Planning a Wedding in Upstate New York? Get Inspired by This Stunning Styled Shoot at The Sablewood
Lost in the Wild: A Stunning Styled Elopement in Alaska + Essential Planning Tips!
We’re always drawn to wild, untamed wedding shoots, so when we came across this mystical styled elopement in Alaska, we knew it had to be featured on Bespoke Bride. We reached out to Jessica Weier, CEO of Roam to Wed and the talented photographer behind this breathtaking shoot, to uncover the story behind it. Stay until the end for some handy tips on planning your own epic elopement in Alaska!
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
“In the heart of the Chugach Mountains, wrapped in layers of mist and towering pines, this styled elopement felt like stepping into a dream.”, Jessica tells us. “The fog rolled through the valleys like a quiet whisper, softening the rugged peaks and creating an intimate world where time seemed to stand still. It was just the two of them, immersed in the stillness of the Alaskan wilderness, with nothing but the wind in the trees and the distant call of an eagle overhead.
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Dressed for adventure, they wandered through the forest, the scent of pine hanging in the crisp mountain air. The fog clung to the treetops, shifting with every breath of wind, casting an ethereal glow over the landscape. Their vows, spoken softly against the hush of the wild, felt even more profound in the solitude of this untamed place.
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
Roam to Wed
This was more than just a styled shoot—it was a story of connection, of choosing the wild and the real over the expected. The Chugach Mountains provided the perfect backdrop, proving that love, at its core, is about the moments shared in the quiet, away from the rest of the world.”
The Vendors
Ceremony Location: Chugach National Forest / Makeup Artist: Marissas MakeUpPlan // Hair Stylist: Niche Beauty by Kaedi // Photographer: Roam to Wed, LLC
Tips and Ideas for Planning Your Elopement in Alaska
Alaska doesn’t do halfway. It’s either glaciers the size of small countries or forests so deep you’d swear time forgot about them. If you’re looking for an elopement that feels like stepping into a world untouched by the rush of everyday life, this is your place. But let’s be honest—an elopement in Alaska is not as simple as hopping on a plane and winging it. There’s weather, logistics, and the occasional moose to consider. So, let’s get into the details.
Choosing the Right Location
Alaska is not a one-size-fits-all kind of place. The right location depends on your vibe.
- Girdwood – If you want a mix of adventure and accessibility, this mountain town is ideal. Alyeska Resort offers mountaintop views via tram, making it easy to reach an epic backdrop without a strenuous hike.
- Denali National Park – Wild, remote, and jaw-dropping. Just be prepared for the unpredictability of the weather (Denali likes to hide behind the clouds, playing hard to get).
- Hatcher Pass – Rolling tundra, dramatic peaks, and an eerie sense of isolation. It’s stunning in both summer and winter, with abandoned mining structures adding a touch of history.
- Glacier elopements – Want to stand on a frozen river of ancient ice? Helicopter to Knik Glacier or Matanuska Glacier. It’s not cheap, but the experience is unreal.
For real-time conditions and permits, check out the National Park Service.
Timing It Right
Summer is the obvious choice for your elopement in Alaska because it means long days, mild temps, and lush landscapes. But fall? That’s when the tundra turns red and gold, and the crowds thin out. Winter elopements can be magical, but you’ll need to plan for subzero temps and limited daylight. Spring is tricky—it’s mostly “breakup season,” meaning melting snow and mud.
For historical weather patterns, check NOAA’s climate data.
Handling Logistics
Alaska is not the kind of place where you wing the details. Here’s what you need to think about:
- Transportation – Many locations require a rental car, preferably a 4×4. If you’re heading to a remote spot, look into bush planes or helicopters.
- Marriage License – No waiting period, but you do need to apply in advance. You can get one through the Alaska Department of Health.
- Local Vendors – Many photographers and officiants specialize in adventure elopements and are accustomed to hiking up mountains with you. Take the time to find the perfect one who aligns with your vision and style!
Dealing with the Weather
Here’s the deal: Alaska does what it wants. Even in summer, rain and wind can make an appearance. The best approach? Embrace it. The fog rolling through the mountains? It’s cinematic. The wind whipping through your hair? That’s nature’s version of a Beyoncé fan. But if you absolutely need clear skies, consider eloping in Southeast Alaska, which has a slightly more stable climate compared to the interior.
For up-to-date forecasts, check Weather.gov,
What to Wear
- Layers, always layers. The weather can shift fast. Think moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell.
- Boots, not heels. Unless your dream is sinking into the tundra or slipping on ice, invest in good hiking boots.
- Windproof everything. That stunning flowy dress? Beautiful, but it will turn into a parachute in high winds. A weighted hem helps.
Why It’s Worth It
Eloping in Alaska isn’t about convenience. It’s about standing on the edge of the world, just the two of you, with nothing but mountains, sky, and a sense of endless possibility. It’s about choosing adventure over predictability and letting nature be the grandest wedding venue imaginable. Yes, it takes planning. Yes, you might get rained on. But that’s all part of the story.
So, pack smart, expect the unexpected, and let Alaska do what it does best—leave you speechless.
