Courtney & Evan’s Dreamy September Adventure

Courtney and Evan traveled all the way from New England for their fall Alaska helicopter elopement, and their September wedding day could not have been more perfect. Late September in Alaska can be a gamble—storms, early snow, and unpredictable winds are all part of the package—but on this day, the weather showed off in the best possible way. They chose their date in honor of Courtney’s grandparents’ anniversary, and honestly, it truly felt like her grandparents were with us, blessing the day with sunshine, calm skies, and the most breathtaking glacier views.

Getting Ready in Wasilla

I arrived at their cozy Airbnb in Wasilla where the excitement was already building. Their details—rings, florals, vow books, jewelry—made for a gorgeous flat lay that perfectly captured the tone of their intimate celebration. While they finished getting ready, the air was full of happy nerves, laughter, and that warm sense of “this is really happening.”

Their first look might have been one of my favorite moments of the morning. Set against the quiet Alaskan forest backdrop, Evan’s reaction was priceless. It was emotional, sweet, and such a grounding moment before the adventure began.

Outbound Heli & the Journey to Knik Glacier

After packing up, we headed to Outbound Heli for the start of their fall Alaska helicopter elopement experience. As the helicopter lifted off, the colors of fall spread out beneath us—rusty reds, golds, fading greens—leading into the vast icy world of the Knik Glacier.

Our first landing spot, their ceremony location, was absolutely surreal. Because it was late September, many of the glacier pools had already frozen over, creating shimmering patterns and textures that looked like something from another planet. The entire glacier felt still, quiet, and sacred—exactly the kind of place you’d want to say your vows.

A Sweet, Personal Ceremony on the Ice

Courtney and Evan’s handwritten vows were heartfelt and deeply personal. The way they looked at each other—full of emotion and joy—made it so clear why they chose an intimate elopement. After officially saying “I do,” they celebrated in true Alaskan fashion: with shots of Fireball right on the glacier! It was the perfect mix of fun, sentimental, and a little wild—just like an elopement should be 😉

They wandered the glacier hand in hand while I captured photos of them exploring the blue ice, cracking up together, and soaking in the once-in-a-lifetime moment. Every direction we turned, the landscape looked unreal.

On to Landing #2

Once we wrapped up at the ceremony spot, we hopped back into the helicopter for our second landing. (And yes—every landing truly feels like arriving on a new planet!) This spot offered dramatic mountain views and rolling ice formations that made for more epic portraits and some playful exploring. They even found some low bush blueberries to snack on!!

Courtney and Evan embraced every part of the adventure—laughing, climbing, twirling, and just being fully present with each other. Their energy made the day effortless to photograph.

If you’re dreaming of a Fall Alaska Helicopter Elopement of your own, this day is the perfect example of why September can be absolute magic. A little risk, a whole lot of beauty, and an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. Let’s plan your own Alaska elopement!!