If there’s one thing that I can almost guarantee about a Glacier National Park elopement, it’s that it will be windy at some point in the day. Despite the winds that sweep through the mountains, there’s no shortage of beauty to marvel in. Although Natalie and Jaret’s Glacier National Park elopement at Big Bend might’ve been a windy one, it was still such a magical day to experience. From chasing down Jaret’s cowboy hat (more times than I could count), to taking in the most beautiful pink sunset, it was a carefree elopement to remember.

Glacier National Park Elopement | Eloping in Glacier National Park

Natalie and Jaret traveled to Glacier National Park from Ohio to say “I do” in among mountaintops and blue water. Their day began at a sweet Airbnb just outside Kalispell with them getting ready separately. I’ve found that many couples who envision eloping are often apprehensive about tying the knot without the presence of their families. And while Natalie and Jaret planned to have a traditional wedding reception back home in Ohio, they knew they wanted their parents included in their Glacier National Park elopement.

Before we all headed to Big Bend, Natalie and Jaret shared a first look on the front lawn of their Airbnb. The wind was foreshadowing what was to come on the mountaintops as Jaret’s hat started to lift off his head when he turned to see his bride. But nothing could stop the big grin on his face when he saw Natalie in her romantic “boho” off-the-shoulder lace gown. In the early stages of elopement planning, Natalie shared that she envisioned herself in a boho gown, and Jaret in his blue jeans, suede vest, and cowboy hat. They both wanted to fully embrace their free, easy-going spirits even down to their elopement attire. 

Big Bend Elopement photographed by Sydney Breann Photography

Once we arrived to Big Bend, Natalie and Jaret exchanged their vows privately between gusts of wind and the happiest smiles. Their families proudly looked on beneath the bright sunshine and blue skies overhead. Big Bend is such an underrated spot for an elopement ceremony in Glacier National Park if you have a small group (under 10 people). Between the sprawling vistas of lush greenery, towering pines, and dramatic mountain peaks, it feels like you’re living in a Bob Ross painting. It was such a stunning place to begin our little tour throughout the park. And in classic “Northwest Montana” style, we were lucky enough to spot big horn sheep before  making our way to Sun Point.

I’m a firm believer that enjoying a picnic during your mountain elopement is a right of passage (if not mandatory)! Natalie, Jaret, and their families gathered around a weathered red picnic table to refuel with some sandwiches before we continued on our adventure. Sun Point was a “must-see” during their elopement, as Natalie dreamed of standing cliffside overlooking bright blue water below. We didn’t spend a ton of time out on the overlook, but definitely embraced the “windswept” looks! In order to capture some bridal portraits without taking flight, we wandered down a hiking trail into the forest. We then caravanned back down Going-to-the-Sun Road to take in the scenery before sunset. 

Mountain Elopement Inspiration | Montana Elopement Photography

Natalie and Jaret’s Glacier National Park elopement at Big Bend concluded with a final “must have” item on their list. Before witnessing the most incredible pink sunset, we snagged some lantern bridal portraits along the shore of Lake McDonald. It was the perfect way to wrap up such an intentional, wholesome mountain elopement in Northwest Montana. And I couldn’t be more grateful for such a genuine couple to explore one of my favorite places with!

Looking for more Glacier National Park elopement inspiration? Check out some additional resources and recent love stories below. And of course, be sure to keep up with my latest adventures as a Montana Elopement Photographer and Planner over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Until next time, are you ready to wander? 

Vendors: 

Photography – Sydney Breann Photography
HMUA- Bridal Bliss and Makeup by Lana
Dress + Veil – Henri’s Cloud Nine (Minerva, OH)

Glacier National Park Elopement Resources:

How Much Does it Actually Cost to Elope in Glacier National Park?
Why You Should Have a 2 Day Elopement
The Ultimate Intimate Wedding and Elopement Planning Guide
Best Places to Elope in Glacier National Park
Sun Point Elopement in Glacier National Park
Sunrise Mountain Elopement at Lake Josephine
Benefits of Hiring a Full-Service Elopement Photographer