late spring, bringing beautiful shades of pink, yellow, and purple to the landscape!

Getting Legally Married When You Elope at Eklutna Lake

Now that you've thought about when you want to elope, you'll want to start thinking about getting your marriage license so you can make this thing official! We'll go over everything you'll need to do when you elope in Alaska!

To get your marriage license, you'll need to send an application with the $60 license fee to the clerk's office in Palmer or Anchorage. You can drop off your application in person, mail it, or fax it in - just know there's a 3 business day waiting period for your license after the office has your application and payment in hand. After the 3-day waiting period, you can pick up your license for your ceremony!

You'll need an officiant and two witnesses to sign your license. You can have a friend or family member get officiated through the Universal Life Church to be your officiant, or we can be your officiant and provide witnesses for you! After your ceremony, you'll need to return your license to one of Alaska's vital records offices. The closest one to Eklutna Lake is in Anchorage, but it can also be mailed to the office!

Things to Do When You Elope at Eklutna Lake

The best thing about eloping is being able to turn your wedding day into an adventure! You can make it anything you want, whether that's cozying up by the fire or hiking to a glacier. There are so many things to do when you elope at Eklutna Lake, but here are a few of our favorite activities! 

Go Hiking

There are 4 popular trails at Eklutna Lake that range from easy to difficult. Eklutna Lakeside Trail is the easiest trail. It's flat but is 13 miles long - you can do the whole trail, or just do part of it. For a little more difficult trail, take Eklutna River East Fork Trail - this moderate 6-mile trail is narrow and goes over a couple of small streams. Twin Peaks Trail and Bold Ridge Trail are both more difficult, but both offer gorgeous, panoramic views of the lake and park from the top. You can go berry picking on the Twin Peaks Trail in the fall!

Kayak or Canoe

Summer is a great time for water activities at Eklutna Lake! If you have a kayak or canoe, it's a short walk from the parking lot to the lake, so you can launch right there. If you don't have one and want to try it out, there are huts near the shore that rent out kayaks and offer guided trips on the lake! Since the water is glacial runoff, it's really cold, so you probably won’t be swimming.

Ice Skating

Winter turns Eklutna Lake into the perfect ice skating rink! It's best to skate before the snow gets too deep, or after a good wind blows a lot of the snow away, so check out the snow reports before planning to skate to make sure you can go in the current conditions.

Eklutna Lake Elopement Packages

We know how exciting - and maybe a little stressful - planning your elopement can be. That's why, as elopement planners, it's our goal to make sure your elopement is the best day ever. Our Eklutna Lake elopement packages are specially curated just for you - from vendor recommendations to timeline planning, we'll be there every step of the way to plan an elopement that's as unique as your love!

If you're ready to plan your wedding day or want to chat more about our Eklutna Lake elopement packages, contact us, and we can talk about planning a wedding day that's full of adventure, and all about your wild hearts.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Videographer: Megan Freeman

Planner: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Florist: Lily of the Valley

10 Reasons to Elope

Photographer: Bethany Reasoner

10 Reasons to Elope

Breaking tradition, bending the rules, and getting married in a totally unconventional way might feel a little scary, but if you’ve got a sneaking suspicion that you don’t want to plan a 200 person wedding with a big ballroom and a huge party that you hardly get to enjoy, here are 10 reasons to elope instead! As more and more couples realize that a traditional wedding might not be right for them, these are the most common reasons they choose to downsize.

Photographer: Megan Freeman

What Do We Mean When We Say “Elope?”

Before we get into the reasons to elope, we’ve got to define what eloping actually means! We’re not talking about the old meaning of the word, when eloping was about quick courthouse ceremonies or even drunken Vegas weddings - we’re talking about the magic that happens when a couple decides to do their wedding their own way, and to get married in a way that feels true to them. This might mean a private day with no one around, or a small ceremony with your closest friends. It might mean an epic new adventure, or a day spent relaxing with the person you love most. Your elopement can be absolutely anything - it’s all about being intentional in how you get married, and making sure that the day is a reflection of the two of you!

Photographer: The Adams Co.

