A happy couple enjoying their intimate wedding of dog mushing and hiking during the summer solstice by Alaska elopement photographer, JoLynn Photography

Adventurous Dog Mushing Elopement | Alaska Elopement Photographer

Lizzie & Ben’s summer intimate elopement in Willow, Alaska

Weddings in Alaska are always filled with excitement. It isn’t called the Final Frontier for nothing. And Lizzie and Ben’s intimate dog-mushing elopement was nothing short of exciting and exhilarating. Visiting a sled dog camp just mear feet from the start of the world-famous Iditarod, getting a behind-the-scenes life of dog mushers, and meeting the adorable dogs was a one-of-a-kind experience for Lizzie and Ben’s wedding. As an Alaska elopement photographer, it tops as one of the most unique wedding experiences I have had the honor of being a part of.

During the early stages of wedding planning with Lizzie and Ben, they told me two key items were important for their wedding: 1. Low key 2. Unique and fun. I knew right from the beginning they were a fun couple, and I couldn’t wait to help make their wedding come true.

Alaska Elopement Photographer | Dog Mushing

I met Lizzie and Ben on the eve of the Summer Solstice late in the afternoon. One unique aspect of summers in Alaska is the nearly 20+ hours of sunlight. The late summer sun allowed Lizzie and Ben to spend time with their family during the day before setting off for some adventure before their vows near sunset. We started our afternoon at Snowhook Adventures, learning about dog mushing and the sport’s history. Watching Lizzie and Ben play with each jumping dog as the summer dog sleds were prepared was a joy. Lizzie and Ben’s dog mushing team selected an intimate mushing route deep into the summer Alaskan forest covered in bright green foliage. Afterwards, their mushing concluded with some fun in the mud followed by cuddles with some adorable puppies.

Alaska Elopement Photographer | Hatcher’s Pass

After Lizzie and Ben’s dog mushing concluded, we headed to Alaska’s historical Hatcher’s Pass. As we climbed the mountainside, the warm summer air shifted to a winter-like chill. In light of it being nearly 10 pm, the high sun provided daylight for a light hike around the iconic red cabins on the ridgeway. Additionally, several nature trails provided beautiful views of the towering mountains around us and the melting snow from nearby Snowbird Glacier. While hiking, we found a quiet area for their wedding ceremony and vows. The only sounds around was the quiet river moving below and their love. By the time Lizzie and Ben’s ceremony concluded, the midnight sun finally set. Before ending their amazing afternoon, champaign was popped to celebrate the beginning of their marriage & an epic wedding day.

A happy couple enjoying their intimate wedding of dog mushing and hiking at Hatchers Pass during the summer solstice by Alaska elopement photographer, JoLynn Photography

When the night ended, and while walking back to the car, Lizzie told me it was everything they wanted for their wedding: Low-key, unique, and fun. It was a blessing to be a part of their wedding day and one of the most memorable to date.

After reading this blog about Lizzie and Ben’s intimate elopement, be sure to check out more additional wedding information and tips below:

Hey ya’ll! I am Coby, the owner of JoLynn Photography. I serve couples in Raleigh, Wilmington, North Carolina, and destinations worldwide. For couples who want to remember the most beautiful day of their lives in an exquisite way, inquire here today!