Every time the mountains call, I can’t help but go. While most of my days are spent as an elopement photographer in Glacier National Park, I’ll never pass up a chance to soak in epic mountain views beyond Montana. When Alexa and Del first began dreaming up their elopement, Del suggested Grand Teton National Park. During their search for a photographer, they stumbled across one of my Instagram posts featuring a breathtaking Teton elopement with the dreamiest views. From the moment their inquiry landed in my inbox, I was stoked for what they were envisioning for their Wyoming elopement. By the time I photographed Alexa and Del’s romantic Grand Teton elopement, that excitement had only grown. From the deep intentionality woven into their day to the stunning blue hour we shared, the entire experience was nothing short of magical.
This small-town Missouri couple’s love story is a tale as old as time. High school acquaintances who reconnected years later… But the thing that immediately stood out to me about this couple is how much they praise one another. In their inquiry, Alexa mentioned that Del’s family “took her in and showed me what love is”. To boot, Del absolutely dotes on his beautiful wife — truly thanking God for sending him his person. While I usually save my mushiness for the end of the blog, I’ll make an exception here. It is truly a blessing to document so many wholesome love stories. The endless days of travel and early wake up calls are 100% worth it. Couples like Alexa and Del are 100% my “why”.
Alexa always envisioned getting married in a national park, and luckily for her, Del had visited several. When they were trying to find the perfect park to say “I do”, Del remarked how beautiful Grand Teton was. In my opinion, Grand Teton National park is one of the most underrated parks to visit. The Teton Range boasts dramatic mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and vast wilderness to explore. Coincidentally, Alexa and Del envisioned epic views for their wedding ceremony, which the Tetons are packed full of.
Alexa and Del’s wedding day began at the rustic Cowboy Village Cabins in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. While Del got ready in a cabin with his dad, his mom helped Alexa get ready in her cabin alongside Ollie (the couple’s beloved boxer-coonhound mix). One of my favorite parts of a wedding day is getting to see what details the couple chooses. Besides the typical bridal details, she included a single yellow rose in honor of her grandmother, as well as a gold tray that once belonged to her. Del’s details included framed photos, Metallica socks, and his treasured Bible. While I wrapped up flat lay photos of the couple’s details, they read heartfelt handwritten letters from one another. We then jumped into the first looks between Del and his mom, and Del and Alexa.
After the first looks beneath snowcapped mountains and sprawling meadows, we made our way to Colter Bay Picnic Area. Perched alongside Jackson Lake, the couple walked arm-in-arm to the shore. While I’m an ordained elopement photographer, it’s always extra special when a loved one can perform the wedding ceremony! Del’s dad officiated the wedding, while his mom lovingly looked on. After Del’s dad spoke, the couple exchanged rings before sharing their first kiss overlooking Jackson Lake. We then took group photos and newlywed portraits along the rocky shore at Colter Bay before moseying over to a picnic area for the couple to cut their cake. After everyone indulged in the delicious wedding cake, it was time to head out on our little tour of the park for bridal portraits.
The first stop on our drive was at Glacier View Turnout. The newlyweds shared their first dance as golden light flooded the valley, the sun gently brushing the tops of the mountain peaks as it began its descent. After Del and his mom shared their mother-son dance, we continued to take in the beauty of the 3 Teton Glaciers: Middle, Teepee, and Teton. Alexa, Del, and I then made our way to Mormon Row for a few more newlywed portraits before wrapping up our time together at Schwabacher Landing. I can confidently say that I will never recover from the blue hour we experienced to conclude Alexa and Del’s romantic elopement in Grand Teton National Park.
Photography – Sydney Breann Photography
Dress – David’s Bridal (Galina Signature)
Suit – Leibowitz Menswear
Bride’s shoes – Betsey Johnson
Veil – David’s Bridal
Groom’s shoes – Thursday Boot Company
Searching for more mountain elopements, inspiration, and elopement planning tips? Check out the blog! And of course, don’t forget to follow along with my adventures as a Montana Elopement Photographer and Planner over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Until next time, are you ready to wander?
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