Stunning and romantic fall elopement at Two Medicine in Glacier National Park | Chris + Leah
Stunning and romantic fall elopement at Two Medicine in Glacier National Park | Chris + Leah
Introduction
Chris and Leah’s stunning and romantic fall elopement at Two Medicine in Glacier National Park was about as dreamy as they come — the fall colors in East Glacier were breathtaking, the couple was so lovely it honestly made my heart hurt a little bit in gratitude, and everything just looked and felt as cinematic as real life can possibly look and feel. Keep reading to find out how they pulled it off, and to get inspo for a romantic fall elopement in Montana.
Romantic fall elopement film at Two Medicine:
It’s all I have to bring today—
This, and my heart beside—
This, and my heart, and all the fields—
And all the meadows wide—
Be sure you count—should I forget
Some one the sum could tell—
This, and my heart, and all the Bees
Which in the Clover dwell.
— It’s all I have to bring today, Emily Dickinson
Today, sitting in gratitude for my family and for our health + home, for creativity itself and those who express it, and for getting to do this work for people as lovely as C + L.
Sorry to mix a post w/ Emily Dickinson with words from The Office, but there’s a great quote in the finale where Andy says: “I wish there was a way to know you’re in the good old days before you’ve actually left them.”
That’s the wish I have for all of us, to feel the exact moments we’re in — and to acknowledge the feeling. To verbalize it.
This elopement exemplified the sentiment perfectly — C was constantly verbally expressing his gratitude for both L and for Glacier National Park, and L was literally jumping up and down with excitement throughout the day.
Obviously, it was a beautiful day with gorgeous footage, but it’s more about how *giddy* they both were the entire day to simply be together and begin their marriage in nature.
Chris + Leah’s Stunning Fall Elopement at Pray Lake Timeline
Chris and Leah's elopement in East Glacier was set against the backdrop of stunning fall colors. Despite having a different plan for the day, we had to roll with the punches due to the unpredictable weather. Luckily, Chris and Leah were super chill and trusted Elsa Eileen Photography and me to make it work. We ended up hitting various spots, capturing their love amidst nature's beautiful palette. Their flexibility and trust made the day even better than planned, giving us memories to cherish foreve — anddd, truly, sticking in East Glacier area was the right call because we honestly found some of the most incredible fall colors I’ve ever seen.
Fishing at Old Bridge
Chris is an avid fisherman, so he knew he had to do some fly fishing while he was in Montana!! I met him at Old Bridge to get a few shots of him to remember this part of his trip, and it was such a lovely way to meet him and get to know him a bit better before the wedding. Remember, alwayssss incorporate your hobbies and interests in your photo + video coverage so you can look back at your TRUE memories and not just posed moments!!
Getting ready at the Twin Lakes Country Home
Chris and Leah got ready in separate houses on the Twin Lakes Country Home property. Leah got ready while hanging out with her two friends that tagged along to officiate and witness, and Chris hung out over in the guest house finishing his vows. Elegance by Joy Renee provided hair and makeup and did a STUNNING job.
First look at Two Medicine in Glacier National Park
We caravaned from Whitefish, Montana to Two Medicine in Glacier National Park for Chris and Leah’s first look. It was honestly the most breathtaking I’ve ever seen East Glacier, and that’s saying something — the tamaracks were going crazyyyy with the most vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows I’ve everr seen. The park showed UP for these two.
The first look itself on the shores of Two Medicine Lake was beautiful — Chris and Leah love each other so much. We were all crying, haha!!
Ceremony at Pray Lake in Glacier National Park
Pray Lake is rightttt next to Two Medicine, so it wasn’t too much of a jaunt to the ceremony. Pray Lake is great for ceremonies because it isn’t often very busy, the shoreline is fairly accessible via a flat path that surrounds an entire side of the lake, and the parking lot is right next to the path. I love that there are multiple backgrounds with the mountains to the far end of the shoreline and the trees on either side. It was overcast during Chris and Leah’s ceremony, so there was lovely even lighting through the whole thing, but none of us were too cold. Leah’s dear friend officiated, and the ceremony was so personal, including a passage from Emily Dickinson’s It’s All I Have to Bring Today. Chris and Leah’s self-written vows were so personal and special, too — they requested that I keep them private so that they could be completely honest and raw, and I swear we were all bawling during the ceremony.
Adventure session at Looking Glass Road
After exploring Two Medicine and Pray Lake, we made our way over to Looking Glass Road, or Highway 49. Highway 49 is one of the most beautiful scenic drives right outside of the park — Montana Route 49, also known as Looking Glass Road or Looking Glass Hill Road, is a handy stretch connecting East Glacier Park Village (US 2) with a remote junction on US 89. It's your ticket to the stunning Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park, situated on the southeast side of Glacier. Plus, here's a little insider tip: if you're headed north, skip the Browning route and take Highway 49 instead. Trust me, it's worth it for the scenic drive, though you might need to keep a decent speed to navigate it safely.
