Congratulations! You’ve found the one, and now you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as unique as your love story. Forget about traditional venues and wedding halls; it’s time to take your vows to new heights with a helicopter elopement in Alaska! Imagine exchanging vows amidst towering mountains, lush forests, and glaciers that stretch beyond the horizon. This ultimate guide is your ticket to an extraordinary wedding adventure that will leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime.
PS, be sure to book me to be your elopement photographer! I have personal experience photographing helicopter elopements, am well aware of the safety protocols, and can help you achieve your desired imagery from your special day. Let’s do this.
Why Choose Helicopter Elopements in Alaska?
So, why Alaska and why helicopters? Let’s dive into the thrilling reasons that make helicopter elopements in Alaska truly unforgettable!
- Stunning Scenic Backdrops: Alaska boasts some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes on the planet. Picture saying “I do” with the breathtaking backdrop of the Denali National Park, the Kenai Fjords, or the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing above you.
- Intimate and Private: Escape the hustle and bustle of traditional weddings and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Helicopter elopements offer an intimate experience shared only with your partner, the officiant, and perhaps a few close friends or family members.
- Adventure and Thrills: If you and your partner are adrenaline junkies seeking excitement and adventure, Alaska has it all! From landing on remote glaciers to exploring hidden waterfalls, each moment will be filled with exhilaration.
- Epic Photography Opportunities: Your wedding photos will be nothing short of extraordinary. Professional photographers will capture every moment against the backdrop of Alaska’s awe-inspiring beauty, creating lifelong memories in every frame.
- Flexibility and Freedom: Unlike traditional weddings, which may have strict timelines and guidelines, helicopter elopements offer flexibility. You can choose the perfect time, location, and even combine your wedding with a mini-honeymoon adventure.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Planning Your Helicopter Elopement
Ready to embark on this thrilling journey? Planning your helicopter elopement in Alaska may seem daunting, but fear not! Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to your dream wedding.
- Choosing the Right Season:
- Alaska experiences diverse seasons, each offering unique charms. Decide if you want the snow-covered magic of winter, the bloom of spring, the endless days of summer, or the enchanting fall foliage.
- Selecting the Location:
- Alaska’s vastness can be overwhelming, but your wedding planner can help you narrow down the perfect location. Whether it’s a glacier landing, a mountaintop ceremony, or a hidden forest clearing, the options are limitless.
- The Guest List:
- Helicopter elopements are perfect for intimate gatherings. Decide if you want to share this adventure with just your partner or include a few close friends and family members.
- Choosing Your Helicopter Operator:
- Do thorough research to find a reputable helicopter operator with experienced pilots who prioritize safety. Check reviews and ask for recommendations from couples who have had similar experiences.
- Marriage License and Permits:
- Ensure you have all the necessary legal paperwork and permits to make your wedding official. Your wedding planner can guide you through this process.
- Wedding Attire:
- Dress comfortably and practically for your helicopter adventure. Consider the weather and terrain when choosing your wedding attire and footwear.
- Photography and Videography:
- Hire professional photographers and videographers who have experience with helicopter elopements. They know how to capture the magic of your day while ensuring everyone’s safety during the flight.
The Big Day: Your Helicopter Elopement Experience
The day has arrived! Your heart is pounding with excitement as you prepare to embark on this epic journey. Here’s what you can expect from your helicopter elopement experience:
- Safety Briefing:
- Your pilot will conduct a safety briefing before the flight, ensuring everyone is aware of safety procedures during the helicopter ride and landing. I highly encourage you to not get out of the helicopter until the engine is completely off and the rotor blades are completely stopped. (No need to rush).
- The Flight:
- Buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating flight over Alaska’s stunning landscapes. As you soar through the skies, take in the awe-inspiring views and the sheer majesty of the scenery below.
- The Landing:
- Your helicopter will touch down at your chosen wedding location. Whether it’s a glacier, mountain peak, or secluded forest, the moment you step out will be truly magical. Come prepared for uneven ground and have shoes that get you at least to where you want your photographs to be captured.
