While countless couples planning outdoor weddings choose a quintessential sandy beach lapped by azure waters to tie the knot, those who are drawn to scenery like majestic mountains, forests, jewel-like lakes, and glistening glaciers, might want to consider Alaska. The 49th state is the ultimate place for adventurers and with its abundant wildlife, there might be a bald eagle soaring above as you say your “I dos.”
A glacier wedding in Alaska is the ultimate when it comes to unique ceremonies with a stunning setting that perfectly complements the beauty of your love. Just imagine the photos of you two surrounded by massive sheets of blue-tinged ice in a remote location where you’ll have the spot all to yourselves. Glaciers are especially good for romantic elopements with total privacy for you and your beloved.
The Location
Alaska is the biggest state in the U.S. by far, covering over 1.7 million miles with tens of thousands of glaciers. That means you’ll have lots of options for your glacier wedding, which may feel overwhelming.
We recommend choosing a glacier near Girdwood. This picturesque mountain town is less than an hour from Anchorage International Airport, making it easy to reach while providing access to glaciers that will make you feel as if you’re in an entirely different world. From local shopping and food to wilderness adventures, there’s so much to do in Girdwood. Your and your wedding party will have no shortage of excitement before, during, and after your glacier wedding plans!
Plus, it’s home to one of the best outfitters in Alaska to get you to the glacier. At Alpine Air, we have decades of experience helping countless couples take engagement photos or make their wedding dreams come true.
A Helicopter Ride
While it’s possible to access some glaciers on foot or by water, flying there via helicopter is best. Getting there will be part of the excitement, with the chance to gaze down at some of the world’s most jaw-dropping scenery while watching for wildlife like bears and moose. It’s an epic journey that provides the perfect setup to your ceremony without dirtying your appearance. Those wedding clothes can stay as pristine as the wild landscapes below.
Your Wedding Party
Helicopters are the best way to have your wedding on a glacier, surrounded by some of the most surreal natural beauty, but it does limit the number of people you can bring with you. Still, the intimacy and romance of a small group is hard to beat, and you don’t have to do it alone.
With Alpine Air Alaska, you can arrange to bring up to six passengers. This typically includes the happy couple, an officiant, a photographer, and two of your closest friends, family members, or anyone else you choose. It’s absolutely perfect for elopements and there will be no worries about pleasing dozens or even hundreds of guests, making it blissfully stress-free.
The Reception
After sharing your wedding vows on the glacier and making it official in a private ceremony, you can hold a reception for a larger group back in Girdwood. Some of the best venue options include:
- Alyeska Resort. This renowned property blends Native influences with modern amenities and preeminent comfort, making it ideal for any of your wedding dreams. The location offers lodging options for large guest lists and a reception area with expansive indoor and outdoor venues. There are nine different spaces, ranging from intimate areas that can accommodate 55 guests as well as larger spaces that can comfortably fit 200. Catering services include a wide array of food choices and there are salon services on-site that make it easy to create an ideal look for your ceremony.
- Bison Hall at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This new venue can be ideal for a reception with an excellent management team. It’s a picturesque, barn-like building with high vaulted ceilings, wooden beams, a moose antler chandelier, and large windows for lots of natural light. Plus, you’ll be in a spectacular setting that includes lots of animals like bison, bears, caribou, moose, and wolves.
- Jack Sprat Restaurant. Jack Sprat is an outstanding venue for your rehearsal. You can rent the entire restaurant (or a small part) for your reception, complete with a four-course personalized menu featuring local, fresh, sustainably sourced foods.
Plan Your Unforgettable Glacier Wedding in Alaska
Alpine Air Alaska is the longest-running helicopter service in the Girdwood area, with an extensive safety record and unmatched customer service that’s led to our stellar reputation. With that kind of track record, you know your glacier wedding in Alaska is going to be everything you’ve dreamed of.
Our highly experienced pilots have taken many couples to embark on their adventures of a lifetime. We can help you plan your special event or glacier wedding in Alaska by recommending various wedding planners, photographers, and more that we have worked with over the years. Contact us today to learn more and make your wedding dreams come true.
