I was lucky enough to plan Mackenzie and Cody’s Arctic Valley wedding. Their day was filled with joy, adventure, sunshine, laughs and love from the beginning of the day until the very end and I am so grateful I got to be part of it. The fall flowers paired with the mountain views were spectacular (you know I’m a sucker for flowers) but what really stole the show was Hank the moose. If you are getting married this summer, keep scrolling for lots of Unique Mountain Wedding Ideas.

THE LOCATION: ALPENGLOW LODGE

First off, let’s chat about this incredible lodge, because its definitely one of the best wedding venues near Anchoarge. Arctic Valley Ski Chalet also known as Alpenglow Ski Chalet is perfect for couples looking to get married at an Anchorage wedding venue with incredible views. Many couples are especially attracted to the venue since there is an option to rent the chairlift and give guests the opportunity to explore the mountains from up top. Totally worth it in my opinion! The chalet can be dressed up in so many different ways to make it a warm and romantic environment. This is definitely one of our favorite wedding venues in Anchorage!

TRAVEL TIPS FOR ALPENGLOW LODGE

Don’t underestimate how long the drive up the bumpy gravel road  takes to arrive at the chalet. I would highly recommend planning your ceremony 15-20 minutes later than the time on your invitations to allow for guests showing up late. Even better - consider hiring a bus to transport guests from Anchorage so they don’t need to worry about drinking and driving later in the evening.

MACKENZIE AND CODY’S ALASKA MOUNTAIN WEDDING

You can’t possibly be over seeing all the stunning photos of couples in love, eloping and getting married in Alaska. Besides, I will never take for granted the fact that I get to plan couples weddings for a living soooo that means I won’t stop sharing all the fun I get to have  with you!

GETTING READY

Cody and Mackenzie chose to get ready separately with their bridal party and closest friends. They parked their RV nearby and we rented an extra tent for Mackenzie and her gals to get their hair and  makeup done by Ema Rose. Cody and his guys opted to get ready upstairs in the chalet, and were soon looking dapper in their light gray suits.

FIRST LOOK WITH DOGS

Once dressed, Cody and Mackenzie met on the front side of the mountain with their two pups for a first look in the sunshine.  This was such a special moment, filled with nothing but smiles, hugs and barks. Even their pups were feeling special all dressed up with a flower collar and tie!

A CEREMONY IN THE MOUNTAINS

Soon guests began arriving and it was time for the real festivities to begin. Local musicians began the processional and Mackenzie and Cody were ready to officially tie the knot. The ceremony was tailored so perfectly to reflect them as a couple, and their vows had just about every guest shedding tears. Fun fact, throughout the ceremony  Mackenzie may or may not have kissed Cody multiple times before they were pronounced married, she couldn’t help herself haha! The views were magical and being part of this moment was so special. 

A RIDE UP THE CHAIRLIFT

Shortly after the ceremony guests were invited to take the Arctic Valley chairlift up the mountain to explore and see the ski resort from a different view. We knew the photos would be incredible up there so we made sure to have the bridal party and bride and groom portraits take place up top with Donna Marie Photography who captured the day perfectly. This time  also gave Mackenzie and Cody a chance to reflect on their ceremony and take in all the feelings of their wedding day.  Meanwhile, some guests chose to stay near the chalet drinking cocktails, trying the delicious Hors d'oeuvres and enjoying the entertainment provided.

HANK THE MOOSE

We would be remiss not to highlight Hank the Moose who was well loved throughout the evening. Guests enjoyed taking photos, mounting and poking fun at hank. Hank is a stuffed moose that travels around Alaska providing entertainment for photo booths. I cannot count on two hands the number of times I was asked where guests could find a moose like Hank to have as a pet. He sure did look real!

THE DANCING AUNTS

For the  last 20 years Mackenzie’s aunts have chosen a song to perform at family members' weddings and wanted to continue this tradition. They rehearsed for hours and chose to dance to Gangnam style. Guests loved every bit of this performance and it was the perfect way to get the dance floor moving and grooving.

A MOMENT FOR THE ALASKAN THEMED CAKE

The couple hired the DJ G&G Sound and Light to get guests on their feet for the reception, and boy did they do their job, the dance floor was rocking!

Sparkler Send-Off

Mackenzie and Cody were sent off by their favorite people as newlyweds with sparklers that no doubt added a dazzling finish to their beautiful wedding.

More Alaska Wedding Inspiration

Looking for more wedding & elopementt inspiration?! Check out these blog posts below to find all the gorgeous Alaska inspo you’ll ever need!

Intimate Fall Wedding in Girdwood

Rainy Barn Wedding in Homer, Alaska

A rainy seaside Elopement in Seward, Alaska

Magical Fall Glacier Elopement in Alaska

Planning: AKhappenings

Rentals: A Touch of Saige Event Rentals