10 Reasons to Elope

Now that you know what eloping means, let’s talk about 10 reasons to elope, and why couples decide to plan an intimate adventure instead of a big wedding. If any of them resonate with you, this might be your sign! 

Photographer: Kristian Irey

1. You Don’t Want All the Attention

For a lot of couples, the thought of having all eyes on them, exchanging vows in front of 100 people, and spending the entire day being the center of attention just isn’t appealing. If you feel that way, that’s definitely a good reason to elope! 

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Elopements are much smaller than traditional weddings, so you get to decide whether you want a day that’s totally private, or if you want to share that moment with a few of your loved ones.

2. You Want Your Wedding to Be About You

It often feels like big weddings involve a lot of people pleasing. Scrambling to make sure everyone’s happy, worrying about everyone having a good time, and focusing on just about everyone but the couple! If you want to make sure that the day you get married is about the two of you, and not about throwing a party that you won’t get to enjoy, eloping might be right for you. 

Photographer: Bethany Reasoner

Eloping shifts the focus of your wedding day, ensuring that the day is about what matters most - you, your partner, and beginning your marriage in a way that you love!

3. You Want to Get Married Outdoors

One of our favorite things about elopements is that you get to tie the knot in some of the most beautiful spots in the world. You have basically unlimited options for your “venue” - glaciers, mountains, forests, beaches, lakes, and more. Instead of exchanging vows in a traditional venue that probably doesn’t hold any sentimental value, you can get married in a place that’s truly unforgettable, with backdrops that will make your jaw drop! The place you commit to spending the rest of your lives together should be special, and for couples who love nature, there’s no better place than the great outdoors.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

4. You Want to Have an Adventure

Let’s be real - a lot of traditional weddings seem to be pretty much the same. Sure, there’s some personalization, but there’s definitely a “script” that they tend to follow. A big reason to elope instead is if you want your wedding day to be unique, personal, and to feel like you. You should celebrate the beginning of your marriage in a way that reflects who you are, and there’s no better way to do that than with an elopement! 

Photographer: Kristian Irey

The possibilities are endless - you can hike, fly in a helicopter, take a private boat, have a picnic, go kayaking, or even ride in a dog mushing sled. Anything you can imagine, you can do on your elopement day!

5. You Want to Spend Money on Experiences, Not Things

It’s definitely true that eloping usually costs less than a big wedding, but this isn’t because couples aren’t investing in their day! The money you spend when you elope usually gets spent on more experiences, and adventures you’ll remember forever, instead of decorations, single use items, and things that you’ll never need after the wedding is over. 

Photographer: Rachel Struve

Photographer: Juliana Renne

6. You Want to Keep it Small

Elopements have a smaller guest list than weddings, and sometimes they have no guest list at all. This is a big reason to elope for a lot of couples! It may be that you want to avoid family drama or that you aren’t close with your relatives, or that you simply feel that keeping the experience private and intimate just feels more like the two of you. No matter what your reason is, remember that this is your wedding day - each choice you make is entirely yours! And if you decide to invite a few loved ones, you’ll get to spend more time with them, instead of just a few minutes per guest while you’re rushing to do something else.

Photographer: Rachel Struve

7. Eloping is Better for the Environment

Weddings produce a ton of waste - actually, 400 lbs of waste and 63 tons of CO2 on average, according to The Green Bride Guide! Those are some pretty mind boggling numbers, and a great reason to elope is because it’s much better for the planet. You’re reducing the amount of trash your day produces, the amount of electricity used by a big venue, the number of cars traveling to your wedding, and so much more! 

Photographer: The Adams Co.

8. Eloping is Less Stressful

So many couples say that they hardly got to enjoy their wedding day, and that it all went by in a blur because they were busy worrying about everything and everyone. Eloping allows you to slow down, be present, and really enjoy the moment - you’re marrying the love of your life, and that should be the most amazing day of your life, not one that you spend stressing.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

9. You Want Freedom and Flexibility

The schedule is often pretty tight for traditional weddings. Couples are rushing from one place to the next, making sure there’s enough time for photos, trying to say hello to every guest, and worrying about running behind schedule.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

Elopements give you so much more freedom, both throughout the planning process and on the day of. You get to decide what’s important to you and what you want to do, and there’s more room for spontaneity, flexibility, and fun!

