The Magic of Fall
While summer remains the most popular time to the tie the knot in Alaska, I have a big ole crush on fall weddings. The air has that invigorating crisp and the leaves are just starting to turn. As the seasons change, night returns in the land of the midnight sun. I think there’s something so magical about the intimacy of a celebration under a dark evening sky.
The Venue
Alike to most pandemic couples, Sarah and Nic had to pivot many times before settling on their final wedding day plans at Raven Glacier Lodge. Both avid lovers of outdoors, this lodge suited them perfectly. I’ve always equated this venue with some sort of magical world you’d expect to find crawling through an opening in an old hollowed out tree. The actual building itself is just a stone’s throw from the main road, but you would never know it by how secluded you feel hemmed in with evergreens on all sides. The inside is an extension of the fairy tale, complete with an enchanted old kitchen and candles that seem to have been burning steadily for decades.
Hearts on Their Sleeves
Over the years, I’ve found that I connect best with people who allow themselves to truly *feel* on their wedding day. People who aren’t afraid to emote and soak in the experience. Sarah & Nic’s first look was such a tender moment between the two of them. I didn’t even want to move so as to not disturb the delicacy of such a sweet encounter. After seeing each other for the first time, Sarah & Nic opted to share their personal vows with one another away from the crowds. For all you soonlyweds out there, this is a really great option if you desire to share personal sentiments with your partner but crave a more private exchange.
Girl gang in Jewel Tones
Sarah’s choices of bridesmaid’s dresses were absolutely scrumptious. Each of the bridesmaids wore a velvet dress from Baltic Born and a fur wrap. The variety of textures in their outfits coupled with their fall florals from Alaska Wholesale Flower Market photographed so beautifully and really harmonized well with the surrounding autumnal color palette.
The Reception
Sarah & Nic’s outdoor reception was cozy and warm, complete with subtle nods to Alaska in the decor and centerpieces of fresh florals paired with foraged foliage from the property. Jared Woods (a personal fav of mine) performed live music during cocktail hour until Kathy (the owner of Raven Glacier) came ringing her famous dinner bell!
Just before I wrapped up for the night, Sarah & Nic cut their cake from Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop and shared their first bite as newlyweds. The hugged me goodbye, enveloping me in the warmth of their love and kindness – and off I went.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it many times again, but it’s the people that do it for me. Individuals and couples with big ooey gooey hearts who say “hey, we like you and we trust you. Come make some art for us.” Y’all are simply the best.
My books are still open for 2022 weddings as well as 2023. I’ve got room for about 5 more in 2022 before I reach my cap. If you’d like to talk about photography or a wedding film, I’d love for you to reach out on my website! Thanks for swinging by the blog ❤️
Venue: Raven Glacier Lodge / Bride’s Dress: Bateau Bridal Boutique / Hair & Makeup: Ebb & Flo Hair Boutique / Cake: Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop / Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Baltic Born / Live Music & DJ: Jared Woods / Florals: Alaska Wholesale Flower Market
comments +