A Truly Alaskan Wedding
One thing I love about outdoor weddings and elopements in Alaska is you never quite know exactly how they will turn out. You can have ideas, plan, and schedules — but the thing about Alaska is that nature always has the beautiful final word.
When I arrived at Dylan and Anna’s Alaska beach wedding venue, you could tell it was going to rain. The clouds were rolling and the air was thick. That did not deter anyone from enjoying the day. The air was as thick with humidity as it was with joy and excitement. The groomsmen were paving a path from the cabin to the arch down on the beach and passing around bottles of Alaskan Amber Blood Orange Ale. As guests began to filter in, the groomsmen joked around with guests at the main cabin, while the bride was getting ready at another cabin down the beach.
Here Comes The Bride
When the ceremony began, Anna walked down the trail toward her father. You could feel the love they have for each other as he hugged her tightly before walking her down the rocky beach isle lined with stones and flowers. As he “gave” Anna to Dylan’, her dad embraced them both in a big hug.
Usually during a wedding ceremony, I see the couple standing a couple feet apart, looking at each other happily until it’s time to kiss. Not Dylan and Anna. I could tell Dylan was a hugger, because he reached out and embraced her multiple times as the officiant spoke. They said a prayer, exchanged rings, and read their handwritten vows. They had their first kiss as a married couple and embraced once more before walking back down the isle and high-fiving guests.
Here comes the rain
Then the rain began. The rain held out just enough for the ceremony, but as soon as the ceremony was over, it let loose. In true Southeast Alaska fashion, it began to pour.
Most guests were prepared already with Xtra-Tuff boots and rain jackets. They sheltered in the cabin and enjoyed some food and drinks while we took quick family photos and bridal portraits. There was so much happiness though that nobody really seemed to mind. No matter how cold and wet everyone got, there were still smiles all around.
Before retreating to their reception Anna and Dylan took a walk along the foggy beach shoreline. We stopped one last time at their beautiful arch for more hugs and photos. Then we said our goodbyes. Thank you so much Dylan and Anna for letting me be a part of your gorgeous wedding day.
Vendors
Officiant: Rhys Mateo
Bride’s Hair: Sammy Ia with Charisma Salon
Bride’s Makeup: Meraki with Devyn Reece
Flowers: Frenchie’s Floral
Beer: Alaskan Brewing Company