Photographer: Kristian Irey

10. You Don’t Want to Plan a Big Wedding

One of the biggest reasons to elope is that you just don’t want to plan an entire traditional wedding. We can’t blame you - it’s a ton of work! For a lot of couples, one of the first signs that eloping might be right for them is that they feel stress and anxiety at the thought of beginning to plan their wedding day instead of excitement and anticipation.

Photographer: Kristian Irey

While elopements still require planning, the process is so much less stressful, and so much more fun, because you get to focus on what matters to you, and how you want to celebrate! 

And we’re here to help you with all of it - we plan elopements in Alaska and all over the world, and we’ve got your back with everything you need to plan the perfect, customized elopement day. If you have decided that eloping is right for you, contact us to get started!

Alaska Elopement Guide: How to, and the Best Places to Elope in Alaska

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Imagine saying your vows surrounded by icy glaciers. Committing to spending the rest of your lives together with towering mountain peaks surrounding you. Getting married in a place that’s truly wild, with an experience that’s absolutely one of a kind. If you crave an adventure that doesn’t include traditional ballrooms or 100-person guest lists, eloping in Alaska might be right for you! 

Photo by: The Adams Co.

Photo by: Kristain Irey

But to plan an adventurous wedding day, there are a few things you need to know. This guide is all about planning your day, from the best time to get married, local marriage laws, and the best places to elope in Alaska!

Photo by: Megan Freeman

The Best Time to Elope in Alaska

One of the first things you’ll need to do to elope in Alaska is set a date! Alaska’s weather can be pretty dramatic, and changes a lot throughout the year - so before you decide, here’s what you need to know about the best time to elope.

Winter Elopements in Alaska

A winter elopement gives you the unique opportunity to say “I do” in a gorgeous, snowy wonderland! We won’t lie to you - it definitely gets cold, but as long as you have warm layers and you’re prepared for the snow, you’ll have a truly magical adventure. Adding a fur coat, a thick cape, or a shawl, bringing some hand warmers, and making time to cozy up by a fire will help you beat the icy temperatures. For more tips on dressing for the weather, check out this guide.

Photo by: Donna Marie Photography

One of the most Alaska-esque ways to elope is to take a ride on a dog mushing sled, and the best time to do this is in the winter! You’ll be pulled by a team of adorable, friendly pups to a scenic, remote location where you can exchange vows in complete privacy. Winter also gives you a chance to see the Northern Lights, so if you want to end your wedding day under a sky filled with dancing auroras, tie the knot in the colder months!

Photo by: Rachel Struve

Spring Elopements in Alaska

Spring is a gorgeous time to elope in Alaska, as temperatures warm up and the days get longer! The mountains are still covered in picturesque snow, and you can often see the Northern Lights through April. This is the best time to see wildlife, like moose, bears, and even whales! Coastal areas tend to be more temperate, while inland regions are usually more unpredictable.

Summer Elopements in Alaska

Summer is the best time to elope in Alaska for couples who want warmer weather and sunny days, or who want to hike without running into too much snow. Temperatures in the interior are usually in the 70s (though they sometimes climb even higher), while coastal spots are more mild, with temperatures in the 60s. Many higher elevation spots will be covered in snow year round, so even when you elope in the warmer months, be prepared for anything! 

Photo by: Zoya Dawn

Summer is an amazing time to hike, take a kayak or boat out in the water, or to see the wildflowers bloom in the alpine meadows.

Photo by: Zoya Dawn

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Fall Elopements in Alaska

Fall tends to be pretty short in Alaska, with temperatures cooling down starting in September, and snow starting to accumulate as early as October. Like spring, fall is a little unpredictable - days can be warm while nights fall to freezing temperatures, so bring layers and be prepared! 

Photo by: Juliana Renee Photography

Fall foliage is absolutely beautiful in Alaska, but seeing the golden colors can be hit or miss - the season is often gone soon after it begins. In the north, you can see the leaves change around August, and as you head further south, the best time to elope for fall foliage is usually early to mid September.

Photo by: The Adams Co.

