While Virginia is for lovers, who could resist saying “I do” in a bucket list location like Glacier National Park!? Dominique and Steven traveled from the Richmond, Virginia area with 18 of their closest friends and family to celebrate alongside of them. With Glacier National Park on their bucket list, they figured it would be a fun way to cross it off by tying the knot at the same time! Dominique and Steven’s West Glacier microwedding at Fish Creek Shoreline was such an epic start to the 2025 wedding season.
Dominque began her day alongside her girls at the Firebrand Hotel in Whitefish, Montana. The ladies spent the morning getting glam, sipping champagne, and jumping on the bed. Talk about girlhood — there was no shortage of love surrounding this gorgeous wife-to-be. After sharing a few more special moments with her Mama and girls, Dominique headed outside for her joyful first look with Steven. The exterior of the hotel was such a beautiful backdrop, which felt like the perfect foreshadow for the beauty that the rest of the day would have in store for Dominique and Steven’s Glacier National Park microwedding.
After their first look, we made our way to the East side of the park for the most breathtaking bridal portraits at Pray Lake. When Dominique shared the vision for her florals with me, I had no idea just how perfect they would be! She chose a burgundy, rust, and clay color palette for her bridal bouquet and flower crown. I think I will have dreams of these florals for a lifetime. The color palette was the perfect “pop” amongst the lush greenery, brilliant blue skies, and the white remnants of snow on the rugged mountains. Because it was tail-end of May, we saw so many new blooms emerging from every nook and cranny along the shore, adding even more beauty to the scenery. When I asked Dominique what her “must haves” were for bridal portraits, she only asked for beautiful scenery — check!
After soaking in as many views as we possibly could at Pray Lake, it was time to find the perfect location for Dominique and Steven to exchange their private vows. Overlooking turquoise waters below, they stood atop a scenic overlook, framed by snowy mountains and ample greenery. It was so sweet to witness them just in their own little bubble… Spoiler alert: private vows are always a favorite of mine during a wedding day.
We then made the short drive to Fish Creek Shoreline for a family ceremony on Lake McDonald. The ceremony was kept short and sweet — exactly how Dominique and Steven envisioned. After they said “I do”, we snagged group photos with family and friends along the shoreline. While the crew headed to the Palm Cocktail Lounge back in Whitefish to await the newlyweds, we hung back at Fish Creek for a little bit to grab a few newlywed portraits. We took advantage of the warm sunlight peeking through the trees along the trail, and enjoyed the last few moments before it was time to head back to Whitefish for the wedding reception. Dominique and Steven’s West Glacier microwedding at Fish Creek Shoreline concluded with food, drinks, and speeches at Palm Cocktail Lounge. It was the perfect way to wrap up their laidback wedding day in Glacier National Park.
Busy season is still in full swing out here in Northwest Montana, so be sure to keep up with my adventures as a Glacier National Park Elopement Photographer over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). If you’re searching for some Montana wedding and elopement planning resources, I’ve dropped some of my favorites down below to help you plan your best day ever. But until next time, are you ready to wander?
How Much Does it Actually Cost to Elope in Glacier National Park?
The Ultimate Intimate Wedding and Elopement Planning Guide
The Real Differences Between Intimate Weddings and Elopements
How to DIY Your Elopement Florals
The Best Kept Elopement Timeline Secret
What to Include in Your Elopement Details
9 Tips for Hiking on Your Wedding Day
Planning: Sydney Breann
Photography: Sydney Breann Photography
Florals: Mum’s Flowers
Lodging: Firebrand Hotel
Dining: Palm Cocktail Lounge
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