How to Elope in Alaska : Stress-free Alaska Elopements

Discover the Majestic Beauty of Eloping in Alaska. We make your elopement in Alaska stress-free and fun!

Alaska elopements: Planning an elopement the easy way

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable elopement experience? Look no further than the breathtaking Alaska elopement destinations. Known for its pristine natural beauty, Alaska offers some of the best places to elope in the world. Imagine exchanging your vows against a backdrop of majestic mountains, serene lakes, and vast wilderness. With Alaska elopement packages tailored to suit your needs, you can embark on an adventure-filled celebration of love.

Whether you prefer intimate elopements in Alaska or desire to capture every precious moment with an experienced Alaska elopement photographer, the possibilities are endless. Explore the scenic elopement spots in Alaska, where each location holds its own unique charm. What’s even better is that affordable Alaska elopements are within reach, allowing you to create memories without breaking the bank.

Discover the magic of Alaska wilderness elopements, where nature becomes your witness and love blossoms in its purest form. From romantic elopement locations in Alaska to gathering unique elopement ideas, let the planning an elopement in Alaska guide be your companion on this extraordinary journey of love.

Below, we have prepared a full guide for you to elope in Alaska, so you can easily plan the adventure you have impatiently waited for so long! And also lucky for you, we have MORE recourses to make your Alaska Elopement completely stress-free. Just an amazing perk of having me as your go to famous photographer

Everything you need, from obtaining a legal marriage license to choosing the location of your dreams (our clients get more locations in detail that fit their personalities), we have listed here! Our expertise and experience will help you elope in Alaska as you deserve. 

If you want to see real Alaska elopements for inspiration check these out

Small Intimate Alaska Wedding with guests + adventure
A true adventure Alaska elopement helicopter glacier

The Ultimate Guide for Planning an Alaska Elopement

Welcome to stress-free Alaska elopement planning, where we embrace the magic of adventure and love in the breathtaking landscapes of the Last Frontier! Embarking on this journey might require some courage and determination, but rest assured, we’re here to make it an unforgettable experience, every step of the way.

While planning a wedding at home can be daunting, opting for a remote destination like Alaska may seem even more challenging. However, fear not, for we specialize in creating seamless elopement experiences that will leave you and your partner with nothing but beautiful memories.

Choosing to elope in Alaska opens up a world of possibilities and a chance to have a truly unique and intimate celebration. While some might hesitate due to the distance from family and friends, remember that this day is about you and your partner, celebrating your love in a place that resonates with your hearts. Embrace the idea that your love story deserves an extraordinary setting, and Alaska provides the perfect canvas for your dreamy destination wedding.

Alaska’s ever-changing weather may seem daunting, but with our expertise and local knowledge, we’ll ensure you’re well-prepared for any conditions. Think of it as a thrilling part of your adventure, with each moment of uncertainty adding a touch of excitement to your elopement. Deciding on the season can be the first step in planning, and we’ll help you curate a list of venues and activities that perfectly align with your preferences.

Let us handle the logistics and details while you focus on cherishing every moment of your journey. From stunning locations for your vows to thrilling excursions in the wilderness, we’ll craft an experience that reflects your love story and leaves you feeling relaxed and stress-free.

So gather your courage, embrace the spirit of adventure, and take this once-in-a-lifetime chance to create a truly unforgettable Alaska elopement. We’re here to make your dreams come true and ensure that your love story becomes a cherished tale for generations to come. Together, let’s embark on an extraordinary journey of love amidst the wild and scenic beauty of Alaska.

Activities for an adventurous elopement in Alaska

Opting for an Alaska elopement means enjoying some of the most exciting activities on the day you exchange your vows. This state offers unique and breathtaking views, so you have plenty of options to include in your photographs. If you want to make your elopement memorable, we recommend being as diverse as possible with your activities. You can pick some for the big day and leave the rest for your honeymoon. But the most important thing is that you have choices – an abundance of them!

Northern lights in Alaska

If you wish to experience some magic on your Alaska elopement, then the Northern lights are a must-see. However, they won’t be visible in summer due to longer daylight hours. So, if they’re on your list, you should plan your special day sometime between September and April. This will be a wonderful sight that will come as the cherry on top of your special day.

