Considering an Alaska elopement? You might want to think twice about wishing the rain away after seeing this seaside elopement wedding in Seward, Alaska. While rain isn't typically considered 'dreamy' for weddings, about 99% of couples cross their fingers for sunshine on their big day. However, let me show you how you can still make the most of your elopement in Alaska even if the weather decides to rain. In this blog, we'll share images from a real couple who embraced the rain on their special day.

A last minute change of plans

Chandler and Erik were the epitome of an adventurous couple, ideal for an 'elope Alaska' experience. Just days before their Alaska elopement, I had to break the news that their remote plane wouldn't be able to fly out of Seward due to the unpredictable weather. Thankfully, we had solid backup plans in place, and they quickly agreed to pivot to a private boat charter (hello adventure elopement!), exploring Resurrection Bay’s coves and secluded areas. It's super important to have contingency plans ready; Alaska's weather can be extremely undependable, you don’t know what is going to happen until day of (or even hour of sometimes). Even if it is sunny and clear the days leading up, with the microclimates we experience in Alaska it’s crucial to consider what might need to change if it's raining (or snowing, or windy, or misty…) on your wedding day. Now, back to this very special day!

Bride and groom on charter boat looking at waterfall

A Wet and Foggy Boat Ride

Chandler and Erik’s Alaska Elopement day began at their intimate cabin on Lowell Point in Seward. They helped each other get ready for their day and then Sarah French and I picked them up to catch the private water taxi that would be our transportation for the day. We departed from the harbor and headed across Resurrection Bay to find the perfect spot for their private ceremony. Making the 30 minute boat ride across, with relatively choppy seas and pouring rain was not exactly “romantic,” but we all agreed it was so worth it as the mist cleared and we saw the perfect spot for Erik and Chandler to have their ceremony in Alaska and share private vows on the beach at Thumb Cove.

Erik and Chandler’s misty Thumb Cove Elopement Ceremony

Erik and Chandler exchanged vows with nearby sea otters trying their hardest to be in the spotlight (we all know they were successful). We were so lucky to have the entire cove to ourselves, with only the pitter patter of the rain, the silence was welcomed. Their ceremony was simple and beautiful as they shared promises for their future while taking in the moment and their surroundings.

Thumb Cove has so many spots to explore, the forest being one of my favorites especially on a rainy or overcast day. Not only do the massive trees offer a private intimate feeling, they also act as great natural umbrellas!

Bride and groom first kiss — Erik and Chandler’s first kiss as husband and wife

Bride and groom in forest with clear umbrellas — Umbrella fights in the rain are a must!

After exploring in the forest we headed back to the boat to look for another unique location with different scenery. We drove the boat around several coves until we came across an area with several waterfalls. I brought along a portable speaker (thankfully it was waterproof) and Chandler and Erik shared their first dance in the rain on the boat deck as husband and wife. Does it get any more romantic than that?? Soon after, they decided to celebrate with a champagne pop, that may or may not have gone all over the boat and us!!!

Bride and groom first dance — First dance on the boat deck

Pit Stop at the Bar

After their private boat charter we made a pit stop at a local bar in downtown Seward where we all toasted to a shot of whiskey (we had to warm up somehow!)

Bride and groom take whiskey shots at bar — A shot of Whiskey to warm up the newlyweds

Returning from their adventure at sea we ended the day back at their cabin and Chandler and Erik enjoyed an intimate candlelit picnic with delicious snacks, a beautiful elopement cake from AK Wedding Cake Boutique, local Alaskan beer and lots of smiles!

Romantic candlelit picnic for bride and groom — Candlelit Picnic

The Key to a successful rainy day elopement

This entire day was the definition of an epic adventure from start to finish. And just because sharing secrets is almost like sunshine on a cloudy day, i’m going to tell you what the biggest secret is to a victorious rainy day elopement in Alaska. The most important must pack items aren’t your rain jackets, clear umbrella or beer (why yes, those are still a plus) -- it’s your optimism and positive outlook, and that is exactly what Chandler and Erik shared all day long. Nothing but smiles on their faces almost as if the rain was meant to be part of their wedding day… Afterall, no matter the weather on your Alaska wedding day, marrying your best friend is what really matters and nothing can take that away from you! Very grateful for this wet day in Seward Alaska with Erik and Chandler - it sure was one to remember!

Bomber jacket, AKA the badass bride

P.S. Did you notice the black leather jacket Chandler wore in their photos? Both Erik and Chandler are airline pilots, so Chandler wore a black leather bomber jacket for parts of their Alaska elopement. It added a unique and adventurous touch to their special day, just like the entire Alaska elopement experience itself.