Hi lovebirds! If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the most incredible mountains, and the great outdoors of Alaska, you’re in the right place. As your go-to Alaska wedding planner, I’m here to help you navigate the piece of wedding planning that means searching and ultimately deciding on your dream Alaskan wedding venue.  Let’s dive into how you can find the perfect spot to say “I do” in the Alaska.

Embrace the Alaskan Vibe

First things first: the spirit of Alaska is all about connection with nature and showing off everything this state really has to offer. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony in a forest clearing or a grand celebration with the backdrop of rugged mountains, your venue should reflect that wild beauty. Think about what captures your heart—do you want to feel the cool breeze off a glacier, or would you prefer the cozy warmth of a lodge surrounded by pine trees? What about a rustic barn setting with epic, cascading peaks behind you?

Consider the Season

Alaska’s seasons are like nature’s own wedding planner, each offering a unique aesthetic. Summers bring lush greenery and wildflowers, while winters transform the landscape into a snowy wonderland. Planning a winter wedding in Alaska can be magical – but can also bring a lot more logistics. If you’re all about those stunning outdoor shots with sweeping landscapes and midnight sun, summer is your best bet. But if you’re dreaming of a cozy indoor gathering with twinkling lights, candles and a sunset, a late fall or winter weddings are the best. Contrary to popular belief, weddings do happen year round in Alaska!

Accessibility Matters

Let’s keep it real—some of Alaska’s most breathtaking venues can bring some accessibility challenges. When choosing your wedding venue, think about how easy it is for your guests to get there. Will you need to arrange transportation? Are accommodations nearby? Do you have any guests who will need ADA accessible facilities? Not all ceremony locations are 100% ADA accessible and some even require some hiking.  As your Alaska wedding planner, I love to recommend venues that balance stunning scenery with convenience, so your loved ones can focus on celebrating your big day.

Size and Style

Next up, let’s talk about size and style. Are you planning a big bash with all your friends and family, or an intimate gathering with just your closest friends and family? Alaska has a wide range of venues to fit any guest list. From rustic barns to chic lodges , to picturesque AirBNB’s and outdoor wedding venues, you’ll find plenty of options to match your vision. Just remember to consider how the venue’s vibe aligns with your wedding theme. If you’re wanting a modern, upscale wedding – it is best not to choose a barn venue.

Look Closely at the Wedding Venue Packages

Many Alaskan venues offer different levels of wedding packages, which can completely change how your wedding is structured. These packages often differ by how much time you have the space reserved for, down to if décor items, tenting or on-site lodging is available. As an Alaska wedding planner, I can tell you that this no two venues are the same with their offerings, and costs vary largely on the size of the space and rental time period. I always recommend the option to have the space for at a minimum, 2 days. This typically looks like: dropping your décor items and having rentals delivered on Friday, having your ceremony rehearsal and/or rehearsal dinner that evening. When your wedding planning team comes in Saturday morning, all the items are there for them to begin a seamless setup process.  

Capture the Moment

One of the best parts of getting married in Alaska is the jaw-dropping scenery that makes for stunning wedding photos. When choosing your venue, think about the photo opportunities available. Do you want a panoramic view of the mountains? A romantic lake setting? A mountainous seaside soireé?  Often times, Alaska wedding couples go off-site for wedding photos.If you want a different setting than what your venue offers, make sure you chat with your wedding planner to ensure this is built into your wedding timeline. Talk to your photographer about their favorite spots around your chosen venue for those captivating photos that will show of both your beauty, and the beauty of Alaska.  

Don’t Forget the Details

Finally, pay attention to the details that matter most to you. Does the venue have a specific aesthetic that resonates with your style? What about the amenities—do they have everything you need for your big day? Are there enough restrooms, or parking on site? As your Alaska wedding planner, I can help you sift through the options and find a venue that ticks all the boxes. Many non-traditional wedding venues, like backyards, require an entirely different set of logistics.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the perfect wedding venue in Alaska is all about finding a place that feels right for you and your partner. With the stunning landscapes, unique venues, and the spirit of adventure that comes with an Alaskan wedding, your day is sure to be unforgettable.

If you’re ready to start planning your Alaskan dream wedding or need more tips on finding that perfect wedding venue, feel free to reach out! Together, we’ll create a day that captures the essence of your love story against the backdrop of Alaska’s wild beauty. Happy planning!

Favorite Alaskan Wedding Venues

Here is just a few of my top favorite Alaskan Wedding Venues:

AK Diamond J Ranch

At The Barn Mat-Su

BlueWater BaseCamp

Mountainfield Farm

Lazy Mountain Acres