Seward Alaska Elopement with Helicopters and Glaciers

Margot (she/her) and Diana (she/her) didn’t set out dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony in Alaska. But after getting engaged surrounded by family on a beach in Mexico, they quickly realised the big traditional wedding wasn’t for them. What they really wanted? A celebration that felt quiet, personal, and full of adventure. So they scrapped the guest list and planned a two-day elopement in Seward, Alaska – complete with helicopters, glacier lakes, and one very sweet bear sighting.

From pizza at their cabin to vows on a mountaintop and a surprise serenade mid-flight, their day was full of love, laughter, and intention. With Sam Starns Adventure Elopement Photography capturing every moment and Marathon Helicopters helping them reach the clouds, this is how their elopement came together.

Why did you choose Seward, Alaska for your elopement?

Originally, we were thinking Glacier National Park or Yosemite – somewhere wild with big views and space to explore. But then our photographer, Sam Starns, suggested Alaska and sent us some photos of Seward. As soon as we saw them, we were in. The variety in the landscapes, the feeling of adventure – it was everything we wanted.

How did your friends and family respond to your decision to elope?

We just told them it felt like the right choice for us. Some were a little disappointed they wouldn’t see us get married, but everyone was super supportive. They understood we were creating something intimate and intentional.

Tell us about your elopement outfits!

My dress was from Kate’s Bridal Cottage, and Diana put together her look with pieces from Men’s Wearhouse – her pants and shirt were simple and perfect for the adventure vibe we were going for.

It all felt easy and relaxed, just like the rest of the trip.

Who helped bring your day to life?

Finding the right photographer was our top priority, and Sam Starns was that and more. After our first meeting, she helped us organise everything – and she honestly became a close friend through the process. Our hair and makeup artist was also incredible. She even helped me get into my dress before our first look so Diana wouldn’t see me. Everyone we worked with made us feel supported and seen.

Can you walk us through both days of your elopement?

Day one was pure magic. We had coffee in the morning, kept things low-key, and got ready at our cabin. After our first look, we ate leftover pizza (which was honestly perfect) and then headed out for our helicopter ride with Marathon Helicopters. The views were unreal.

We landed next to a glacier and had our ceremony there – just us, a speaker playing our song, and the mountains all around. We slow-danced, exchanged vows and rings, and sealed it all with a kiss. At one of the other helicopter stops, Diana even sang to me with her guitar. That night, we went to a local restaurant for dinner, and when we walked in, everyone clapped and cheered. It felt like this spontaneous little celebration with strangers.

Day two started with a scenic train ride to a hiking trail. We walked a mile to a glacier lake, kicked off our boots, and stood barefoot in the water surrounded by mountains. On the ride back, the conductor announced a bear was on the tracks – and we got to watch it from the window.

Later that day, I surprised Diana with letters from our friends and family. We cried, laughed, and just soaked it all in.

How did you personalise your ceremony?

Our kids are a big part of our life, so I had bracelets made with their birthstones to carry with us. We also included both of our birth flowers in my bouquet.

And since music is so important to Diana, she brought her guitar and played a song during one of our mountaintop stops. That moment still gives me chills.

We did. Writing our vows gave us a chance to reflect on everything we’ve been through together. Saying them out loud in that quiet, wild space, it was emotional and grounding all at once.

Any advice for other couples thinking about eloping?

Trust your gut. If a big wedding doesn’t feel right, you don’t have to force it. Make space for the kind of day that feels good for you. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your people, you get to write your own rules.

Photography by Sam Starns Adventure Elopement Photography

Dress Kate’s Bridal Cottage
Suit Men’s Wearhouse
Transport Marathon Helicopters