It seems like nearly all Summer weddings in Glacier National Park have something in common, at least in my experience. If it’s not the wind, it’s the rain. One of my biggest pieces of advice to couples planning a Glacier National Park wedding (regardless of the time of year) is to be prepared for fluctuating weather. Thankfully, Amanda and Alex were willing to embrace the rain that was in store for their relaxed Pray Lake microwedding in Glacier National Park. Because of their flexibility, we were able to capture some of the most epic images with moody storm clouds and an appearance from a rainbow! 

Pray Lake Microwedding | Glacier National Park Elopement

Whenever a couple travels to Northwest Montana from the Midwest, I can’t help but to feel like I already know them. Amanda and Alex were no exception — their “Minnesota nice” personalities made such an impression and felt like a little piece of home. Speaking of home, these two cuties met wayyy back in the day when they were next door neighbors. They grew up being best friends, and Alex was even Amanda’s first kiss! Once they reconnected after college in 2020, the rest was history. Their mutual love of the outdoors, wildlife viewing, and sipping cold ones sealed the deal. 

Amanda had always imagined eloping or having a destination wedding. When she stumbled upon Glacier National Park as a destination a few years ago, she was sold on the natural beauty of the mountains, lush greenery, and alpine lakes. Amanda and Alex knew they wanted a simple wedding day focused on togetherness and quality time with their loved ones. A microwedding felt like the best fit. As they went about planning for their GNP microwedding, they kept their loved ones in mind when selecting lodging and even designing their timeline. 

Getting Married in Glacier National Park

Amanda and Alex’s relaxed Pray Lake microwedding began at Walking Bear Resort in Whitefish, Montana. While Alex got ready in the basement with his buddies, Amanda got glam upstairs alongside her gals. Once everyone was dressed to the nines, Amanda and her father shared a first look outside. Her dad was absolutely beaming at his little girl. The tears really started flowing when Alex and Amanda shared their first look — I loved how raw their emotions were throughout the day. 

We made the 2 hour drive from Whitefish to Pray Lake for a breathtaking intimate wedding ceremony on the shore. Looking back at these photos and recalling this moment, I couldn’t help but think that I was looking at a green screen with how perfect the lake appeared. Despite the menacing storm clouds looming overhead, we couldn’t have planned a better time for Amanda and Alex’s ceremony. The rest of the afternoon was spent dodging the rain, finding little pockets of sunshine, and taking in the majestic views of the dramatic mountains. 

Northwest Montana Elopement Photographer | Sydney Breann Photography

The newlyweds decided to exchange personal vows at Ranger Station, following their ceremony. Both couldn’t help but to choke back tears as they listened to each other pour their hearts out. There’s nothing I love more than when a couple is able to just be in the moment. After Amanda and Alex wrapped up their vows, they frolicked around Ranger Station before heading up to Sun Point. Once we reached Sun Point, we were absolutely blown away by the view of departing rain. But nobody could’ve anticipated the rainbow that appeared shortly thereafter! 

We took our time at Sun Point, sipping on cold beers, before beginning to mosey on back to Walking Bear Resort. We chased the sunshine on the way out of the park, making sure to stop at nearly every viewpoint for newlywed portraits. The emerging blue skies overhead were the perfect way to conclude our time in Glacier National Park. 

Planning a Destination Wedding in Glacier National Park

Back at the cabin in Whitefish, Amanda and Alex’s loved ones awaited their arrival. After first dances were had, the couple cut their beautiful cake before dining on pizza. I can’t think of a more fitting way to conclude this sweet couple’s relaxed Pray Lake microwedding in Glacier National Park.

Searching for more Glacier National Park wedding inspiration? Head over to the blog! Be sure to also keep up with my adventures as a Northwest Montana elopement photographer over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Until next time, are you ready to wander?

Vendor Team:

Photography: Sydney Breann Photography
Videographer: Glacier Wedding Films
Lodging: Walking Bear Resort
Officiant: Best Day Officiants
Hair: Bridal Bliss
Flowers: Mum’s Flowers
Dress: Bella Bridal
Suits: Milbern Clothing Co.
Shoes: Kailee P
Veil: Etsy (My Bridal Look)
Cake: Mountain Mama Cupcakery