Private catered elopement dinner back at their lodging
After their adventurous elopement, Chris and Leah headed back to their Airbnb for the perfect ending to their day. They indulged in a private catered dinner for two, courtesy of The Chef Guys from Whitefish, Montana. Picture this: a candlelit setting, just the two of them, enjoying each other's company in the most romantic atmosphere. It was the ideal way to wrap up their special day, making memories they'll cherish forever.
Fall adventurous elopement in East Glacier
The theme of Chris and Leah's elopement perfectly encapsulated the essence of fall in Montana. If you're seeking Pinterest-worthy inspiration, look no further than their choice of dark berry florals from Mums Flowers in Whitefish, which added a rich and romantic touch to their celebration. Leah's choice of a full gown complemented the autumnal vibes flawlessly, while Chris looked dashing in a dark suit. Their attention to detail extended to their witnesses and officiants, who donned attire in deep greens and jewel tones, harmonizing beautifully with the seasonal palette. Together, these elements created a picturesque scene that captured the true essence of their adventurous love story amidst the rustic beauty of Montana's fall landscape.
Unique, personalized aspects of Chris + Leah’s Montana Elopement
Chris and Leah had a lot of personal + sentimental details included in their day that made it all the more perfect. If you are planning your own fall elopement, this will be the perfect section for you to get some inspo!
Private catered elopement meal at their VRBO
Opting for a private dining company at their lodging after their elopement offers destination elopement couples a personalized and intimate experience to celebrate their special day. Here are a few reasons why it's a great choice:
Privacy and Intimacy: Private dining offers couples a secluded space to unwind and celebrate away from crowds, enhancing the intimacy of their elopement experience.
Personalized Experience: Couples can enjoy customized menus tailored to their tastes, dietary preferences, and the local flavors of the destination, adding a personal touch to their celebration.
Convenience and Romance: By bringing the dining experience directly to their lodging, couples can enjoy a romantic, candlelit meal without the hassle of making reservations or navigating unfamiliar restaurants, making for a stress-free and memorable conclusion to their special day.
Guests invited to their secret elopement
Inviting a select few friends to your elopement while keeping it a secret from everyone else until the official wedding and reception adds an element of intimacy and surprise to your celebration. Here's why it's special:
Intimacy with Close Friends: By including a small group of close friends in your elopement, you can share the most intimate and meaningful moments of your special day with those who matter most. Their presence adds warmth and support, enhancing the emotional significance of the occasion.
Shared Secret and Excitement: Keeping the elopement a secret from everyone else builds a sense of anticipation and excitement for the official wedding and reception. It creates a shared secret among you and your closest confidants, deepening the bond between you and adding an element of intrigue to the upcoming celebration.
Surprise Factor: Revealing the news of your elopement to family and friends during the official wedding and reception adds a surprising and memorable twist to the event. It can evoke genuine emotions of joy and surprise from your guests, making the celebration even more memorable and meaningful for everyone involved.
Overall, inviting a few friends to your elopement while keeping it a secret for everyone else until the official wedding and reception allows you to share intimate moments with your closest companions while adding an element of surprise and excitement to your celebration.
Their flowers/decor:
The choice of dark jewel-toned florals mixed with rusts and fall colors wasn't just a coincidence; it was a deliberate decision to amplify the already stunning beauty of the fall day. Mum's Flowers out of Whitefish, Montana, perfectly captured the essence of the season with their exquisite arrangements. Against the backdrop of nature's vibrant palette, these rich hues added depth, contrast, and a touch of drama to the scene. They harmonized seamlessly with the changing foliage, enhancing the autumnal ambiance and infusing the day with romance and sophistication. From deep purples to rich reds, these florals made a bold statement, leaving a lasting impression and ensuring that Chris and Leah's elopement was nothing short of breathtaking.
Where they stayed
Chris and Leah's choice of a quaint country cottage rental served as the ideal home base for their elopement adventure. Nestled amidst the rustic charm of the countryside, it provided a cozy, intimate, and beautiful setting for their special day. Future couples embarking on their own elopement journey should seriously consider their lodging options, as it can significantly enhance their overall experience. Whether it's a secluded cabin in the woods or a charming bed and breakfast, the right accommodation can set the tone for a romantic and memorable getaway, making every moment of the trip even more special.
Premiering their elopement film at their larger reception
Premiering your elopement film at your larger wedding and reception offers the best of both worlds: the intimacy of a private adventure elopement combined with the opportunity to share your special day with friends and family. Chris and Leah's decision to do so not only allowed them to cherish those intimate moments shared during their elopement but also included their loved ones in the celebration. Hearing their voices filled with emotion as they called me from their reception, just days after I had welcomed a newborn, brought tears of joy to my eyes. They shared how everyone felt like they were part of their elopement adventure through the film, creating an incredibly heartwarming and unforgettable experience. For future couples, I highly recommend considering this approach, as it not only allows for a private and intimate elopement but also ensures that your loved ones feel connected and included in your journey, making your celebration even more meaningful and memorable.