- The Ceremony:
- Your officiant will lead you through a heartfelt ceremony, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Exchange your vows with your partner, and let the wilderness be the witness to your love.
- Celebratory Toast:
- Raise a glass to your new life together as you savor the moment and the breathtaking views around you.
- Photography Session:
- Your photographer will capture the essence of your love against the backdrop of Alaska’s grandeur. Pose amidst the mountains or dance on a glacier—the possibilities are endless! Personally speaking, I would love to be your photographer. Send me a message to inquire.
- The Return Flight:
- The adventure doesn’t end with the ceremony! Enjoy another scenic flight as you make your way back, cherishing the memories of this extraordinary day.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
FAQs about Helicopter Elopements in Alaska
Q: How much does a helicopter elopement in Alaska cost?
A: The cost varies depending on the location, duration of the flight, and additional services you opt for. On average, helicopter elopements can range from $3,000 to $15,000.
Q: Can we write our vows and have a personalized ceremony?
A: Absolutely! Helicopter elopements are all about personalization. Work with your officiant to create vows that reflect your love story.
Q: Are there any restrictions on where we can have our ceremony?
A: While Alaska offers vast wilderness, there are some restrictions on where helicopters can land. Your helicopter operator and wedding planner will guide you on permissible locations.
Q: Do we need to be physically fit for a helicopter elopement?
A: While you don’t need to be an athlete, a basic level of fitness is advisable, as some landing sites may involve short walks or uneven terrain.
Q: What if the weather is bad on our scheduled wedding day?
A: Weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Most helicopter operators have flexible scheduling and will work with you to find the best window for your elopement.
Q: What are some helicopter tour companies in Alaska that can help us with our elopement adventure?
- Alaska Helicopter Tours: Helicopter Weddings & Events
- Alaska Helicopter Tours offer versatile wedding packages for elopements, proposals, and vow renewals. Their helicopter rentals for weddings provide the opportunity to get married right on a glacier, granting your guests a unique and unforgettable experience with nature in the Alaskan wilderness.
- Their elopement packages include options for private tours to stunning locations like the Knik River Valley and lower Knik Glacier, where you can experience the beauty of the blue glacier melt pools. The packages also include the services of ordained pilots who can officiate the ceremony if desired, along with optional add-ons such as champagne and chocolate-covered strawberry packages to add an extra touch of celebration to your special moment.
- Alaska Helicopter Tours offers packages for both small, intimate elopements and larger gatherings of up to 50 people, allowing you to tailor your wedding experience to your preferences and create lasting memories surrounded by Alaska’s breathtaking scenery.
- URL: Alaska Helicopter Tours – Helicopter Weddings & Events
- Alpine Air Alaska
- Another company that really leans into the special experience of taking you into the wilderness for your elopement, Alpine Air Alaska is there to help. Be sure to check them out as you plan out your own helicopter adventure.
- URL: Special Events & Celebrations with Alpine Air
Conclusion About Alaskan Helicopter Elopements
In short, do it. I highly encourage you to explore this idea for having an absolutely remarkable day by chartering a private helicopter tour, land on a glacier, and bring your photographer & videographer with you.
Alaska, with its untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring beauty, offers the perfect setting for a helicopter elopement that will be etched in your hearts forever. From stunning vistas to thrilling flights, this ultimate guide has unveiled the magic of helicopter elopements in Alaska. So, go ahead and make your dream wedding an adventurous reality, where love soars to new heights and memories are eternally frozen in time!
Remember, in the ultimate guide about helicopter elopements in Alaska, the sky’s not the limit—it’s just the beginning! So, embark on this epic journey, and let love and nature unite in a celebration of a lifetime.
If you’re seeking a truly unique and unforgettable elopement experience, consider a helicopter elopement in the stunning landscapes of Alaska. This adventurous and romantic option allows you and your partner to exchange vows in breathtaking locations that few have the privilege to witness. From glacier landings to high alpine views, Alaska offers a range of helicopter wedding packages to suit your preferences and create cherished memories for a lifetime.
PS, since you are considering having a wedding or elopement in Alaska, you might find these other articles around my site helpful:
