Behind The Scenes of D & J's Elopement: Take a Look at Real Elopement Planning in Glacier National Park
Behind The Scenes of D & J's Elopement: Take a Look at Real Elopement Planning in Glacier National Park
Feb 6th, 2025 | Written By Aundrea EatonIN THIS POST
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Date and location
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Importance of accessibility
Initial location ideas
Why Fish Creek Picnic Area was the perfect choice
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Weather challenges in October
Essential items to pack
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Avoiding strenuous hikes
Selecting scenic spots with easy access
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Planning for time with family vs. private moments
Decision to celebrate at Airbnb
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Vision for a stress-free day
Importance of a flexible schedule
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Emotional significance
Planning and execution of a private moment
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Jeep Adventure and Scenic Photos
Route planning and backup options
Capturing the essence of the adventure
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The Ceremony at Fish Creek
Setup and guest considerations
Personal touches in the ceremony
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Sunset Photos at Lake McDonald
Goals for the photography session
Outfit choices and their importance
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Final Thoughts and Advice
Reflections on personalizing the elopement
Tips for future couples planning their day
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My role in orchestrating a seamless day
Emphasis on capturing authentic moments
Who They Are & How They Found Me
Drew and Jeremy's First Meeting
Drew and Jeremy’s relationship began in 2018 when mutual friends set them up. The original plan was for them to meet at a bar in East Helena, but Drew was busy at a game night. Still, something told them to stop by anyway. They ended up playing cards together that night—Jeremy, of course, had to teach Drew how to play. They saw each other a few times after that, then didn’t connect again for nearly a year. When they did, it was just before Drew was about to join the Army and Jeremy was preparing for deployment.
A Relationship of Balance
Their relationship is a mix of fire and ice, balancing playfulness and seriousness depending on the day. Jeremy is the extrovert, Drew is the introverted extrovert, and Jeremy is definitely the goofy one in the relationship. One of their favorite things to do together? Puzzles and travel cribbage. They keep a cribbage board in their vehicle so they can pull it out on date nights or whenever the moment feels right.
Their Non-Traditional Wedding Vision
When it came to planning their wedding, they knew one thing for sure: They didn’t want a traditional wedding filled with expectations from others.
Drew: "It seemed less crazy, hectic, and isn't just for everybody else. I want to make sure that it's for us and to impress ourselves instead."
That mindset led them straight to eloping in Glacier National Park.
Planning an Elopement in Glacier National Park: What You Should Know
Drew and Jeremy’s elopement in Glacier National Park came together through a balance of planning and being flexible with Montana’s unpredictable weather conditions.
Here’s what they learned:
1. Location Matters—And Accessibility Is Key
They wanted mountain views and a lake backdrop, but also needed a spot that would be accessible for family members with mobility concerns.
Their original location ideas included:
Sprague Picnic Area Shoreline
Lake McDonald Lodge Beach
Two Medicine Picnic Area Shoreline
Ultimately, they found that Fish Creek Picnic Area was the perfect fit for their vision.
Why It’s Important for Elopement Planning:
When planning an elopement in a national park like Glacier, choosing a location that’s both beautiful and accessible ensures everyone can enjoy the day without worrying about the terrain or logistics.
2. Montana Weather Is Unpredictable—Pack for Everything
October in Glacier can bring sun, rain, snow, fog, and wind—all in the same day.
Drew says: "We'll make sure to bring other shoes, warm clothes, etc., since it will be in October. Only makes sense!"
Why This Matters:
The weather in Montana is unpredictable, especially in October. Layering up and having backup gear (like shoes and jackets) can make all the difference, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout the day.
3. You Don’t Have to Hike for Epic Views
Drew and Jeremy loved the idea of a "top of the mountain" vibe, but they needed a ceremony spot that didn’t require a hike.
Jeremy says: "Plenty of experience with 4WD roads, depends on the driver ;)"
Why This Matters:
You don’t need to hike to find breathtaking views in Glacier National Park. Accessible spots with amazing views are available, making it easy for couples to enjoy the beauty of the park without a long trek.
4. Split the Day Between Family & Private Time
Drew and Jeremy wanted a 50/50 or 60/40 split between time with family and private time.
After the ceremony, they originally planned to have dinner or drinks with family at a small-town bar or brewery but decided to relax and enjoy their celebration at their Airbnb instead.
Why This Matters:
It’s important to find a balance between celebrating with loved ones and having private moments with your partner. Planning time for both helps reduce stress and ensures the day feels authentic to you as a couple.
5. Keep the Timeline Relaxed
Drew and Jeremy didn’t want to rush through the day. Their wedding timeline was spaced out to allow them to be present in each moment.
Their Vision for the Day:
"Starting the day out with a cup of coffee in the quiet morning, getting ready, and not rushing through the process for our wedding. Then spend time with family, then just us, then reuniting with family."
Their biggest goal? "As little stress as possible."
Why This Matters:
A relaxed timeline ensures you enjoy each moment, rather than feeling rushed. Whether it’s a cup of coffee in the morning or a relaxed sunset photo session, making time for yourself and your partner will lead to an unforgettable experience.
Drew & Jeremy’s Glacier National Park Elopement: A Detailed Event Recap
Date: October 10, 2024
Location: Fish Creek Picnic Area, Glacier National Park
Photographer/Planning Wizard: Aundrea Marie Photography
Primary Activities:
Pre-ceremony prep
First Look
Jeep Adventure
Ceremony
Sunset Photos
Evening celebration at their Airbnb, followed by a surprise Northern Lights display—one of the best seen in Montana!
Event Summary:
Drew and Jeremy’s elopement in Glacier National Park was designed to be simple, intentional, and focused on what mattered most to them: no stress, private moments, and family time. They kept their schedule flexible while ensuring key moments were beautifully documented.
Getting Ready
Time: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Airbnb in Columbia Falls
The day began at their Airbnb in Columbia Falls, where they exchanged gifts before heading out for their first look.
The First Look
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Outskirts of West Glacier
At 2:30 PM, we arrived at a secluded location just outside of the West Glacier entrance for a private first look.
Emotional Moment of the Day
Jeremy was visibly emotional throughout the first look, making it a key highlight of the day. The moment was full of authentic emotion, and the connection between Drew and Jeremy was palpable as they shared this intimate experience before their ceremony.
Why They Chose a First Look for Their Elopement
Drew and Jeremy’s decision to have a first look was largely driven by practical reasons. Since they were getting ready in the same Airbnb, they wanted to ensure a smooth transition to their Jeep Adventure and sunset ceremony. A first look allowed them to have a private moment without disrupting the timeline and ensured a relaxed flow to the day.
Key Takeaways for Couples
Here’s why a first look could work perfectly for your elopement:
✅ Natural Transition: If staying in the same location, a first look can create a natural transition before the ceremony.
✅ Private Moment: A private first look allows for an emotional moment without distractions, setting the tone for the day.
✅ Efficient Timeline: Choosing a nearby location for the first look minimizes travel time and keeps the schedule efficient, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
How to Plan a First Look with the Jeep—Made Easy
A surprise first look using a single vehicle is completely doable with the right planning. The key to success? Keeping the couple separate while making transitions seamless.
Here’s how Drew and Jeremy’s first look went:
Packing the Jeep First: Before getting into the vehicle, we ensured that all their gear was packed to avoid unnecessary movement later in the day.
Loading Order Matters: Drew (and their pup) got into the backseat first, staying out of sight. Once she was settled, Jeremy took the front seat, facing forward, ensuring no accidental glimpses.
Strategic Vehicle Exit: Upon arrival, I guided Jeremy out first and positioned him where he needed to be for the first look. Once he was ready, I helped Drew out for the reveal.
Other Ways I Strategize to Make First Looks Easy
✅ Use Tinted Windows: If the vehicle has dark rear windows, it helps keep the bride out of view during transport, adding an extra layer of privacy.
✅ Bring a Cover-Up or Blanket: If needed, I recommend bringing a blanket to drape over the bride while driving to further prevent any peeking.
✅ Choose a Spot with a Clear Entrance/Exit Plan: Pick a location where one person can step out and get into position, while the other stays hidden in the vehicle. This approach works at any location that has the right setup.
✅ Have a Point Person (like me): A point person is essential for managing the timing and logistics, ensuring everything runs smoothly and keeping the couple stress-free.
Why This Works: Simple, Stress-Free Planning
With a little planning (that I fully take care of), a first look using just one Jeep is stress-free. This approach allows couples to experience a personal, intimate moment before their ceremony, while also keeping everything efficient and seamless throughout the day.
The First Look: When It All Hit
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Outskirts of West Glacier
By the time Drew and Jeremy saw each other at a spot just outside of West Glacier, the weight of the moment hit—especially for Jeremy. They chose this private setting to take in the moment together before the ceremony.
A Raw, Emotional Moment
And while some first looks are lighthearted and filled with laughter, this one was anything but. Jeremy cried the entire time. Not just a few tears—full, raw emotion.
A Quiet Gift Exchange
An emotional gift exchange was the perfect way to complete this part of their day. It wasn’t part of the ceremony, nor something for show—it was just a quiet, intimate moment all to themselves.
Jeep Adventure & Scenic Photos
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Route: Going-to-the-Sun Road
Two plans were in place for their Jeep adventure and scenic photos:
Plan A: Explore Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic routes in Glacier National Park.
Plan B: If the road was closed due to snowfall, head to a remote off-road location outside the park for 7800 ft elevation mountaintop views.
Final Location: Big Bend (Paradise Meadow)
Ultimately, Big Bend (Paradise Meadow) became the perfect location for their adventure photos, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The journey took them through some of the most stunning landscapes in the park, capturing the essence of their elopement experience.
Key Takeaways for Couples
Here’s what Drew and Jeremy’s experience teaches us about planning the perfect adventure:
✅ Backup Plans Are Essential: Due to Glacier's unpredictable weather, road conditions, and bear activity, it’s always wise to have a plan B.
✅ Off-road Locations Provide Privacy: Off-road spots offer unique scenery and privacy, making them perfect for intimate elopement photos away from crowds.
✅ Allow Time for Adventure: Scheduling time between the first look and ceremony gives you the flexibility to enjoy the adventure without rushing, creating space for memorable moments.
Ceremony at Fish Creek Picnic Area
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Fish Creek Picnic Area, Glacier National Park
Guest Count: 21 guests, plus 2 babies and their dog, Kalli
Why Fish Creek?
Drew and Jeremy selected Fish Creek Picnic Area for its lakefront views and accessibility for family members. This spot offered scenic beauty and a welcoming environment, making it the perfect location for their elopement ceremony.
The Ceremony
The ceremony lasted about 15-20 minutes and was officiated by a close friend. Kalli, their dog, was present, along with family members, including grandparents and Jeremy’s dad.
Why This Matters:
Choosing a personal and intimate ceremony made the day feel special for Drew and Jeremy, surrounded by loved ones in a meaningful setting.
Weather Considerations
October weather in Glacier can be unpredictable, so Drew and Jeremy planned accordingly by bringing extra layers and warm clothing to ensure they stayed comfortable throughout the ceremony.
Why This Matters:
Planning for unpredictable weather in Glacier National Park is essential, as the conditions can change quickly. Dressing in layers ensures you're prepared for any situation.
Key Takeaways for Couples
Here’s why Fish Creek Picnic Area is an ideal choice for your elopement:
✅ Fish Creek is a strong choice for couples needing an accessible, scenic location that offers both beauty and practicality.
✅ Bringing pets to an elopement is possible in Glacier but requires a location like Fish Creek that is pet approved.
✅ Choosing a friend as an officiant allows for a more personal ceremony experience, making it feel even more meaningful.