Moreover, to ensure that you’re going to witness them in all of their glory, make sure to go somewhere away from the city, because pollution can obstruct the view. Certain hotels will offer wake-up services not to miss the incredible sight.

Glaciers in Alaska

You cannot elope in Alaska without experiencing the magnificence of the glaciers. They are simply amazing, and there are multiple ways to admire their magnificence. If you want to go for some glacier walking, then you have Seward, Juneau, and Anchorage – fascinating areas surrounded by glaciers. Another option is Glacier Bay National Park, which will give you some splendid views. And if you are up to something more adventurous and wild, don’t forget to contact Seward Helicopter Tours for a helicopter landing on a glacier. They also offer overnight adventures, meaning you’re promised an amazing time.

Wild animals in Alaska

This state is known for its astonishing wildlife. So, why don’t you take advantage of your Alaska elopement to see a part of it? You can do some whale watching at Sewards or Glacier Bay and enjoy the sight of these beautiful creatures jumping in front of you. Another option is to visit Katmai and see the famous bears of this region or go to a reindeer farm. And, if you want to feel some thrill, then you can try dog sledding. So far, we personally have fished the banks during salmon season (only a good 2 week window in June!), dog sled, took a helicopter ride to glaciers, boat rides to private forest islands around waterfalls, whale watching, and finding the best seafood I’ve ever had.

More adventure Elopement things in Alaska!

This beautiful state offers so many things and adventures that it would be a pity not to experience them all, or at least most of them! One of the most popular sports adventures here is pack rafting, and its iceberg lagoons are the perfect places for it. Suppose you want to witness the remote portions of Alaska. In that case, you can take an air tour with Alpine Air Alaska or Seward Helicopters and visit some private and stunning locations to admire their beautiful views.

In addition, you can take a flight to the gates of the Arctic National Park, escape to Fairbanks, or go further north to experience the fascinating northern lights. 

Take a look at our BTS fun activities we experienced while shooting elopements in Alaska.

Best time to plan an Elopement In Alaska 

When you try to figure out how to elope in Alaska, it is quite important to consider the period during which you’ll travel. A lot of things depend on the month you choose for getting married, so make sure you pick the one that suits your needs and wishes best. 

Generally speaking, the best time for an Alaska adventure is May through September – weather-wise. More precisely, May and July are months characterized by extremely pleasant weather, while September is known for miraculously vibrant colors. However, note that traveling during the shoulders season will mean that you might not be able to enjoy some of the activities popular in this state. In other words, you may find that some of the activities may not have started or have already ended. On the other hand, you will enjoy stunning wildlife scenery, rushing rivers, blooming flowers, and temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees. 

Certain companies, such as specific helicopter companies, operate continuously throughout the year. Others, like most of those stationed in areas like Seward, function for merely four months per year. 

Another important thing is that you’ll witness the longest daylight hours during this period. But if you want to see the Aurora Borealis up close, then you shouldn’t travel between May and September. They are best visible from September to April.  

Nevertheless, if you intend to catch a glimpse of this spectacle, visiting Fairbanks from January to March would be wise. Once the weather conditions settle after the winter solstice, you can have a miraculous elopement under the magical skies of Alaska. During these months, the clear skies offer an ideal observation opportunity. Although the days are shorter, the possibility of viewing the magnificent hues of northern lights painted in the night sky is greater. 

For an all-encompassing Alaska elopement involving summer adventures and the Northern Lights, plan your visit between August 15 and September 15. But bear in mind that August is actually the wettest month here, so expect some rain. If you want to experience the driest possible conditions, then visiting Alaska throughout May would be best.

Conversely, February and March are ideal for a winter Aurora Borealis getaway, owing to prolonged hours of darkness and favorable snow conditions. You will get to enjoy an array of exhilarating winter pursuits like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing. Fairbanks stands as the best viewpoint of this breathtaking natural phenomenon. 

If you are pretty considerate of your budget, then early November and mid-December are the cheapest for traveling, with Anchorage being the least expensive city to stay at.

During the day, temperatures reach a balmy 60°F to 80°F, while in the evenings, they cool down refreshingly, dropping to 40 or 50 degrees. However, in May and September, temperatures should be 5° to 10° cooler. May represent the driest month, with only a 25% chance of precipitation on any given day. As summer progresses, the likelihood of rainfall increases, peaking at a 50% chance in September.

