How Much Does an Alaska Glacier Elopement Cost?

DIY Matanuska Glacier Elopement in Alaska.

If you have ever been to Alaska, you know we have some of the most breathtaking and wild scenes left in the world. With as much land to explore as almost half of our country – the possibilities may feel overwhelming to any couple looking into Alaska as part of their wedding plans. From mountain peaks and hot springs in Denali, to the quaint fishing towns in the south, Wasilla is nestled somewhere in-between. The Matanuska Valley and glacier offer unique opportunities for your photos that don’t require expensive helicopter fares, Ferries, Bush planes or Snow machines to access. One of the best parts of living out here is that I can capture epic backdrops without having to hike far or maneuver multiple stops/locations. It can really be as simple as loading up the car with your favorite people and driving until you find the perfect viewpoint.

Located about 2 hours from Wasilla proper (3-4 hours from Anchorage) is the Matanuska Glacier. Spanning hundreds of miles, the iconic public use area draws crowds and locals year round for Ice skating, climbing, hiking and general recreation. However, just a mile past the public use turn-off is the Matanuska Glacier Tour Company. A local, privately owned tour company that offers guided yours on the ice, and up close views of the Ice caves and wonders of the glacier. Each booking gets complimentary crampons (Ice spikes for your shoes) and a helmet. They also offer drinks and souvenirs’ at the check in station to warm up.

Imagine my shock and delight when I learned they charge only $50 for Alaska residents – after waiting years for the opportunity to fall into my lap, I decided to stop waiting on fate and plan a styled shoot and see what all goes into a low-budget DIY elopement on the glacier. Because at one point, Eloping meant that you were saving money, not just re-allocating it with less people. Facebook is dead, but the groups are alive and well for couples and photographers trying to connect – and it took no time to find a cute couple to model for me. I have a plethora of vintage wedding gowns in my closet as a collector with no self control. But I wanted something I have not shot with already, and remembering being a bride myself living in a state thousands of miles from my friends and family, I thought I would peek at the Value Village for something used that I wouldn’t mind getting Glacier Silt all over.

Value Village in Wasilla almost always has donated wedding gowns for dirt cheap, if you are a Bride on a Budget I recommend checking out your local thrift shops and paying more for alterations than you did on the actual dress. I snagged this one off the rack for $30.00 in the hopes it would fit my model (Spoiler – it Didnt.) and a map of the area for an additional $4.00

Glacier Blues + Orange hues

If you are looking at your options for Eloping in Alaska (Specifically the anchorage/Wasilla areas) and unsure what time of year to choose – let me influence you on Fall. The colors on this day were absolutely breathtaking with vivid yellows and reds, snow dusted peaks and plenty of scenic pull off areas to capture additional photos. These photos were all taken in mid September, when it is chilly enough to get the colors [but warm enough not to have to wear gloves.] All you need to bring is footwear that has support and traction, regular hiking shoes or slip on Romeos are perfect, a Jacket or coat, your rings – and a bouquet.

The staff were aware we were taking wedding photos and allowed us a “photo tour” with a private guide for 45 minutes. Once arriving at the official check in area, staff got us suited up with helmets and whisked us away in an Atv to the entrance of the glacier. The views are instantly breathtaking, especially if you were a National Geographic kid like me. Seeing the stark ice blue against the vibrant yellows of the fall foliage is like stepping into a Bob Ross Painting. Except I get to be the artist and immortalize it for my clients forever.

No helicopter or 5 mile hike needed – simply strap on your spikes, grab your lovers hand, and step foot on a moving glacier. You can hear the cracking and shifting as mother nature moves beneath your feet, reminding us of how wild these places really are. We made quick use of our time, the views offering something dramatic with every shift in perspective. Our guide was patient as we made stops, and even pointed out a few hidden gems for us to take photos with.

Occasionally Stepping over a crevasse or two, the end destination was maybe a 30 minute walk through the ice to a Ice wall face, black stripes throughout the ice resembling granite. The main event and for obvious reasons. I made a black tea to share and brought along my favorite pair of handed-down vintage mugs for my clients to warm up [ Plus it makes for cute ass photos] and the map for a few editorial vibe shots. Our guide found this particularly hilarious because he didn’t trust the vision ;]

Total Investment: $224.00

Glacier Tickets [Alaska Residents] : x3 $150

Dress: $30

Bouquet: $40

Map: $4

Are you recently engaged and on a budget? Do you dream of having an adventure forward, low key, and relaxed elopement? Have you had your eye on an Alaska Glacier Elopement Experience – but can’t afford the flights and logistics? This DIY approach is minimal, and can be easily modified to tell each couples unique story. I am here to guide my couples and assist in every way possible while leaving the room and time to dilly-dally the stress away. Make it a 2 day event and add a cabin boudoir session? Cute photos by the fire? Maybe we take a few side quests to nearby trails and dive bars – there are no bad options here.

Ready to say Fuck Yes? – Reach out to get in my books, Alaska Summer and Fall are the busiest, best get hoppin to my Dms! [thank you, love you bye.]

xo – Youre Favorite Photographers, Fave Photographer,

Jazz