The Best Places to Elope in Alaska

Choosing a spot to tie the knot is one of the absolute most exciting things about eloping in Alaska! With countless gorgeous places all around the state, you can choose from remote national parks, stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and more - so to get you inspired, here are a few of the best places to elope in Alaska.

Photo by: Kristian Irey

Anchorage, Alaska

One of the best places to elope in Alaska is Anchorage - the state’s largest city. Nearby, you’ll find stunning mountains just a short drive outside of town. There are plenty of trails and hikes through the Chugach Mountains, so you can plan an epic adventure!

Photo by: The Adams Co.

Girdwood, Alaska

Girdwood is a small mountain town just south of Anchorage, and it’s an incredible place anytime of year. Winters are amazing for skiing, and summers are great for hiking, biking, rafting, and more outdoor adventures! Girdwood offers mountain views, and gorgeous rainforest scenery - so there’s truly a little bit of everything.

Photo by: Zoya Dawn

Photos by: The Adams Co.

Hatcher Pass

If you want to tie the knot in the mountains, Hatcher Pass is one of the best places to elope in Alaska! The pass runs through the southwest part of the Talkeetna Mountains, offering incredibly scenic views of the peaks. You’ll find long hiking trails, and easily accessible overlooks - so there’s something for every kind of adventure!

Photos by: Rachel Struve

Seward, Alaska

For more ocean views and beachfront spots, one of the best places to elope in Alaska is Seward. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this port city is a fun, quirky town to explore, and the surrounding mountains and coastal views are absolutely jaw dropping! You might spot otters, whales, and seals in the water, and nearby you’ll find Kenai Fjords National Park, with incredible glaciers and fjords.

Photo by: Sarah French Photos

Getting Legally Married When You Elope in Alaska

Part of eloping is getting legally married - so along with the adventures and epic experiences you’ll plan, you’ll need to learn a little bit about marriage laws! 

Photo by: Zoya Dawn

A marriage license is required to legally tie the knot. In Juneau and Anchorage, you can get one from the Vital Records Office, and in other towns you can go to the local county court. You can fill out the marriage license application form ahead of time, but you’ll need to go to the office in person to sign it and show your IDs. There is a fee of $60, and once you get the marriage license, you need to wait 3 days before you can have your ceremony.

You’ll need an officiant and two witnesses, but don’t worry - if you’re eloping without any guests and you want a private experience, we can provide that for you!

Photo by: Rachel Struve

All Inclusive Alaska Elopement Packages 

Every couple deserves a wedding day that’s absolutely perfect for them - so our all inclusive Alaska elopement packages have everything you need to help you plan the perfect day! You can take a helicopter to an epic elopement location, experience dog mushing, elope on a private boat,  or customize your own adventure. Each all inclusive Alaska elopement package includes an officiant, a bouquet and boutonniere, vendor coordination, a custom timeline, and more - everything is completely customizable, so your day is personalized to the two of you! 

Contact us if you’re ready to start planning your wild, once in a lifetime adventure in Alaska! 

Photo By; Kristian Irey

Girdwood, Alaska Adventure Elopement

Girdwood, Alaska Adventure Elopement

Nathan & Hannah met when they were thrown together in a college team-building exercise. Seems innocent enough, but look at how Cupid was hard at work behind the scenes, setting in play the groundwork for healthy couple hood. Problem solving, compromise, how to agree to disagree, goal setting, how to be supportive of one another. College team building? More like laying the groundwork for a future life together; setting the cornerstone for the life-team they would become months later as husband and wife.

With a love of nature, and a brimming enthusiasm to embark on an adventure together, Alaska called to Nathan and Hannah as the place to say their “I do’s. They settled on the little ski-valley town of Girdwood, and the Alyeska Resort as their wedding destination. What better stage to say their vows, tucked amidst the magnificent, iconic mountain peaks of the Chugach Mountain Range, and so easy too, since Girdwood is just 30 miles south of the major airport of Anchorage.  

Alyeska Resort offers 4-star lodging in a woodsy setting surrounded by towering mountains; and is the perfect locale for a wedding and outdoor activities at any time of the year. It was certainly the perfect setting for Nathan and Hannah who chose to get married on Alyeska’s mountain hillside peppered lush with summer-time lichen and wild blooming Alaskan flowers of fireweed and lupine. 

