Abbie and Justin decided early on that they wanted to elope. Their initial inspiration was a moody, mossy sunset at the Oregon Coast. Cue the worst Oregon wildfires in recent history amidst a global pandemic. The results of this layered pivot? A stunning, sunrise elopement in Glacier National Park!
In oh-so last minute 2020 fashion, A + J and their photographer Anni Graham decided to ditch their Oregon plans, and go somewhere in hopes of cleaner air: Glacier National Park. Under those circumstances, the next steps were quick + thorough research and buying new plane tickets.
And the risk paid off, as it often does! The rain came, the smoke cleared, and this sunrise hiking elopement (that no one planned for) ended up being the most incredible experience for Abbie and Justin to elope. Abbie shares: We were able to have the most breathtakingly, authentically-us elopement. We wouldn’t change a single thing.
Sunrise Elopement
First look feels – but can you handle this scenery?!
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I really wasn't expecting the emotions that hit me as I turned the corner of the beach and walked to Justin to exchange our vows. Avalanche Lake has a way of making you feel tucked away from the rest of the world, and that moment felt so intimate and overwhelming in the most special way. Justin had never seen my dress before, and the long walk to him, smiling and laughing at each other the whole way, was really something we'll never forget.
Glacier National Park Vow Exchange
Those sleeves though!
The dress that almost wasn’t! Abbie tells us about her wedding dress journey: I had my heart set on a Rue de Seine dress. When I had the opportunity to try on my favorite dresses from their collection though, I realized that my obsession with those gowns didn’t really translate into my own style and what makes me comfortable in what I wear.
A few weeks later I had the opportunity to travel to Dallas for work, and decided to book an appointment at the Dallas Grace Loves Lace showroom. Trying on Bea for the first time felt so right. I loved the whimsical feeling of the champagne and silver lace, and how the open neckline + back felt elegant and elongating. Given that, the dress was intentionally made to be thrown in a pack and taken on an adventure! It felt bridal without feeling traditional, and the look on my face wearing that dress really said it all.
Abbie has on a new 2021 Grace Loves Lace dress with pearl features. Coupled with that, she incorporated pearls throughout her accessories. Everything looks so beautiful against the deep, fall colors of Glacier National Park!
As can be seen, they spent a quiet, fall morning hiking in the mountains. We’re marveling at all colors in full bloom! This Glacier National Park elopement is soaked in romance. Everything is so saturated + vibrant from the rain settling the smoke. What a peaceful and unique setting to get married.
Anchor on each other, and it will all work out as it was meant to be. You can never anticipate and plan for everything. As long as you remain authentic to yourself and to each other, not even a pandemic or wildfires can keep you from the best day of your lives.
A National Park elopement is easier than you’d think! Here’s a an easy how-to to get you started.
photography: Anni Graham // venue name: Glacier National Park, Montana // wedding dress: Grace Loves Lace