Sunset Photos at Lake McDonald
Time: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park
Their Goal for the Photos
Drew and Jeremy’s goal for their sunset photos in Glacier National Park was to capture:
A “top of the mountain” feel (achieved earlier in the day)
Dramatic lighting at sunset (captured both midday and at sunset)
A mix of moody, intimate, and fun elopement photos
Why This Matters:
This approach gave them a variety of photo styles that beautifully represented their Glacier National Park elopement day, from dramatic mountain shots to intimate sunset portraits.
Elopement Attire
Drew: Ivory dress with a train, leather jacket, and boot heels.
Jeremy: Blue tux, brown dress shoes.
Why This Matters:
Choosing stylish yet practical attire ensured that Drew and Jeremy were not only ready for stunning elopement photos but also comfortable for their day of adventure. The mix of elegance and practicality worked well with the scenic Glacier National Park backdrop.
Key Takeaways for Couples
Here’s why planning for sunset photos at Lake McDonald is ideal for your elopement in Glacier National Park:
✅ Sunset is the best time for natural, cinematic lighting in Glacier National Park, creating stunning, golden-hour photos that will last a lifetime.
✅ Outfits should balance style with practical elements like warm layers for comfort during unpredictable weather in Glacier National Park.
✅ Scheduling couples' photos after the ceremony ensures unhurried, intimate portraits that reflect your true connection, without feeling rushed.
How to Pull This Off: Hire Me—Because Logistics Matter
Pulling off an elopement in Glacier National Park that feels effortless isn’t about luck—it’s about smart planning. That’s where I come in. With my detail-driven mindset and a touch of Type C funk, I don’t just show up, snap photos, and go along for the ride. I orchestrate every moving piece, ensuring your Glacier National Park elopement day runs seamlessly—so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Here’s what I handle:
✅ The Schedule
I create a fully customized timeline for your elopement in Glacier National Park that balances your priorities, ideal lighting, weather conditions, drive times, and photo stops, all while leaving space for spontaneous moments that make a well-planned day feel natural and unforced. Every location and part of your day is planned with the best possible light in mind, so you don’t end up with harsh midday shadows or miss the golden hour.
Why This Matters:
Your elopement timeline is key to ensuring every moment is captured beautifully and efficiently in Glacier, where lighting conditions and weather can change quickly.
✅ Guest Coordination
If you have family or friends attending, I add notes within the timeline so they know exactly when and where to be—no confusion, no delays.
Why This Matters:
Clear communication ensures your Glacier wedding guests are well-informed and involved without disrupting the flow of your day.
✅ Accounting for Park Congestion & Delays
Glacier National Park isn’t just a beautiful backdrop—it’s a working national park with traffic, visitor limits, and unpredictable conditions. I factor in permit logistics, road closures, travel time buffers, and peak congestion hours, so you’re never scrambling to make it on time.
Why This Matters:
Planning for Glacier National Park traffic and road conditions ensures you can enjoy your elopement without stress. With my planning, there’s no last-minute scrambling, even in a busy park.
✅ Making Sure You’re Where You Need to Be—At the Right Time
Whether it’s your first look, ceremony, or golden-hour portraits, I coordinate every transition so you don’t have to think about the clock.
Why This Matters:
From sunset elopement photos to intimate moments, I make sure everything flows smoothly, leaving you to focus on each other while I handle the timing and logistics.
The Goal? A Seamless, Stress-Free Day
The goal is a seamless, stress-free elopement day in Glacier National Park that flows naturally—without feeling rushed. From start to finish, I’ll ensure everything is organized, leaving you to enjoy every moment.
Final Thoughts: Do It Your Way
Drew and Jeremy’s elopement wasn’t about checking off wedding traditions. It was about doing what felt right for them. They focused on keeping things simple, meaningful, and true to their elopement vision. They didn’t plan their day to meet anyone else’s expectations—they made decisions based on what actually mattered to them as a couple.