If “copper cowgirl” was a wedding theme, it would absolutely be this banger! Kayla and RJ’s Pray Lake modern Western elopement had all the makings of an intentional, organic wedding day with a few non-traditional twists. Between their dreamy color palette, magnificent views of Glacier National Park, and wrapping up our evening with pizza, it was almost too good to be true. It was truly a blessing to help bring these New Jersey lovers’ elopement vision to life.

Modern Western Elopement | Glacier National Park Elopements

You probably would never guess that I’m not the biggest social media kinda gal just by looking at my Instagram. But believe it or not, I keep my screen time pretty low over there. But early last year, I had a Reel about eloping in Glacier National Park go viral. The premise of the Reel was that you could spend $125 to elope in Glacier National Park, verses spending $10,000 on a wedding venue. While you can probably guess that there were several heated comments, the Reel also brought me inquiring couples — including Kayla and RJ! So I’d say it was worth it (shout out to the haters for engaging with my content 😉). 

Kayla and RJ have one of those “right time, right place” kinda love stories. While they grew up in the same town together, their age gap kept them pretty separated. After several years had passed, they ran into each other at a local bowling alley while out with their kids. Despite their reservations as two single parents, they both took a leap of faith to go on a date. The rest is history! As a couple who had been itching to travel, it felt like fate when Kayla stumbled upon my Reel.

Eloping in Glacier National Park | Montana Wedding Photography

When we first started chatting about what Kayla and RJ envisioned for their Glacier National Park elopement, they knew exactly what they wanted. Achieving their wishes for a “laidback, adventurous day filled with love” was right up my alley — and I couldn’t wait for their day to arrive. Once it finally did, it felt like a breath of fresh air. September in Glacier National Park is magical. With the beginning of shoulder season, temperatures cooling off, and Fall foliage slowly making its presence known, it’s hard to beat. After Kayla and RJ shared their first look at their Whitefish vacation rental, we made the drive into the park.

Despite the low hanging clouds, we were spoiled with glimpses of bright sunshine once we arrived to Big Bend. Kayla and RJ’s modern Western wedding attire popped against the lush greenery and dramatic mountains. Kayla’s copper hair next to RJ’s corduroy suit was the perfect way to usher in the “Fall vibes” in Glacier National Park. After snapping some photos and soaking in the warm sunshine at Big Bend, we continued on our journey. No visit to GNP is complete without a stop at Sun Point! Upon our arrival, the thick clouds began to roll in. Much to my surprise, the wind at Sun Point wasn’t unbearable, so we were able to spend a bit of time taking in the views before hopping back in the car.

Pray Lake Elopement in Glacier National Park

We made a final stop at 1913 Ranger Station before it was time for Kayla and RJ’s ceremony at Pray Lake. The moody skies were in full swing while Kayla and RJ exchanged handwritten, heartfelt vows along the shore. After their officiant pronounced them as husband and wife, the newlyweds ate cake pops and sipped on Coca-Cola as thicker cloud cover settled in. With the last bits of daylight, we broke out lanterns for some romantic newlywed portraits along the lake before grabbing some well-deserved pizza at a local restaurant. It was the perfect way to wrap up Kayla and RJ’s Pray Lake modern western elopement.

Looking for more Glacier National Park elopement inspiration? Check out the blog! And be sure to take a look at a round up of my top elopement planning resources down below. If you’re still on the hunt for your Montana elopement photographer, I’d love to chat! I have limited availability remaining for 2025, so don’t wait to reach out! But until next time, are you ready to wander? 

Glacier National Park Wedding Vendors:

Photography – Sydney Breann Photography
Beauty – Glacier Beauty Co.
Officiant – 406 Officiant

Free Elopement Planning Resources:

The Ultimate Intimate Wedding and Elopement Planning Guide
Should I elope or have a traditional wedding?
How to Find the Perfect Elopement Location
5 Wedding Registry Alternatives
You’re Engaged, Now What? Elopement Planning Edition
Couple’s Guide to Preparing for your Elopement
Ready to Wander Podcast EP5: Photography vs. Videography Q&A
Debunking Common Myths About Eloping
Why You Need Full-Day Photography Coverage on Your Elopement Day
What to Include in Your Elopement Details