I’d like to take a moment to prepare you for this epic Glacier National Park sunrise elopement. Okay, but in all seriousness, Madalin and Reed’s elopement couldn’t have possibly been more perfect. From the golden sunshine to the picturesque views, Glacier National Park pulled out all the stops. 

Madalin and Reed first inquired with me when searching for a photographer that would help them experience and plan a great day in Glacier National Park. I was elated to book their elopement and get to planning their beautiful day. When planning for their elopement, we discussed what parts of their day held the most meaning and value to them. Time and time again, they longed to have a peaceful day surrounded by the serene nature in a place that they had never been before. Glacier National Park is such a special place to me. So, it was so special watching them discover the beauty and vastness of the park through my lens. 

Sunrise Elopement

Madalin and Reed secured a permit for Sun Point at sunrise. I woke up at 2:00 am with nothing but giddiness as I got ready to meet them at their lodge. We met up at 4:00 am, then headed to the park for their sunrise ceremony. As we drove into the park, surrounded by blue hour, the sky and mountains were still waking up. If you’ve never experienced sunrise at a place like Glacier, take this as your sign. Just as the sky opened up with more light, we began our adventure at the trailhead. 

When we reached Sun Point, Madalin and Reed got ready on opposite sides of a tree during the most beautiful alpenglow. I’m still reminiscing on this moment. Once both of them were ready, Reed stood in front of the alpenglow view where him and Madalin shared their first look. The look on Reed’s face truly said it all… After their emotional first look, they said their vows as the sun hit the peaks just right. Sun Point is known for not only its stellar rays of gold, but also the rampant winds which tasseled their hair and Madalin’s dress around. One of my favorite parts of elopements is that the ceremony can be as personal as a couple wants. Madalin and Reed were able to soak up every second of their ceremony, complete with hugs, kisses, and laughter. 

After their vows, we took some time to take in the views before hiking back to the car to prep for the rest of the day. When we made it back to the car, it was time to make everything “official”. I’m actually ordained, so I was able to sign their marriage license. There’s something so special about capturing an elopement and signing the marriage license! Once everything was ready to go, we hit the trails to a waterfall. The entire area was just flourishing with wildflowers, teal waters, and fresh air floating through the mountains. I’m confident that is what heaven looks like. 

Afternoon Hike at GNP

When we made it to the shores of St. Mary lake, Madalin and Reed laid out their picnic blanket to read some letters from their families. They shared a little picnic together before dancing to “Ends of the Earth” by Lord Huron on the beach. Was I constantly wiping tears from my eyes this entire day? Yes, yes I was. Our time together came to a close at one of my favorite locations in the park to take in the views of the valley (and some goats), but our time wouldn’t have been complete without a stop at the Glacier National Park entrance sign.

Madalin and Reed’s Glacier National Park sunrise elopement was such an incredible day. I can’t even explain how much capturing these kinda love stories means to me. The journey from an inquiry to a wedding or elopement is such a humbling, amazing thing to see from start to finish. I love watching my couples’ days come to life and telling their love stories in the best way that I know how. 

Looking for more Glacier National Park lovers, planning, and tips? CLICK HERE✨ And as always, let’s be friends on Instagram (@sydneybreannphoto) where you can have a first look at my latest adventures.