Hannah’s father served as the marriage officiant, uniting the two families together. Courtesy of todays’ amazing technology, the rest of the family were able to observe the happy hilltop happening from the Resort, from which they live-streamed and dropped in to share in the wedding setting from afar.

And welcome to the new Mister & Missus … who then floated away from the wonderful wedding site by tram, going higher and higher still to the tallest peak, The destination? The Seven Glaciers Restaurant a fine dining experience sitting high above the Resort with jaw-dropping views of the glaciers and mountaintops that surround it. The first intimate lofty dinner together as husband and wife and the completion of the team-building circle that started the ball rolling. As the saying goes, “and the two shall become one..”

Accommodations:

• Alyeska Resort

• Tanner Mountain Estates

• Alyeska Views

• Vacation Rentals

Winter Activities:

• Downhill Skiing

• Cross-Country Skiing

• Snow-showing

Summer Activities:

• Hiking

• Trail Biking

• Mountain Biking

• Berry Picking

• Dog Mushing Tour

• Disc Golf

All year long Activities:

• The Nordic Spa at Alyeska Resort

• Girdwood Brewery

• Watch the Bore Tide. Click here for the bore tide schedule.

• Ride Alyeska Ariel Tram

• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

• Helicopter tour

Restaurants:

• Seven Glaciers

• Jack Sprat

• The Bake Shop

• The Sproon

• Double Musky

• Chair 5

• Sakura Asian Bistro

If you’re planning a wedding that will put you within Alaska’s magnificent mountains and glaciers in no time at all, consider Girdwood and/or the Alyeska Resort as it has a lot to offer all year long.  Want a unique winter wedding that might include sled dogs, skiing down the hill side or a summer wedding, scaling the hills on a mountain bike, taking a helicopter ride to land on a glacier, Alyeska Resort is the perfect location. At Alaska Wild Hearts Events, we are happy to walk along with you every step of the way. 

Photographer: Zoya Dawn Photography

Florals: Lily of the Valley

Cake: Arctic Moon Bakery

Dress: Sarah Seven

Location: Girdwood, Alaska

Accommodations: Alyeska Resort

Design + Planning: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Alaska Adventure Elopement

Your adventure elopement ceremony is your own! We are open to accommodate any style of tradition, non-tradition, or religious-based experience that gives you the ceremony you’ve dreamt of.

The number one reason for elopements is to create an intimate space for your needs and no one else’s to worry about. The intimacy between you and your partner is something only you two will understand more than anyone and as a professional planner, we offer a safe space to listen and offer creative solutions for your requests!

Make your Adventure Elopement your Own

Working with an elopement planner means the possibilities are endless! Not only can we bring your unique dream to life but we have a hoard of amazing ideas for any dilemmas you might think you’ll face if you’re stuck on a decision.

If you are exploring elopements in Alaska, I’d first like to emphasize that I am thrilled to see that you carry an adventurous edge to your lifestyle. Why is Alaska on every person’s bucket list? It’s a vast and wildland FULL of adventure, many places hardly touched by man, and home of the largest most powerful mountain range in North America. Alaska is also so diverse, it holds at least 4 widely different biomes. It is grand to say the least. Statistically many Americans don’t make their journey here until later in age and although it’s never too late to enjoy her beauty, I believe there’s much to see and experience while you’re willing and able. This absolutely means taking advantage of the heart of adventure Alaska has to offer. Not only is eloping on Alaskan soil so special but sharing intimate adventures together, here, really connects the people involved in ways that will last a lifetime.

I had the privilege of officiating and planning the ceremony of Hannah and Tate in a beautiful wood scape outside Girdwood where they had uniquely requested Sushi as their featured platter for their gourmet picnic. Little did they know that THE best Sushi spot is at the Alyeska Resort down the road from their elopement site so it was perfect. This sparked a number of requests by others to start thinking outside of the box. This was such an easy integration to their day but there are so many other possibilities to make the day your own.

