Eloping in Montana can be a breathtakingly beautiful experience, with its’ stunning landscapes, majestic mountains, and vast wilderness providing the perfect backdrop for an intimate wedding celebration. Sounds great, right!? If you’re in the process of planning your Montana elopement, you’ve probably spent ample time crunching numbers trying to figure out exactly how much you’ll spend. In this guide, we’ll answer the burning question of “how much does it actually cost to elope in Glacier National Park?!”. Let’s dive into what you can expect when eloping in the Treasure State.

As a Montana elopement and intimate wedding photographer (and recent bride, myself!) I can confidently say that it is so important to be realistic in your vision. Elopements can be cheap, but usually there is some type of cost associated with intimate weddings and elopements. Sit down and decide what your budget is and what you really value. Your day can be as simple as a photographer, dress, and rings if you want it to be, or it can be as elaborate as a fancy styled dinner back at your Airbnb, adorned with amazing florals and lighting. (Be sure to check out my Couples’ Guide to Preparing for Your Elopement for some actionable steps if you’re just beginning the elopement planning process!)

How Much it Costs to Elope in Glacier National Park

Location and Permit Fees

1. Ceremony Location: Montana offers a plethora of stunning ceremony locations, from national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone to rustic ranches and charming chapels. Prices can vary significantly, with some locations requiring a fee for permits or reservations. Be sure to research your chosen spot and factor in any associated costs. This is anywhere from $30-$300.

2. Marriage License: Before you say “I do,” you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. In Montana, the cost of a marriage license typically ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the county. Keep in mind that there may be additional fees for certified copies.

Photography and Videography (probably your biggest cost!)

3. Professional Photography: Capturing the beauty of your Montana elopement is a must. The cost of professional photographers in Montana varies but generally starts anywhere between $3,000 to $10,000. Consider factors like the number of hours of coverage, additional services, and the photographer’s experience when budgeting for this essential element.

4. Videography: If you want to relive your elopement through a cinematic lens, budget for videography services. Prices typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the package and quality you desire. (Psst, shameless self plug here! Get a killer discount on photography and videography when you book both Sydney Breann Photography AND Chear Media!)

Attire and Accessories

5. Wedding Attire: Whether you choose traditional wedding attire or something more casual to suit Montana’s rustic charm, budget for your outfits. Prices can vary widely, so shop around for the best deals or for the perfect vibe you are going for. Don’t settle! Average cost ranges from $300-$3,000.

6. Accessories: Don’t forget about accessories like wedding rings, shoes, and any special items you want to incorporate into your elopement attire. Average price ranges from $100-$2,000.

Officiant and Ceremony

7. Officiant Fee: Montana is a state that does not require witnesses, and I actually sign a lot of my couple’s licenses as the officiant! But if that is not your vibe, fees can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the complexity of the ceremony and the officiant’s experience.

8. Ceremony Decor: Consider any decorations or floral arrangements you want for your ceremony location. Montana’s natural beauty often means you can minimize these costs, but it’s still something to factor in if you are planning a ceremony not in a public space, such as an Airbnb or venue. You can expect to pay anywhere between $100-$500+.

Travel and Accommodation

9. Travel Expenses: Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may need to budget for airfare, rental car, gas, or other transportation costs. Montana is a vast state, so consider these expenses carefully. At a baseline, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000-$2,000.

10. Accommodation: Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin, a luxury resort, or a budget-friendly motel, accommodation costs can vary greatly. Be sure to book well in advance, especially if you’re eloping during the peak tourist season. Depending on your desires, the average cost for accommodations ranges from $150-$500/night.

Food and Celebration

11. Dining: Plan for celebratory meals, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a small gathering with friends and family. Montana offers a range of dining options to suit various budgets. There’s nothing wrong with a simple picnic either! Depending on your taste, dining cost scan range from $100-$2,000.

12. Cake and Desserts: If you’re celebrating with a cake or dessert, factor in the cost of ordering or baking one. You can expect to pay between $100-$300.

Contingency Fund

13. Contingency: It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund of around 10% of your total budget to cover unexpected expenses or last-minute changes. I could not recommend this enough for the spontaneous purchases or last minute upgrades or changes!

Total Cost to Elope in Glacier National Park

Eloping in Montana offers a unique and unforgettable experience against the backdrop of some of the world’s most stunning scenery. To get an accurate estimate of your elopement costs, create a detailed budget that includes all the elements mentioned above. Remember that these costs can vary widely depending on your preferences and choices. On the low end, your Glacier National Park elopement will cost about $8,000-10,000. On the higher end, you can expect to pay anywhere between $15,000-$25,000.

Eloping in Montana doesn’t have to break the bank, but it’s crucial to plan carefully to ensure your special day is everything you’ve dreamed of. By understanding the real costs involved, you can embark on your Montana elopement adventure with confidence, knowing that you’ve accounted for every detail. Your Glacier National Park elopement may come with a price tag, but the memories you create amidst the state’s natural beauty will be priceless. So what do you say? Are you ready to wander?