As a Montana elopement photographer and planner, I am no stranger to the constantly fluctuating weather in the mountains. Despite growing up in Minnesota where one of our slogans was “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes and it’ll change”, it’s a completely different ballgame in Montana. Austine and Leo’s laidback Fall elopement in Many Glacier was case in point. We never would’ve guessed that the blue skies overhead in the morning would lead to rain, fog, and snow to wrap up our time together. 

Laidback Fall Elopement | Eloping in Glacier National Park

Austine and Leo traveled from Wisconsin with their two beagles to say “I do” among the breathtaking landscape of Glacier National Park. Their must-have list for their day was sweet and simple. They envisioned a laidback morning spent alongside their pups, followed by exploring the park. When Austine first submitted an inquiry form, she expressed that in their free time, they love to hunt, fish, and forage. But the “best part” is that they do it together. And if that’s not what love is, I don’t know what is! When it came to Austine and Leo’s elopement, they were just so content with adventuring just as they always have — together.

Austine and Leo’s Northwest Montana elopement morning was spent getting ready separately with Chevy and Cedar at their feet before sharing a first look beneath the pines. Austine wore a romantic fit and flare gown with a sheer bodice, plunging illusion neckline, and flowing train. Leo wore dark wash jeans, a cozy flannel, and a chocolate brown vest. But let’s not forget Chevy and Cedar! The beagles wore sweet little bandanas and definitely stole the show during the first look. After taking some portraits with the dogs at the Airbnb, it was time to make the short drive into the park to soak up some stellar views. 

Northwest Montana Elopement Inspiration

Big Bend is always a great place to stop when driving into Glacier. While haze began to creep in across the mountains, the views were still endless. Austine and Leo couldn’t wipe the big grins from their faces as they wandered through the changing fireweed, taking in every little bit of the expansive terrain. We then made our way to Sun Point, where the wind really picked up. If you’ve been an avid reader of the Sydney Breann blog, or you’ve traveled to Glacier National Park, you know just how windy Sun Point typically is. Despite the relentless breeze, Austine and Leo snuggled close and embraced it. Leo’s Stormy Kromer hat kept him warm, while Austine threw on her denim jacket, complete with pearl embellishments and her new last name. 

After warming up for a moment, it was time for Austine and Leo’s ceremony. Their permit was for Many Glacier, and they decided on Swiftcurrent Lake to serve as the backdrop for their private vows. As if a switch flipped, the skies opened up and began pouring while Austine and Leo exchanged their heartfelt vows to one another. They didn’t let the cold rain pelting their faces stop them from being fully present during their ceremony. While crazy, unpredictable weather could put a damper on an elopement, this laidback couple was completely unbothered. They were so happy to just be experiencing it together.

Swiftcurrent Lake Wedding Ceremony

Before the sun completely disappeared, we wrapped up newlywed portraits at Swtifcurrent Lake and made our way to a wide-open field. As the rain began to transition to snow, and the sky only got darker, we broke out the lanterns for some moody bridal portraits. The haze rolling across the field, coupled with the warm glow of the lanterns added to the moody atmostphere. As Austine and Leo strolled through the tall wet grass, I couldn’t get over just how content they looked. I didn’t hear a single complaint, even though we were all pretty soggy and cold. But our time wasn’t over quite yet! Rather than doing a champagne toast, Austine and Leo cracked open Miller Lites overlooking the lake below, and toasted to their greatest adventure yet. 

Celebrating Austine and Leo’s laidback Fall elopement in Many Glacier might not have gone exactly to plan, as we navigated each new weather condition. But rather than letting the wind, rain, and snow put a damper on their day, they embraced it and enjoyed every little moment of their day. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this sweet Midwestern couple, and am so grateful to have documented their day.

Glacier National Park Wedding Photographer | Sydney Breann Photography

Searching for even more Glacier National Park elopement inspiration? Head over to the blog! And of course, you’ll find sneak peeks and recaps from recent adventures over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Until next time, are you ready to wander?