An interesting thing to consider is that June 21 marks the year’s longest day, with a whopping 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, 18 hours in Southeast, and 22 hours in Fairbanks. The evenings remain illuminated from late May to late July, with daylight extending past 10 pm for an additional month on either side of this period. These long days provide ample time to indulge in plenty of activities and relish in the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun.

The ideal period to see some stunning wildlife is between May and September. Although fly-in bear viewing typically starts in mid-June, it is also possible in July. Moose can be seen at any time of the year. Gray whales travel northwards in March and April, while Humpbacks are present from May to September. Orcas can be seen throughout the whole year.

However, we have your back if you need more precise details about each specific month of the year. Planning to elope in Alaska is a real adventure, therefore, it needs careful planning. So, if you want to go into details about some stuff, then we are here for you. 

• January and February – January may start with extended periods of darkness, but gradually the days brighten, reaching over 8 hours of light in early January and more than 12 hours by the end of February. This period is a great time for a winter expedition, with various towns hosting thrilling festivals. Moreover, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy the exceptional snow conditions, while those eager to witness the aurora can do so with sufficient darkness.
• March – We consider this month the ideal time for a visit, especially for a romantic winter-ending elopement. This is when the days start to get longer and temperatures reach 20 to 30 degrees. 
• April – April presents some challenges when it comes to visiting Alaska, as most summer activities are yet to begin, and snow has largely melted. However, you will still have some exciting choices. For instance, ski fans can indulge in crust skiing at higher elevations or still have the chance to witness the Northern Lights until the 20th of the month.
• September – September has several advantages, such as reduced hotel and activity prices, fewer crowds, fall colors, and optimal northern lights. However, days are shorter, and rain and cooler weather are possible. 
• October – The first half of October provides a great opportunity to enjoy some summer-like conditions without the crowds. With relatively warmer temperatures and longer days, you can really enjoy your stay. However, as the month progresses, days become shorter and colder, with a possibility of snowfall in the mountains.
• November – November in Alaska can be tough due to increasing darkness and cold temperatures in the 20s and 30s. However, if you are visiting for the Northern Lights and do not require many winter activities, November could be an ideal month for your trip.
• December – Winter days in Alaska are short, with daylight beginning around mid-morning and fading into dusk by mid-afternoon. Nevertheless, the season offers amazing opportunities for winter sports with great snow conditions and twinkling holiday lights adorning the cities. Additionally, the cold and dark nights make it an ideal time for the Aurora Borealis experience. 

Obtaining a marriage license in Alaska

Couples who opt for elopement find the legal stuff the most exhausting. Since there are different rules in different countries, you have to be well-informed, so you can set out on your adventure prepared. When figuring out how to elope in Alaska, take into account that you don’t need to gather extensive documentation, but you need to have everything ready. 

First, you will need to download a marriage license, which costs around $60 and is valid for 90 days. You need to obtain it within a reasonable timeframe before your special day. Other documents you will need are IDs or birth certificates. There’s a three-day waiting period, and you’ll have to have a Notary Public witness before you send the documents off.

Your marriage application needs to be turned in to the Alaska Court or The Vital Records Office in Juneau or Anchorage. To legally elope in Alaska, you will need to have two witnesses present at your ceremony. If you don’t plan on bringing any family or friends, your witnesses can be your Alaska elopement photographer and some random hiker- if they want to do you a favor. If you ask us, this is quite cool and completely adventurous! 

Different types of Elopement Ceremonies

Intimate 

If you still want some of your closest people next to you when you say I DO, then you can opt for an intimate ceremony. This means that you can give your parents and sibling a chance to see you get married. However, if you don’t want to exchange vows in front of them, you can always do it privately, without their presence.

Just us 

It is an elopement ceremony that involves only the couple, with no guests or family members present. So, all the special moments are shared between the two of you. Despite the lack of attendees, the ceremony is still legally binding and allows the couple to get married.

Unity  

There are symbols used during a marriage ceremony that represents the decision to merge your life with your partner’s. These symbols can take many forms, such as lighting a unity candle, planting a tree together, or combining two different drinks into one.