All about eloping in East Glacier
Planning to elope in East Glacier? Awesome choice! This section has all you need to know to make your dream elopement a reality. From stunning locations to local vendors, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and start planning your unforgettable adventure in East Glacier!
Why they chose East Glacier for their elopement
Chris and Leah chose East Glacier for their elopement because of its jaw-dropping mountains and stunning fall colors. Surrounded by nature's grandeur, they exchanged vows in a setting that felt truly magical. For couples looking for a breathtaking backdrop, East Glacier's towering peaks and vibrant autumn hues offer the perfect spot to say "I do" amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.
How to get to East Glacier
Plane? – what airport do you fly into? How far of a drive is it from the airport?
You will fly into the Glacier Park International Airport — the drive from the airport to the Two Medicine entrance of Glacier National Park is 1 hr 24 min (78.6 mi) via US-2 E.
Car? – should you rent a car? Take a taxi?
You should absolutely rent a car for your Glacier National Park trip because all of the towns and attractions are spread out with limited public transportation.
Do you need to download offline maps? Will there be cell service?
There is limited to no cell service in Glacier National Park, so be sure to download your maps whenever you have wifi or service!
Do you need a 4WD car to access this location? Is the road rocky/rough?
You won’t typically need a 4WD car to access most of the main attractions in Glacier National Park, but it will be useful for backroads! There are plenty of rocky and rough roads in NW Montana, so be prepared for that.
Weather info + best time of year to elope in East Glacier
The prime time for eloping in East Glacier spans from June to October, offering couples the best chance to soak in the stunning scenery and enjoy favorable weather conditions. However, it's crucial to keep in mind that Montana's weather can be unpredictable year-round. Even during the recommended months, it's wise to prepare for sudden changes and pack accordingly. By staying flexible and keeping an eye on the forecast, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable elopement experience amidst East Glacier's breathtaking landscapes.
Potential roadblocks that you made backup plans for
When planning an elopement in East Glacier, it's essential to consider potential roadblocks that could affect your plans and make backup arrangements accordingly. Wildfires or snowstorms are factors that could potentially block roads and impact your ability to access the location. Additionally, snowfall can significantly affect travel and activities in the area, especially during the winter months. In light of these possibilities, it's wise to have backup locations in mind that are easily accessible and offer similar scenic beauty. Some excellent backup locations could include nearby towns like West Glacier or Whitefish, which boast stunning landscapes and a range of venues suitable for elopements. Alternatively, consider indoor venues or covered outdoor spaces that provide shelter from inclement weather while still offering breathtaking views of Montana's natural beauty. Being prepared with backup plans ensures that your elopement can proceed smoothly and safely, regardless of any unexpected challenges that may arise.
Places to stay in and near East Glacier
Permits, passes, & legalities for getting married at Pray Lake in Glacier National Park
How much does it cost?
It costs $125 to apply to get married at Pray Lake in Glacier National Park.
How do you apply?
You can download the application for the special use permit by clicking here!
How long is it valid for?
Your permit allows your use for 2 hours!
What locations is it valid for?
You can review the ceremony permit locations in Glacier National Park at this link and request your specific spot on your application.
How long in advance do you need to apply for it?
I would apply literally as soon as you know where you want to get hitched!! Some years, my couples don’t even hear back until a few weeks before their big day so we’ll need to come up with back up plans just in case.
Do you & your guests still have to pay a separate entry/parking fee?
Your ceremony permit will allow you entry for the park’s reservation ticket system, but you will still need to pay for the general park pass fee.
Click here for more information about getting married in Glacier!
Pray Lake elopement vendors
Videographer: Montana Diaries
Photographer: Elsa Eileen Photography
Hair + Makeup: Elegance by Joy Renee
Floral Designer: Mum’s Flowers
Catering: The Chef Guys
Bridal gown: Martina Liana
Bridal store gown purchased at: Bon Bon Belle Bridal Boutique (Burlington, WI)
Earrings: Etsy - BridalStar
Veil/headpiece: Bel Aire Bridal
Veil/headpiece purchased at: Volle's Bridal & Boutique (Lake Zurich, IL)
Bridal boots: Marc Fischer - Yarita
Bridal boots purchased at: Nordstrom
Officiant/bridesmaid dresses: BHLDN
Groom suit: Lords of Wool
Ring box: Etsy - Styling Archives
GNP sign: Etsy - Nellas Signs
Pray Lake elopement and wedding photographer and videographer
Heyyy, I’m Shay, your fave Pray Lake elopement and wedding photographer and videographer! I love East Glacier and the surrounding area, including Looking Glass Road, Two Medicine, and Pray Lake for its stunning unique beauty and the incredible fall colors and tamaracks. If you love story-driven photos and videos, then check out the info + pricing page to find out how I can serve you and fill out the contact form so we can talk all about your vision for your wedding. Chat soon!!