Consider the list of adventures below that can also impact your elopement experience and build on the memories:

• Kayaking in Resurrection Bay

• Snow- Shoeing

• Cross Country or Downhill Skiing

• Glacier Hiking

• Snow Machining

• Deep Sea or Fresh Water fishing for that King Salmon or Halibut

• Taking a Helicopter to a Glacier or peak

• Boating to Kodiak Island

• Visiting one of the many Microbrews

• Joining in one of the many summer festivals like Summer Solstice

Keep in mind as well that with an elopement planner, you’re able to get involved as little or as much as you and your partner want to. That is your choice and I work with couples that love every step of the process, especially because they don’t have to make decisions based on the needs of guests. There are also plenty of other couples that only have a few special requests and enjoy leaving the rest of the planning in my hands so their wedding feels more hands-free from their daily lives and there’s still an element of suspense on their day. I love to also emphasize this because this is what makes working with a planner so EASY.

Don’t be afraid to show your planner your vision board or share ideas of your dream wedding. We’re here to make it happen and no request is ever too obscure. We are the best people to understand reason and limitation only after we’ve explored possibilities and resources for you in this unfamiliar territory. We’re specifically hired to make your day seamless, unique, and nurture a space that caters to you and your partner. 

Photographer: The Adams Co.

Florals: Lily of the Valley

Planner: Alaska Wild Hearts Events

Location: Girdwood, Alaska

Alaska Dog Mushing Elopement

Dog Mushing Elopement in Alaska || Divina + Victor

Divina and Victor shared a beautiful and intimate day dog mushing to their ceremony site with their daughter, and sister, a special experience enjoyable for the whole family and one they could never forget. As for myself, the most memorable part of the experience as the officiant and planner was not only the connection between Victor and Divina, but their relationship highlighted as a family during the vows. Surrounded by nothing, but fresh snow and the quiet magnitude of wild Alaska, we could not help but notice the contrast of lively energy brought by the sled-dogs, thrilled to run through unpaved trails, instilling an invigorating feeling of freedom and excitement.

The official Iditarod Race just kicked off for 2021, but the celebrations last far longer than the race itself. It’s a cultural celebration that beats softly in every Alaskan’s heart because it honors the hardship and solidarity we face as a community-a monumental act of heroism made by a team of settlers and natives that risked their own lives to save others. In Anchorage alone, the city livens up with the 10-day Fur Rendezvous Festival, full of food, stalls, auctions, and events including the Running of the Reindeer, a charity ball, the Mr. Fur Face beard contest, and ice sculpture competitions. Running with the Reindeer is especially unique to Alaska where the streets are closed off, the contestants dress up, and try to beat the reindeer to the finish line. The night before the race, all the competing mushing teams parade through the city as we cheer and prepare to send them off!

This highly rewarding lifestyle still lives on for many in Alaska including the team I like to partner with for these dog mushing expeditions. From their reputation of tours let by a 4-time Iditarod Champion and other well-known competitors to their dedication of the sled-dogs themselves, Divina and Victor eloped led by a team from Alaska Mushing School known for their professionalism, knowledge, and passion for the sport.

In the summertime, you can see the teams along the Iditarod route just north of Anchorage all the way to Nome getting their teams in shape and familiarizing themselves with the trail on 4 wheelers tethered to their team. The Iditarod itself is a turning point of seasons as it signifies the end of the long winter and the welcoming of Spring and finally, days with more sunlight. 

Every Alaskan has connected to dog mushing even before the Iditarod gave us a reason to celebrate. In the harshest winters, this was the only way to travel from one town to the next. It was and still is in some places, a life-saving resource taught by the natives to help our ancestral settlers survive. Still a way of life for some, we hold pride and applaud those that keep the culture alive. 

If you’re interested in dog mushing for your elopement, I highly encourage you to use an experienced planner like myself who knows the vendors so you can reserve a place with a company that you can trust takes great care of their dogs. It truly is such a magical experience and this activity is usually available from November - April. There is an option in the summer months to fly via helicopter to a dog mushing location as well!

Photographer: The Adams Co.

Videographer: Jake Elko

Kennel: Alaska Dog Mushing School

Florist: The Teal Door

Cake: Arctic Moon Bakery

Hair + MUA: @stylist.cherenee

Planner: Alaska Wild Hearts Events