Religious

If you’re thinking of having a religious ceremony in another country, it is a good idea to hit up your local place of worship first. They should be able to give you the lowdown on what’s required and might even have some sweet recommendations for churches to tie the knot in.

Symbolic

A symbolic elopement is the easiest way to get married away from home. But keep in mind that a symbolic ceremony won’t hold any legal weight in most places, so you’ll need to find an officiant to make it official and declare you as a married couple.

Civil 

This ceremony usually takes place in a courthouse, where you sign the marriage license. Don’t forget that you will need a couple of witnesses (usually two) to sign the register alongside you. 

Scenic elopement spots in Alaska

The most exciting part of planning an Alaska elopement is picking out your location. This state is known for miraculous landscapes and magical scenery, so whichever place you use, you will absolutely enjoy yourselves- and your celebration! Here are some of the most stunning locations for getting married. 

Glacier Bay National Park

Perhaps the most striking thing Alaska is known for is the UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park. It’s one of the locations you can pass by during one of the Inside Passage cruises, which would definitely be the highlight of your trip. Not only will you see the 100-tone icebergs of the Margerie Glacier, but you’ll also witness the abundant wildlife of orcas, sea lions, seals, and other marine animals. If you bring a pair of binoculars, you will probably spot a bear onshore or some mountain goats on the cliffs.

Katmai National Park

We’ve already briefly mentioned this location, so you know it’s mainly popular for the brown grizzly bears living there. In addition, this national park is home to Brooks Falls- Alaska’s most famous waterfall that offers stunning bear-viewing spots. This remote park is also known for the hiking, fishing, rafting, and kayaking possibilities it offers. However, due to its specific location, you’ll be able to reach it only by floatplane. Well, ain’t this the most unique and adventurous way to elope in Alaska?

Fairbanks 

Fairbanks, with its rustic charm, is a haven for the truly adventurous. You’ll get to admire the wild terrain and infuse your Alaskan expedition with a healthy dose of excitement. This is easily done by participating in activities such as snowmobiling, viewing the breathtaking Northern Lights, and visiting a reindeer ranch. The city is just an hour-long flight away from Anchorage or a 12-hour train ride. If you decide to rent a car, you’ll be able to reach it in approximately 8 hours.

Juno

As the capital city of Alaska, Juneau provides an urban backdrop for an elopement, yet it will also enchant those who deeply admire the wilderness. The city boasts an abundance of wildlife, including whales, birds, and bears, and can be conveniently accessed by ferry or air travel. Moreover, with 40 glaciers close to the city and the largest intact rainforest Tongas, a Juneau elopement is sure to give you an unforgettable experience. 

Seward

Located south of Anchorage, the Seward area can be conveniently reached by a 35-minute flight or a 2-hour drive. However, the most exciting way to get there is by train, which takes around four hours and offers breathtaking views along the way. Seward is known for its rural and natural environment with abundant wildlife and trails. Being a coastal town, it provides a stunning backdrop for beautiful photos.

Anchorage 

An Anchorage elopement is perfect for those seeking a blend of city and nature. It is the largest city in Alaska, nestled amidst awe-inspiring, snow-capped mountains, resulting in a picturesque location. Moreover, Anchorage’s airport offers easy access to the city, eliminating the need for extensive travel or connecting flights to reach more remote areas.

Denali

Denali is undoubtedly one of the top reasons to choose Alaska as your elopement destination. The National Park and Reserves are fascinating, providing an ideal outdoor venue to exchange vows with your loved one. The park is abundant with scenic trails, majestic mountains, and breathtaking vistas, so you will have the chance to explore the most beautiful treasures of this state. What’s more, this pristine ecosystem boasts unique wildlife – from wolves and bears to caribou and even Dall sheep. You’ll get to witness all this from your bus or through a ranger-led program.

You can reach Denali via a plane, which will take 1.5 from Anchorage or about 2 hours from Juno. Another possibility is to take an 8-hour train ride or a 4-hour car ride from Anchorage.

Things to consider while planning your Alaska Elopement

Picking the date and place of your elopement doesn’t mean that you have already acquired all the information about how to elope in Alaska. There are some additional things you need to consider, and which will really help you with the planning. 

