So you’re getting married in Alaska — congratulations! You’ve chosen one of the most beautiful and unforgettable places in the world to say “I do.” And if you’re inviting guests from outside the state, they’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.

But here’s the thing: Alaska isn’t your average wedding destination. It’s not a plug-and-play, hop-on-a-shuttle, head-to-the-beach kind of affair. It’s Alaska — the land of midnight sun and moose traffic jams, unpredictable weather and once-in-a-lifetime views.

As a wedding planner who’s helped countless couples navigate the unique joys and quirks of destination weddings in Alaska, I can tell you this: your guests will have an incredible time, but only if they’re well-prepared. That’s where you come in.

Whether hosting friends and family or packing your bags yourself, here’s my guide for how to actually get ready for Alaska.

Communicate early (and often)

Unfortunately, Alaska is not an easy hop-and-a-skip away. Flights can be long and expensive, lodging books up quickly in the summer, and logistics take a little extra planning. Once you have a date and venue locked in, it’s a good idea to send your guests a save-the-date as early as possible — ideally nine to twelve months in advance.

Creating a wedding website is often the easiest way to share key information (and to keep the questions pinging your phone to a minimum). You can build your website as more details are finalized, including information on the nearest airport, recommended hotels or lodging options, transportation suggestions, weather and packing tips, and suggested activities in the area.

Set expectations for weather

One of the top questions I get from guests is: “What should I wear?” The answer is never simple, because the weather here rarely is.

Here’s what to tell them:

Summer (June–August)

It’s not always warm. Highs in the 60s–70s are common, but rain and chilly evenings are too.
Layer up. Think: moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof jacket.
Don’t forget comfy shoes for uneven ground (weddings in the woods or by a glacier aren’t the place for stilettos).

Fall/Spring (Shoulder Seasons)

Expect rain, mud, and cooler temps.
A good pair of cute waterproof boots and a warm jacket go a long way.

Winter (November–March)

Bundle up. Puffy coats, thermal layers, gloves, hats — the works.
Warn them about driving conditions if they plan to rent a car.

Also, let them know that weather changes quickly. One minute it’s blue skies, the next it’s sideways rain. Alaska keeps you humble. As the bride and groom, you should also consider plan B’s for surprise weather, such as tents, umbrellas, or moving festivities indoors.

It’s a BIG state – how to get around

As the biggest state in the U.S., getting around to smaller towns or remote areas may require more logistical planning than guests are used to. Whether it’s a drive to Girdwood, a ferry to Seldovia, or a flight to a remote lodge, make sure your guests know how to get there and what they need to book ahead of time.

Over the past few years, rental cars have booked up fast in Anchorage, so be sure to provide guests with information on different options and any carpool opportunities they may be able to take advantage of. Consider arranging a shuttle for guests to get to the venue if it’s out of the way or if you are expecting a heavy drinking crowd.

Here’s some additional tips to make it easier on everyone:

Fly into the right airport. Anchorage (ANC) is the largest and most common hub, but Fairbanks or Homer might make more sense depending on your wedding location.
Book flights early. Summer travel gets expensive fast, so encourage guests to look ahead of time and set a price tracker for their dates.
Leave buffer time. Encourage guests to arrive a day or two before the wedding. Flights can get delayed due to weather or wildfires.
Tell them about time zones. Alaska Standard Time is one hour behind Pacific, and jet lag is real when you're traveling from the East Coast or abroad.
Download Google Maps offline. Cell service can be spotty or nonexistent depending on where you go, so help make sure no one gets lost!

Lodging recommendations

From May through September, Alaska is flooded with tourists. Popular hotels, lodges, and Airbnbs can book up quickly, and you don’t want to leave anyone without a place to stay. Give your guests a curated list of lodging recommendations, plus booking deadlines for room blocks or suggested booking timelines to ensure the most price-effective choice!

Don’t forget to consider proximity to the venue, price ranges, and any group discount codes.

Make a trip out of it

If you already made it all the way to Alaska, you might as well make a trip out of it! Encourage guests to extend their trip and take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Alaska. From glacier flight tours to fishing charters and scenic train routes, there’s a never-ending list of activities and adventures to be had across the state. Your wedding website is the perfect place to share your favorite experiences or restaurants!

Is it a destination for you, too? I can help you curate a great list of recommendations.

Work with a planner who knows all the insider tricks

Planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming, even if you’re in your home state. A local wedding planner can help you coordinate all the moving pieces and ensure your guests are well taken care of from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

An Alaska destination wedding is more than a celebration — it’s a shared adventure. Yes, it takes a little more coordination, but it also delivers memories that feel truly once-in-a-lifetime.

With clear communication, thoughtful planning, and a little extra guidance, you can make sure your guests feel prepared, welcomed, and ready to enjoy every breathtaking moment with you.

Need help crafting that “Guest Info” guide or pulling together logistics? I’ve done this before (a lot), and I’d love to help.

Happy planning — and welcome to Alaska.

How to prepare your guests for an Alaska destination wedding

Communicate early (and often)