John and Kristen’s heli-elopement will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
In conversations leading up to their big day, Kristen admitted to me that she had always known she wanted to elope ever since she was a little girl. Born and raised in the last frontier, Alaska was the obvious place to exchange their vows. The Knick Glacier.
The morning of July 18th was drizzly with a low cloud cover. I met Kristen at their lakeside Airbnb while she finished getting her hair and makeup done.
They had their first look on the dock where they soaked in the quiet, tranquil Alaskan beauty. There were tears shed and laughs had, followed by a shot-ski of course.
Prior to heading in to the helicopter charter, John and Kristen spent more time at their airbnb relaxing, FaceTiming friends and family, and enjoying some Cook’s champagne from the bottle – all as it should be.
And then, it was go time.
We drove to the Lodge in Palmer, meeting up with Madison of Alaska of Wild Hearts Events to get ready for our helicopter ride.
As the helicopter flew over the spanning views of Knick Glacier, all I could hear were the “wows” and other words of total awe and disbelief from my couple as we took in the incredible beauty below us.
To this day, I don’t think I’ve heard so many words of admiration, joy and excitement as I did that July afternoon.
The pilot pointed out our spot on the horizon. It was an aqua blue glacier pool, nestled near a mountain face with a waterfall. HOW IS THIS REAL????!!
The helicopter landed, and Kristen and John had a moment to take in the area while we waited for Madison to arrive to officiate their private ceremony.
They read their vows and more laughs and tears were shared.
Kristen and John requested tacos, old fashions and cake for their post-ceremony meal, and OH MY GOODNESS the tablescape that Madison put together was unreal!
After getting back to the lodge we drove into town in search of a brewery and a field fireweed (per Kristens request). We were successful in both ventures, plus some heeler puppy love.
This elopement reminded me of how incredibly important it is to prioritize experiences and presence over production and fluff. The joy and peace that permeated each minute with Kristen and John was so incredibly real and tangible.
If you’ve been on the fence about whether or not to elope – THIS IS YOUR SIGN! DOOOO IT!
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