• Insurance – Since you are going on a trip, it is always wise to be protected. You never know what can happen on your way to your destination, so some insurance coverage will not do any harm. 
• Flights – It’s highly recommended to avoid arriving the day before or on the day of your elopement. This is due to unexpected flight delays or cancellations that can occur, so it’s best that you book your flight a couple of days. Having an extra day to spare provides some assurance and flexibility in your travel plans.
• Extra costs – You should count on some extra costs, like activities, food, and gas. Therefore, make sure that you plan them along with your other expenses. 

 

Getting around and staying in Alaska

Flights – Alaska’s primary ports of entry are Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau airports. Among them, Anchorage is the largest city with the busiest airport – the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. You can check out Skyscanner, Momondo, Cheapoair, and Google Flights for affordable flight options.

Ferry – Traveling by ferry is another enjoyable way to explore Alaska’s beautiful destinations.

Car rentals – It is always convenient to get around Alaska by car. You will want to get from one place to another easily and without tricky commuting ways, therefore, renting a car will be a wise decision. 

 

Staying in Alaska for your elopement

The most practical option for your accommodation in Alaska would be to stay in a hotel. There are plenty of hotels in Anchorage, Denali, Fairbanks, Seward, Juneau, Glacier View, and Glacier Bay you can select from. However, there are also some amazing Airbnb accommodations that you might find suitable. We have a whole list of our favorite Airbnb stays that cover the whole state of Alaska

What to wear for your Alaska elopement

The dress 

As you will be doing a lot of walking and exploring in your elopement dress, it’s important to consider practicality when choosing your attire. While mermaid-style dresses may look stunning, they can be difficult to move in, and heavier fabrics may make you feel hot and sweaty if you plan on hiking. It’s best to opt for lighter fabrics such as tulle or chiffon, as they will keep you cool and will look gorgeous in photos, even if it gets windy on your Alaska elopement day. For getting married in colder months or unpredictable weather conditions, consider bringing base layers such as nude leggings to wear underneath your dress to keep you warm. 

The shoes   

Wearing high heels or uncomfortable dress shoes may not be the most practical choice for an adventure elopement. However, opting for a pair of hiking boots with your wedding attire can be quite cool! To ensure you’re fully prepared for the big day, break into your shoes ahead of time and avoid any unnecessary distractions while you’re out exploring.

The suit

For those not planning to hike during their Alaska adventure, a three-piece tuxedo can be a great option, especially in colder months. However, you might want to opt for a lighter and more breathable outfit during summertime. A nice button-up shirt paired with dress pants will still look classy and elegant while keeping you comfortable. Wearing thermal base layers under your clothes can be a lifesaver in colder weather.

Alaska Elopement Packages

Starting off at $8,000

12 hour non consecutive Alaska elopement full-day package 

This elopement photography package includes full-day coverage from sunrise to sunset, spanning 12 hours of non-consecutive shooting. The coverage includes capturing the emotions that are contained in every moment, such as first looks, hiking, ceremony, celebration, and star shots. The package also provides printing rights and a digital gallery for viewing, downloading, and online image ordering, along with a print release for personal printing, posting and sharing. It also offers customized location scouting and research, optional complimentary officiant services throughout the United States, permit assistance, vendor recommendations, custom elopement timeline, and unlimited consultation calls.
AND I can marry you!

You will also receive a 90+ page guide on How to Elope in Alaska, which contains plenty of tips, tricks, and recommendations to help you plan everything. 

In addition, all travel fees for your Alaska elopement photographer are included in the package.

6-8 hour Alaska elopement package 

This package includes coverage for the couple and up to 20 witnesses for up to 6-8 hours on a weekday or weekend. It also provides printing rights, a digital gallery, location scouting, permit assistance, vendor recommendations, and a 90+ page elopement guide. Optional officiant services are also available. The service also offers customized location scouting and research, optional complimentary officiant services throughout the United States, permit assistance, vendor recommendations, custom elopement timeline, and unlimited consultation calls. Also, all photographer travel fees are included in the package.
AND I can marry you!

We hope that you’re now more confident in deciding that this Arctic adventure is what you need for your upcoming elopement. If you are ready to plan your Alaska elopement, feel free to get in touch. We know we can make this a venture to remember for you.

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